summertime goes south

8th to 11th July Bonifacio to Maddalena Archipelago

We crossed the Strait of Bonafacio on a calm day that belied it's reputation, to spend a few days in the archipelago, consisting of seven islands and numerous rocky outcrops, some visible some not. The whole area is a national park and therefore subject to rules designed to protect the wildlife both in and out of the water. We spent a couple of nights anchored in beautiful bays with no sign of civilisation save other anchored boats. The clear sky and full moon added to the sense of romantic isolation given by the flat calm sea and silence, save for the gentle lapping of water against the hull. We moored in the marina at Maddalena Town on the main island to replenish our supplies and water. The town is small and attractive, but lively, despite the major tourist season not yet being underway. In high season I expect it is overwhelmed by visitors. Garibaldi lived on the the islands for many years and retired to his farm when his revolutionary days were over. He is remembered in many ways including the statue outside the town hall where he can be joined for a chat about old times.
We decided to leave the national park earlier than planned as 3 days of high winds are forecast and we need to get south. Linda flies back from Cagliari on 3rd August, which is still a long way south from here and I leave on August 5th., for the long overnight sail to Sicily with a couple of friends.