Most popular anchorages and mooring spots
(Add a spot)A live ranking of your favorite spots in the area. Keep an eye on the tide and weather forecast, zoom in to avoid seaweed fields, then tap to start your list of favorites.
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The water here is calm and clear, perfect for a refreshing swim. I anchored for a couple of nights,… Read more about this listing
Best-rated marinas and boatyards
(Add a place)Are you looking for a marina or boatyard? Read sailors’ reviews, find a VHF channel, tap to book a berth. No intermediary – 0 commission.
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Arno Porto di Cariati
Porto di Cariati is a functional stop along the Ionian coast, offering decent shelter and basic faci… Read more about this listing
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The location is beautiful, with long beaches on all the coastline. A couple of great restaurants and… Read more about this listing
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The harbor comprises a breakwater and a secondary pier, providing secure moorings for the regional f… Read more about this listing
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Cirò Marina is a functional stop for sailors along the Calabrian coast, offering basic mooring facil… Read more about this listing
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A brief maritime history of Calabria
The ancient Greeks were among the first to establish settlements here, naming it “Enotria,” which translates to “land of wine.” The historic town of Locri, once a Greek colony, was a center of trade and culture.
The strait of Messina
Further south along the coast, in the strait of Messina, you will find the imposing ruins of the Aragonese castle. Originally constructed in the 10th century, it has witnessed numerous sieges and transformations, reflecting the turbulent history of this strategic location. The panoramic views of the Strait of Messina serve as a reminder of the geographic significance that has attracted countless civilizations.
Between Scylla and Charybdis
The phrase “between Scylla and Charybdis” originates from ancient Greek mythology, referring to the perilous navigation between two sea monsters that posed grave dangers to sailors. Scylla was a fearsome creature with multiple dog-like heads, waiting to snatch unsuspecting mariners. Charybdis, on the other hand, was a monstrous whirlpool that would engulf ships whole, creating a terrifying vortex in the sea.
Today, the phrase continues to evoke the idea of navigating life’s difficult choices, a timeless reminder of the complexities faced in pursuit of safety and success. Whether in literature or daily life, the tale of Scylla and Charybdis serves as a compelling allegory for the dilemmas we encounter.
Whirlpools
The whirlpools in the Strait of Messina are primarily caused by the unique hydrodynamics of the area. The strait connects the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Ionian Sea, creating a natural funnel. As the tides and currents flow in and out, they interact with the narrow channel, generating strong water movements. The significant difference in sea levels between the two bodies of water, along with the gravitational pull of the moon, creates powerful tidal currents. When these currents collide, especially during changes in tide, they can create turbulent water patterns, resulting in whirlpools. This phenomenon can be quite dramatic, especially during certain tidal phases, creating swirling currents that can pose challenges for navigation.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes in the Strait of Messina are typically the result of the interaction of warm, moist air from the Mediterranean Sea with cooler, dry air from the land. This combination create instability in the atmosphere, and tornadoes are common during the transition seasons of spring and autumn.
