SeaTV • Northern Sporades • Sailing Guide
Kyra Panagia Anchorages Guide
Hidden inside the National Marine Park of Alonissos, the island of Kyra Panagia offers some of the most remote and memorable anchorages in the Northern Sporades. There are no marinas, no towns, and almost no infrastructure—just wild bays, protected waters, and a true marine park atmosphere. This guide covers the key anchorages sailors should know before arriving.
Kyra Panagia
Alonissos Marine Park
Sporades Sailing
Remote Anchorages
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Why Sail Kyra Panagia
Kyra Panagia is not about comfort or marina life. It is about nature, silence, and protected anchorages inside one of the most important marine reserves in Greece. Sailors who come prepared can find quiet bays, reliable holding, and a rare sense of isolation that is increasingly difficult to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean.
Agios Petros Anchorage
Why sailors stop here
Agios Petros is one of the best-known anchorages in the Alonissos Marine Park. The bay is popular because it offers good protection from north and northwest winds, helped by a small islet that reduces swell and makes the anchorage calmer in the right conditions.
Depths and seabed
Boats usually anchor in 4 to 7 meters, over sand, with very good holding.
Atmosphere
The setting is wild, quiet, and distinctly protected. This is one of the marine park’s most attractive anchorages for sailors looking for a peaceful stop in natural surroundings.
Important notes
- Anchoring requires a marine park permit.
- Typical reported permit cost: around 35 to 40 euros, depending on vessel and crew.
- Landing on the island may be restricted.
Kyra Panagia Bay Anchorage
General character
Kyra Panagia Bay is a peaceful anchorage surrounded by hills, natural coastline, and very little human development. It is one of the island’s more atmospheric stops, especially for sailors who appreciate quiet nights and an untouched setting.
Depths and seabed
The seabed is mainly sand with patches of seagrass. Most boats anchor in 5 to 7 meters, with reliable holding.
Anchoring style
Some skippers anchor normally, while others also use a stern line to the rocks depending on position and conditions.
What is ashore
From the beach, a steep path leads to the monastery, and goats and wild horses are often seen on the hills above the bay.
Important warning
In north-westerly winds, this anchorage may become uncomfortable.
Planitis Bay – South East
Why this anchorage stands out
Planitis Bay – South East is known for its excellent protection from wind and swell. Many sailors describe it as feeling almost like anchoring on a lake once inside.
Depths and seabed
Typical depths are 5 to 12 meters, over mud or sand, with excellent holding.
Water clarity
The water often appears murky because of the muddy bottom.
Important departure warning
If strong north winds develop, the narrow entrance channel can become rough, making departure difficult even if the anchorage itself still feels protected.
Facilities
There are no facilities here at all.
Planitis Anchorage
General character
Planitis is a large, quiet anchorage surrounded by untouched nature. It is one of the most peaceful stops around Kyra Panagia and appeals to sailors looking for shelter, space, and a truly natural setting.
Depths and seabed
Boats usually anchor in 5 to 8 meters, over sand mixed with mud, with very good holding.
Shelter
The bay provides strong shelter, even when winds increase outside.
Conditions to expect
The water may appear unclear, and wind gusts can become confused near the entrance.
Marine Park Permit & Important Planning Notes
Buy the permit before arrival
There is no phone signal in parts of Kyra Panagia, so sailors should buy the marine park ticket online before arrival.
Typical reported fees
Typical reported fees are about 33.50 euros per boat plus 5.50 euros per person.
What not to expect
- No marinas
- No towns
- Very limited or no services
- Protected area rules may apply depending on anchorage and landing permissions
Final Skipper Summary
Kyra Panagia is not about convenience. It is about preparation, respect for a protected marine park, and choosing the right anchorage for the right conditions.
If you come prepared, these bays offer some of the most memorable anchorages in the Sporades: quiet water, natural shelter, dark skies, and the rare feeling of being far away from everything.
Explore More Sporades Sailing Guides
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