Agistri Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips

Agistri is one of the greenest and most relaxed islands in the Saronic Gulf, offering crystal-clear water, pine-covered coastlines, and a surprising number of attractive anchorages within a very small area.

Its short distances, protected coves, and proximity to Athens make it ideal for:

• Weekend cruising.
• Swim-focused itineraries.
• Relaxed overnight stops close to the capital.

Overview

Agistri (Αγκίστρι), also commonly written Agkistri or Angistri, is a small island southwest of Aegina, known for its forested landscape and exceptionally clear water. Unlike more developed nearby destinations, much of the island retains a quieter and more natural character.

The island combines:

• Traditional villages like Megalochori.
• More touristic stops such as Skala.
• Remote coves suitable for stern-to anchoring.
• Famous swimming spots like Aponisos.

Although close to Athens, Agistri often feels much calmer than:

• Aegina.
• Poros.
• Hydra.

The island is especially popular with:

• Charter yachts from Athens.
• Weekend sailors.
• Local boats visiting for swimming.

Sailing Conditions in Agistri

Summer sailing conditions around Agistri are generally mild and predictable.

• Prevailing winds: mainly northerly during summer.
• Mornings: often calm.
• Afternoons: moderate breeze develops.
• Evenings: winds usually ease significantly.

Important local characteristics:

• NW swell can affect several west-facing coves even in calm weather.
• Ferry and excursion boat traffic create additional wake near villages and popular beaches.
• Some anchorages are deep and require stern lines ashore.

In general:

• The west coast offers the best swimming conditions, despite being exposed to the prevailing northwesterly winds.
• Protection depends heavily on swell direction, not just wind strength.

Agistri Coast Overview for Sailors

Agistri is small and easy to understand from a sailing perspective.

North Coast

• Includes the Megalochori and Skala villages.
• Main ferry access and village facilities.
• More developed and affected by ferry traffic.

West Coast

• Main anchorage area of the island.
• Includes Dragonera, Skilomango and Aponisos.
• Crystal-clear water and pine-covered scenery.
• Vulnerable to NW swell in exposed areas.

East Coast

• More rugged and isolated.
• Includes Megali Bali and nearby coves.

Nearby Islets

• Metopi and Dorousa provide additional swim stops and anchorages close to Agistri.

Agistri Sailing Itinerary Ideas

Popular short routes include:

• Athens → Aegina → Agistri → Poros – A classic beginner-friendly Saronic route.
• Megalochori → Dragonera → Aponisos → Skala – Full Agistri circuit.
• Agistri → Poros → Hydra – Popular extension towards the Argolic Gulf.

For more route ideas, see the detailed Argo-Saronic sailing itineraries guide, including maps and day-by-day routes.

All Anchorages & Harbours in Agistri

This guide covers the main sailing spots around Agistri and nearby islets.

Villages & Harbours

• Megalochori – traditional harbour and authentic village atmosphere.
• Skala – lively beach village with easy anchoring.

Scenic Cove Anchorages

• Megali Bali – dramatic deep cove for stern-to anchoring.
• Skilomango – one of the island’s best natural anchorages.
• West Agistri Coves – quieter alternatives with turquoise water.
• Dragonera Beach – easy anchoring without shore lines.

Famous Swimming Stops

• Aponisos – iconic turquoise-water anchorage with restaurant and beach club.
• Metopi Islet – shallow swim stop and overnight option in northerlies.

Where to Anchor in Agistri (Quick Guide)

• Best all-around anchorage: Skilomango
• Most authentic village: Megalochori
• Best beach atmosphere: Dragonera
• Best swimming water: Aponisos
• Quietest overnight stop: West Agistri Coves
• Best lunch stop: Metopi Islet
• Best place for restaurants and provisioning: Skala

General rules:

• Expect deep anchoring in many coves.
• Stern lines ashore are commonly required.
• NW swell can affect west-facing bays unexpectedly.
• Arrive early at popular spots during summer weekends.

Planning Your Sailing Trip to Agistri

Agistri is best experienced slowly.

The island is not about:

• Large marinas.
• Luxury infrastructure.
• Formal harbour facilities.

Instead, it offers:

• Natural anchorages.
• Clear water.
• Short sailing distances.
• Relaxed evenings in small villages and coves.

For many crews, Agistri becomes:

• A favourite early stop after leaving Athens.
• A relaxed alternative to busier Saronic destinations.
• One of the best islands in the area for swimming and overnight anchoring.

