Santorini (Thira)

Exploring Thira (Santorini): A Unique Cyclades Experience

Thira, more commonly known as Santorini, is one of the most southerly of the Cyclades islands, lying approximately 150NM southeast of Athens. This island is unlike any other in Greece, being the remnants of a massive volcanic eruption around 1450 BC. Viewing the sunset from one of the towns atop the island is a must!

Docking in Santorini

The island is a major holiday destination—crowded and expensive—but it should not be missed, even for a night. Docking in Santorini can be problematic in all aspects, so be prepared in advance. We chose to spend a night on a buoy at:

• Nikolaos (36° 26′ 18″ N, 25° 21′ 9″ E)

The bay is well protected and calm at night. It is located on Therasia island, about 2M from Oia. Pick up a buoy, and the shuttle takes you to Oia: Ormos Ammoudhi (36° 27′ 37″ N, 25° 22′ 14″ E).

We walked around the spectacular island and enjoyed a meal facing the sunset at Remvi restaurant.

• Oia (36° 27′ 34″ N, 25° 23′ 3″ E) – Only in calm weather.

Recommended Anchorages Around Santorini

• Akrotiri (36° 20′ 51″ N, 25° 24′ 6″ E) – About 15 mooring buoys in 4m depth. Bottom is sand with good holding. In front of the Karotiri hotel, good anchorage – 50 euros for 24 hours (tel: +30 6973838900). Good shelter from NW to NE winds. Ashore you’ll find nice tavernas. We recommend renting a car to move around.
• Black Beach (36° 21′ 16″ N, 25° 22′ 9″ E) – A nice place in calm weather. Swell comes in from around the corner, so anchor as close to the shore as possible. Good holding on sand.
• Vlikadha Marina (36° 20′ 12″ N, 25° 26′ 6″ E) – This place is crowded, so call in advance. Located at the south end of the island, about 400 meters (0.25 miles) west of Cape Exomiti. Care is needed when approaching the marina due to rocks and reefs in the vicinity. Non-potable water and electricity points on NW quay, restricted access. Wi-Fi. Mini-market in marina with camping gas. Fuel by mini-tanker. It should be remembered that this is primarily a fishing port that makes space for yachts. There are some tavernas and a hotel within walking distance of the marina. Buses run to the Chora, or a taxi can be arranged from the hotel.

Navigational Notes

Beware of the ancient breakwater outside the newer breakwater; check the charts. You should also keep to starboard and stay close to the quay when entering the harbour between the breakwater and harbour, as the depth is not much more than 2m and must be regularly dredged.

Learn more about the Cyclades here.