Our Environment

Mooring in the heart of Katapola, Amorgos

From the impressive wind generation activities on Levitha we sailed to our next island call of Amorgos.

Wind was quite strong and the sea a little unfriendy although this helped us manage speeds of up to 9.2 knots. The water colour is always amazing. Here is a case in point where we dropped the anchor for a spell after a 4 hour push to Amorgos from Levitha – about 30 nautical miles. I cannot imagine the devastation that would be caused here if any environmental incident occurred.

Liquid turquoise sea color in Amorgos

Amorgos, the island of the “Deep Blue” is located at the southeastern edge of the Cyclades. It features two natural ports, Katapola at its centre and Aigiali at the north. Katapola is considered the best natural harbour of the Cyclades.
We moored in Katapola where we found a small, vibrant community. The mooring is right in the center of town as you can see. Our favorite spot for frappe and waffles is “El Greco” a mere 10 paces from the back of the boat.

On the hill above Katapola you can find the excavations of the ancient city of Minoa. They provide the thread to a continuous 3000 year existence.

The local residents are farmers as well as fishermen. Once again we have found an island that has developed itself for tourism to boost incomes. Here it has also enabled many families who had migrated to return to the island.

Sunset in Katapola with Roger Johnson from South Africa - a good guy

Sailing in to a beautiful bay in Levitha

I am always impressed by families who are self sufficient.

Only one family lives at this bay on Levitha. The same family has occupied the island for 350 years. They grow food for their livestock (goats & sheep – about 650 head), as well as tomatoes, onions ,garlic and potatoes. Fishing supplements their diet. They travel north to Patros for supplies and the round trip takes about 6 hours – so don’t forget anything!

These people are self sufficient for power – using wind power and solar power.

Wind and Solar POwer for Self Sufficieny on Levitha

These wind turbines really hum. With the winds we encountered over the last few days I don’t think power would be a problem. During our 4 hour push to Amorgos from Levitha  (about 30 nautical miles) the wind was quite strong and the sea a little unfriendly, however we managed speeds of up to 9.2 knots.

I have seen many examples on these smaller islands of people who are very content with generating power from the simple and easily accessed sources of sun and wind. I hope to see many more on my travels over the next few weeks.

Wind Power Wins Again on Levitha