From the stunning scenery to the vibrant wildlife, there is something for everyone to discover in this stunning part of the Mediterranean. This helps with the logistics of planning your Greek holiday and lets you decide which part of Greece will suit you best. Why is the ocean blue? - NOAA's National Ocean Service As the Aegean islands hardly have any green vegetation with a rocky landscape and smaller cozier bays. The final standard swim break of 2016 is from 11-18 Sept. To some extent, the ocean also reflects the color of the sky. Water exchange is the delivery system of the nutrient supply for the worlds oceans and seas. Light winds and sunshine make the Ionian an ideal cruising ground for sailors and families. Here you can learn more about the color of the ocean. In the deep sea, the ocean is dark. The Red sea and the Black Sea also feed the Mediterranean with water, via the Suez Canal and the Bosphorus Strait, but this exchange is very, very small. The climate of the Ionian Islands is a hot Mediterranean climate with temperatures quickly racking up mid 30. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. The largest island of the Ionian Islands is Kefalonia Island. You can taste this drink, of course, in every restaurant in Greece. Individual years are also used for the study of IAV. Not because the water resembled frothy mustard. Ionian Blue Hotel Lefkada Island 5 Greece Rates From 261 That is because there is a limit to the depth of ocean that light can enter. The different straits and gulfs that are found in the Ionian Sea include the Strait of Messina, the Gulf of Squillace, the Gulf of Taranto, the Gulf of Patras, the Gulf of Corinth, the Laconian Gulf, the Messenian Gulf, the Ambracian Gulf, the Gulf of Kyparissia, the Gulf of Catania, and the Gulf of Augusta. The Ionian Islands - Complete island Guide | Discover Greece We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. Lefkas Island, Ionian sea, Western Greece | Lefkas Its practically a lake if you look at it on the map, landlocked on all sides except for the Strait of Gibraltar under Spain. and are the foundation ofmarine food webs. The climate of the Ionian Islands is a hot Mediterranean climate with temperatures quickly racking up mid 30. 10 Major Ionian Sea Facts You Must Know - Marine Insight [3] Ancient Greek writers, especially Aeschylus, linked it to the myth of Io. Why sail in Greece? | Sail the Ionian Sea Luckily, there is always a gentle sea breeze present. My first reaction to the murky Brighton sea was one of shock. The only negative side of these conditions is that the fish tend to be smaller, but the waters never turn green and murky. That is why when you look across the ocean, it may look gray if it is cloudy, orange if it is during sunrise or sunset, or brilliant blue if it is a cloudless, sunny day. Thank you for some other informative blog. These geological features, as well as the many other fascinating and unique geological processes that have taken place over millions of years, have helped shape the Ionian Sea into the beautiful and diverse destination it is today. Ionian Islands - Wikipedia The result of all these factors is the clear, blue water that all mediterranean divers know and love so well. The mediterranean pizza boy is lazy, just like those in Cyprus. For salinity, exhibited MAV and IAV are very low (highest . TheWildlife Trusts is a movement made up of 46 Wildlife Trusts: independent charities with a shared mission. The sea often appears blue because of the way light interacts with the water. Find out with these facts about our amazing oceans. "Why Is the Sea Blue?" So why not make your next journey to this amazing region and explore its wonders today? Which is the nicest of the Ionian Islands? The food of the Ionian Sea 6. In ancient times the Ionian Sea was a common setting for battles between Rome and Greece. Near the equator, where temperatures are higher, more evaporation takes place and so the seawater has a higher concentration of salt. Ionian Sea Villas - bluevillascollection You may have even swum in its beautiful waters on a Greek summer holiday. The Mediterranean Sea is considered to be a combination of different basins or seas. On the other hand, the Ionian Trench is a deep-sea canyon that serves as a habitat for many different species of fish and other marine life, making it a hotspot for marine biology research. You'll see that the color of the sea in the Aegean looks deeper blue, whereas the Ionian appears mystically green/turquoise. Combine that with the abundant sunshine, crystal clear blue sea, and you will understand why the Aegean Sea is such a popular destination for boaters. From the breathtaking beaches and mountain ranges to the fascinating ancient ruins and archaeological sites, the Ionian Sea has something to offer all travelers and nature lovers. Except for June and July where also the Ionian, Saronic and Cyclades areas are as warm as the south-east Aegean. Coastal areas can sometimes look murky and brown as they contain sand from the seabed that has been churned up by waves. Can internal processes sustain reversals