Aegina Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips

Located just off the coast of Athens, Aegina is one of the most accessible and versatile sailing destinations in the Saronic Gulf. It offers a mix of organised harbours, sheltered anchorages, and lively coastal villages, all within short distances—making it ideal for both quick weekend trips and relaxed cruising itineraries.

Overview

Aegina (Αίγινα, pronounced “Egina”) is a diverse and highly practical island for sailors, combining historical interest, lively towns, and a wide range of anchoring options. Its proximity to Athens makes it a first or last stop for many cruises, especially for charter fleets.

The island provides:

• A major port (Aegina Town) with full services.
• Smaller but charming harbours like Perdika.
• Multiple anchorages for all conditions and preferences.

While parts of the island retain an authentic character, others—especially Agia Marina—are more touristic and developed.

Aegina is also famous for its pistachios, widely regarded as among the best in the world. The “Aegina pistachio” is a protected product (PDO), and pistachio shops, desserts, and local products are found throughout the island, especially in Aegina Town.

Aegina is also historically significant, having served as the first capital of modern Greece, and hosting important archaeological sites such as the Temple of Aphaia, one of the best-preserved Ancient Greek temples.

Sailing Conditions in Aegina

The Saronic Gulf offers generally predictable and manageable sailing conditions, making Aegina suitable for all levels of experience.

• Prevailing winds: Mainly northerly during summer (moderate strength).
• Mornings: Often calm or light winds.
• Afternoons: Breezes increase, especially around headlands.
• Evenings: Winds typically ease.

Key considerations:

• Ferry traffic is significant, especially near Aegina Town and Agia Marina.
• Swell from passing ships can affect many anchorages, even in calm weather.
• Local effects such as wind shifts and funneling may occur in bays.

Overall, conditions are safe and forgiving, but comfort often depends on exposure to swell rather than wind strength.

Aegina Coast Overview for Sailors

Aegina has a clear sailing layout with different character areas:

Southwest Coast

• The most frequently visited part of Aegina.
• Includes the towns of Aegina Town and Perdika.
• Offers protected bays and scenic anchorages like Klima and Mourgiotis.
• Short distance to the amazing anchorage in Moni island.
• Generally more protected and preferred for overnight stays.

North Coast

• Faces Athens and main shipping routes.
• Generally more exposed.
• Includes Nisida islet.

Southeast Coast

• Includes the village of Agia Marina and the scenic anchorage of Henrietta Cove.
• Good access to the temple of Aphaia.

Aegina Sailing Itinerary Ideas

Popular short routes include:

• Athens → Nisida Islet → Agia Marina – Ideal first stop with easy conditions and short distances.
• Aegina Town → Moni Island → Klima → Agia Marina → return – Full island circuit
• Aegina → Poros – Continue south to the Argolic Gulf
• Aegina → Aggistri → Epidaurus – Continue exploring the Saronic Gulf

Aegina is especially suitable for flexible planning, with short legs and multiple backup options. For more route ideas, see the detailed Argo-Saronic sailing itineraries guide, including maps and day-by-day routes.

All Anchorages & Harbours in Aegina

This guide covers the main sailing spots around Aegina:

Main Ports and Towns

• Aegina Town – main port, provisioning hub, lively atmosphere.
• Agia Marina – seaside resort with marina and anchoring options.
• Perdika – small traditional harbour with excellent restaurants.

Southwest Anchorages

• Moni Island – popular, amazing water, natural setting.
• Klima Beach – popular, organised, sandy anchorage.
• Mourgiotis Beach – quieter, more secluded option.

Southeast Anchorage

• Klipos Cove – open anchorage with good holding but prone to swell.
• Henrietta Cove – small, tight anchorage for calm weather only.

North Coast Anchorage

• Nisida Islet – shallow lagoon-style anchorage, ideal for swimming and short stops.

