Martigues was cool, easy to reach by train from Switzerland, and my boat had a decent mooring at a good price. But, ya know, it was missing that Mini sailor vibe. The only Mini training spot in the Med is in Barcelona. I started thinking about moving my boat there, but it came with its share of doubts – more cash for travel, longer trips, and me not speaking the language.
Chatting with Anna, the group manager, I found out there weren't many spots left.
Moving the cradle was a whole saga, especially since I didn't have a car to tow it. At first, I even thought it might be illegal for me to drive it, but turns out, that wasn't the case.
Solving these issues took way more time and effort than expected, but hey, where there's a problem, there's a solution.
The Base Mini is at BISC (Barcelona International Sailing Center), this massive place with a slick roof full of solar panels. Best part? The whole setup is all about sailing, with meeting spots, a gym, a restaurant, and even a hostel.
Compare that to the Martigues harbor – a run-down 60s joint with showers that felt like a science experiment and no hot water. Talk about a major upgrade!
When I finally told Anna I was in, and I rocked up there by car to drop off the cradle, I knew this has been the right decision.
