Leaving Bonifacio on 5th April heading across the channel to the beautiful Italian island of Sardinia. First port of call is 60 miles, 9 hours away to the sleepy harbour of La Caletta.

We were both absolutely shattered when we arrived! The crossing had been a mix of sailing and motor, some really nice conditions but the wind was sooo cold. Was a great feeling to moor up and sit in the warm sun for a while.

We headed out early to a local pizza place – not a glamorous establishment but the pizzas were superb!

Just the one night in Caletta and next morning off to Arbatax which Jacques had been to before and had given very good reviews! Shorter trip of 44 miles, 6 hours and again a combination of sailing and motoring. Conditions were calm which was just as well as I had a number of work video calls which would have been a challenge if we were rolling in a gale!

We arrived in Arbatax and were helped to moor by friendly staff which is always such a joy! Mooring up can be stressful – it seems like at least 24 things all have to happen at the same time to ensure the boat, and therefore the crew, is safe!

Because we changed the name and nationality of the boat we have been issued with new credentials which are basically safety features e.g in a distress situation with just one push of a button our boat name and position are logged and the coastguard and any boats in the vicinity can see us and help!

We have been having issues with this system – the old boat info getting mixed with the new and Jacques had been making adjustments and asking friends to check on various non official sites – like this one if you want to track us!
https://www.vesselfinder.com/?mmsi=232047190

Once we were settled in Arbatax, Jacques had a walk along the quay and got chatting to some neighbours – he asked them if they could look on their systems to see if Mossy Joe appeared in the right place with the right credentials. This led to a longer conversation about our boat

which led to a guided tour for the three French sailors of our boat – lots of oohs and aahs!

Originally we were only planning one night in Arbatax but assessing the weather conditions we decided two nights would be in order! I really enjoy the times we get to spend more that one night somewhere as we get to see more of the local area and get jobs done! The following day being Good Friday, just like at home, meant DIY and spring cleaning!!

When we have had charter boats for holidays, cleaning the boat was always a case of filling a bucket with sea water and sploshing it over the deck swiftly followed up by Lily with a broom! A slightly longer job now with Mossy Joe! With pressure hose, broom and special deck cleaning product it took over an hour and was officially my second (and last!) workout of the day!

Having a free day also meant there was time for some personal grooming and luckily for Jacques he got an appointment immediately with his favourite barber!

Suitably rested and beautifully groomed we hit the town of Arbatax! The plan was to have a wander, perhaps get a drink somewhere before heading back to the restaurant in the marina for early dinner.

We were so surprised to find this incredible geological wonder just behind the harbour!

Moving on again today and looking forward to making it to the south easterly tip of Sardinia to pick up our friend (and very experienced sailor) Bernard on Sunday.

Wishing you all a very Peaceful and Happy Easter xx