The long awaited family visit has started. Thanks to lockdowns we have not seen Anita's daughters since August 2020 and January this year respectively.
We have a small boat with relatively large cockpit space in which a couple can sleep in the smallest Decathlon tent we carry on board. This time they all wanted to come together, four people, which was nice but challenging.
Three know the boat and the places near to Corfu, but we wanted to show them new places further south and not keep returning to Corfu, especially as they had two different departure dates.
After a walking detour to Lidl on the way back to Garitsas Bay we had everyone on board with the plan to use afternoon wind to start the trip south. The wind was slow in coming and the visitors wanted to start cooking so we raised the anchor and slowly motored to the north side of the bay as the galley team worked. We anchored close to the Fort to swim and eat.
Finaly we set off under sail towards the mainland and an inlet North of Igoumenitsa. I plan the itinerary according to weather and cruise objectives but where possible give our visitors options so they make the final choice.
After months in the city they opted for wild nature. The wind was rising as we neared the shallow waters and waves were building and the ride was energetic and dynamic . I was watching the gps screen to ensure that we avoided the unseen hazards until it was time to make a 90 degree turn to Port (left) to pass safely into Ormos Valtou , passing the fish farm tanks until we finally turned into Igou creek and anchored with one Italian yacht.
It was almost dark and the four visitors were choosing and preparing places to sleep. I noticed a plastic bowl had blown over the side and was drifting away fast. No time to launch the dinghy so I stripped off and swam to recover the bowl.
Greece has been so hot that the tent was not opened once during the visit, but on humid nights we can leave sun awnings covering the cockpit so it does not get damp. I think there were a few mosquitos, and always this year wasps, but they are getting less.
Joanna and Bob had liked this wild place before and chose to return.
Next morning, getting used to so many people living so closely, we set off on a longer passage to 2 Rock Bay, a favourite nature spot, and a major goal to visit.
We arrived in stronger wind and tucked in behind the shelter of the small headland at the North end anchoring in the crystal clear water.
There is a small but busy public beach but it does not detract. At the top of steep steps from the beach is a simple shower and water tap both of which we use, and a bohemian style cafe serving food, and with pallet seating overlooking the bay and the sunset. It is really a place to chill out and owner Kris is really welcoming.
We settled in to spend two nights in the bay and blew up the paddleboard and doughnut rings for play and exploration.
The bay is open to west winds and swell so we must always check the forecast. Only once in the past was it so uncomfortable that we left.
We can also walk from here, past waterways with beaver and frogs, to another beach.
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