Spartochori, Meganisi Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor in 3–6m below the village of Spartochori. Mud and sand bottom with good holding. Protected from W through NE. A few stern-to berths on a small quay. The village perches dramatically on a cliff above the bay.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Spartochori, Meganisi 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, CQR. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Spartochori, Meganisi are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to E and SE and S winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 65m radius before going below for the night.65m for free-swinging in 3–6m. Good shelter from the prevailing NW Maistro. Exposed to E–SE — avoid in southerly conditions.

May–October. Meganisi is busier in July–August but never approaches the congestion of Nydri or Corfu.

Navigation Hazards

• Exposed to E through S — avoid in easterly or southerly conditions
• Rocky bottom in parts — snorkel to verify anchor position
• Limited quay space — primarily an anchoring spot

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: Respect the small quay used by local fishing boats.

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: Spartochori village (0nm)
• Restaurant: Excellent taverna in the village above (steep 10-min walk)
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. The walk up to Spartochori village is worth it — one of the finest village views in the Ionian.
2. Combine with Porto Spilia (Meganisi main port, 2 nm E) for fuel and water.
3. Meganisi is significantly less crowded than Lefkada or Kefalonia — a genuine gem.