Agia Pelagia Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchorage east of the ferry pier in 3–5m mud and sand. Good holding. The bay is the northern entry point to Kythira, closest to the Kythira Channel and the Peloponnese (Neapoli 10nm NE). Primary exposure is to E/NE — in NE meltemi or Gregale, this position can become uncomfortable; relocate to Diakofti or Kapsali.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Agia Pelagia is primarily mud and sand with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–5m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (35m chain at 5m depth).
2. Drop into the wind or current and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back — do not allow chain to pile on the anchor.
3. Set firmly in reverse. Apply moderate throttle astern for 30–60 seconds. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Take a GPS bearing. Note your position once set and compare to the scope calculator to confirm you have adequate chain for the depth.

Recommended anchor types for this bottom: CQR, Delta, Rocna. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Agia Pelagia are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to E and NE and SE winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 70m radius before going below for the night.70m radius for 3–5m mud and sand. Reasonable NW/W shelter. The Kythira Channel (1–2nm N) carries strong current and significant meltemi acceleration — do not linger in the channel. Anchor firmly before the afternoon meltemi builds.

May–October. Exposed position makes it less comfortable in high meltemi season (July–August). Preferred months are May–June and September–October.

Navigation Hazards

• Kythira Channel current up to 2kt in strong NE meltemi — do not transit in strong conditions
• Strong meltemi acceleration through the channel N of the bay — plan N passages for early morning
• Ferry wash from Kythira–Neapoli service — anchor firmly
• Exposed to E/NE — Gregale (NE) winter wind makes this bay untenable

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: DEKPA registration at Agia Pelagia port authority if entering Greece here. Keep clear of the ferry approach lane and pier.

For a full overview of Greek anchoring rules, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Agia Pelagia village (0nm)
• Restaurant: Several tavernas and cafes in the village
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Best used as a provisioning and check-in stop rather than an overnight stay — Diakofti or Kapsali offer better shelter.
2. Time your departure through the Kythira Channel for 04:00–07:00 when the meltemi is at its lightest.
3. The Port Authority here can assist with DEKPA transit log if arriving from the Peloponnese or Ionian.