(Page 17 of 17).

18.04.2001
At sea heading for Methana
Under jib
37.42.087N 23.24.235 East
14.00hrs
Temp 16.6C
Baro 1009
Wind West gusting over 30 knts

We passed through the Corinth canal this morning and were through by 09.20 hrs.
It really was a spectacle. They sink two bridges to let boats through. It was very quiet due to the canal pilots' strike. At the East end we paid our dues some 45,000 Dracma,
then into the AEGEAN for the first time for us and Tirla. Aigina some, 28 mile away seemed a good place to head for with a brisk following breeze.

We have now turned off for Methena due to very strong winds and high following seas. Methena is behind a large sheltered headland and known to be a very safe harbour. Malcolm is on the helm, and it's blowing old boots. Under jib alone we are doing over eight knots. We would rather have been sitting in a Taverna supping wine!
At least the Aegean is all blue sky even if it is blowing a gale.

This current dispatch should be flying back with Malcolm on Friday, if we get to a port with a ferry to Athens! So we leave you all at sea, at least the wind seems to have eased somewhat.

The photo below is of us going through the Corinth Canal.