4th October

We were woken at 6 am by the bin men. After breakfast we left the quay to anchor off the boatyard. Our anchor had snagged the chain of the cat next to ours. Once sorted we were on our way. The lift was straightforward and by late afternoon Imagine was on the hard and packed up for the winter. We took a room in the boatyard for the night.

3rd October

We got most of the other jobs done today. In the evening we went for a meal with Bill and Helen from the Kronos catamaran moored next to us. I learned more than I wanted about bungalows. They took our liferaft off us.

2nd October

Preveza was only 17 miles away. We made the 10 am opening of the floating bridge, joined the queue to get through, and pottered on to anchor onto the town quay. By the evening all the sails were off.

1st October

We're on the way to our winter base. Our first leg was 15 miles to the north at Nidri on Levkas. We did get the sails up, although briefly. Once there we moored on the town quay to see what the town had to offer. Not much was our conclusion and we moved out to anchor in the bay for the night.

30th September

At last it settled down enough for us to move on. We went to look at Vassiliki, on the southern side of Levkas. There was room on the town quay. A sign said Hemingway was here to hunt dolphins.

29th September

This morning, for the first time in 5 days there is no wind. I did have to get up at 4am though as there was a dreadful squeaking from a fender. It is raining though. A constant British drizzle. We've decided. We'll stay here for another day.

28th September

Duvet back on bed and soup for lunch. It's not cold but certainly cooler. We must have been at the edge of the "Medicane" as winds hit 30 knots or more in the harbour. Outside the channel between the islands is a mass of white horses and friends reported 48 knots of wind up in Levkas. A few yachts ventured out in a crash of surf. We decided to stay put for another night. What's the hurry? After lunch we took ourselves off for a walk across the island. For most of the time we were trekking steeply up or down in atmospheric forest. By the time we got back and had a cup of tea the strong wind had become a moderate breeze. Is this the end of the storm?

27th September

The U.K. news says a "Medicane" is heading our way. That's a Mediterranean hurricane. The forecast is certainly for strong winds but the worst appears to be heading south of us. We're secure and comfortable holed up in Fiskardo on Cephalonia. We were entertained today by boats leaving and getting anchors tangled. This afternoon Paul Goldstein left in his mega yacht picking up a couple of anchors on the way. I had a vision of his boat having a necklace of smaller craft being dragged along in his wake. Lucinda and I took a 6.5 mile across the island before going out to eat.

26th September

It was definitely the storm after the lull. We ate at a restaurant by Imagine's stern on a balmy evening. Shortly after we went to bed the wind started to blow. We had to get out a couple of times in the night to untangle ropes. In the morning I had to row the dinghy round the front of Paul's mega yacht to stop it banging our neighbour's bows. We tightened up on the anchor chain and checked all the lines. The wind in the shelter of the harbour is 25 knots. The few boats that anchored across the inlet must have had a miserable night. Most of them have already cleared off in search of better shelter. Where I don't know. We're happy and hopefully secure. However I'm not sure how we get onto the quay as various ropes are preventing us lowering our passerrelle (gangplank). During the day the wind continued to blow. We adjusted lines, checked the anchors and now we wait.

25th September

We were about to set off by Taxi to the other side of the island when the harbour master rushed up saying we had to leave. Apparently a big swell swirls into the harbour with strong north easterlies. If we'd known we'd never have come. Where to next? Our friends were going to Sivota on Levkas so we headed that way. Fiskardo is at the top of Cephalonia and we looked in while we were passing. Last time we were here it was packed. Worryingly the main anchorage was almost empty and there were still places on the quay. Anyway it looked alright to me so we squeezed into a space by the restaurants. Lots of anchor chain out, lines doubled, what could possibly go wrong?

And then, blow me down, an enormous 35 metre gin palace parked almost next to us blotting out the sun and dominating the harbour. And at the wheel Paul Goldstein. What are the chances? Anyway Lucinda and I went on board for a cup of tea and he told us all the good places to go in Greece.

24th September

This is the calm before the storm. It is expected to hit early Wednesday morning and continue until noon on Friday. To the west of the Islands force 9 winds are forecast. Where we are may see force 6 to 7. So far we've been very lucky with the weather. We're in one of the best refuges in the islands and have access to a quay. So we're going to stay until after the storm. It's given us the opportunity to get some maintenance done and it's pleasant place to wait. Ice cream and restaurants are a few steps away.

23rd September.

The light breeze was, inevitably, blowing from where we wanted to go. We arrived in Eufimia shortly after noon passing a flotilla load of charter yachts going the other way. Unlike last time we were here there was space for us on the quay. The big attraction of this town is the magnificent self-service laundrette and the first thing Lucinda did after mooring was to head there. In the afternoon the boat was festooned with drying washing.

22nd September

I thought our day was done when I sent the report. A charter boat pulled in next to us. A lady on board was clutching her toe. The kid of the anchor locker had fallen on her foot. I got out my medical kit. I examined it. I could see the toe was handing off. I summoned my medical expertise and concluded she needed to see a doctor.


Sent from my iPhone

22nd September

We set off to pioneer a route to the monastery high on a hill above the town. We followed a road and then a path and then a goat track and then we ventured where not even goats had been. Eventually we admitted defeat and retreated down the mountain. It remains very hot and we decided to stay put for a further day. Later our friends H&C pulled into the harbour so they can aboard for drinks. Tonight is cooler and the forecast is for storms on Tuesday and Wednesday.

