THE GULF OF AMVRIKA AND VONITSA

Right on our doorstep from the boatyard at Preveza is the amazing Gulf of Amvrika. This inland salt water sea is shallow and rich in nutrients and marine life. To the East mountains rise from the green waters. To the north are shallow marshes. Many small islets can offer limited shelter from a single wind direction.

Many times we see a turtle head break the surface to take a breath, sea birds swoop and glide, butterflies and dragonflies flutter past and dolphins live in these food rich waters. Last year two swam close to the boat with us as we sailed with fair breeze.

Looking up I saw larger birds in formation, three or movements of the wings then a glide, in harmony. I thought these were pelicans and the next day someone mentioned pelicans being here although I did not see any standing in the shallows.

It is not surprising that we meet boatyard neighbours here.

After four lazy days in the long bay of Ay Markou we motored past Vonitsa and anchored on the east side of the island and bridge. There was the Dazcat Razzamataz. Almost before we had finished anchoring Tony and Ann were on their way towards us in the dinghy with wine in hand. We invited them to the cockpit while we had the final necessary cooling dip of the day.

From there we could row ashore and walk into the not so touristy town of Vonitsa with it’s castle.

We found most things we needed there including a nice juice bar, and of course restaurants and cafes where we can use wi-fi and charge appliances. Old men sit in the less touristy cafes, some asleep in the heat, and most smoking.

One thing I dislike about Greece is that people smoke in restaurants and cafes still.

By night the land breeze brings the smell of cut hay and my allergic senses are on full alert. At 3am I needed to take a shot from the inhaler I rarely use. In darkness, and full moon combine harvesters drive slowly home.

Flies and a few mosquitos have bothered us while wasps have been seeking out places on the boat to build nests.

Raising the anchor after four days in the water we found sea life already attached to the chain and even a sea urchin living on the anchor. Many small ones are living in shallow water and we must always take great care not to stand on one. The sharp spines stick deeply into the foot and bring great pain.

Eventually it was time to leave and a last stop in Ay Markou brought us near to Don’s Nautitek 395 again. We went aboard for a drink with him.

Flower of life mandala, inspired by Maja...Anita croched it