22nd September

For the first time in several days Imagine rested calmly overnight only disturbed by the gentle patter of rain on the roof. In the morning we explored the castle. The fortifications date back to Byzantine times and at various times was occupied by the Venetians, Ottomans, the Turks and Egyptians as well as the French. Back on the boat we motored north to Pilos. The large marina is neglected with local boats and abandoned yachts filling almost all the space. We only found a berth because as we arrived a boat was leaving. We walked through town to the fortress. This was built by the Ottomans and overlooks Navarino Bay. In this bay on October 20th 1827 the British/French/Russian flotilla of Admiral Codrington defeated the Turkish-Egyptian fleet destroying Turkish naval power and leading to Greek independence. Astoundingly the engagement was while most ships were at anchor after Codrington sailed into the middle of a circle of enemy vessels. It was a pleasure to be able to walk ashore and we took advantage by going out to eat in town.

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