of the ocean upper circulation? This is due to sediments being stirred-up from the ocean bottom, or entering the ocean through streams and rivers. Aegean Sea. Its many cities and islands are home to an array of important museums, monuments, and other cultural landmarks, from the ancient ruins of Olympia in Greece to the medieval castles of the Albanian coast. Many studies in the past have highlighted the importance of the Ionian Sea as it is a region where water masses meet and interact; see, e.g., Budillon et al. The Aegean islands have a slightly cooler Mediterranean climate due to the strong wind and presence of the Aegean Sea. For more information about diving in the crystal clear waters of theMediterranean sea check out tips and recommendations for diving in Europe. Sure, water does reflect the sky on its surface: from the coast, it may appear blue on a sunny day, grey when it's stormy, or even show shades of pink during sunset. The Ionian Sea is considered to be one of the world's most seismically active locations. Your Master Guide to All Greek Islands and How to Pick One, The Best Quiet Greek Islands To Escape To, Kythira Discovered Impressions of A Greek Tour Guide, 4 Lesser Known Greek Islands Known From Mythology, 4 Greek Islands That Are Excellent Alternatives To Santorini, 4 Crowd-Free Greek Islands for the Ultimate Slow Living Lifestyle, The Real Reason Behind Greeces White Houses. born with the intention of sharing the results and updates, 2020 Regional Cooperation Magazine. Climate. Lower patterns (40% of the mean value) are exhibited in the southeastern area from April until November, and in the western part from February til August. ThoughtCo. Visit a tropical ocean, like in southern Florida or the Caribbean, and the water is likely to be a beautiful turquoise color. The result of all these factors is the clear, blue water that all mediterranean divers know and love so well. The bluer colours, with shorter wavelengths, are less likely to be absorbed, giving the sea its blue hues. Very informative and beneficial as we drive the west coast of Corsica! http://pitaway.com/locations/warren/, The main point of water exchange for the Mediterranean is through the. At the diagonal cross-section, temperature in the upper part varies from 14 to 20 C, and it is layered horizontally, while the variability in the bottom part is much less (13.7513.9 C). Carpeted with olive trees, pines and vineyards, the Ionian Islands are fertile and green, a stunning setting for award-winning white-sand beaches and peacock-blue waters. This body of water was one of the most important seas in Ancient times. Concerning the monthly variability, the largest patterns (60% of the mean value) are shown in winter months (Jan, Feb and Dec) in the central Ionian Sea, and near the coasts most of the year. If you want to sail in the Aegean sea, you have to bear in mind the fierce Meltemi wind that has a force of 5-7 bft that blows from the north-west in summer. However, this doesnt spoil its beauty at all; its just a different cup of tea. Interesting Ionian Sea Facts: The deepest point of the Mediterranean Sea is located in the Ionian Sea. Most nutrients are found in the bottom layers, but algae thrive in the top layers, where the sun shines, as they need light to grow. This is because of the absence of phytoplankton and particles in the water. Witness views dominated by the gorgeous blue sea, white chalk houses, and characteristic blue domes. A Greek swimming odyssey: in love with the waters of Lefkada FAST FACTS OFFICIAL. Slight SWE hint do visit the Balos Lagoon if you like warm water! The fantastic view cross the straits between Lefkada and the mountains of the western mainland Greece, additional with the magical images of . This is where you will find a cluster of islands, aptly named the Ionian Islands. The width of the Ionian Sea is 40 milesfrom Greece in the east to Italy in the west and northwest. A small lock or https:// means youve safely connected to a .gov website. Because this sea surrounding Greece is so rich in beautiful island destinations it might be the perfect place to begin your exploration. Hydrographic characteristics of water masses and circulation in the Northern Ionian Sea, Deep Sea Research Part II Topical Studies in Oceanography, 57(5), 441457, the APLABES Programme: Physical, Chemical and Biological Characterization of Deep-Water Coral Ecosystems from the Ionian Sea (Mediterranean). Where else could I get that type of information written in such an ideal means? In the Ionian sea, beginning or less experienced sailors should have no problem sailing comfortably on their yacht, enjoying the perfect sailing conditions. You have entered an incorrect email address! Summertime at its best, endless sunshine & blue sky. Relax & Unwind At These 34 Beaches In The Balkans There is a 24-hour reception, concierge service and ironing at the luxury hotel too. 1 | When I say 'the sea', what colour do you see? Best Beaches In Albania Best Beaches In Bulgaria Best Beaches In Slovenia Relax & Unwind At These 34 Beaches In The Balkans While many tourists focus