We motored the 25 N miles along the Turkish coast in no wind to the Island of Simi. As we approached the island we motored through the small 4 metre deep channel between Simi and the tiny rock island of Nismos.

The charts showed we could safely get through, the water quality was a treat--- the colour of the Caribbean ( see photos ).

We motored into the harbour of Simi with its amphitheatre-like stacked up architecture. The Neo classical houses and churches are a stunning visual feast, with their flat fronted facades, projected balconies and floor to ceiling open windows. The facades, gables and doorways painted predominantly in soft mustard yellows with rose pinks, beige, turquoise and so on.

 

In classical times the island built its success on sponge fishing and boat building. It prospered and became the third richest Dodecanese island by 17th century.

The invention of the synthetic sponge, the development of steam power and the 1912 Italian occupation combined to end Simi’s success.

By the time of the second world war, the population of Simi had reduced from ,000 to just 6,000.   The commercial life ended and the beautiful buildings were left to become derelict.

 

Today there are a few crumbling buildings but many are now splendid homes, restaurants, hotels and holiday homes. The harbour bustles with the visiting yachts and motor yachts and the ‘beautiful’ people wander around with the many daytrip tourists who come to visit by ferry from Rhodes.

The harbour has a great atmosphere by day but by night it is even more spectacular as the sun lowers, illuminates the coloured buildings, creates long shadows and sets as the twinkle lights become brighter and reflect in the water.

 

The harbour is set on two opposing quays--- so the head to head anchoring in a small area creates crossed anchors side to side and head to head.   The spectacle of two boats laying anchors side by side and then moving backwards in opposite directions is—well quite something.  Watching a large boat drop their anchor near your bow to go the other side of the harbour is hair raising.

And then starts the dance of collecting anchors--- not one at a time but two and three boats at once in closing directions--- all 40ft to 150 ft . (see photo of crossed anchor gullet boat)

 

Despite this, the harbour is a delight and to add to our pleasure we met up with Laura Richards ( daughter of John/ Atlantic crew) who is working for a charter sailing company and she came into Simi. We spent a nice day and evening with Laura and her boyfriend Stelios.

 

We left the harbour and motored 3 N miles to anchor in Pedhi bay.

 

Photos of ---

The channel between Simi and Nismos as we arrived

The bay and Gialos, Simi harbour

Laura and Stelios

Old town/ church

Arrival of cruise liner moored to the dock

The Turkish gullet boat with crossed anchor in Simi

 

Love to all

 

Tina and Tony x x x