PORT VATHI

After a very pleasant full day of sailing we headed across the Inland Ionian Sea to the island of Meganisi and the small port of Vathi.

The weather went from a good 5-6 knots to suddenly increase to 15knots with a very rough swell.  It seemed as if every boat for miles was rushing to find a safe haven and things became quite crowded in the small port. Eventually we were directed to a berth alongside the wharf, just in front of the Sunsail office which proved quite expensive. Next time we'll head down the other end to the port authority quay where it's 5E for both water and electricity!

Our boat at the quay

The town of Vathi is absolutely beautiful. Small enough to feel part of it but big enough to find all the goods and services we needed. It was nice to stop in a place where the total effect of tourism has yet to take place.

Moussaka

No loud music, annoying street vendors or hundreds of people walking up and down the quay.


However, many people take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere and have just a few too many. One poor yachtie was trying to lift his outboard motor onto the quay, leaned over too far and went headfirst into the water. Luckily, a number of cafe customers were able to get him, very inebriated, out of the water. A bit of quick thinking by Dave and others managed to fish the motor out of 4m of water with just a small dinghy anchor.

Once again there are small cats everywhere. Perhaps they keep the mice under control.


Apart from seafood (which is spectacular) I fell in love with the local moussaka - yum!

There was however, a very loud man in an old ute driving around selling garlic!

Evening at Vathi

The town is nestled in between hills and is very protected from the sometimes strong north westerlies. Evening is an amazing time to be in these small ports, the sun sets at about 9.30 and the the moon (below) rises at about 10. It seems like the day never finishes.