Its combination of:

• easy navigation,
• beautiful water,
• and varied anchorages

makes it one of the most practical and enjoyable small-island sailing destinations in the Saronic Gulf.

Agistri Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours

Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Agistri including the islets of Aponisos and Metopi. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.

Locations

Megalochori

Type: Village harbour & anchorage
Best for: Quiet village, authentic atmosphere, short stay

Megalochori (Μεγαλοχώρι), also known as Mylos, is the main port and traditional village of Agistri. It offers a quieter and more authentic alternative to the busier ports of the Saronic Gulf, combining a small harbour, an anchorage, and a relaxed local atmosphere.

The village has a handful of tavernas, cafés, a bakery small shops and a pleasant beach, while the island itself is known for its pine-covered hills and walking trails. Megalochori is an excellent base for exploring Agistri and enjoys a much calmer atmosphere than nearby Aegina Town.

⚠️ Approaching from the east requires care, as reefs lie between Metopi and Agistri. The safe passage is marked by two red and two green buoys.

Restaurants

Recommended restaurants are:

• Séilor – Authentic Greek food popular with locals.
• Kafenes to Mantraki – Excellent food with views over the harbour.
• Κονάκι εν Αγκιστρίω – Traditional home-made food in a cosy setting.

⚓ Docking

• Entrance Pos.: 37°42.812′ N, 23°20.907′ E
• Protection: Good from N–W, limited from E–SE
• Holding: Good in sand (with rocks in places)
• Depths: 3–5

Harbour

Mooring is available in a small harbour with limited capacity.

The mole at 37°42.842′ N, 23°20.860′ E offers the best protection from northerly winds, but is generally unavailable to visiting yachts. Its western side is occupied by local boats and its eastern side is used by the ferry.

Visiting yachts should use the pontoon or the adjacent pier sections. There is usually more space on the pier southwest of the pontoon, around 37°42.828′ N, 23°20.811′ E, as the northeastern section is often occupied by local boats.

• Mooring: Stern-to using your anchor on the piers, or alongside the pontoon.
• Capacity: Approximately 10–15 visiting yachts. Arrive before midday for best chance of space.
• Seabed: Large rocks are present and can foul anchors.
• Anchor Placement: The clear water often allows visual selection of sandy patches.
• Swell: Frequent fast-ferry wake can create significant movement, even in calm weather.

Facilities and Costs

• Mooring Fees: Around €10 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
• Water & Electricity: Available via prepaid cards. The card typically costs around €30, with any unused balance refunded.
• Fuel Delivery: Available by tanker truck. Contact +30 6976 749296.
• Facilities: No marina organisation or extensive harbour infrastructure.

Contact

The harbour is managed by the Municipal Port Fund of Aegina. They can be contacted by phone at +30 22970 22272.

⚓ Anchoring

• Approx. Pos.: 37°42.765′ N, 23°21.087′ E
• Protection: Good from W and NW, exposed to N
• Holding: Good in sand (variable)
• Depths: 3–5 metres

How to Anchor

Free anchoring is possible just outside the harbour and provides a useful alternative when the harbour is full.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of rock.
• Best Holding: Usually found closer to the beach on sandy patches.
• Holding: Some areas have only a thin layer of sand over rock, reducing holding reliability.
• Dinghy Landing: At the quay, around 37°42.763′ N, 23°20.843′ E.

Skala

Type: Village harbour & anchorage
Best for: Beaches, restaurants, easy access, crew changes

Skala (Σκάλα) is the main tourist village of Agistri, built around a wide sandy bay with shallow, clear water. It is more developed than Megalochori, with numerous tavernas, bars, supermarkets, and accommodation options, making it a convenient stop for provisioning, crew changes, and ferry connections.

Despite its popularity, Skala remains an attractive stop thanks to its beach, easy access ashore, and good swimming conditions. During the summer months, however, it can become busy with visitors and ferry traffic.

⚠️ Approaching from the west requires care, as reefs lie between Metopi and Agistri. The safe passage is marked by two red and two green buoys.

Restaurants

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

• Alterego – Mediterranean food and weekend barbecues, set just back from the beach.
• Toxotis – Traditional, home-cooked Greek dishes in the village backstreets.
• Apagio & Oasis – Beachfront tavernas with tables right on the sand near the harbor.

