'Pacific Pearl' sailed around, and up and down the 3 Peninsulas (Kassandra, Sinthonia and Akti) in the Khalkidhiki region of northern Greece. To our visitor's delight, we anchored each night in lovely, calm unspoilt coves or bay, usually all alone, with just the cigales for company. Yes, even during August, we had anchorages to ourselves! Bliss!
After the searing heat of the day, we sipped our very welcome aperitifs (either local wine, ouzo or campari) listening to jazz from Bruno's huge collection, and watching stunning vibrant red sunsets offering us a different spectacle each evening....either dropping behind pine-clad slopes or directly into the sparkling sea. Jacky & Evelyne were lucky also to witness a brilliant full moon, which we just love. Especially for night sailing!
There are so many beautiful long sandy beaches in this area, but unfortunately often excessively noisy with speedboats wizzing about, not forgetting each 'private' beach with blaring music until late. Pretty to see from the distance, but not too close! We are so fortunate to have the choice!
Dolphins came to play as we sailed in perfect conditions over towards majestic Mount Athos, frolicking in the bow of 'Pacific Pearl' ...always gives me goose bumps. Gorgeous!
The medieval monasteries on the Akti Peninsula were built on spectacular sites, either on steep rocky bluffs, or sitting at the water's edge. Females are not allowed to set foot in the monasteries, and as we were 2 on board, had to respect the 500 meters limit..........
Not far off the imposing 'blue & green' monastery, our fishing rod all of a sudden went crazy! We all realised that this was going to be something very special....and it was! We caught THE MOST magnificent fish!
Rapidly reducing our speed, the men then set about the task ahead, while us girls filmed the action! All so exciting!
Jacky gallantly reeled in a 7/8 kilos shimmering green and yellow DORADE CORYPHENE (Dolphin fish) We never realised that they can be found also in the Med, but yes, and are called 'Hunting' fish here in Greek waters.
Bruno then used his special 'gaffe' to haul onboard this beautiful creature, who continued to fight like mad!
THE MOST MAGICAL MEMORABLE DAY ...superb sailing with fantastic summer weather, playful dolphins, impressive monastries and finishing off with our amazing fish!
For the next three evenings, our two chefs prepared mouthwatering delicious meals ....How lucky we were! only our second catch in 3 years!!
Au revoir! Jacky and Evelyne, see you onboard next season....you are very welcome!