Kastos Island Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor off the small village harbour in 3–5m mud/sand. Good holding. Protected from W and S. Exposed to E and NE. A very small, quiet community — one of the most peaceful anchorages in the Ionian. Stern-to the short quay if space.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Kastos Island 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 3–6m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (42m chain at 6m 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: Delta, Rocna, Mantus. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Kastos Island are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to E and NE winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 65m radius before going below for the night.65m radius for free-swinging in 3–5m. Protected from prevailing NW Maistro. Exposed to E and NE — if NE Gregale is forecast, relocate to Vlikho Bay (10 nm N).

May–October. Even in July–August this anchorage sees relatively few boats compared to the main Ionian cruising grounds.

Navigation Hazards

• Exposed to E and NE — evacuate in NE Gregale conditions
• No fuel or water — provision at Meganisi or Nydri before visiting
• Isolated — nearest significant port is Meganisi (8 nm) or Nydri (14 nm)

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: Respect the small community — minimal facilities.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Meganisi (Porto Spilia) (8nm)
• Restaurant: One taverna in the village, open May–September
• Provisions: None on site — Meganisi (Porto Spilia) (8nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. One of the last truly quiet anchorages in the busy Ionian — savour the tranquillity.
2. Come self-sufficient: water, fuel, and provisions must be carried in.
3. Excellent swimming off the island — crystal water, minimal boat traffic.