Αντίο και καλή τύχη (that's Greek for Goodbye and Good Luck)

It may seem to you, our readers, that this holiday has gone on forever, as we have been posting for quite a while. However, for us, the participants in the holiday, the time simply flew by and all too soon it was time for goodbyes.

While George and Yorkie went exploring ashore, I tended to stay on Milia and met lots of lovely Greek fisherman as a result. I loved seeing their painted caiques and talking to them, so I had lots of new friends to say goodbye to.

It was very sad having to say goodbye to Milia as she was a very fine vessel - great for sailing, but also very comfortable to live aboard. I wanted to ensure we returned her in good shape, so while George and Yorkie swabbed the decks, I checked out her engine and made sure everything was clean and in good working order.

Our final group meal was, as always, a very happy occasion and we all enjoyed the customary speeches and awards ceremony. Not only did we receive a fine Loutraki plaque, with some great likenesses of the lead crew (the photo printing shop was apparently closed!) but I was also thrilled to get a special award.

In honour of the fact that Milia was the only boat with a crew of bears, we were presented with a new Greek friend, and you can meet him for the first time in the next picture.

Our new friend is Louis, the only possible name, as he was given us by the crew of Loutraki. He travelled home with us and has settled in well as the latest bear to join Bears Unlimited. Look out for him on future boating holidays.

We had all enjoyed the finest of fine holidays and can't wait to go again. Don't forget that the name to look for, for the best flotilla sailing in the Greek Islands, is Sailing Holidays. We can't recommend them enough.

George and Yorkie are just back from another adventure so expect to hear from them soon.

Bye for now and lots of love

Eddie xxx