Chalki Island: Sailing, Mooring, and Attractions Guide

Location Coordinates

Chalki 36°13’19.9″N 27°36’52.2″E

The island is located approximately 5 miles west of Rhodes. You can grab a ferry from Kamiros Skala. The village stands on the slopes of the hills surrounding the bay.

Bay Characteristics

The bay is sheltered from the southwest winds, but the west and north prevailing winds cause strong squalls. The east and southeast winds create swell and waves inside the bay.

Approach and Navigation

As you approach, look for the windmills on the hill southwest of the bay. The waters around the island are deep, with some islets. Check the navigation maps for underwater rocks on the steep and rocky shores. Submarine cables extend off the southern shores of the bay and to the northeast, where anchorage and fishing up to 180 meters from both sides of the cables is prohibited. It is recommended that you sail to the bay during the daytime.

Mooring in Chalki

The port of Emporeio is at the head of the bay. A floating pontoon without lazy lines is available about 65 meters from the main port in the summertime.

Anchorage Options

You can anchor at the southwestern part of the bay. In summer, ships are requested to anchor at the port’s northern part, providing better shelter from the north and northwest winds. The depths at the middle of the bay are about 35-39 meters.

Bay Potamos

Bay Potamos is a beautiful cove, ideal in calm weather. It is open to the south. You can anchor in calm weather in 4-8 meters of water, but care is needed due to underwater rocks in the middle of the bay.

Top Attractions in Chalki

Places to Visit

• Monastery of St. John: Perched on a hill, this religious site offers panoramic views of the island.
• Nimborio Village: The only settlement of Chalki, it brims with neoclassical houses and quaint lanes.

Restaurants

Dive into the waterfront tavernas at Nimborio Harbour for authentic Greek cuisine and fresh seafood.

Swimming Areas

• Pondamos Beach: Located near the harbour, it’s a famous sandy beach with clear waters.
• Ftenagia: A pebble beach with crystalline waters, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Diving Adventures

The surrounding waters of Chalki are filled with ancient ruins and marine life. Several diving schools offer excursions into these underwater realms.

Local Shops and Supermarkets

Nimborio Village offers a range of local shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products. The leading supermarket in Nimborio provides sailors with essentials and is within walking distance of the mooring area.

Embark on Your Chalki Adventure

Embark on a journey of exploration in Chalki, where every wave has a story and every gust of wind carries whispers of the island’s illustrious past. Sail safe and enjoy your time in this Greek paradise.