Lefkas is only an island because of the canal that separates it from the mainland. The present canal was built by the Greek government, earlier canals were dug by the Corinthians in the 7th century and the Romans. On our way north from Meganisi to the canal we sailed past the islands of Skorpios and Sparti which are owned by the Onassis family. The Lefkas canal is dredged to a minimum of 6 metres and no boat should even think about cutting outside the buoy markers! Once inside the canal we had a great view of the salt lagoons either side. The buoys disappear to be replaced by poles with cones and baskets. The boat channel is only 20 metres wide yet still a couple of petrol head Italian motor cruisers zoomed past everyone abiding by the 4 knot maximum speed limit; being total w***kers creating wash and stress for the wading birds as well. At the northern end is a floating swing bridge that opens on the hour to allow passage of boats heading north (us) and south.
Salt lagoon portside of canal.
Rubbish tip portside of canal.
Approaching the floating swingbridge, traffic still crossing above and two yachts holding position waiting for the bridge to open.
Lights. Sirens. And it opens to allow us through.
