Ios Island is about 20 nm north of Thira (Santorini) and as there are very limited options for dockage at Thira we motor-sailed on up to Ios town. Some changes had occurred from out last visit here in 2011. A new mole was opened up with water and electricity. And there was room to go alongside. Nice. So difficult to get off Necessity when stern or bows to the quay. Carol Dawe has developed a unique embarkation calisthenics!

When reporting into the Port Police to have my Greek Transit Log stamped, documents checked and pay for the dockage an extra calculation was required to determine the additional fees related to berthing alongside. After some searching the rate book was discovered in a lower drawer. Many keys were punched into the calculator from numerous numbers on the growing invoice. I am beginning to reconsider going alongside. “That will be six euros fifty cents”!!

Nisos Ios is 18 X 10 kms in size with a population of only 2,000. The mountain top village of Chora is situated on top of a mountain a 15 minute walk up a steep donkey path from the Port of Ios. Chora a picturesque Cycladic village consisting a clusters of white buildings, winding alleys, narrow stairs and many shops, cafes & tavernas. Jim & Tim were smiling.

Greek ports or ‘marinas’ are inexpensive. However there are typically no facilities. No WC’s or showers however service pods are beginning to appear dockside. After 22 hours of sailing a shore leave on the magical island of Ios was welcomed by all.