The newly formed Skopelos Sailing and Yacht Club (N.I.K.O.S.) has become a huge success in Skopelos with sailing classes held throughout the winter for local children. The enthusiasm was great and donations have come in from local businesses as well as some of the largest banks in the country. Local businesses have now bought a total of 8 Optomist, 2 Toppers and 1 Lazer sail boats. Alpha Bank also donated a brand new inflatable rescue boat for use by the instructors. The club’s membership has grown at a steady rate and they were able to raise a substantial amount at a fundraising event held this winter. Raffle tickets were sold and lots of great prizes were won such as DVD players, televisions, etc. The best part though was the excitement that was created amongst the children and adults about this important club.
New classes will be started throughout the summer and enrolment will begin soon for an adult class in open-sea sailing. There is hope that they will be able to branch out to rowing this summer as well. Anyone is welcome to become a member of the Sailing Club and all are welcome to pass by the N.I.K.O.S. hut which is located on the port just next to the town beach. They have made a comfortable little ‘home’ there with benches, etc. for spectators.
Proof of their enthusiasm and desire to help our island and its surrounding seas in every way: the core members of N.I.K.O.S. made a day of cleaning and clearing many years' worth of rubbish and debris from the harbour along the boardwalk in town. In full winter gear, the scuba divers dived into the chilly waters along the front. It was a sight to see - the debris that was retrieved from the harbour waters that had drifted in from storm winds and fallen from boats. There were old tyres and iron parts of boats and various plastics and rubbish.
We thank the members and appreciate the fantastic job they have done to clean up the sea and help the surrounding sea life. More ambitious projects are also planned for cleaning the waters in and around all of the beaches of the island.
N.I.K.O.S. is also accepting names for summer volunteers who are interested in taking part in the sailing lessons for the children; either for teaching if qualified or just for safety monitoring. Even short term help will be welcome if you would like to be a part of it during your holiday. Anyone who is interested may send us an email or contact Alekos Roros at 0030-6944-773815.
Sailing races – For yachting fans, Skopelos has plans to open a Marina this summer which will be capable of mooring many more sailing boats and yachts. It will be located along the entrance jetty to the port and will be providing full services such as water and electricity.