21st September

Lucinda still heard things going thump in the night. This time it was a cat leaving paw prints over the foredeck. It was time to start heading towards our winter refuge so we pointed our bow towards Cephalonia and plodded north. A gentle breeze allowed us to motor sail for about an hour before having to furl as the wind disappeared. We were back in Poros and ate at the Franco-Greek restaurant by the harbour looked after by the harassed chef/waiter/owner.

20th September

Something was gently banging all night. We don't know what it was but it drove Lucinda at 4am to sleep in the saloon. After breakfast we took the train to Olympia just as another cruise ship was slowly coming in to moor looming over Imagine. The narrow gauge train wound through the countryside. From the station it was a short walk to the site of Olympia and its associated museum. In its heyday it must have been amazing. All that is left is lots of stones, a few pillars, the outline of buildings and an athletics field. The archeological museum contained some wonderful artefacts. After a snack it was time to get back on the train for the return journey.

19th September

For once we thought we might be able to sail as we headed south east to the mainland. Our destination was Katakolo from where we planned to visit Olympia (not the one by Earls Court). Within half a mile the wind died to nothing and we motored all the way. The harbour was dominated by an enormous cruise ship. There was still plenty of room for us. The town consists of a few restaurants and a couple of streets of high class knick-knackery, presumably to cater to the cruise ship passengers.

18th September

After breakfast we walked up to the castle overlooking the town. It encompasses a large open area enclosed by ruined walls. Not very impressive apart from the magnificent views over the harbour. The British had been there but we don't know when or why. In the afternoon we took a tour to the south of the island and the beaches surrounding Lagana. We'd been told it was a bit like Blackpool but ten times worse. I quite like Blackpool but we drove through streets with bars, nightclubs and discount markets. The beaches and off lying bay are known as the breeding grounds for turtles. There are restrictions to boat traffic and anchoring. The speed limit of 6 knots was widely ignored. We set off on a glass bottomed boat. Very soon we found a solitary turtle which was instantly surrounded by half a dozen boats. Ours was in danger of capsize as everyone rushed to one side for a view. Overhead four seaplanes were circling, landing and picking up water to fly off, presumably to dump their load on areas at risk of fire. We then powered off to see some caves and ended up stranded for an hour on an island where turtles breed. There were none around but several boatloads of us gathered at the water's edge, bought snacks from floating cafes and waited to be picked up for the return journey. The day was rounded off by watching Vertigo, the Hitchcock film. Oh, and the immersion heater seems to have broken. Another for the list.

17th September

We had a miserable night alongside the harbour wall. The wind died just before midnight and left a slop that shouldered its way along the quayside rocking Imagine in an irregular and sometimes violent motion. We couldn't wait to leave in the morning. We motored a short way back along the island to the famous blue caves. We saw the viewing platform, we saw some small caves, we didn't see what the attraction was all about. We then turned south east towards Zakinthos town. We were directed to a quay and, after last night, felt secure and stable.

16th September

After breakfast we set off to walk to the monastery. The first bit was serious off-piste uphill trekking. By the time we got to the road and the walking became a lot easier there was still some 900 vertical feet to go. I decided to turn around and take the road back. Nonetheless we managed 4.6 miles. It was time to head further south and make the crossing to Zakinthos. Once again there was no wind until we were almost at Ay Nikolaos. We moored alongside in this large harbour. Later we bought honey and olive oil from an old man with a stall close by before going to eat at a waterfront restaurant.

15th September

During the night several thumps vaguely penetrated my sleep. That was Lucinda chasing a cat off the boat. After breakfast we walked 3km round the bay to one of Cephalonia's main tourist attractions. The Melissani cave is reached through a short slope descending through the rock. Most of the cave is open to the sky as the roof collapsed, probably thousands of years ago. The space is filled with water that has filtered through rocks from the other (western) side of the island. Our €7 each entrance fee entitled us to be rowed for 10 minutes around the cave before being ejected once again through the gift shop to the surface. We motored south to moor in the harbour at Poros. This is a dusty, sad place although quiet and sheltered.

14th September

We took a day off today. In the morning we went on a 7 mike trek to the beach in the next cove and then to some ruins above the village. The large number of large stones scattered on the hillside would make a wonderful acropolis if only they were rearranged into buildings. The harbour from above looked spectacular.

13th September

It took less than an hour to cross the bay to Sami. We'd been warned that it could get crowded. However there was plenty of space on the quay even after a large Sailing Holidays flotilla arrived. We were able to water up and clean the boat. Sadly we had to say farewell to Emily and Tanner who are flying to Athens.

12th September

It was mid morning when we upped anchor and headed north over the top of Ithaca and turned south along the east coast of Cephalonia. Eufimia is nearly half way down and is a pleasant harbour with a long public quay. Although there were plenty of spaces we were told there was no room on the quay as flotillas were expected later. There was plenty of room to anchor within the harbour walls so that's what we did. Later the anchorage filled up so we were surrounded by other yachts. We had our last evening meal with Emily and Tanner who leave us tomorrow.

11th September

Today we progressed across to the island of Ithaca. We actually sailed for about an hour. We arrived at Kioni. We've been here before and it was worth another visit. It was fairly full when we arrived but many more boats found space after us. We had a swim, a drink ashore and then ate on board.

