In the morning, the skipper and I go to check the weather forecast at the harbourmaster’s office. The prediction is 17 – 20 knots from the south-east (5 Beaufort), and a moderate to rough sea. We decide to go out and try our luck. After filling up the diesel tanks we leave the harbour and sail in a southerly direction, which requires frequent tacking and hard work.

Just before dark we are joined by a large group of dolphins. Around 2030 we arrive in Otranto, where we moor in front of the coastguard offices (Guardia Costiera), by far the most quiet corner of the harbour in terms of wind and waves.