Their first encounter is that of the island of the Sirens, also known as Capri. The Sirens are beautiful women who sing and attract seamen into the shallow harbor when they become stuck forever. Wisely, Odysseus fills his mens' ears with wax so they will not be able to hear the singing. He then has himself tied to the mast so he will be able to hear the songs, but won't be able to reach them.

They pass the Sirens unharmed and keep on sailing south.