Greek
Waters Pilot
The definitive "Bible" for sailing in Greek waters - and an impressive
effort! Every island and almost every islet is closely described, the mainland
coast also, and there are hundreds of maps and sketches covering ports and anchorages.
Weather patterns, currents, animal life etc. is also covered, and last but not
least: Excellent cultural and historic background information. The author, Rod
Heikell, has spent years of sailing these waters.
This book is no doubt the best aid in planning a sailing trip in Greece. But it is also nice for armchair sailing in front of the fireplace during cold winter nights! A must for all skippers sailing the Greek isles.
Ionian
Sea
Also this book is written by Rod Heikell, and meant specifically for sailors.
Covered here are islands in the Ionian sea and the West coast of Greece, such
as Corfu, Paxos, Levkas, Ithaka, Keffalonia, Zakynthos and more. Excellent aid
for those sailing in this popular area, but not meant to replace the Greek Waters
Pilot.
Lonely
Planet: Greek islands
There are numerous general traveling books for those visiting Greece, and they
are of very variable quality. Also, not all are relevant to us sailors. But
the "Lonely Planet" series have an "off the beaten track"
approach that fits well with the sailing lifestyle. Also, they are thorough,
but not too detailed, and very well illustrated. Good value for money
also.
An alternative well known series is "The Rough Guide to...". We don't favor this as much as Lonely Planet, but tastes differ...
Lonely
Planet: Greece
While the above book covers the Greek islands, this one has a lot of information
on the mainland as well. Recommended if you are sailing out of Athens and/or
visiting ports along the Peloponnesian peninsula, or sailing one way between
Athens and the Ionians. Otherwise, you'll manage well with the edition covering
the islands.
A
Visitor's Guide of How Not to Sail the Greek Isles & Other minor Catastrophies
A funny little thing, this is! Unpretentious
and humorous, it covers in text and illustrations most of the errors that can
be done on a sailing trip in Greece. The author, Vernon Vas Elliot, appears
to have a very fair grasp on what not to do, acquired through his own
experiences. Obviously not much of a yachtsman, at least when he wrote the book!
Many nice observations and defintions, such as: "The Greek knot: Impossible
to tie or untie. A sure bet to secure anything to anything forever."
In our Salty Seas Boating Bookshop you will find a large selection of maritime books in many different categories!