Capo San Vito - 28 September 2021


Time to move on again. Teresa was dispatched to the bakery for fresh bread while we prepared the boat and waited for the marinaro to arrive, so that we could pay. The marina was working on a skeleton staff, and in fact the internet said that it was actually closed,  but this was evidently not the case. The formalities done, we were nearly ready to go when a large shadow passed over us. A medium sized container ship was being eased into the port by various tugs. The pilot boat patrolled, ensuring that no one got in the way of the delicate operation. We did not have to wait too long and called the port authority for permission to move, but got no response. We let go of the lines and glided out, the wind being from behind making it all quite easy.



We left the port and headed north. It wasn’t long before the sails were up and the engine off. There was good wind and a slightly rough sea, but it was just glorious sailing. We were flying along, regularly seeing 9 knots or more. Apparently both Tom and I were grinning broadly while we were on the wheel. As the morning progressed the wind dropped a little and the sea flattened off.

The scenery along the coast was probably magnificent, but we could not see the full array of the cliffs, there was a layer of cloud shrouding the tops, and overall visibility was a little restricted. I am sure we will come this way again, and look forward to seeing the full splendour.

Eventually we rounded Capo San Vito, and headed off the wind, into the bay behind it. We were unsure whether this would provide shelter from the prevailing wind, but were happy to stop for lunch to assess the conditions. Having had an uncomfortable night recently we were anxious not to repeat it. The anchor went down and held beautifully in the Sandy seabed. The small amount of wind we were still feeling was enough to keep the boat in one direction, and into what swell there was. 



The scenery is magnificent. Behind us to one side is a dramatic rock formation, which seems to change colour in the different lights. The discussion moved rapidly from would we stay for the night, to, shall we stay for two nights. It was that spectacular. We swam in the crystal clear water, and were the treated to a fabulous sunset as we sat on deck eating our evening meal.

Steve (and Tricia, Teresa and Tom)

Distance today              25 miles

Total distance 2021:   352 miles

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