Where to Anchor in Aegina (Quick Guide)

If you’re looking for the best spots around Aegina:

• Best all-around stop: Aegina Town (for services and access).
• Most charming harbour: Perdika.
• Best beach and swim stop: Klima Beach.
• Most peaceful anchorage: Mourgiotis Beach.
• Best short stop near Athens: Nisida Islet.

General rules:

• Use the southwest coast for comfort and quieter nights.
• Expect swell near main traffic routes, especially north and east.
• Arrive early at popular harbours in high season.

Aegina Sailing Guide Summary

Aegina is not about remote wilderness—it is about accessibility, variety, and practicality. Within a compact area, you can experience:

• Busy port life.
• Quiet anchorages.
• Historical landmarks.
• Lively seaside villages.

For sailors in the Saronic Gulf, it is an essential and highly functional destination, offering reliable stops and diverse experiences without long passages.

Aegina Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours

Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Aegina including Moni island. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.

Locations

Aegina Town

Type: Town / main port
Best for: Provisioning, restaurants, lively atmosphere
Protection: Excellent in the port, moderate outside
Holding: Good in the port, variable outside

Aegina Town (Αίγινα) is the capital and main port of the island, located on its northwestern coast. It is the island’s administrative and commercial centre, with a lively harbour lined with cafés, tavernas, and fishing boats, creating a welcoming and colorful atmosphere.

The town combines this vibrant waterfront with a rich historical background. In antiquity, Aegina was an important maritime power, and the modern town is built on the site of the ancient city. In the early years of the modern Greek state, it briefly served as the first capital (1827–1829) under Ioannis Kapodistrias, leaving behind notable neoclassical buildings that still define its character.

Just north of the harbour lies the hill of Kolona, where a single standing column marks the remains of the Temple of Apollo, a prominent landmark visible on arrival.

Today, Aegina Town is a busy but authentic harbour town, popular with both visiting yachts and day-trippers from Athens, offering a mix of history, local life, and easy island atmosphere in a compact setting. Prices in the town are reasonable to low.

Restaurants

The waterfront and backstreets of Aegina Town are packed with dining options. For the best experience, seek out these local favorites:

• Skotadis & Pelaïsos: Waterfront traditional taverns with typical Greek food.
• Dromaki & Maistrali: Excellent beachside spots right on the sand, perfect for a relaxed sunset dinner.
• Mpakalogatos: Tucked into the town’s back alleys, serving fantastic traditional Greek meze away from the harbor crowds.

⚓Docking in Aegina Harbour

• Protection: Excellent from all directions
• Holding: Excellent in mud
• Entrance Pos.: 37°44.689′ N, 23°25.612′ E
• Depths: 2 – 4 metres

Docking in Aegina Town takes place along the main harbour quay, around 37°44.757′ N, 23°25.683′ E, right in front of the town, or in front of the restaurant of Nautical Club of Aigina around 37°44.693′ N, 23°25.652′ E. Mooring is stern-to with your anchor, without laid lines, and there is no formal marina for visiting yachts—the pontoons and inner areas are private or reserved.

Finding a berth is the main difficulty.

• The harbour is very crowded, especially in summer and on weekends.
• Berths are first come, first served (no reservations).
• Arriving between 10:00 and 13:00 gives the best chance of finding space.
• Late arrival often means you will need to anchor outside the port.

Even outside peak season, availability can be limited. Many boats end up waiting or closely competing for spots as they become free. The ferry quay can unofficially be used for short stays when no other options are available, provided it is not in use by ferries.

When mooring:

• Drop 40–50 metres of chain.
• Expect crossed anchors, especially in busy conditions.
• Mooring assistance is not provided by port Authorities.
• Depths are shallow in front of the Nautical Club of Aigina restaurant (around 1.5 metres). This area is also exposed to ferry wash, which can cause boats to touch bottom with the rudder.