on the classic beach destinations in southern Europe, such as Spain, France, and Italy, the Balkans' beaches are often overlooked. Due to historical facts the isolated islands of Kithera and Antikythera, south of the Peloponnese, are here included in this group. Jennifer Kennedy, M.S., is an environmental educator specializing in marine life. Yet if you gather a bucket of sea water, it will look clear. On the other hand, IAV is very low; the higher values (6% of the mean value) are in the Greek coasts (Corfu island and Peloponnese). Giving sailors of all levels a chance to enjoy their time here! Greece is full of culture; its history goes back thousands of years. Which explains the cobblestones and Venetian-styled houses youll find in Corfu Town, for example. Have you ever wondered why the sea is blue? Water is exchanged at the slowest of rates making the med as clear as a swarovski crystal. With crystal clear waters and lush green mountains creating a picturesque landscape, the Ionian Sea is one of the most beautiful places in Greece. Most nutrients are found in the bottom layers, but algae thrive in the top layers, where the sun shines, as they need light to grow. This sea in Greece is also home to the deepest part of the Mediterranean, called Calyspo Deep. At about 656 feet (200 meters), there isn't much light, and the sea is totally dark at about 3,280 feet (2,000 meters). Though considered by ancient authors to be part of the Adriatic Sea, the Ionian Sea is now seen as a separate body of water. I spent the first 25 years of my life believing that every sea in the world was blue. Its estimated that 4 billion tons of salt enter the sea each year, but the ocean is not growing any saltier because a similar amount of salt is deposited on the ocean floor each year, so the salt level is fairly balanced. Life in our rockpools is more gruesome than you might think. From dense forests and impressive waterfalls to breathtaking multi-awarded beaches, Ionian nature is a joyful pleasure. The Ionian Sea is considered to be one of the areas of the world where earthquakes occur very frequently. . If there was a popular vote for the best beach in Greece, Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) in Zakynthos would always be a candidate because it is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece.But there are so many other highlights to choose from. What is the significance of incense in church? The Ionian Sea example, Geophysical Research Letters, 37(9). Ionian Sea - Secret Hidden Gems inside this Stunning Blue Paradise The Ionian Sea is a bay in the Mediterranean Sea, stretching from Albania in the northeast to Sicily in the southwest. Do not forget that you are in Greece, and try one of the best Greek liquorice spirits called ouzo to accompany your lunch with fresh Mezedes (small seafood plates) as fishermen tradition dictates. The scene is unsettling: hundreds of sea lions and dolphins are sprawled across the beaches in Southern . This area consists of: North Aegean Islands, the Cyclades, the Sporades, the Argo-Saronic Islands, or Evia. The result of . (2023, April 5). Christos Stefanakos, Senior Research Scientist, SINTEF Ocean. Kennedy, Jennifer. Here the sea reaches a depth of 5,267 m. Hardly any light penetrates deeper than Related:The Best Quiet Greek Islands To Escape To. SINMOD model is a fully coupled ocean model with hydrodynamics, ecology, and sea ice, and it has been developed at SINTEF since 1987. The sea temperature remains warm enough for most of the year for swimming and other recreational activities. For currents, Mean Annual Variability (MAV) is pronounced in large areas of the Ionian Sea, especially near both coasts (>60% of the mean value), while Inter-Annual Variability (IAV) seems to be less pronounced with the largest values (>30% of the mean value) are along the Italian coast and southwest of Cephalonia island, and the lowest along the Greek coast and off the Gulf of Taranto. The Ionian Sea has been a common location for different battles that were fought between Greece and Rome since ancient times. The water column is also stratified the top rarely mixes with the bottom due differences in temperature forming thermoclines. The saltiness (called salinity) of the sea is not the same in all parts of the world. The only negative side of these conditions is that the fish tend to be smaller, but the waters never turn green and murky. The hotel is built on a natural descent, while its rooms are going downhill in front of the calm blue waters of the Ionian Sea. These creatures, combined with the warm climate, make the Ionian Sea an ideal location for those seeking a unique experience that allows them to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean. An official website of the United States government. The colour of the water also depends on other factors, such as what particles are floating in it. Its crystal clear waters and deep piercing blue is unmistakable. Footsteps of Cultural and Religious Inheritance. The ocean may also take on green, red, or other hues as light bounces off of floating sediments and