Docking Options in Panarea, Aeolian Islands

Introduction to Panarea

Panarea, the smallest of the Aeolian Islands, lies on an underwater platform that juts out of the sea at numerous points around the island, including the islets of Panarelli, Dattilo, Lisca Bianca, Lisca Nera, Basiluzzo, and the Formiche Rocks. This unique geography offers various docking and anchoring options for sailors exploring the island.

Docking at Scalo Ditella (San Pietro)

Scalo Ditella (San Pietro) is a popular docking spot on the island’s east side. The pier is used by local craft and ferries. In calm weather, you can anchor to the north, about 200 meters off the pier, in depths of 5 to 12 meters. The bottom is sandy with reasonable holding.

Anchoring at Cala Zimmari

Cala Zimmari is another excellent anchoring spot. You can drop anchor in 5 to 10 meters of water on a sandy bottom with good holding. However, I’d like to point out that this bay is open to the east and south, which may expose it to swells from these directions.

Anchoring at Cala Junco

Cala Junco is a beautiful bay that requires care due to underwater rocks. It’s recommended to anchor on the west side of Punta Milazzese in 5 to 8 meters of water, using a long line ashore for added security.

Anchoring Near the Village

In front of the village, we found a free ‘hook’ for attachment, though anchoring can also be done on a sandy bottom at depths of about 15 meters. The abattoirs are located to the south and north of the ferry dock, and most of them are likely occupied during the season. Going ashore with a dinghy and connecting to the ferry pier is possible, but only when the sea is calm.

Diving Sites and Nighttime Anchoring

We also anchored in a designated dive site area in coves in the southeast of the island. This protected inlet is an excellent spot for nighttime viewing of Stromboli and serves as a safe return point after the show if the sea is wavy.

Refueling is possible on the platform, but it’s not recommended to connect the boat directly. Instead, transfer fuel through jerry cans.

Exploring the Village of Panarea

The village of Panarea, home to about 280 permanent residents, is located on the northeastern side of the island. The white-painted buildings give it a feel reminiscent of the Greek Aegean. During our visit, we met Najib, a Tunisian who has lived on the island for seven years and works for the owners of the local Raya Hotel. Najib introduced us to his “bosses,” Miriam and Roberto. Miriam, a Jewish woman born in the Como region, runs a boutique hotel and shops on the island. She and Roberto, a tall Bosnian, hosted us with wine and local matzas on the restaurant’s balcony.