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5 best locations for anchoring in Greece

By Kanika from SamBoat - January 3, 2022

Greece is one of the best destinations to rent a boat and sail. It has over a hundred islands, paradisiacal beaches and plenty of places to visit by boat. It can be hard to choose a place to stop and chill out with such an array of beautiful spots. In this article, we have listed the best spots to anchor on a boat rental in Greece. From the most popular to the less crowded places, but always with a breathtaking view.

The Sporades – Limnonari beach, Skopelos

The beautiful island of Skopelos belongs to the Sporades group and is between the islands of Skiathos and Alonissos. It is world-famous because Mamma Mia was filmed on this island. Rent a boat in Skopelos and sail around the island! The best place to anchor and enjoy the sea is Limnonari beach. It is a beach surrounded by mountains and turquoise water. It is the perfect place to anchor your boat as it is sheltered from the wind.

Seabed type: Sandy

Grip level: Excellent

Depth: 5m

The Ionian – Cliff Bay, Atokos

Atokos is one of the least popular islands of the Ionian group. It is an ideal destination for sailors seeking tranquillity. The best place to visit is Cliff Bay that is surrounded by impressive cliffs. Its calm waves make the area feel like a large swimming pool. It’s the perfect place to anchor during the day and for an overnight stay. Look for a spot with a sandy bottom to make anchoring easy. Extra tip: we recommend carrying a sufficiently long chain because some anchorage areas in the Ionian Islands may be quite a bit deeper than usual.

Seabed type: Sandy and rocks

Grip level: Good

Depth: 10m-15m

The Cyclades – Ornos bay, Mykonos

Mykonos is undoubtedly one of the most popular islands in Greece. It is known for its summer atmosphere, heavenly beaches, delicious food and nightlife. The best place to anchor in Mykonos is Ornos Bay. This bay has crystal clear and calm waters where you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. There you will find some services that will make your stay pleasant. Our tip: the best anchorage area is on the north side of the bay.

Seabed type: Sandy and seaweed

Grip level: Good

Depth: 10m

The Dodecanese – Lindos, Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanes, the island combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere and medieval architecture. This island has an incredible history and several archaeological sites of world importance. One of the most visited places is Lindos, which has impressive archaeological sites and large uncrowded beaches where you can swim. Lindos Bay is one of the best places to anchor on Rhodes Island. The seabed is a bit rocky but well protected from the north winds. 

Seabed type: Sandy and rocks

Grip level: Good

Depth: 5-10m

Crete – Marathi Bay, Crete

Crete is the largest island of Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. It is in the south of the Aegean Sea and has breathtaking landscapes. The best beaches on the island are in the northern part, in the Chania area. Sometimes it can be tricky to find a place to anchor your boat because it is very crowded. The best place to anchor in the north of Crete is Marathi Bay. It has a sandy seabed and is one of the few places that has protection from northerly winds. ​It is a quiet area, even at night, you can spend a few nights there without disturbance.

Seabed type: Sandy 

Grip level: Excellent 

Depth: 5-10m

If you don’t know which islands to visit in Greece, we suggest you check out the sailing itineraries we have prepared for you. Sailing in Greece is an amazing experience, rent a boat with SamBoat! Pack your bags, and set sail to the beautiful Greek waters.

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