We spent a relaxing week in a beautiful and comfortable anchorage in the south of Zakynthos Island. This has been our longest period at anchor so far and an excellent opportunity to learn about energy, water and waste management. It was an great spot, allowing us both to work professionnally inbetween jumps into the water and refreshing our diving skills.
Large bay with sand (Keri)
The south of Zakynthos Island forms a large bay fairly protected from the predominant NW winds. To preserve the breeding sites of sea turtles, some areas of the bay are restricted. Our anchorage was located near the village of Keri. Surrounded by green mountain hills, the landscape was beautiful with a succession of beaches, cliffs and rocks.
Many services are offered in the village of Keri, including boat rentals without permit. This creates a lot of activity during the day.
In the evening, it got quiet and peaceful. We watched the sunset and stared at the raising of the first stars to the sound of peacock cry.
The wind direction changed several times and the surrounding mountains regularly created guts in the afternoon, making Fabule dance around the anchor.
Exploring the blue waters
One of our goal was to take our diving equipment out of the lazarette for underwater exploration. Because it had been six years since our last dive, we appreciated the guidance of local dive masters. There are two Diving Centers in Keri (Turtle Beach and Nero Sports) offering dives in various sites around the island.
Of course, we wanted to meet sea turtles. There is one resident sea turtle in Keri harbour. Otherwise, sea turtles usually keep away from the busy activity around the harbour and anchorage area. During one dive, we saw a sea turtle working hard to open some shell to feed. The group of divers tried to keep quiet and observe, but the sea turtle did not like the attention.
Boats come and go. Soon it will be our turn to raise the anchor again. Our plan is to move north to the island of Kefalonia during next week.
Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean Baptiste à nos amis québécois!
4 replies on “Life at anchor (Zakynthos)”
You are really in one of our favorite places to anchor for a longer time.
We never saw a turtle while scuba diving, congratulation. But when snorkeling between Laganas and Marathonisi, or with the dinghy from Kerri half the distance to Laganas and then with patience snorkeling there for half an hour or so. There we have really often seen a few animals. They are actually not even shy.
Of course it is always different, as with the other animals, sometimes you see many, sometimes none.
Thanks for the tip. We saw a sea turtle from the dinghy 🙂
I’m so happy to see that you are beginning to enjoy life at anchor. Greece seems to be showing you her very best summer side. A pleasure to read and such beautiful pictures. Keep them coming! All the very best Vagrant.
This bay is such a nice place to anchor, it was perfect to get us started!