Conditions inside the harbour

The harbour is generally well protected, but:

• Southerly winds can create uncomfortable swell inside.
• Ferry traffic generates wash, sometimes causing yachts to bounce on their chains.
• Movement is usually manageable, but can be unpleasant in exposed berths.

Facilities and prices

• Mooring costs around €12 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
• Water and electricity are available via prepaid cards from the Municipal Port Fund. The card costs around €30, and any unused credit is refunded.
• There are no marina-style facilities, and the harbour is more functional than organised.
• Basic services (laundry, chandlery, supermarkets) are all within walking distance.

Contact

The Municipal Port Fund office can be contacted by phone:

• +30 22970 22272
• +30 22970 26320
• +30 22970 27753
• +30 6934 722473

Email: info@portofaegina.gr

Atmosphere

Docking places you directly in the centre of town:

• Very lively, with restaurants, cafés, and shops along the quay
• Can be noisy, especially from traffic and nightlife
• Constant boat traffic during the day

Despite the crowds and occasional chaos, it is a highly convenient and enjoyable stop, mainly for its location.

Watch an informative video about docking in Aegina town on YouTube.

⚓Anchoring

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°44.529′ N, 23°25.632′ E

Anchoring is possible just outside Aegina harbour and is a common alternative when the port is full. It is convenient for visiting the town, but conditions are mixed and require attention.

• Depths: typically 4–8 metres
• Seabed: sand mixed with weed (posidonia), occasional rocks
• Holding: variable (good in sand, poor in weed)

The main challenge is finding a good sandy patch. Many areas are covered with weed or harder bottom, and it may take several attempts to set properly. Even when set, the anchor sometimes does not dig in deeply.

⚠️ It is essential to:

• Visually identify sand patches where possible
• Reverse firmly to test the set
• Allow sufficient swinging room

Good holding is achievable, but only if carefully positioned.

A further hazard is a submerged wall (shoal) south of the anchorage, around 37°44.355′ N, 23°25.650′ E, clearly marked on charts and visible on satelite images. Boats have been reported grounding or getting stuck on it, so you should keep a safe distance.

Conditions in the anchorage

The anchorage is affected by traffic and weather:

• Constant swell from ferries and passing boats during the day.
• Usually calmer at night when traffic decreases.
• Uncomfortable rolling can occur even in light winds.
• In stronger winds (especially from the west sector), the anchorage can become poorly protected and unreliable.

Space and access

• Space is generally adequate, but can become busy in high season
• Easy access to town by dinghy (usually near the fishing harbour at 37°44.736′ N, 23°25.603′ E or the small beach at 37°44.608′ N, 23°25.793′ E)

Aeginitissa

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming, sunset, restaurant stop

Aeginitissa (Αιγινήτισσα), meaning the woman from Aegina, is a small bay on the southwest coast of Aegina, popular for its clear water, relaxed atmosphere, and well-known fish tavernas. It is a favourite stop for yachts travelling through the Saronic Gulf and offers a pleasant alternative to the busier ports on the island.

The bay has a small sandy beach and a couple of tavernas ashore, making it a convenient stop for a swim and a meal. Although it can become busy during summer afternoons, it is generally quieter than the major harbour stops. The sunset from the anchorage is particularly attractive.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Moderate (weather dependent)
• Holding: Good in sand (patchy)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.951′ N, 23°28.020′ E
• Depths: 4–10 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring is generally straightforward once a suitable sandy patch is found. Depths are more comfortable closer to shore, while the seabed drops away fairly quickly further out.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed (posidonia).
• Sand Patches: Suitable sand patches can be limited and relatively narrow.
• Anchor Set: Several attempts may be needed to achieve a secure set. Avoid anchoring in weed.
• Protection: Good shelter from SE through NE winds.
• Swell: Northerly and northwesterly winds can make the anchorage uncomfortable, with some swell and chop. Even in otherwise settled weather, light movement is not uncommon.

