Paros & Naxos Islands, Greece
Late in the evening the Panorama departed Santorini and made its way towards Paros Island for our overnight anchorage. We awoke to find the winds beginning to fill in from the Northeast so we shifted our anchorage to Naoussa Bay, located at the northern edge of Paros Island, where we had great protection from the building wind and seas.
Shortly after breakfast we departed the ship via our Zodiacs to explore the bay and enjoy the water. The first group ashore went with Sue Perin for a hike to view the lighthouse at the most northern point of the island. Just behind the hikers came those guests that were most interested in swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Conditions remained calm throughout the morning so everyone had adequate time to do most everything. Just before lunch we all returned to the ship for a brief swim from the fantail and the all important diving/jumping competition from the ship’s rail.
After lunch we heaved anchor and made our way to Naxos Island. The seas had built, so the ride was a bit bumpy but not too uncomfortable. The Captain had to wait for a local high speed ferry to unload and then load at the very busy and very essential public pier before we could get alongside.
After the heat of the day had begun to die off our Greek guides, Ellie and Eleni led an informative walk into the heart of Naxos Town, known also as the “ Kastro”. This area was once home to the Catholic nobility and the outer walls were constructed in the 13th century. Although not much is left of the outer walls, the inner walls are still standing. Naxos is known as one of the first islands to use marble, and this is evident as you walk around the port.
After wandering through the winding alleys and roads we returned to the Panorama for a Greek cocktail party and dinner. During dinner we were able to view the sunset near the unfinished temple of Apollo. After dinner, a local dance troupe came aboard to show us some traditional Greek dancing and music. Before this performance was done they had us out on the floor dancing with them.
Those of us that still had the energy walked along the waterfront of Naxos Town and witnessed it coming alive as the heat of the day wore off. There were families, couples and young adults all out on the waterfront and in the cafes enjoying the evening.
