39:11.52N 23:55.50E Alonnisos
14th June, 2018.
We need to make a few miles in our quest to move north so we motor sailed to Stenni Vala on Alonnisos covering 20.3 nautical miles. On the way we checked out a small harbour which has had its wall extended but already filled with small fishing boats. No room for Ariel if one or two boats were already in the harbour. No visitors were allowed on the quay so it was a matter of anchoring and tying back on the rocks with very little room for error.
After this we came across a major incident. A major fire had been set around a hotel on the cliffs looking out to sea and there was one helicopter and two sea planes constantly filling from the sea and dumping on the huge flames. We were told later that this was an Italian hotel used by Italians and it was not the first time fires had been set in the grounds. Definitely, a police matter.
We sailed as much as we could but the wind came and went but we were pleased to find a spot on the harbour in front of the supermarket with enough deep water as not to damage the rudder. A super little harbour for about 12 boats stern too outside the restaurants. No charge but you are expected to eat at their restaurants or shop in their super markets. It is such a beautiful setting with water, showers and electricity if you need it. The cafe/bar/supermarket owner has his whole family working with him and they are a very happy hard working group of individuals.
We are very lucky there to be able to walk either way to a beach and swim in beautiful clear wind.
We stayed longer than we anticipated as there were thunder and lightning storms which rumbled on for days. The locals were very pleased as it meant the hotel fire which they were having difficulty putting out was helped by nature and the problem solved.
In our time here we met some lovely people and tried out all the restaurants except one. Cherry and Hugh were great fun and kept Jim going with the tales of how many fish they had caught on their travels!!!