Going Ashore

The beach provides easy dinghy access, and landing is straightforward.

Ashore you will find a couple of tavernas that welcome visiting sailors. The seafood restaurant Aeginitissa is the main attraction and is often regarded as one of the best fish tavernas on the island.

Provisioning options nearby are limited, although basic supplies can be found within walking distance.

The atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, particularly around the tavernas. While the bay can be busy during the day and around sunset, it is usually quiet at night. Water clarity is generally good, although floating debris may occasionally be encountered depending on conditions.

Perdika

Type: Small harbour & anchorage
Best for: Restaurants, village atmosphere, overnight stop

Perdika (Πέρδικα) is a small fishing village on the southwest coast of Aegina, known for its charming harbour, excellent tavernas, and relaxed atmosphere. It offers a more traditional and picturesque setting than Aegina Town and is one of the island’s most popular stops. Just offshore lies the islet of Moni, a favourite destination for swimming and day trips.

Basic provisioning is available, while scooters, taxis, and other transport options make it easy to explore the rest of Aegina.

The waterfront is lined with restaurants, cafés, and small shops, making Perdika a particularly attractive evening stop. The harbour is small and often fills up during summer, especially towards the end of the week when charter boats begin returning towards Athens.

⚓ Docking

• Protection: Good, except from W
• Holding: Variable
• Entrance Pos.: 37°41.412′ N, 23°27.107′ E

Harbour

Moor in the first (western) basin, as the inner basins are reserved for local boats. Berthing is stern-to using your anchor on the piers, or alongside on the quay.

• Space: Very limited, especially during high season.
• Arrival Time: Arrival before early afternoon significantly improves the chances of finding a berth.
• Busy Periods: Thursdays and weekends are usually the busiest days.
• Crossed Anchors: There is a strong possibility of crossed anchors within the harbour.
• Alternative Berths: If the harbour is full, the outer side of the breakwater can sometimes be used, although it offers less protection from westerly winds.

Contact

The harbour master can be contacted by phone at +30 2297 022272, or via VHF channel 12.

Facilities and Costs

• Mooring Fees: Around €12 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
• Water & Electricity: Available from shore pillars using a prepaid card costing approximately €10.
• Showers & Toilets: Not available.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Good except from the W sector
• Holding: Good in sand and mud
• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.394′ N, 23°27.025′ E
• Depths: 5–10 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring outside the harbour is often the most practical option when no berths are available.

• Seabed: Sand and mud.
• Space: Room can be limited close to the harbour entrance during busy periods.
• Protection: Comfortable in most conditions, except when winds or swell arrive from the west.
• Comfort: Nights are usually calm, although some swell or movement is occasionally experienced.

Moni Island

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming, nature, lunch stop, overnight in calm weather

Moni Island (Μονή) is a small uninhabited islet just off Perdika, famous for its crystal-clear water and free-roaming wildlife, including peacocks and deer. The name Moni means “monastery” in Greek and refers to the Aegina monastery that owns the island. Today it is a protected wildlife sanctuary and one of the most popular destinations around Aegina.

⚓ Anchoring

There are two main anchorages on either side of the island’s northwestern peninsula. The eastern anchorage is the most popular thanks to its beautiful beach and beach bar, while the western anchorage is quieter and feels more remote.

East Anchorage (Beach Area)

• Protection: Moderate
• Holding: Good in sand (patchy)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.745′ N, 23°26.152′ E
• Depths: 6–15 metres

How to Anchor

This is the main anchorage directly in front of the beach and beach bar.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed and rock.
• Holding: Good in sand but can be inconsistent in deeper areas.
• Space: Can become extremely crowded during the day, especially in high season.
• Stern Lines: The safest option is often to run stern lines ashore near 37°41.722′ N, 23°26.165′ E.
• Swimming Area: Respect the beach swimming area, which is marked with red buoys.
• Traffic: Frequent water taxis, excursion boats, and charter yachts visit throughout the day.
• Swell: Wake from passing vessels can make the anchorage uncomfortable and noisy.
• Evening: The anchorage usually becomes much quieter after day visitors depart.

