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It's now 20.19 hrs and we are nearly 70 nm into the journey. We have had rain storms all day. We are now within 4 miles of Antirio Strait, a huge new bridge is being built there where the ferries currently cross the Patras Gulf. It's a very large waterborne construction site. Our navtex messages have warned us a new separation system is in operation to ensure no collisions occur in the congested area. It's getting dark and we have just got the coaster sail down. We will start both engines and be ready to alter course if required. The sun has set rapidly and daylight has gone fast. Tirla has been running at speeds up to 10.2 knts in 20 knts of true wind. This is without the mizzen being used. Our goal is Trezonia which is now some 20 miles ahead. I know the approaches to it and once in it's very safe.

On the south bank of the Gulf we have just passed Patras and its huge international ferry port. It's been a long day after several disturbed nights so getting through this navigational hazard will be good. Incidentally I was told the bridge has to cope with the two land masses moving 1.5 meters apart during its economic life. This is after all an earthquake zone! Having contacted the Gefyra traffic control by VHF we confirmed our course and then continued through the mass of lights. The problem is compounded by the fast moving and frequent transits of the ferry boats. We are through now and heading under engine and genoa at 8 knts towards Trezonia. Our radar is picking up an object ahead which seems to have no lights but we are able to clearly track it. Our destination is 11.5 nautical miles away bearing 77 degrees magnetic.

11.04.2001
Trezonia,
Moored alongside
38.22.150 N 22.04.566 East
9.15hrs
Temp 12.6C
Baro 1011
Wind WNW 3

We got in at exactly midnight and moored onto a concrete pontoon. There are many more yachts here than last summer and several have wintered here. "Lizzies Yacht Club" opened for the season last night so we will go there today. It's one of those stops that everyone who has been here will know about. The weather is still stormy looking and there are many black clouds about, so unlike Greece!

On Navtex we are now getting signals from Jeddah Radio. Today will be an official "Tirla" rest day!.