Ustica is a very small and isloted island but with an interesting and violent history. Inhabited already in prehistoric times, as is common in the Mediterranean, Ustica was colonised by Phoenicians, Carthaginians,Greek and Romans.

The Greek called the island Osteodes (bones in latin) from skeletons remaining from 6000 Carthaginians who were left on the island to starve to death due to a mutiny.

In the 6th century Benedictine christians inhabited the island but were killed by pirates of both Normand and Saracene origin.

For many centuries Ustica was the base for pirates raiding different shipping in the Mediterranean.

It was not until late 18th century that the Bourbons conquered the island,fortified it,and created a civilized society.

Today still being an isolated island,it´s a popular diving destination,being one reason for us going there.

Coming in to Santa Maria,the main port (completely open from east to south),you need to drop anchor and do a Mediterranean mooring.

Allthough moored on your own anchor and tied to the public pier with no service (no water or shore power) the harbourmaster told us the normal price for a boat like Dora Mac was 150Eu/night !! Paying in cash though , price dropped to 80Eu/night.

In high season the harbour is completely full but know we were alone.

The village on top of the hill is very beautiful and now with some days of settled weather,diving is on the schedule.