10th September

We weighed anchor before the Poles and motored north to Kalamos. It was much less crowded than when we were here in July. The others spent the afternoon on the beach while I finished a mediocre novel. We had sundowners in a taverna on the beach before eating at George's. When the others went to bed I tried with limited success to photograph the night sky.

7th September

We managed three trips to the supermarket while on Preveza town quay. We were well provisioned by the time Emily and Tanner arrived at noon. We cast off and headed to the Levkas channel. The floating bridge decided not to open at 3pm so we had to wait until 4. We still had plenty of time to motor past Nidri into Ormos Vlikho to anchor for the night. The water was warm but a bit cloudy. We all had a swim before supper.

6th September

We're now afloat. The guys at Cleopatra efficiently dumped us in the water this afternoon. All systems worked and we are now on the town quay at Preveza town waiting for Emily and Tanner to arrive tomorrow.

5th September

We're back. Lucinda went to sleep early last night. When I turned in half an hour later at 9pm she woke up thinking it was time to leave. She then woke me in a panic at 01:50 thinking it was an hour later and we had overslept. We did catch our cab at 03:00 and were driven erratically to Gatwick where thousands of people were tucking into full English breakfasts at 4am. Anyway the flight was uneventful and we took the most expensive 3 minute taxi ride (€15) to the boat yard. Imagine looked fine if a little dusty. I caught up on some sleep, did a few odd jobs and prepared for launch tomorrow.


Sent from my iPhone

11th July

We set off in time to catch the 9 am opening of the Levkas floating bridge. By late morning we were at Preveza. After refuelling they lifted us into the hard. The afternoon was spent cleaning and repairing. Imagine looks in good shape. Only England match this evening left to go.

10th July

With help we managed to slip out of the harbour before most of the other boats. By some miracle our anchor came up without fouling. For the first couple of hours we had a great sail, although it was to windward. We then motored up to Levkas town and anchored on the town quay. Later we wandered round town and Simon and I watched the France Belgium game.

9th July

We thought we'd look at the next island, Kalamos. Boats were streaming out and there was plenty of space on the quay when directed there by George. We had a wander round town before lunch. By early afternoon other yachts were arriving. We had read that the harbour gets full. By the evening there must have been over 80 boats stacked imaginatively all over the harbour. The sea bed could only have been a tangle of anchor chains. Amazingly our sister ship, Alexandria came in. I introduced myself to her owner, Chris. Friends of his had sailed her down from Plymouth.

8th July

Another day, another island. This time Kastos. We had a good sail to the harbour and only town, Port Kastos. The wind was blowing hard off the shore so anchoring and taking a line ashore required some planning. After we were safely moored we were entertained by the other boats that arrived. Some made a pigs ear of it, two boats picked up other people's anchors. After a swim we had a drink by the old windmill and wandered round the village. By the time we returned the wind had dropped and all was peaceful where before carnage reigned.

7th July

Our priority was to be on a pontoon well in time to be ashore at 5pm local time to see England vs Sweden. Sivota on Levkas was our destination. Normally harbours are quiet on Saturdays but this was a flotilla bade so there wasn't much room spare. We did manage to get on a pontoon. After lunch there was a bit of argy bargy as a boat dragged its anchor and ended up stranded off our bow. Once that was sorted it was time to go and watch the match. Great result.

6th July

Another day another island. Today was Fiskadho on Cephalonia. This has a reputation for being really busy. We arrived early. The town quay was small and full but we were happy to anchor opposite and take a line to the shore. We had time to have a walk, a swim and a meal on board before Simon and I rowed to the village to watch Belgium beat Brazil.

5th July

Today we headed further south. We were aiming for Cephalonia but we had a good breeze taking us to Ithaca so we went there. That's Sailing. We ended up in Kioni, a delightful little hamlet. There was space on the quay so we barfed our way in. All afternoon more boats kept arriving and, somehow, often with imaginative mooring techniques, everyone found a place in the bay. Lucinda and I had a walk before supper which was taken at a taverna on the quayside.

5th July

Today we headed further south. We were aiming for Cephalonia but we had a good breeze taking us to Ithaca so we went there. That's Sailing. We ended up in Kioni, a delightful little hamlet. There was space on the quay so we barfed our way in. All afternoon more boats kept arriving and, somehow, often with imaginative mooring techniques, everyone found a place in the bay.

4th July

With Simon on board as well as an England win in the World Cup we headed south to Levkas. We had to wait for the floating bridge to open before entering the Levkas channel. Passing Levkas Marina I saw another BB385 called Footloose. There aren't many around so I stopped to say hello. Once through the channel we had a following breeze and we sailed down to Vathi in Meganisi where we found space on the town quay.

Sent from my iPhone

3rd July

The views from the castle above the town were stunning. It was then time to up anchor and motor back to Preveza. Cleopatra Marina told us to wait for our berth so we went across to the town quay on the other side of the channel. Here we were able to get the shopping done. Cleopatra was ready for us in the early afternoon. Once ashore we met up once again with H&C who were waiting to fly back to Germany. Simon Lyon flew in from Athens to be with us for the next 10 days. After supper we settled down to watch the England game. A win on penalties!

2nd July

We motored south on a glassy sea. By the time we reached Preveza there was a light breeze to waft us along as we turned east into the Gulf of Amvrakia and made for Vonitsa for the night. Being on a quay meant I could watch some footie including an exciting Japan Belgium match. I felt sorry for the Japanese.

