Tuesday 16^th August – Sani Marina, Khalkidhiki – Néa Skioni, Khalkidhiki

39:56.797N 23:31.663E

This morning we checked out of the marina.  We would have loved to stay for a few days but the price is prohibitive – they have only a daily rate whereas most marinas offer a monthly rate which breaks even after two weeks or so. 

We decided to set off before the regular afternoon sea breeze kicked in which we have noticed pins us onto the berth.  We radioed the marina office to let them know we were leaving and left the berth easily.  The marinaro arrived just as we were moving towards the shallow channel and came with us all the way down to make sure we didn’t ground, and then left us at the bottom with a friendly wave – certainly would go back when we win the lottery!

We set off and sailed/ motor-sailed slowly back down to Néa Skioni where we went stern to on the quay as before, helped in by some of the Neilson staff.  This time the flotilla was out and there were plenty of spaces.  We topped up with water and then a fuel tanker arrived to refuel a motorboat and so we were able to top up with diesel as well with far less hassle than expected.  We then went to the supermarket and stocked up on basics to keep us going.

Tonight we decided to eat out for a change and went to a local slouvaki café and had beer and gyros, with a veggie burger for me.  Very pleasant – and good value.