Despite the crowds, the turquoise water, sandy seabed, and excellent swimming make this one of the most attractive anchorages in the Saronic Gulf.

West Anchorage

• Protection: Moderate
• Holding: Good in sand
• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.679′ N, 23°25.884′ E
• Depths: 7–15 metres

How to Anchor

Located west of the main beach, this anchorage offers a quieter alternative with more room and a more natural setting.

• Seabed: Sand with isolated rocks.
• Space: Less crowded than the beach anchorage.
• Anchoring Options: Suitable for both free anchoring and stern-to mooring with lines ashore.
• Swell: Can become rolly depending on wind and swell direction.
• Weather: Best used in calm and settled conditions.
• Wind Shifts: Overnight wind shifts may affect boat positioning.

Going Ashore

From the eastern anchorage, you can leave your dinghy near 37°41.721′ N, 23°26.090′ E. The small pier at 37°41.731′ N, 23°26.088′ E should only be used for drop-off and pick-up, as it is intended for sea taxis and transport boats.

From the western anchorage, dinghies can usually be landed close to the chosen anchoring position, although sharp rocks may complicate access in some places.

A seasonal beach bar operates near the main beach. Walking trails cross the island and lead to viewpoints and wildlife areas where the island’s famous peacocks and deer can often be observed.

Mourgiotis Beach

Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Quiet stop, swimming

Mourgiotis Beach (Μουργιώτης) is a small cove on the southwest coast of Aegina, offering a peaceful alternative to the island’s busier anchorages. With clear water, a narrow beach, and steep surrounding slopes, it has a secluded feel and is often considered quieter than nearby Klima. The bay is particularly popular with sailors seeking shelter from northerlies and a tranquil overnight stop. Water visibility is usually excellent, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Good from N sector, moderate otherwise
• Holding: Good in sand (patchy, with rock underneath)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°40.735′ N, 23°28.181′ E
• Depths: 3–10 metres

How to Anchor

Free anchoring is possible throughout most of the bay. Around 4–6 boats can anchor comfortably, although more can fit if stern lines are run ashore.

• Seabed: Sand with weed and underlying rock.
• Best Holding: The best holding is found closer to the beach on sandy patches.
• Anchor Set: In some areas, only a thin layer of sand covers the rock, making it difficult for the anchor to dig in. Several attempts may be required.
• Underwater Rocks: The southern side of the bay contains large underwater rocks near 37°40.658′ N, 23°28.150′ E, some of them close to the surface.
• Approach: Approach the southern side carefully and avoid anchoring too far out in this sector.
• Stern Lines: Many yachts run stern lines ashore for additional security, particularly in stronger winds or when space is limited.
• Weather: Very good shelter from N and NW winds.
• Swell: Some swell can enter from the south and west.

Going Ashore

The small beach provides easy dinghy access.

The shoreline remains completely natural and undeveloped. Nights are usually quiet, with very little light pollution, making the bay an excellent place for stargazing.

Klima Beach

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming stop, beach bar, shelter from northerly winds

Klima Beach (Κλήμα) is a popular bay on the southwest coast of Aegina, known for its clear water, sandy bottom, and lively beach bar atmosphere. More developed and busier than nearby Mourgiotis, it combines good anchoring conditions with easy access ashore and is a favourite stop for both local and visiting yachts.

