Since our tough crossing between Tilos and Kasos, we have been rewarded with some lovely harbours and calm crossings.
After departing Fri on Kasos, we sailed west to land on the eastern tip of Crete in a harbour called Sitia. It felt good to have landed on the largest island in Greece, and immediately noticed the difference in prosperity. Sitia is a vibrant harbour town, with many cafes and bars lining the waterfront, mainly occupied by young Greeks enjoying themselves. This is the first time we have seen this – the islands have an ageing population and you rarely see young Greeks sitting down for a drink together. Mostly older men enjoying a game of cards over a cup of coffee.
From Sitia we made our way westwards along the north coast of Crete. Spinalonga lagoon was a heavenly spot, with great shelter, a bustling town and friendly neighbours. We stayed there 3 nights in the end and loved it.
Stopping places between Spinalonga and Chania are limited. We managed to find the very last spot in Palaiokastro harbour, next to the oil refinery. A bumpy spot alongside at the entrance to the bay.
It was a similar story at our next stop: Panormos, just west of Rethmion, where the swell bumped us around all night, as our lines and fenders creaked and groaned.
We are now happily at anchor in Souda Bay, around the corner from Chania.