When the wind finally calmed, we made our way to Mykonos. It was a four or five hour steam with 20 knots of wind in our face and a decent surf. In spite of that, it was a comfortable passage. We picked up 30 knots of wind as we approached our anchorage; but, things calmed down once we were inside. We were fortunate to pick up a mooring ball in Ornos Bay with Mike’s assistance. Mike and Linda were waiting for us in Ornos which is on the south side of Mykonos Island and very near the main port of Mykonos. The next day we took the short taxi ride to Mykonos town to update our Transit Log (i.e. the ship’s paperwork) for the new crew coming onboard and to do a little sightseeing. What a treat to visit this island in the off-season when it is not so busy.

We visited the Old Port and Old Town at Mykonos and spent two calm nights at anchor at Ornos. We had a lovely, calm and warm day for our 3.5 hour passage to Paros. We docked stern-to at the main port of Paroika. The highlight at Paros was meeting up with my sister, Julie’s, dear friend Lise. Julie and Lise first met about 30 years ago on this very island. The two Canadians found each other, literally, at a crossroads looking for a beach and have remained friends. What a coincidence that Lise happened to be here at the same time as us. It was very special to see her in this spot and to have her onboard DFN for a glass of wine.

We stayed an extra day at Paros tucked in for the 30 knot winds. When things settled, we made our way to Ios. It was a lovely 4.5 hour sail to Ios. It is a small island and a tiny port. We arrived just ahead of the ferry. There was room to dock; but, only after the ferry left. While we were waiting, another three boats arrived with the same idea. Once again, we had assistance from Mike. This time he was in the dingy directing traffic. It was quite a shit-show with everyone jockeying for the few spots available on the dock. After one day on the ferry dock and some time making friends with George, the dockmaster, we secured a better spot.

We all liked Ios, we ended up staying there for a few days. We rented a car for a day and toured the island. Our sights included a tasting at a traditional cheese factory.

We felt secure enough where we were to leave the boat for a couple of days to take the ferry to Thira (aka Santorini). More on that in the next post.