particles in the water. The water is stunningly blue and it's perfect for taking amazing photos! Kennedy, Jennifer. To learn more about how we use cookies and your options, please see our. The Mediterranean Sea is the world's tenth-largest sea, spanning over 2.5 million km 2.It accounts for about 0.7% of the Global Ocean and is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strait known as the Strait of Gibraltar. July 23, 2022by Robert Micheli. Have you ever wondered why the sea is blue, or whether dolphins sleep? Depending on where you are, the sea may look very blue, green, or even gray or brown. As water molecules are better at absorbing light with longer wavelengths, they absorb much of the red, orange, yellow and green light. The result of all these factors is the clear, blue water that all mediterranean divers know and love so well. With its breathtaking beauty and significant history, the Ionian Sea is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the Mediterranean. The geology of the Ionian Sea is a complex yet fascinating one, with a variety of sedimentary, volcanic, and tectonic processes having combined over millions of years to form the seas unique geography. ISSN 2784-9465, BLUE-GREENWAY: Ocean current conditions in the Ionian Sea, Environment, Energy, Climate Change and Low Carbon Economy. White light is made up of many different visible colours ranging from red to violet red has the longest wavelength, blue light the shortest. Dallet Greece Greece has the longest coastline in Europe and is the southernmost country in Europe. No1 Private Boat Trip Corfu To Paxos And The Blue Caves I The Corfu The ports of Catania, Messina, and Syracuse are located along the western coast of the Ionian Sea. Yet if you gather a bucket of sea water, it will look clear. The warmest part is in the south-southeast area of the Ionian Sea, and the warmest year was 2016. Knutsen, ., Stefanakos, Ch.N., Slagstad, D., Ocean current conditions in the Ionian Sea, 31st International Offshore and Polar Engineering Conference, ISOPE2021, Online/Virtual Conference June 20-25, 2021. The Aegean is home to the famous islands of Santorini and Mykonos in the Cyclades. Shallow water often appears clear as there are fewer water molecules to absorb the light, so other colours are able to reach the sea floor and reflect. Largest values at the surface (20 cm/s). For wind speed, MAV is very high; the largest values (65% of the mean value) being in the southwestern part. Recent measurements have found a depth of 5,090 meters, 75 miles of Tenaro. Like a filter, this leaves behind colors in the blue part of the light spectrum for us to see. Located on Greece's west coast, the Ionian Sea boasts turquoise waters, protected moorage, beaches, and long summers - and many tavernas! Whether you are looking for luxury, relaxation, or adventure, they have it all available for you. The Ionian Sea: A Comprehensive Guide - Grandgo How long does it take to become a CNA in Tennessee? Good to know that there are distinctive differences in sailing circumstances in both areas, which determine how difficult it is to sail there. 656 feet, and no light penetrates deeper than 3,280 feet. The Ionian Sea has also been linked to the myth of Io by different ancient Greek writers. It allowed for trade between one region to another, as well as cultural exchange. Gai M, Borzelli GLE, Civitarese G, Cardin V, and Yari S (2010). The analysis of results includes monthly, annual and interannual variability of fields of current speed, temprature, salinity, and wind speed at sea surface, and at a diagonal cross-section along the Ionian Sea. That is because the phytoplankton contains chlorophyll. Generally very warm Ionian sea and central Mediterranean, slightly cooler Aegean sea. From its stunning scenery with crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and breathtaking geological formations to its diverse marine life, the Ionian Sea is a true paradise for any nature lover. 04:16 - Source: CNN. From the sprawling coral reefs home to a kaleidoscope of colors to the abundant schools of fish that swim around its depths, the Ionian Sea is a true paradise for nature lovers and marine biologists. BLUE-GREENWAY: Ocean current conditions in the Ionian Sea Rain water dissolves minerals and releases salts from the rocks on land, which are then carried down to the sea by rivers. Lets start with the Ionian islands, located just west on the coast of Greece. First of all, both island groups will give you a unique sailing experience that you wont easily forget. Validation of the model has been performed throughout all these years using not only measurements of current, salinity and temperature but also data of primary production. Why is the Ionian Sea important? | Blue Expanse Why Is the Sea Blue? Our site is an advertising supported site. https://www.thoughtco.com/why-is-the-sea-blue-2291878 (accessed July 9, 2023). Western Greek Islands - Wikitravel Photograph by J.D. Not all red tides show up as red water, but the ones that do are because of the presence of dinoflagellate organisms that are reddish in color.