We left Kalami at first light. It’s going to be a light wind day and blowing from the south so we can sail – some of the way anyway.
Over the next 3 hours we have had all the sails up , including the spinnaker, and all of them down. All the wind has gone and we have glassy water. It’s deep and the Albanian mountains are high – 2000m and more along the coast.
Beautiful folded layers, deep ravines, some tiny coves at the bottom at sea level – we get the feeling this place would be better explored by land as the coastline is unapproachable here.
Dotted along the water line are gun placements, lookouts and these bizarre dome shapes which are 2 person bunkers in case of attack.
There is very little information on our navigation system but a warning to beware and take caution for mines in the water. Everything is out of date. Albania is caught up in a frenzy of development that looks random and bizarre.
This is the Marina Di Orikum – the only tourist marina in Albania. Built and run by Italians – it seems that they up sized to fit the landscape. Only problem is – no people.
Actually by the end of the day several boat owners did arrive – the summer season is about to begin and all the covers are coming off. The marina though was incredibly helpful and whilst the surroundings were a little unusual – the experience was good.
We walked down the road to a restaurant recommended by the marina. It felt like we were stepping into a Paradise Lost film set. Italian food and wine, delivered with a flourish. The bill – 14 Euros! Only problem – we only had a 50 Enuro note so we know have 1,000’s of Lek as change. Does anyone need some Albanian Lek?
An early start tomorrow. First ligh – 16 hours or so – then Montenegro.
janeandrogersadventure 