Sailing to Calabria

A map of the best ports and anchorages

The coast of Calabria

The ancient Greeks were among the first to establish settlements here, naming it “Enotria,” which translates to “land of wine.” The historic town of Locri, once a Greek colony, was a center of trade and culture.

The strait of Messina

Further south along the coast, in the strait of Messina, you will find the imposing ruins of the Aragonese castle. Originally constructed in the 10th century, it has witnessed numerous sieges and transformations, reflecting the turbulent history of this strategic location. The panoramic views of the Strait of Messina serve as a reminder of the geographic significance that has attracted countless civilizations.

Between Scylla and Charybdis

The phrase “between Scylla and Charybdis” originates from ancient Greek mythology, referring to the perilous navigation between two sea monsters that posed grave dangers to sailors. Scylla was a fearsome creature with multiple dog-like heads, waiting to snatch unsuspecting mariners. Charybdis, on the other hand, was a monstrous whirlpool that would engulf ships whole, creating a terrifying vortex in the sea.

Today, the phrase continues to evoke the idea of navigating life’s difficult choices, a timeless reminder of the complexities faced in pursuit of safety and success. Whether in literature or daily life, the tale of Scylla and Charybdis serves as a compelling allegory for the dilemmas we encounter.

Whirlpools

The whirlpools in the Strait of Messina are primarily caused by the unique hydrodynamics of the area. The strait connects the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Ionian Sea, creating a natural funnel. As the tides and currents flow in and out, they interact with the narrow channel, generating strong water movements. The significant difference in sea levels between the two bodies of water, along with the gravitational pull of the moon, creates powerful tidal currents. When these currents collide, especially during changes in tide, they can create turbulent water patterns, resulting in whirlpools. This phenomenon can be quite dramatic, especially during certain tidal phases, creating swirling currents that can pose challenges for navigation.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes in the Strait of Messina are typically the result of the interaction of warm, moist air from the Mediterranean Sea with cooler, dry air from the land. This combination create instability in the atmosphere, and tornadoes are common during the transition seasons of spring and autumn.

Discussion