westward ho !
Flinns
Terry/ Nicola Flinn
Wed 13 Sep 2006 12:33
We left Zakinthos for the 220 mile crossing to the Italian mainland. It took 36 hours most of which we managed to sail, but unfortunately we had to endure 12 hours of unforecast, strong winds which increased up to F7 and produced huge and confused seas. We were very pleased when the conditions abated sufficiently to allow a safe approach into the little Italian Harbour of Rocello Ionica.
After a couple of days off to rest and get on with domestic chores, we continued to Reggio Calabria, sailed up the Straights of Messina and continued westwards to Palermo.
We have noted some significant changes: firstly, the temperature is not as hot and you need a sweater in the evenings; secondly, as the holiday season has come to an end, there is much more room in the harbours; and finally it is wonderful to have access to unlimited , free fresh water and, for the first time in months , the boat is no longer caked in salt.