1st July

Sophie's birthday. Our first cloudless day for some time. After breakfast we motored 2.5 miles back north to investigate a small river. We eased into the entrance but a short way in we met an irate man in a tourist boat telling us to go back. We did rather fill the channel so we turned round and retreated to last night's wonderful anchorage.

30th June

Today we entered new territory. We anchored in Two Rock Bay. For once we had a lovely downwind sail in about 20 knts. The anchorage is delightful and sheltered from the white horses outside. There is a small beach but no bars or taverns. We are sharing the bay with a few other boats and some people under umbrellas on the beach.

30th June

I rowed to the lovely sandy beach and from there walked to a small burger van on the cliff above. I was just in time to watch the last 15 minutes of France Argentina on a TV that had been set up outside.

29th June

Once again, for a few days we have the boat to ourselves. Time to head south to Preveza and beyond. We liked Platarias so went there along with a Neilson flotilla.

28th June

We woke up to grey skies and rain, yet again. By the time we motored to Gouvia it had brightened up. We said our sad farewells to Sue and Roger, watered up, did the washing and settled down to watch the footie. In the meantime the wind picked up creating white horses outside the marina and whistling through the rigging.

27th June

Apart from the thump thump of the music the night was quiet. The football last night, Argentina vs Nigeria was enthralling. Mid morning we moved a couple of miles up the coast to a small bay. After lunch it started raining and poured all afternoon while we watched a Hitchcock movie. There was one other boat in the bay, a large Oyster. The skipper looked familiar so I rowed over to say hi. It was Keith Myerson and his wife. He was an anaesthetist I knew. Later we went over to have a drink with them. We went to bed enthralled by the elimination of Germany from the World Cup.

26th June

It was the hottest day of the year in the UK. Here it rained all night and into the morning. In exchange for the promise of eating in their restaurant we moved onto a small pontoon. We dominated the harbour but at least we could now walk ashore. After lunch we had a long walk in preparation for a double bout of footie separated by a meal.


Sent from my iPhone

25th June

Today we thought we'd go 6 mikes along the mainland coast. Shortly after we left a huge dark grey cloud descended on the mainland stretching down to the sea. It was accompanied by wind, for once from the ideal direction. We decided to go a bit further up the coast to try and avoid the rain and take advantage of the wind. Our next possible destination was enveloped in a dense cloud. A few miles to the west Corfu had much better weather. We therefore decided to keep going back to the island particularly as, for once, we were having a good sail.

Apart from a small shower we made it to Corfu. Later we got our downpour but we were already at anchor. Not the weather we anticipated.

24th June

Ever hopeful we got the sails ready. We needn't have bothered. It was 14 mikes to motor across to Mourtos-Sivota on the mainland. The main aim was to get there in time to watch the footie. It was a glorious victory against that football powerhouse, Panama. The harbour filled up and for once a breeze arose causing us to create washing machine noises as we bob off the quayside.

22nd June

This morning we motored the length of Paxos and crossed to Antipaxos. The main attraction is a sandy beach with light blue water. It was stunning but also overrun with motor yachts and day trip boats. We anchored for lunch and then made our way back to a bay on the southern tip of Paxos where we moored for the night.

21st June

Last night was quite rolly with water slapping against the underneath of the hull. There was no wind so we motored south to Paxos. A slight breeze allowed us to raise the sails although we made almost no progress it was good to be drifting silently. As we approached the anchorage of Lakka several other boats were also making their way in. Lucinda made me motor at full speed to get there before then. As it was there was space and we anchored with a couple of lines back to the rocks in the farthest corner of the anchorage. We rowed to the village in the early evening. On the way a passing dinghy gave us a tow. After he delivered us he couldn't restart his engine and the last we saw was him swimming back into the bay towing his dinghy. The meal was fine and we watched the last 20 minutes of Croatia taking Argentina apart.


Sent from my iPhone

20th June

No wind at all, once again, as we headed south to Petriti one more time. Once there we anchored, lazed around, swam and chilled.

19th June

England's first match and a fluky win, in my opinion. Still WC underway. I watched it in a bar with 8 big screen TVs stuffed with Englishmen.

This morning we slowly motored the 7 mikes back to Gouvia to wait for Rogers and Sue.i it gave us a chance to restock and get some washing done. Off to Zorba's again.

18th June

Walking again. This time I recorded the stats, 8.8km in just under 2 hours. It's hot and windless. The dredger is back at work in the far corner of the harbour. The horrid big white motorboat is still here. At least it's not thumping out big bass music that it did all yesterday afternoon, reverberating through the water. After lunch we headed back to Corfu. It was sunny where we were as we headed towards ominous black clouds ahead. We could see lightning over Albania but we avoided any rain on way to Corfu.

In the meantime we were getting used to the idea of having Tanner as a son in law. We're delighted for Emily and Tanner. I also hope England do well tonight, no where near as important of course- just saying.

17th June

We're now on a boat-based walking holiday. After breakfast we walked completely round the island. Lots of ups and downs, a deserted beach, cool shaded paths. I deserved an ice cream when we returned. Then I went to watch the footie. The bar owner changed channels at half time because he wanted to watch basketball.