During summer, the bay can become very crowded, especially on weekends. A mix of anchored boats and yachts using stern lines ashore is common, and manoeuvring room may become limited during peak periods.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Good from N sector, poor in S–W
• Holding: Good in sand (patchy near edges)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°40.610′ N, 23°28.652′ E
• Depths: 4–10 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring is generally reliable provided a suitable sandy patch is selected. The bay deepens quickly away from shore, so many yachts use stern lines to reduce swinging room.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed and rock.
• Best Holding: Anchor closer to the beach near the buoyed swimming area and avoid weed patches.
• Stern Lines: Commonly used to improve positioning and reduce swing.
• Rocks: Rocks are present near the shoreline, particularly on the northern side of the bay.
• Crossed Anchors: A common issue when the anchorage is crowded.
• Swell: Southerly and westerly winds can make the anchorage uncomfortable and rolly.

Going Ashore

The sandy beach provides easy dinghy access.

A popular beach bar operates during the season, offering food, drinks, sunbeds, and beach facilities. Dinghies should be secured well ashore, as wake from passing boats can occasionally move them around.

Klipos Cove

Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Quiet stop, swimming, clear water

Klipos Cove (Κλήπος) lies on the southwest coast of Aegina, offering good holding, clear water, and a quieter atmosphere than many of the island’s more popular anchorages. With no development or facilities ashore, it is primarily used as a stopover or overnight anchorage in settled conditions.

The bay usually attracts only a modest number of boats and is best appreciated as a peaceful place for swimming and relaxation.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Good from N sector, poor in S
• Holding: Good in sand
• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.303′ N, 23°30.680′ E
• Depths: 4–10 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring is generally straightforward in the sandy areas, with reliable holding once properly set.

• Seabed: Sand with some rocky areas.
• Best Area: The eastern side of the bay, near the small harbour area, provides the most reliable anchoring.
• Rock Shelves: Rock shelves may extend offshore in the centre of the bay.
• Swell: Exposed to southerly swell, which can create persistent rolling. Ferry and ship traffic may generate long-period swell, even in otherwise calm weather.

Henrietta Cove

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming stop, short stay, secluded setting

Henrietta Cove (Ενριέττα) is a small and picturesque cove on the east coast of Aegina, known for its crystal-clear turquoise water and secluded atmosphere. With only a few houses ashore and no significant development, it feels isolated compared to nearby anchorages. Due to its small size and limited manoeuvring room, it is best suited for short stops or overnight stays in very settled weather. Minimal light and noise contribute to the peaceful atmosphere, particularly after sunset.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Good from N and W, moderate from S, exposed to E
• Holding: Good in sand (mixed with weed and rock)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°43.625′ N, 23°32.377′ E
• Depths: 2–6 metres

How to Anchor

The cove is too small for comfortable swinging at anchor, so most yachts use a stern line to shore. Look for clear sandy patches for the best holding.

• Seabed: Sand mixed with weed and rock slabs.
• Space: Suitable for only 1–3 boats. Manoeuvring room is limited, particularly for larger vessels.
• Stern Lines: Strongly recommended due to the confined space. There is very little margin for free swinging if the wind changes direction.
• Rocks: Rocks are present throughout the cove, including near the anchoring areas. A dangerous submerged rock lies near the entrance at approximately 37°43.563′ N, 23°32.510′ E.
• Swell: Exposed to easterly swell. Persistent swell from ferry traffic may enter even in otherwise calm conditions.

Agia Marina

Type: Town / harbour & anchorage
Best for: Beaches, restaurants, access to the Temple of Aphaia

Agia Marina (Αγία Μαρίνα) is a small seaside town on the east coast of Aegina, combining a harbour, a sandy beach, and a lively tourist atmosphere. It is one of the island’s main holiday centres, offering plenty of restaurants, cafés and shops,

The main attraction is the Temple of Aphaia, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Saronic Gulf. It is about a 20-minute uphill walk from the harbour, or a short taxi ride away.

Although more touristic and less traditional than other settlements on the island, Agia Marina is a convenient stop for provisioning, beach access, and sightseeing. The main drawback is the persistent swell that can affect both the harbour and the nearby anchorages.

