Heavy wind was forecast so an early start planned, but not before our swim! The other reason was that all the toilet holding tanks were full (overflowing in fact – a big no-no in port!). Breakfast on the run, which was fine until we rounded the corner of Halki island and met the swells full-on. For a while we sailed but the wind was gusting between F3 and F6 which was not comfortable so we opted for the motor and ploughed our way to Tilos island before the gale force winds hit us. Arrived in Eristou Bay after a few hours hoping to find shelter. No chance. Luckily it was a pristine bay with a sandy bottom which held our anchor well. Plenty of swimming between the shore and the boat which was no mean feat, especially for Jared & Jana.

After lunch some of us went ashore to relax on the beach, helping ourselves to beach chairs provided and relocating them to the shade of the trees which were alive with the screeching of Cicada beetles. A short while later we were told off by a local(?) for moving the chairs; thanks for the friendly welcome. The others joined us on the beach later, but not before Charlie lost her cool with the outboard engine. Four of us headed inland to explore the road and properties; not great – we passed 3 abandoned vehicles and 1 abandoned development on the first half kilometre. Even the infamous restaurant where we had disgraced ourselves a few years back had closed (“boys” trip, another story)

Back on board the wind howled and swung the boat all over. In the cockpit however, sundowners were served

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Plans for a leisurely hike back via the windmills were scuppered when we got a message from Charlie, who left earlier, that the anchor had moved and the boat was against the pontoon. There had been some very strong gusts, so that probably did it, if not one of the ferry boats making waves. Arrived back to find no damage fortunately, but needed to tighten everything and supplement with springs (lines laid to prevent forward/backward movement). A few other arrivals also struggled to position their anchors correctly, which provided more entertainment.

Sundowners as usual, then Charlie and Astrid did what they do best….. scouring all the shops and arriving back with spoils. Anton & Mareth made excellent wraps for dinner.

Strong winds built up again overnight so I made the decision to stay here another day. Moving on to Tilos would entail 3-4 hours of bumpy sailing into the wind and swell, not my first choice, besides everyone like this place. So the day started with a visit to the bakery and breakfast was predominately warm fresh croissants and bread with thick yoghurt and honey. My decision to stay was confirmed when the crew on the neighbouring boat all left wearing harnesses, however not before trying to disentangle their anchor just as the massive ferry arrived.

Better still, here is the video:

Across the hill in the next bay is the only sandy beach on the island, so that is where we walked. Crystal clear water, umbrellas and loungers. A complete chill-out day. Jared & Jana busy at the waters edge most of the time, except when watching video games over Olly’s shoulder (really?…..)