16th June

Today we started retracing our course back over the top of Corfu. We could hear the rumble of thunder in the distance but it remained clear where we were. This time we went into the harbour at Erikoussa. It was the weekend and the dredger was not working. We could have water and power at no charge as the harbour is not yet completely commissioned. The lazy lines are not in place but we had the thread our way through little plastic bottles floating attached to where the lazy lines will be connected.

15th June

So much for planning. Our intention was to go south along the west coast of Corfu to Paxos. The forecast was for a high chance of rain and also lightening. Rain is not pleasant while underway, but lightening can be frightening. So we stayed put. This gave us the opportunity to take a 5k walk into the hills overlooking the town. We did get a spectacular view of Imagine in the distance looking huge in the tiny harbour. Shortly after lunch the predicted rain arrived and Lucinda and I both fell asleep. We ate in a restaurant and I watched the my first World Cup match.

14th June

After breakfast we walked almost to the other end of the island. Most of the other boats had already left. We headed over to the island of Mathraki but decided not to stop. We therefore continued to Palaiokastrita, the only reasonable shelter on the west of Corfu. This is a big tourist centre with a small harbour crammed with little motor boats. We squeezed ourselves into the only possible space. The bay is surrounded by high wooded hills with dramatic vistas.

13th June

After breakfast we headed out to walk to the lighthouse. We never found it but discovered a deserted beach instead. It was eight miles west to Othoni. On with the engine again. Tonight we are moored side on to a pontoon so can step ashore and it should not be too rolly. It was a short walk to the village to eat.

12th June

Corfu was invisible in the early morning blanketed by mist. As it cleared we set off to walk round Erikoussa. We got thoroughly lost but after 2 hours found ourselves back at the harbour. Later we swam, read and had H&C aboard for drinks.

Sent from my iPhone

11th June

Today we set off to go north. Our destination was the island of Mathraki. There isn't much information about it so we thought we'd look for ourselves. The inner harbour was too shallow and the outer harbour deserted. We managed to stern to on our anchor. It was a bit precarious with even the slight swell threatening to dash us against the rough harbour wall. There wasn't much ashore that we could see so after a brief look round we pushed off 6 mikes to the island of Erikoussa. Here we discovered Lykkevind at anchor with our friends H&C. This gave us the opportunity to catch up with drinks on board and supper together in the village.

10th June

This morning we visited Butrint. This is, justifiably, the number one tourist site in Albania. It is an ancient port city on a spit of land between a large lake and the sea. There are Greek remains, and Roman, and then traces of those who came after. On the way back we went to the castle overlooking Sarande. The views were fantastic looking inland and also over the sea towards Corfu. After lunch and the departure formalities we headed out into Greek waters to find a sheltered bay for the night.

9th June

Today was our opportunity to start exploring Albania. We met our driver/guide Florian and set off to Gjirokastra, apparently the number 2 tourist site in the country. On the way we saw the ruins of an old monastery. The highlight of Gjirokastra is a castle. Ali Pasha had something to do with it. It sits above a quaint old town and is reached through a typical avenue of tourist tat shops. Around us were lush hills streaked with low cloud. We went for lunch at an unpretentious roadside Albanian cafe. Home grown veg, honey, yoghurt and chips were served. We bought a small plastic bottle of the honey. We then visited the Blue Eye, named after the upwelling of an underground water source. I felt we had done enough and was pleased to be back on the boat. After a snooze we hit the town for a meal. After the bouncing around of yesterday caused by strong southerly winds it was good to be gently bobbing at our mooring.

8th June

The night was OK but a slight swell had us rocking. After we got up we retrieved the kedge and swung with the breeze. The first day boat arrived at 10 am off loading its cargo of swimmers. After lunch we sailed the 6 miles across to Sarande on Albania. I had previously contacted an agent and she was there with her husband to meet us and deal with the formalities. We are moored in a small concrete basin along with 4 or 5 other boats. By early evening a strong wind from the south was blowing into the bay. We were in a small basin in the lee of a large motorboat. Even so our fenders were bouncing in the rough concrete wall. We walked the promenade and had a supper of traditional Albanian fare.

7th June

We were by ourselves once again. We headed back further north on Corfu. We considered going into Kassiopi but when we looked there was no space. We retraced our course and found a bay a mile away. A couple of boats were in the best anchoring spots. By late afternoon they had all gone and we re-anchored taking a long line backwards on the kedge anchor. It's a massive 20kg replacement to our previous kedge that had a habit of dragging when we most needed it to hold. As night fell we were all alone in this small bay opposite Sarande in Albania.

6th June

It was time for our guests to leave. After breakfast we motored back to Port Mandraki. They manoeuvred their luggage down the long wooden boarding plank. We walked with them to the Taxi rank and bade them farewell.

5th June

It was time to go back to Corfu. We planned to anchor in a bay north of Corfu town. Unusually by the time we reached our destination the wind was blowing strongly from the south. Most of the likely anchorages were unsuitable and, after poking our bows into a couple of bays, we went further north to Ay Stefanos. We'd been here before. This time we tucked ourselves close to the south shore and took two long lines back to a mile to stop us swinging. A few other boats were uneasily bobbing in the bay. We had a walk and then ate at a restaurant by the beach. By nightfall the wind dropped and a few other boats had arrived and all was peaceful overnight.