⚓ Docking

• Protection: Good from N sector, exposed to E–S swell
• Holding: Good in sand
• Entrance Pos.: 37°44.604′ N, 23°32.441′ E

Harbour

Docking takes place along the long pier and the newer southeastern quay extension, with space for approximately 15–20 boats.

• Mooring: Stern-to using your anchor.
• Depths: Generally adequate, although shallower areas exist towards the inner end of the harbour.
• Arrival Time: Arriving before early afternoon is recommended during summer to secure a berth.
• Swell: The harbour can be affected by easterly swell and ferry wash.
• Exposure: The outer sections of the pier and quay are significantly more exposed.
• Harbour Staff: No permanent harbour staff are present and any docking assistance is usually provided informally by neighbouring crews.
• Development: The harbour is still evolving and parts of the waterfront remain under development.

Facilities and Costs

• Mooring Fees: Around €12 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
• Water & Electricity: Previously available, but the service pillars were destroyed during a severe storm in winter 2025 and had not been restored as of May 2026.
• Facilities: No toilets or showers.

⚓ Anchoring

Northeast of the Harbour

This is the main anchorage used by visiting yachts.

• Protection: Good from N winds
• Holding: Good in sand
• Approx. Pos.: 37°44.693′ N, 23°32.626′ E
• Depths: 6–12 metres

How to Anchor

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed.
• Space: Large anchoring area with room for many boats.
• Swell: Frequently affected by swell generated by ferries and passing ships.

Southwest of the Harbour

This anchorage lies off the main beach and offers easy access to both the town and the harbour.

• Protection: Good from N winds
• Holding: Very good in sand
• Approx. Pos.: 37°44.486′ N, 23°32.248′ E
• Depths: 3–7 metres

How to Anchor

• Seabed: Sand.
• Access: Convenient dinghy access to shore.
• Swell: Continuous ferry wash and ship-generated swell can make the anchorage uncomfortable.
• Comfort: It can remain rolly even in light winds.

Going Ashore

You can land your dinghy at the small pier at the southern end of the beach, at 37°44.390′ N, 23°32.237′ E. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk to the town centre. If you prefer to be closer to the centre, you can land your dinghy in the shallower northern part of the harbour.

Nisida Islet

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swim stop, clear water, short overnight in calm weather

Nisida Islet (Νησίδα) is a small islet off the north coast of Aegina, forming a shallow lagoon-like anchorage between the islet and the mainland. It is particularly popular for swimming, lunch stops, and as a last stop before heading to Athens or a first stop after departing from it.

The anchorage is known for its turquoise water, small chapel, and attractive setting. It can become very busy during the day, especially on Fridays and weekends, but many boats depart in the evening, leaving a much quieter atmosphere overnight.

⚓ Anchoring

• Protection: Moderate (good from S, limited from N)
• Holding: Good in sand (patchy with rocks)
• Approx. Pos.: 37°46.443′ N, 23°33.015′ E
• Depths: 2–6 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring is generally straightforward provided a clear sandy patch is selected and enough chain is used for the relatively shallow depths.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed and rock.
• Holding: Can be unreliable if the anchor lands in weed or on rock.
• Rocks: Rocks are present throughout the anchorage. Consult your charts carefully and approach slowly.
• Protection: Good shelter from southerly winds when anchored between the islet and Aegina. Limited protection from northerly winds.
• Swell: Ferry traffic and passing ships often generate wake and long-period swell.

Going Ashore

You can land a dinghy at 37°46.494′ N, 23°33.058′ E and 37°46.496′ N, 23°33.105′ E. From both locations, a path leads to the small chapel on the islet.

Apart from the chapel and a short walk around the islet, there is little to do ashore and the anchorage is best enjoyed as a stay-on-board destination. The crystal-clear water and excellent visibility make it one of the most attractive swimming stops around Aegina.

Explore nearby Attica’s southeast coast, as well as Poros and Agistri, in the full Argo-Saronic sailing guide.