Retire Early Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler

In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this financially independent lifestyle, they invite you to take advantage of their wisdom and experience.

Porto di Catania

The Harbor in Catania, Sicily

Billy and Akaisha Kaderli

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Its proximity to Mt. Etna - the biggest and most active volcano in Europe - has given the harbor of Catania, Sicily a volatile history.

While the story of the harbor begins in the 8th century BC when Greek colonists established their city of Katane, natural disasters frequently reshaped the coastline, including the harbor area.

Gaining prominence in the early days, a combination of factors, including silting, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes, contributed to its gradual deterioration.

The 1693 Earthquake and Tsunami leveled Catania but it marked a turning point for the harbor. The city was rebuilt with a more organized urban plan, and the port infrastructure was also improved.

Visit the harbor below for a current view of this major port of Catania today.

Fishing boats in a row

Fishing boats and sailing boats all find a place here in Catania's harbor.

Today, this Port of Catania is a modern facility serving Sicily and the surrounding areas. This is a legacy that stretches back thousands of years. In fact, underwater archaeological explorations have uncovered remnants of this ancient harbor.

This history includes records of past tsunamis, highlighting the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.  

Baroque style buildings line the harbor

While the harbor area has undergone significant modernization, some historical buildings still stand as testaments to Catania's past.

Often exhibiting the Baroque style which was prevalent after the devastating earthquake of 1693, you might find old warehouses, customs houses, or even remnants of ancient walls integrated into newer structures.

Even though much of the harbor area is dominated by modern buildings, there is often an attempt to balance this modernity with the city's historical charm.

 The waterfront area has seen a transformation in recent years, with the development of pedestrian promenades, cafes, and restaurants. This has made it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. While not directly part of the harbor, these buildings contribute to the overall ambiance of the area.

Miscellaneous gear of the fishermen piled on the pier

A fisherman's day typically begins before dawn. After preparing their boats and equipment, they venture out into the Ionian Sea.

Returning to port at the end of the day is marked by a flurry of activity.

For many fishermen, selling their catch at the bustling Catania fish market is a daily ritual. It's a vibrant atmosphere filled with haggling and the freshest seafood.

Fishing boats with brightly colored buoys

One of the oldest and most common methods of fishing is using nets.

Fishermen cast their nets into the water to catch various species of fish.

Using a line with a hook and bait, fishermen will catch individual fish. This method is particularly effective for targeting specific species.

This boat has seen better days!

Sometimes fishermen will troll which involves dragging lines with lures or bait behind a moving boat to attract fish.

Lampara Fishing involves using powerful lights to attract fish to the surface, where they are then netted.

And, while not exclusively traditional, trawling has been used for many years in Catania. It involves dragging a large net through the water to catch fish.

Fishermen mending their nets

Mending fishing nets is a crucial skill that fishermen have honed over centuries.

It requires precision, patience, and a comprehensive understanding of the materials and techniques involved. 

Fishermen often use specific knots, like the square knot or the sheet bend, to repair holes or tears.

For larger damages, patches of new netting material could be placed into these holes. In some cases, weaving new strands of twine into the damaged area will restore the net's structure.

Piles of nets on the pier

Mending nets is not only a practical skill but also a tradition that is passed down through generations of fishermen.

It's evidence to the resilience and resourcefulness of those who rely on the sea for their livelihood.

The fishing community in Catania is tight-knit, offering support and camaraderie to each other.

Man pole fishing

This man is standing on the pier with his fishing poles hoping for a catch.

His gear surrounds him.

Archi della Marina

Built between 1864 and 1869, these arches were part of a larger project to modernize Catania's railway system.

The idea was to create a railway line connecting Catania to Syracuse, passing over the sea.

Interestingly, the coastline has gradually receded, creating a wider stretch of land between the arches and the sea. So today, the arches no longer stand directly on the water.

The area around the Archi della Marina is also home to Catania's dynamic fish market. This vibrant market is a must-visit for any foodie or lover of fresh seafood. You can purchase dried herbs, fresh fruits and vegetables there, and a myriad of restaurants surround the market.

Fishermen unload their catch and they haggle with buyers creating a lively atmosphere.

Brightly painted pedal-powered vehicles

These colorful vehicles are likely bicycle taxis, a popular mode of transportation in many tourist destinations.

It's a fun and unique way to explore the city, and mostly used for short distances. These bicycle taxis can easily navigate through narrow streets and crowded areas, making them ideal for exploring the city's historic center.

Riding in a bicycle taxi offers a more intimate and immersive experience compared to traditional taxis, allowing you to engage with the locals.

  Billy and Akaisha in front of the port

Today's modern port handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and passengers.

Even after all these centuries it remains a vital economic engine for the city and surrounding region, carrying on a legacy that stretches back thousands of years.

If you are in Catania, you must make a visit to the harbor area and enjoy both remnants of the past, and the vibrant present that this port offers.

Retire Early Lifestyle appeals to a different kind of person – the person who prizes their independence, values their time, and who doesn’t want to mindlessly follow the crowd.

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