5th June

For Kennan and Melanie's last night we decided to head back to Corfu. The wind started off light but then built from the south. The first couple of bays were not suitable because of the unusual wind direction. Eventually we went into Ay Stefanos and made ourselves reasonably comfortable by tucking into the Lee of the shore and taking a couple of lines to the mole. We could then settle back and see how the other boats managed. Later we went for a walk along the coast. By the evening the wind had died away and we had our last meal together by the beach.

4th June

Breakfast was eaten underway as we motored North and towards the mainland. The sea was choppy and what little wind there was blew from the north. We reached Platarias just after 11 am. This is a big charter base. As we arrived the flotillas set off. Three groups of 12 boats plus lead skippers provided amusement as they upped anchors. The crowded quays looked very empty once they had left. Most of the crew spent the day on the beach. A small flotilla and a handful of other yachts came in before we went to the restaurant behind Imagine for supper.

3rd June

It was party time on the quay until 3 am. There are advantages in being deaf. An early morning walk set us up for breakfast. Lakka is 4 miles North on the tip of Paxos. We anchored in the corner of the delightful bay. By the evening the wind had increased and outside the bay there were numerous white horses. Inside 40 boats had sought shelter. Before eating on board we had time to walk round the bay and have a drink in the village.

2nd June

We woke up to catch a magnificent sunrise and the fishing boats returning after a night at work. There was a light breeze from the wrong direction as we motored south to Paxos. There was a large cruise liner anchored off the town of Gaios. There was plenty of space on the town quay. After an ice cream we strolled round town. In the evening we took a taxi to a restaurant on the west coast and watched the sunset as we ate.

1st June

What light wind there was blew from the south as we headed further south to Petriti, a small harbour with a couple of restaurants on Corfu. It was great place for a snooze, a swim and a drink ashore before going back to the boat to eat.

31st May

Following a rather rolly night at anchor we motored into Gouvia. One trip to the supermarket and washing done before Kennan and Melanie turned up following a week walking in Corfu. Together we did another mega shop and had time for a swim in the pool before going to Zorba's to eat. We were joined by Chris and Carolyn off Splice.

30th May

The children walked the wobbly pirate plank to the quay while I ferried their luggage to the shore. They killed half an hour in the playground before taking a taxi to the airport. There was no rush. A Greek air traffic strike meant delays and cancellations. We motored to the anchorage outside Gouvia to settle down until tomorrow. Sophie, David and the kids got back a little delayed.

29th May

We stayed in the bay until noon and then slowly made our way 7 miles south to Mandraki port in Corfu town, the final destination for our guests. Last time we went stern first onto the quay and had to walk across a long plank. This time we tried bows first. We still ended up having to traverse a long and wobbly plank. The kids bought presents and had a swim and then had a final meal together on Imagine.

28th May

The night was calm and peaceful. After breakfast we took the dinghy and had a walk along the cliff overlooking the bay. Hundreds of spiders sat in the middle of individual webs while butterflies fluttered amongst the flowers. The anchor retrieved we motored a couple of hours south back into the bay we were in last week. There was time to swim before lunch. During the afternoon several other boats came in to anchor. In the evening we ate at a table on the beach. David L is feeling unwell. I hope he gets better soon. The kids are loving being on the boat.

27th May

David and I watched the European Champions League final. Sadly Liverpool lost but at least Gareth Bale was the hero for Real Madrid. The morning was windless and we made an early start to motor back to the north east coast of Corfu. Our anchor picked up a heavy line but that was easily sorted and we were off through the narrow harbour entrance.

We anchored off Ay Stefanos in time for lunch. Later we left David on board while the rest of us went for an ice cream and a swim from the beach. Imagine looked lovely but was slowly drifting out to sea towards Albania. Her anchor was dragging. I rowed rapidly back. David had it under control and we re-anchored closer to the beach.

27th May

David and I watched the European Champions League final. Sadly Liverpool lost but at least Gareth Bale was the hero for Real Madrid. The morning was windless and we made an early start to motor back to the north east coast of Corfu. Our anchor picked up a heavy line but that was easily sorted and we were off through the narrow harbour entrance.

We anchored off Ay Stefanos in time for lunch. Later we left David on board while the rest of us went for an ice cream and a swim from the beach. Imagine looked lovely but was slowly drifting out to sea towards Albania. I rowed rapidly back. David had it under control and we re-anchored closer to the beach.

26th May

We'd gone to bed but music was still thumping from the bar on shore when an enormous thunderstorm swept in. Bright jagged rents of lightning ripped through the clouds and arced to the sea. The atmosphere crackled and then the rain came. The wind picked up but not by much. All around people with torches were moving in their boats. After an hour or so it passed over and all was quiet. The grandchildren slept on blissfully unaware of any excitement. We sailed and then motored slowly 15 miles south along the Albanian and then the Greek mainland. As we were nearing our destination we saw a large turtle paddling along just under the surface. By early afternoon we were in Sayiadha. The harbour entrance was narrow but once we had squeezed inside the small harbour we made ourselves secure. Most of the crew headed for the local beach. Later we went to a restaurant on the quayside for supper and David and I stayed on to watch the Champions League final.

25th May

Our first trip was a short distance to the fuel bay. Another 220 litres on board we slowly motored 6 miles north. We tucked into a small bay in time for lunch. In the afternoon everyone had a swim and a wander round on the pebbly beach off which we are anchored. Then back to Imagine for the night.

