Since our last blog. we have had some pleasant cruising around the Cyclades Islands.
Initially early in our journey we encountered very few other boats but now the season seems to have started, with crowded harbours and anchorages.
Naxos is one of our favourite Islands and harbours. It is a good job, as the forecast two day blow lasted for Severn days, Beaufort force 7, day and night.
Sitting in our "pound seats" we were then entertained by dozens of boats arriving in search of shelter, and then struggling to squeeze into the few and increasingly more difficult spots in the strong wind.
Our dock was crammed to capacity on both sides, and no body was moving. A sense of community soon developed,and before long we were taking it in turns to have "happy hour" parties on each others boats.
As a result of this blow, and our similar experiences last year, we have decided to slowly make our way back to the calmer waters of the Ionian, exploring the Saronic gulf on the way.
Initially early in our journey we encountered very few other boats but now the season seems to have started, with crowded harbours and anchorages.
We have met and made friends with many other fellow sailors, of various nationalities, a French family, Dutch, Danish and Australian. Surprisingly we have neither met or seen many British boats. We did wonder if everybody had stayed at home for the "General Election" ?
The inevitable Cyclades weather again struck. A well predicted blow from the North saw us bolting for Naxos and shelter. We were concerned that with the forecast that it would be crowded, and have little or no room. However we had timed it right and we arrived to be helped into what was probably the best berth in the harbour. The nautical equivalent of the Royal Box at Wembley !!
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| Appolos Gate Naxos, 530BC |
Naxos is one of our favourite Islands and harbours. It is a good job, as the forecast two day blow lasted for Severn days, Beaufort force 7, day and night.
Sitting in our "pound seats" we were then entertained by dozens of boats arriving in search of shelter, and then struggling to squeeze into the few and increasingly more difficult spots in the strong wind.
Our dock was crammed to capacity on both sides, and no body was moving. A sense of community soon developed,and before long we were taking it in turns to have "happy hour" parties on each others boats.
As a result of this blow, and our similar experiences last year, we have decided to slowly make our way back to the calmer waters of the Ionian, exploring the Saronic gulf on the way.
We have greatly enjoyed the Aegean side of Greece, and hope to return, as there is still so much to see and explore. However the windy season is due to arrive soon and so whilst disappointing we feel that it is wise to move on.
RAY & MANDY
Poros 37.31.6N x 23.25.25E
Drinking coffee just now in the mug we got from the cafe on the harbour on Naxos! Still my favourite mug. Shame about the wind, but glad you are enjoying the journey.
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