tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9918732.post6702980766181034350..comments2023-09-25T16:39:15.127+03:00Comments on Adriana's Symi-a Greek island diary: Quiet SymiMike Gaddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04950104249981376214noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9918732.post-15695330796577892572010-07-13T10:33:07.736+03:002010-07-13T10:33:07.736+03:00Speaking as a yachtswoman myself, until such time ...Speaking as a yachtswoman myself, until such time as Turkey becomes part of the EU there will always be bureaucratic controls on this international boundary and while EU flagged boats have often managed to evade their legal obligation to clear in and out properly, the fact is that immigration procedures have to be observed. People trafficking is a serious problem in these waters and yachts are often used for the purpose so the police and port authorities cannot 'turn a blind eye'.<br /><br />If you don't mind swinging at anchor, Pedi bay is a peaceful alternative to Yialos town quay and there are good tavernas in Pedi where you can enjoy a good meal while keeping an eye on your yacht. As they are all waterfront venues you can tie up your dingy virtually next to your table :-)Mike Gaddhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04950104249981376214noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9918732.post-88809385012422638392010-07-05T17:24:41.334+03:002010-07-05T17:24:41.334+03:00I am not surprised that there are fewer yachts in ...I am not surprised that there are fewer yachts in Simi town this year. I am sure you know most of the visiting boats are from Turkey. Usually the port police turned a blind eye to boats popping over for a wonderful Simi meal. This year all official charges and procedures are being strictly enforced. It cost us €15 for immigration, €5 tying-up fee, and €5 harbour dues for 1 night, plus a good hour and a half of walking and queuing. Electricity and water were extra. Our friends were charged €33 for 2 nights. I am afraid it will be hitting the tavernas hard. It is a lot to find for 2 people. Word has quickly spread. It would not be so bad if we could just pay on the quay, instead of 3 separate bills and long marches. I am left aboard alone for hours worrying sick that a gullet will pull our anchor out, before the formalities are completed. We love Simi, despite the pollution in the harbour, the noise until 3am from seemingly empty cafes with outward facing speakers, and the constant threat of crossed anchors. but we and many others will not be coming back any time soon. We simply cannot afford it.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com