24th May

Back on Imagine. Sophie, David, Hester and Trewin were on the same flight yesterday. On the descent to Corfu we hit some turbulence. The flight attendant reassured everyone, Lucinda grabbed my hand and I had to promise her we would land safely. I didn't mention that the airport is allegedly the 5th most dangerous landing strip in Europe. As the wheels touched the tarmac there was spontaneous applause from the passengers. It was a short but expensive taxi ride to the marina where we bedded down for the night. With our wonderful grandchildren on board I can see why I might want a bigger yacht, or perhaps two boats. Today we went to the supermarket, swam in the pool and went out to eat in a restaurant.

20th May

Our anchorage was in a bay next to the marina. At 10am we upped anchor and moved into the marina. There was time to get Imagine sorted before the short taxi ride to the airport for our flight back to London. We will return to Corfu on Wednesday. Until then this blog is on holiday.

19th May

We took the opportunity to have another wander through the streets of Corfu old town. Then we slowly motored 4 mikes north to a bay outside the big marina at Gouvia. When we got there we tried the big kedge anchor. We discovered it's bloody heavy and that anchoring in mud can be messy. After that we anchored conventionally and spent some time tidying up. This is a peaceful spot and we stayed here for the night ready to enter the marina in the morning.

18th May

It was a peaceful night at anchor. The water park was closed and there was no music from the deserted bar on the beach. We had to motor, once again. This time back to Port Mandraki, a small harbour in the shadow of Corfu old town. We couldn't get close enough for our passarelle so had to steadily walk a long wooden plank to the harbour wall. We explored the fortifications overlooking the harbour and wandered through the old town. We ate at the yacht club restaurant overlooking the harbour.

17th May

On a windless morning we motored 15 miles north along the mainland to anchor off the town of Mourtos. As we entered the bay the starboard engine juddered. From past experience we knew something had wrapped round the propeller. I selected reverse and a large chunk of plastic bag floated free. While anchoring another two chunks came to the surface. I used a camera to check the prop. There was still more attached to a blade. The water was warm. It must have been as Lucinda was swimming. So on with the shortie wetsuit, snorkel and mask. The prop cleared I rewarded myself with a kitkat. We're moored for the night just off a water park, closed at the moment.

16th May

No rain today and much warmer. What wind there was came from the north so we drifted the few miles across to the mainland to anchor in a bay just north of Parga. When we arrived there were only 4 boats at anchor. Come sundown there were over 30 including a flotilla. This delightful bay is fringed by a sandy beach. We walked along the beach to the castle overlooking the bay. After passing through various hands the castle became British in 1814. In a shameful episode of colonial history the British sold the castle to Ali Pasha in 1816 causing the local population to flee to Corfu. The town of Parga is in the next bay and we walked there and back.

15th May

Today was overcast, grey and drizzly. Fortunately we had a day planned exploring Paxos with H&C. With Herwig driving the hire car we visited a restaurant on the west coast with a spectacular view of the cliffs and sea below. We managed to find a way down to the isolated beach. The white cliffs were made with layered granular material scattered with random lumps of hard black rock. Lunch was taken at Lakka, a harbour on the northern tip. We then drove to the two other main anchorages before returning to our boat at Gaios. In the evening we ate out together.

14th May

There was a perfect sailing breeze today. Typically it was blowing directly from where we wanted to go. We tacked for a couple of hours mainly going sideways, then gave up and motored. The prevailing wind is from the opposite direction. No doubt that's what we will get later in the week when we have to go North. We entered Gaios on the island of Paxos. Our friends Herwig and Christine were here to great us. We moored stern to, hanging off our anchor on the town quay. After a drink with H&C we explored the town. Wonderful sheltered position in the centre of a Greek village.

13th May

Time for holiday mode, short distances, safe anchorages and chillaxing. We headed south for 16 miles down the coast of Corfu to anchor off Petriti just in time for lunch. We had free entertainment in the afternoon watching charter boats grapple with mooring and anchoring. Later we went ashore for a meal in one on the restaurants lining the bay.

12th May

It was essential that we obtained a DEPKA, the Greek permit for us and the boat. The marina said we had to go to Corfu town to get it. We waited 30 minutes for the bus then wandered round the old town and the docks until we found the Port Authority Office. Once there we were told we had to go back to their sub office in the marina. Hot, weary and bemused we eventually got back to the marina to complete the formalities. The sub office had only reopened that morning at 9 am after a prolonged closure. We left for town at 08:30. We were given the welcome news we could stay another night. Two trips to the supermarket, an afternoon snooze, FaceTiming some of the kids and me polishing off the last three episodes of WestWorld completed the day.

11th May

We've made it to Corfu. Nearly 400 nm since we left Sicily. The mast is still upright and we're in good shape. This is a massive marina and charter base. We may be kicked out tomorrow through lack of space as charterers return. We will see. It's an opportunity to do the washing, clean the boat and replenish.

10th May

We're in Greece! To be more precise we're on the island of Erikoussa, north east of Corfu. It was an uneventful passage, almost entirely under engine. We're moored in a brand new harbour, the only boat in it. We may be the first yacht to use it. It is pristine. And so far no one seems interested in taking any money off us.

