Fai Tira now in Zakynthos. 37:47.10N 20:54.09E

07^th - 10^th July 2011

We left Messolongi and headed to Killini which is about 25 miles due south. We had a no wind crossing until about 8 miles from our destination when the wind increased and was on our beam for a change.  This gave us a chance to switch off the engine and sail!!  We arrived in Killini just as a big ferry was leaving. Killini is the main ferry port for all of the Ionian islands.

We found a nice spot side too at the end of the quay, then went for a walk around the town which looked more like a Mexican town than Greek.  We bought some supplies and had a meal and headed back to FT for an early night.

The next morning we slipped the mooring and headed for  Zakynthos.  The wind was off of our beam again so we sailed for some of the 18 miles to the town arriving at about noon.  Stern too mooring here so Judy did her bit on the anchor winch as I reversed in. 

Once settled we got dressed up and headed into town.  The town is great and has a lovely Greek atmosphere and has been rebuilt in the old style, with arcaded streets after the earthquake of 1953.

The church was magnificent, every wall being painted and some amazing gilt work.

We headed for the main square where we sat, ate and watched the world go by.

The next day after I had tried to fix the oil leak on the engine (it’s sorted now). We hired a car and toured the Island. This was to be Judy’s last full day with me L.

First stop was the beach where the Gerakas, turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.  I can’t believe they allow tourists to still use the beach.  The nest sites are staked out so that they don’t get disturbed.

Next stop Banana beach so called because of the Banana boats are zooming around.  We had a drink here to the sound of thumping music.  It’s only saving grace was this old church sited on the headland.

After a stop for lunch we carried on along the magnificent west coast until we found a beach. We needed a swim to cool down. The sea was beautifully clear.

Next stop was the famous Shipwreck Beach.  You can take boat trips to here but we saw it from above, much better.

On the way back we found a lovely little bar overlooking a stunning little bay with local fishing boats.  Yes I had an Amstel and Judy a rose wine.

Our last evening together saw us all dressed up and heading back to the main square for a traditional greek meal. 

I have loved having Judy with me for a month and can’t quite believe how fast the time has gone. Judy says she even enjoyed some of the sailing!!

I am going to miss her, but it’s only a couple of months before I get back to Dartmouth. 

Becky flys out today, Sunday, to be my crew for the trip to Italy and Sardinia.

I think thats the blog now upto date.

Pete.