Living Among Sailboats: Our Life in the Port of San Gabriel

A few months ago, we decided to make a change in our lives. We left our home inland in Alicante and moved onto our sailboat in the small, tranquil port of San Gabriel. This hidden corner of the Alicante coast has become our home, a place where time seems to flow differently—slower, more consciously.

There aren’t many of us here. In fact, there are 4 sailboats in the port. One belongs to Jesús, a kind-hearted 66-year-old man who has become a great friend. Jesús is one of those inspiring people: always in good spirits, full of energy, and with a positive attitude that’s contagious. His boat, a Puma 38, is a beauty, with a classic style that reminds us of our own. Sharing conversations, laughter, and the occasional beer with him has become one of the best parts of this experience.

Then there are Carlos and Ivana, a young couple who are also our neighbors. Their dream is to set sail and travel around the world, and although it seems they’re about to leave, time here has this curious way of stretching without you noticing. We’ve also formed a lovely friendship with them. Some nights, we gather on our boat or theirs to share stories, plans, and knowledge. Jesús, besides being a great conversationalist, is an exceptional cook, and we’ve been lucky enough to enjoy some of his fabulous paellas.

One day Carlos and Jesús took me out to make the blue boat maneuver in the harbor. The small scratch I still see on it was from that day. I still remember it, mates.

The port of San Gabriel is a peaceful, almost magical place. During the week, there’s hardly any activity, and the silence is only broken by the sound of the waves and the wind. The only constant resident, apart from us, is Antón, who runs a sailing school and has a couple of boats moored on the other pontoon.

Living here is a unique experience. San Gabriel is one of those authentic neighborhoods that still retain their essence, far from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Strolling through its streets, getting to know its residents, and feeling like part of this small community has been an unexpected gift. We also receive frequent visits from friends and family who come to check out our new life on board. For many, it’s something exotic; for us, it’s simply our routine.

Although we had planned to set sail a while ago, time has stretched without us meaning it to. San Gabriel has this way of captivating you, of making you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Carlos and Ivana seem to be on the verge of embarking on their great adventure, and while we, too, will eventually follow our course, we know that this place and these people will remain etched in our memories forever.

Living on a sailboat isn’t just a change of address; it’s a change of perspective. Here, every day is a small adventure, every conversation an opportunity to learn, and every sunset a reminder that life can be simpler and, at the same time, more intense. San Gabriel isn’t just a port; it’s a refuge, a starting point, and, above all, a place we’ll always carry in our hearts.