Ponza was another awesome little island stop-over. Its population is only 3,400 people. During the 1950s and 1960s it played host to such celebrities as Kirk Douglas, Anthony Quinn, Burt Lancaster,and Sophia Loren, just to name a few. For movie buffs, Fellini’s Satyricon was filmed here in 1969. The local economy is in a downward spiral because of the severe restrictions on commercial fishing. Most of the children born here grow up only to move away and never return. There are also some beautiful grottos just a short sail from Ponza.
Map of the area with Ponza (Ponziane) to the left of the red dot.It looks as though Kenny has a big one, on the line that is. He struggled and fought for over 25 minutes trying to land it.After the 25 minute fight Kenny eventually reeled in his catch, a garbage bag. He was nonetheless proud. At least he is doing his part to clean up the oceans. On the positive side, the bag did offer up a good fight.Sailing into Ponza in the late afternoon.Another image of the little port. We had to moor for the evening and use the dingy as our shuttle to the island.The marina scene. Beautiful scene with a catamaran sailing into the sunset.Early morning vista of the cliffside hotels and villas.Captain Antonio sailed to this beautiful location for a few hours of swimming and relaxation amongst the grottos.The waters were absolutely amazing surrounding the grottos. Another image of this very special spot.Pictured here is one of the grottos we could swim through. The water color changed dramatically from deep blue to pastel green.And of course the gelato boat. These smiling purveyors of fantastic gelato and the like were really in good spirits. And why not? They spend their afternoon motoring from one boat to the next, and with the temps in the low 90s fahrenheit everyone is indulging no matter what the cost. Finally the real (reel) deal. Nice ahi tuna. Just look at the proud smiles Kenny and Antonio are sporting. Obviously, the tuna had nothing to smile about.
