Cruising in Sardinia

Another perfect anchorage

With 5,700NM now logged on Sabbaticus we are finding this season sailing more relaxing and enjoyable as we are now familiar with the systems on board and how to operate them - including reefing (reducing our sails when the wind gets up) earlier which makes it easier on the crew (no more seasickness so far) and Sabbaticus without reducing our speed. The last few weeks have been spent cruising up the east coast of Sardinia.This has meant day sails of about 4-6hrs as we move between the various anchorages.  

Ready and waiting ...

With our routine maintenance regime now in place the only breakages so far have been two broken springs in the cupboard doors. We are hoping this trend continues as we make our long trek back to Ipswich, UK this summer. While the daily routines continue to evolve the best mate is gaining skills as a barber to ensure the skipper retains his sharp look. Since being on Sabbaticus the most frequently used item in the medical kit are the plasters - we have used more on a boat than ever living on land. The most recent case was the Skipper cooking dinner and slicing his finger with the newly sharpened knife. The result was no cooking or washing dishes for the next few days for him - an accident or a cunning ploy? The next time he enters the galley will be under close supervision.

Cruise Ships in Olbia

On the trip up the coast there are numerous islands, low reefs and rocks extending to half a mile offshore. Sailing past a shipwreck is always sobering and a  reminder to keep a good lookout.  When coming into the port town of Olbia we were amazed to see miles and miles of ‘bouy farms’ - we can only surmise these will be removed in summer and placed around the numerous coastal bays. While it was enjoyable to spend a night on the town quay at Olbia and visit the local markets we were both keen to keep moving up the coast to reach a safe anchorage before the next blow came through. 

First swim for summer

After several picturesque anchorages and seeing the beautiful water colours of the Med it was finally warm enough for a swim. This weather was too good to last as the next three days at anchor were gusts of 35kts - a good test for the anchor which held firmly in the sand. Hopefully in the next week we will reach Bonificao in Corsica and then cruise back to Sardinia to position ourselves for the crossing to the Balearic Islands in Spain.

Shipwreck on the Island of Rosso

Bouy Farms in Olbia Channel

Olbia Town Quay