"Captain-T" wrote in message
oups.com...
Thank you so much -- this is great info! We'll plan on 40ft
probably,
with easy reefing set-up, and also take your recommendations on
the
days ashore.

How did you find the privacy of the bows to / stern to
arrangement?
We're only used to the more-private set up in the Caribbean...

Bows to gives you greater privacy (and it's easier to manouevre
into a slot between two other boats!) but not all charter boats
are set up to run out a stern anchor.

Yes, when you're stern to, your cockpit becomes part of the
quayside life. People come and gawp, ask about the boat, whatever.
And your neighbours are just a fender's width away from you. I
enjoy this, but I can imagine some people find it a bit intrusive.
Watching other arrivals is great entertainment, better than
television. And there are lots of people handy to take your ropes.

Departures are another matter. As your neighbours depart, watch
your anchor line to make sure nobody lifts it. If they do, you'll
be providing half an hour's entertainment yourself. So don't leave
your boat untended at the quay unless you're sure the guys next
door won't be leaving while you're away, alternatively, you're
sure they're well clear of your ground tackle.

Luckily, (except around some of the marinas near Athens, the usual
'big city' problem) security is not an issue in Greece. In some 25
years sailing in the area I've only heard of four or five episodes
of theft, and none affected me. Many people don't even lock their
boats. For me, this is one of the most attractive features of the
country.

JimB