Vathi: The approaches, showing the large bay
After many of the small fishing villages that make the staple of a yacht cruise in this area, “big Vathi” (as opposed to “little Vathi” on Meganisi) seems huge. As towns go, its actually pretty small but it is a bit of a hub for both local boats and yachts.
In summer, it’s a lively place, as befits the islands capital, with cafes spilling out on to the pavements and squares, and a good choice of restaurants. In August the centre is pedestrianised which makes for a relaxing atmosphere.
The town was rebuilt in it’s original Venetian style after being heavily damaged in the 1953 earthquake. It is well equipped to fulfil your needs be they eating out, provisioning, banking (including ATM’s) or hire of cars or motor bikes. If you want to explore the island in more depth, Ithaca makes a good base. There is also a medical centre should you have need.
Vathi (Ithaca): The bay looking north with the north quay top left
For a break from the sun there are a couple of museums; the Archaeological Museum and the Foklore Museum, the latter including a selection of pictures of the 1953 earthquake.
Though Vathi is perhaps more cosmopolitan and a bit busier than other places, it’s still very Greek and though some of the shops are most firmly geared to the visitors, it has an air of quality absent in the more touristy places like Corfu. It’s a great place for a change and a chance to restock the yacht and top up the wallet.