Andrew Simpson

10th July 2010

It's been three years since Shindig came to Greece – the most static period since we headed for the Med in 2003. Family issues, including illness, have hindered our progress, but that's not to say that our overall experiences in this magical part of the world haven't been enjoyable. Hitherto Shindig has been berthed and wintered in Gouvia Marina, Corfu – as pleasant a sojourn as one could wish for, peopled with a whole new raft of agreeable friends.

But it's part of the dynamic of cruising to keep moving on, however slowly, and that time has come for us. Just a couple of days ago we signed the contract that shifted our allegiance to Messolonghi, a much smaller marina (still partially under construction) situated on the northern shore of the entrance to the Gulf of Patras, leading eastwards to the Gulf of Corinth with its famous canal at its furthest extremity. When we're not actually sailing, the marina will be hub for our 2011 plans to explore and write about the Peloponnisos with its wealth of historic sites and beautiful anchorages.

At the time of writing, we're anchored in Petala, a sheltered bay west of Messolonghi. Tomorrow we cross to Ithaka – claimed to be the birthplace of Odysseus – to meet up with friends on other boats. It's only 20nm but that's what sailing the Ionian is all about!

18th July 2010

Joined friends David and Viola Langley in their steel sloop Zeehond for a few days anchored in 'one tree bay' – something of a misnomer since there are actually 2 trees – but a splendid anchorage none-the-less. Then went south to Vliho Bay on the island of Levkas, where there are important facilities such as provisions and water. Another pleasant location but stiflingly hot -- a hill-circled patch of water that acts like a solar furnace. However, any discomfort it might inflict is mitigated by the existence of the Vliho Yacht Club on its western bank, which offers invaluable facilities (laundry, mail-drop, good food and of course cold beer) for visiting sailors. Anyone cruising the area would be mad to give it a miss!

20th July 2010

Gave up on the heat and fled. More anon...

4th Sept 2010

After a month in the UK busy with book and family commitments we're both of us ready to return. Just one more hurdle - a short stint at the Southampton Boat Show and we're flying back to Greece on the 15th. Can't wait!