David's Diary: Friday, June 13, 2003

In the Boat Yard in Lavrion

Lavrion is a major charter base. Charter boats generally leave on a Sunday and return on a Friday. Since we were moored at one of the quays used by the charter companies, we were told to leave the dock this afternoon. It was another windy day and we had to motor around for a while before we could find a place to moor.

There was one spot left in the dock yard. We had to use our own anchor to secure us. This is common in Greece, but even after having done it a half-dozen times we still find the manoeuver difficult. You must get Dragonsinger moving backwards, let out the anchor, get the anchor set by stopping the boat, then continue motoring backwards into your spot while the wind is trying to push you sideways the whole time. It takes us two tries before we finally get set. Some local workers in the dockyard help tie our stern lines and provide us with a long board that we can use to get on and off the shore.

Allen Out Exploring

Near sunset, Allen and I go out exploring. We are in the commercial section of Lavrion harbour, so we walk over to the large commercial quay. This quay is much too large for a boat like Dragonsinger, as it is designed for large freighters.

Ship Docking

Allen and I watch as a small freighter approaches the dock. When it is a couple of boat lengths out, the captain has the anchor dropped. The freighter continues to move directly towards us. Allen and I back away wondering if the anchor will set. The anchor catches and it immediately starts pulling the bow of the freighter around. The captain keeps the engines on and the stern swings around so that mooring lines can be thrown to the people ashore. The captain coordinates the tightening of the mooring lines with letting out more anchor chain as the freighter is cinched into the quay. It is always a delight to watch a true professional doing their work.

Jocelyn and Dogs

We are going out for dinner so Allen and I go back to Dragonsinger to get everyone else. As we are leaving a large dog comes straight for us barking like crazy. Jocelyn isn't afraid and she reaches out to pet the dog. It settles down and then we are surrounded by a half-dozen little puppies. Jocelyn, Kevin, and Allen have a great time petting the puppies and their mother. The puppies follow us for a ways as we head off to walk into town for dinner.