Greece - June 9, '06

The last four days in Greece have been terrific. The weather cleared in Italy after 5 days so we took the opportunity to make a run for Greece. We sailed overnight and 32 hours later landed in Levkas, and island south of Corfu. Entry was through a narrow canal, and we were 45 minuter early ( or 15 minutes late)_ for the bridge opening. The marina was welcoming and the staff helped us find a bow-to spot on the dock. The 200 nm crossing of the Ionian Sea wes easy. Calm seas and light air made the motor sail pleasant although the engine sound is tiring.

Our first excursion was to check into the marina office then off to experience Greece. We found fruit markets, small groceries, cafes, and restaurants. All unique and with signs we could not understand. The first dinner in Greece was excellent, Spiro, the owner/manages had lived in Houston and Queens for years and so made us feel right at home.

The next morning we set out to check in to Greece, Since Greece is in the EU we only really needed to buy a transit log and possibly have it stamped by the harbor security. It took 5 visits to the official offices to complete the job. Since we were coming from an EU country Immigration (Tourist Police) told us we had no business with him, we only needed to buy the transit log from customs. We did so at the customs house for 30 Euros. Customs told us not to bother with the port authority , but check in at each harbor that we visit in Greece. Then surrender the transit log in the last port in Greece.

I had WiFi for Triumph for three hours on Wed so stayed at the dock until 2PM check out time. We stopped at the fuel dock on the way down the canal. 600 Euros almost filled the tanks. We also bought 18 liters of outboard fuel. A couple of hours later we anchored is a well protected cove on the SE side of Levkas. The town (Nidri) was pleasant but very touristy. We spent two night there, then we sailed to Ithaca. More later. Dick