We left Naxos early so we could get through the Strait and head to Vulcano Island. As a sailor we’ve all heard those treacherous tales of getting through the Strait of Messina which separates Sicily from mainland Italy. At its most narrow point it is only 1 1/2 miles across. There are two myths about the strait that give you the feeling of doom early yachtsmen felt.
The first was called Scilla who was said to dwell in a cave atop a sheer cliff on the eastern side. She had 12 feet and 6 long necks with horrible heads that came down to eat the dolphin and swordfish. Some believe this to be water-spouts which are often seen in this area.
On the western side there was Kharibdis. It was a giant whirlpool that swallowed ships that came too close. We saw a few whirlpools but we made it through…whew!
On our way through we got a glimpse of a swordfishing boat. The mast is made of steel with an electric hoist to get the Captain up and down as he can steer the boat from the top. There is a bowsprit which is usually longer than the boat (up to 50 ft. in length). Apparently the swordfish ‘sleep’ on the surface during the day so the Captain can spot them floating around and sneak up for the catch. What a sight it was.
There is a red/white lighthouse on the mainland side and a black/white lighthouse on Sicily.
We made it through without being eaten up by whirlpools or horrible heads…It’s All Good!
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