Greece, at last!
One long, uneventful crossing
After wasting the whole morning for the check-in procedure, we had a relaxing tour of Brindisi. the old city has some beautiful monuments and scenic views of the huge harbour. We had an outstanding meal at the Windsurf restaurant, in Viale Regina Margherita. Afterward, we returned to the boat for some well-deserved rest. The rest of the crew went back for a scrumptious dinner. The next day’s wake up was at 5:30, with the goal to be outside Brindisi Harbour at 0700.
The plan was respected and everyone was ready to go at 0600.
We initially set sail to Othoni. After examining the charts and pilots, we realized that Erikoussa would offer a safer shelter. After leaving the Brindisi Harbour, we kept 100˚ for about 4 M. This was to stay out of the TSS and avoid the shallows south of the breakwater. Then we set the autopilot on 124˚. We sailed 83 M, for more than 10 hours. There was not much to do except check the numerous freighters, fishing vessels, and large passenger ships passing by. One large passenger ship kept changing course, stopping and resuming course. We reckoned that they were probably intent at doing sea trials. Looking SE, the impressive view of the Albanian coast near Vlora.
Approaching Erikoussa, towards the end of the day, we were greeted by a pod of dolphins (Delphinus Delphi mediterranea)
Download here the waypoints for this trip – Warning, never use waypoints for navigation without previously validating them on your plotter.
Passage Notes
After leaving the inner part of Brindisi’s harbour, and taking care of the islets and rocks that lay S of the breakwater, it is advisable to head E with a 100˚ course to remain out of the TSS, but also of the shallows that border the coast S of the harbour. After 4 M, a new heading of 125˚ will lead you, after 84 M, to the approach of the Erikoussa Harbor. Head N until you see the entrance, contact HM via VHF 69 (during season only)
Haiku of the day
Islands on the breeze,
After miles, calm shores appear—
Greece, at last, exhale.
S/YJane & Darcy 
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