I will be spending the winter aboard Eidos this year, so September is a good time to look for a safe harbour. The days are already getting shorter, mornings are damp and cool and there are a few clouds on the horizon. hot cup of coffee is a welcome drink in the morning. Winter is coming.
Although in Greece, the winters are very mild compared to northern Europe and Canada. The sun often shines, you can swim in the sea until November, it's the best time to hike, and of course catch up on boat maintenance and other work that has been put aside while sailing. And that's what my plans include.
But right now in early September by nine o'clock it's back to bathing suit weather. Time for a swim, however planning ahead is wise.
In the Ionian there are several full service marinas that welcome liveaboards. One is Gouvia Marina on Corfu, another in Preveza a third one in Lefkas and one more in Little Vathi on Meganisi.
There are also several harbours and anchorages where cruisers with independent heaters on board have stayed. Vliho Bay is popular as is Tranquil Bay on Lefkada Island. I know one couple who stayed in Vathi on Ithaka for a winter and several boats stayed in Vonitsa in the Amvrakikos Bay. There is also a marina and boat yard in Messolonghi, but they've been having management problems. I have contacted them already for the latest information. So, there is quite a choice.
But how to decide...
Since I am now in Ag. Eufimia on Kefalonia and planning to head to Ithaka, I will check out Vathi while I am there. Ithaka is one of my favourite islands in the Ionian and I have friends who live ashore there. It would be fun to spend the winter hiking and hanging out on Ithaka. But, will it be safe and comfortable on board? It's time to take a look.
I am also planning a writers' retreat aboard for this winter, with good food, yoga, and walks, so if you would like to join me and finish that novel or memoir, send me a message.
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