9th May

Motoring, again, towards the heel of Italy. Just before lunch the coastguard in a big orange rib came to give us the once over. They inspected all our documents then waved us on our way. I guess it gave both of us something to make the day interesting. Later the customs launch came to have a look but didn't stop. We moored in the marina of Santa Maria Di Leuca. This is our last stop in Italy before we cross to Greece. The 284 steps of the monumental stone staircase took us up to the lighthouse and church. The staircase was built by Mussolini as a ceremonial gateway into Italy. The view was magnificent.

8th May

We thought we'd have a rest day. Lucinda cleaned the boat while I read the paper and ate chocolate. The old town is a short walk away. The outside of the castle was more impressive than the interior. The cathedral was baroque, gloomy and had a room full of the bones of saints. I had an ice cream before we returned to the boat to spend the afternoon reading.

7th May

We set off early into a choppy sea and a 20 knot wind. After a few tiresome hours the wind abated and the sea no longer had white horses. We motor sailed west to the heel of Italy's foot. There we found shelter in Gallipoli, not the famous town in Turkey but nonetheless a welcome port. In the evening we wandered around the old town and had a mediocre meal.

6th May

Another 40 Miles took us to the town of Ciro. This is definitely not a recreational harbour. We moored alongside the stone quay among the fishing boats. No other yachts were here. Lots of the locals appeared to take photos. I don't think they get many yachts here.

Sent from my iPhone

5th May

My task before breakfast was to unblock the toilet waste pipe. Mission accomplished. Today's leg was a bit shorter at 47 miles, and we actually managed to sail for the last 2 hours. The forecast 10 knots of wind turned out to be 22! Le Castella is tiny. The outer harbour was full. We had to enter through a narrow, shallow passage to the inner basin and there wasn't much room inside either. We hung around and someone came to help us find a space. The castle was magnificent, well worth a look.

4th May

We left before dawn and were rewarded with a spectacular sunrise. Yesterday's storm was gone leaving little wind and a gently undulating sea. Today we crossed to the mainland, a distance of some 74 miles. We were lucky to have the waves pushing us but there was little wind. I should have bought a motorboat. So far apart from a few hours of motorsailing it's been engines all the way. We've cleaned up, had showers and now it's time for a pizza ashore.

3rd May

A good call delaying our departure. A big storm swept in during the night rocking the boat and giving us a poor night's sleep. I had to adjust the lines at 3am. The morning was grey and windy and rainy. By late afternoon the skies had cleared and it was looking good for an early start tomorrow. We did some shopping and then read.

2nd May

Today's forecast is windy from the wrong direction. We took the round Etna train from Riposto to Catania. This narrow gauge railway loops round the back of the volcano. When we set off it was shrouded in cloud. On the far side the clouds lifted and we could see the snow capped peak. We stopped for lunch in Randazzo. The town was deserted. With the strong wind it only needed tumbleweed and a change in architecture to make it seem like an abandoned cowboy town. Our plan of lunch was aborted through total lack of anywhere to eat. So it was back on the next train. If you ever wondered what the EU did for us they co-funded the marvellous new train and also the Catania underground which we had to take to the main train station. Thirty minutes on the mainline brought us back to Riposto.

30th April

Today we escaped. The wind was light so at dawn we headed east. All went well for the first 10 miles then the starboard engine over heated. Luckily we have a spare. We passed the most easterly point of Sicily and headed north to anchor at Siracusa. Nearly 60 Miles covered, a good start.


Sent from my iPhone

29th April

Much hotter today. Reading, getting lines ready, final trip to office, curry in evening aboard Akaroa, we're leaving in the morning!

28th April

A good day for reading, a walk, socialising and bridge in the evening. Still the wrong wind for us to leave.

Sent from my iPhone

27th April

Today we finished off a few small jobs. We're ready to set sail but the weather's not playing ball. Today there was a strong wind blowing from the wrong direction. We expect more of the same tomorrow and perhaps the day after. This evening we took Sam and Florencia out for dinner. Together they prepared Imagine so we hope we get through another season without any major problems.

26th April

There were only a few minor jobs to do. But then the toilet blocked in the worst possible way at the worst possible time. I'll leave it your imagination to picture the scene. I had to disconnect and check hoses back to a big valve that switches between the sea cock and the holding tank. It was completely blocked with calcium precipitate. Several wet and foul hours later toilet function was restored. By evening I felt revitalised and Judy and Ray came and joined us for a rubber of bridge.

Sent from my iPhone

25th April

The sails all went on this morning, a major job ticked off. We also did a massive shop. We have plenty of supplies on board although Imagine is another cm lower in the water. I was going to inflate the dinghy but fell asleep after lunch. In the evening a group of us from the marina had supper together in town. The place was heaving. Apparently it's a public holiday.

Sent from my iPhone

24th April

On with the jobs. My main task today was putting a joker valve into the toilet waste. No laughing matter. A ten minute job according to the instructions. Remove three screws, take old valve out, put new one in. Easier said than done when the screws are out of sight, facing away from me and two inches from the side of the heads. It took me 90 minutes to decide I couldn't do it with my tools plus a further 15 once I had borrowed what I needed. Lots of other jobs completed but no sails or dinghy yet.

[SUSPECT] 23rd April

BOTB. The same skanky Ryanair Stansted flight took us back to Comiso. Our usual taxi driver was waiting and 30 minutes later we were on Imagine. It seems a long time since we were here but it also feels as though we have hardly been away. The marina was silent, no wind and still waters. Another season begins.