2 July 2024
| Metric | Details |
| Departure Time | 0830 |
| Expected Wind (max) | 15.0kn |
| Expected Wave (max) | 1.5m |
| Engine Hours | 4446 |
| Generator Hours | 1777 |
City of Saranda, Albania
Before leaving Saranda, we made a stop at a different marina solely designated for refueling ships. The process there is quite organized, with several fuel trucks of varying sizes waiting to fulfill their orders according to a set schedule. When it was our turn, a fuel truck entered a weighing station and then came alongside our vessel, Anna, which was moored to the port side.
Sorting out the right fuel connectors took a bit of time, but once everything was in place, we began the refueling process. It took about an hour to transfer the fuel. Interestingly, we were given a sample of the fuel for testing purposes, which is a great option for ensuring fuel quality. Once we were underway and checked the fuel gauges, it seemed we hadn’t received the full 2,300 liters of fuel we had ordered. However, this was uncertain because our initial fuel estimates from when we left Barcelona were not precise. Despite having sight gauges on the fuel tanks and another sensor showing tank levels, accuracy remains an issue since you always have at least a quarter in each tank. To address this, we did some calculations and decided to start recording regular estimates of our fuel consumption. This should help us achieve more precise monitoring over time.
After a long and exhausting 56-hour journey from Brijuni to Saranda, and with the winds picking up, we opted for a short day on the water. We decided to stop at a beautiful, quiet beach named Agios Giannakis. This serene location provided the perfect setting for a refreshing dip in the clear waters. Agios iannakis is known for its tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing break. We enjoyed a small dinner and retired early that night, recharging our energy for the journey ahead.
The next morning, our plan was to round the mainland of Greece and get closer to the narrow opening of the Gulf of Corinth. This leg of the journey would bring us into new waters and closer to more exciting destinations.
Our refueling experience in Saranda and the restful stop at Agios Giannakis highlighted the unpredictable nature of sailing and the importance of flexibility and careful planning. Agios Giannakis proved to be a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat after long hours at sea. As we continue our adventure, we look forward to more discoveries and serene moments along the Greek coastline.