⚓ Docking

• Entrance Pos.: 37°42.503′ N, 23°22.098′ E
• Protection: Limited (exposed to N)
• Holding: Good in sand

Harbour

Docking takes place along the commercial ferry pier rather than in a dedicated marina. The head of the pier is reserved for the ferry, while the projecting sections near the head are used by hydrofoils. Visiting yachts can use the remaining sections of the pier on either side.

• Mooring: Alongside or stern-to using your anchor.
• Capacity: Typically 3–5 yachts comfortably.
• Depths: Generally adequate.
• Swell: Ferry traffic regularly creates wash, although it is usually manageable.

Facilities and Costs

• Mooring Fees: Around €10 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
• Collection: Fees are – sometimes – collected by the Municipal Port Fund of Aegina.
• Water & Electricity: No reliable supply.
• Facilities: No organised marina facilities.

⚓ Anchoring

• Approx. Pos.: 37°42.756′ N, 23°21.792′ E
• Protection: Good from S, exposed to N
• Holding: Good in sand
• Depths: 4–8 metres

How to Anchor

Anchoring takes place across the wide bay in front of the beach.

• Seabed: Sand with patches of weed and rock.
• Space: Plenty of room for multiple yachts.
• Overnight: Generally suitable for overnight stays in settled conditions.
• Dinghy Landing: On the beach.

Megali Bali

Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Secluded overnight stays, swimming, scenic setting

Megali Bali (Μεγάλη Μπάλη) is a small and dramatic cove on the southeast coast of Agistri, known for its crystal-clear water, steep rocky surroundings, and isolated atmosphere. It is one of the most scenic anchorages around the island and a favourite stop for swimming and snorkelling. A small cave can be found on the northern side of the bay.

The cove is relatively narrow and deep, making it less straightforward than many other anchorages in the Saronic Gulf. In calm conditions it can provide a beautiful and peaceful overnight stop.

⚓ Anchoring

• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.145′ N, 23°21.065′ E
• Protection: Good from N sector, exposed to E swell
• Holding: Variable (sand over rock slabs)
• Depths: 9–15 metres

How to Anchor

Reverse into the bay, drop anchor relatively far out in order to reach the sandy patches, and secure one or two stern lines ashore.

• Rock Slabs: Large submerged rock slabs are present, particularly in the southern part of the bay.
• Anchor Set: Some rock shelves resemble sand due to the exceptional water clarity. Anchors may appear set while actually resting on smooth rock.
• Scope: Adequate scope is essential because of the depth.
• Stern Lines: Recommended due to the limited swinging room. Some scrambling over rocks may be required when securing stern lines.
• Swell: Easterly swell can make the anchorage uncomfortable. Swell and wave reflection from the surrounding rocks are common even when local winds are light.

Skilomango

Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Secluded overnight stays, snorkelling, stern-to anchoring

Skilomango is a popular anchorage on Agistri, combining exceptionally clear turquoise water, pine-covered surroundings, and relatively good shelter in settled weather. Despite its remote appearance, it is well known among sailors and can become very busy, particularly with charter yachts and large motor boats.

The bay is deep and narrow, making stern lines ashore the preferred setup for overnight stays. It offers excellent swimming, snorkelling, attractive sunsets, and a more secluded atmosphere than the island’s village anchorages. A fish taverna operates in the neighbouring bay of Aponisos and can be reached by dinghy. The area is especially popular on weekends and on Thursday evenings before charter fleets return to Athens.

The area is excellent for underwater exploration, with rich marine life and exceptional visibility. Experienced divers may wish to visit the Avantis III wreck, located south of Dorousa Islet at 37°40.720′ N, 23°18.779′ E, which can be reached by dinghy.

⚓ Anchoring

• Approx. Pos.: 37°40.734′ N, 23°19.526′ E
• Protection: Good and direction except SW
• Holding: Good in sand
• Depths: 10–20+ metres

How to Anchor

Anchor in deeper water, reverse towards the shore, and secure one or two stern lines ashore.

• Seabed: Mainly sand with patches of weed and rock.
• Depths: The bay deepens rapidly towards the centre.
• Stern Lines: Recommended due to the limited areas suitable for free swinging.
• Space: Large numbers of visiting boats can significantly reduce manoeuvring room.

Aponisos

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming, crystal-clear water, restaurant stop

Aponisos (Απόνησος) is a small islet connected to Agistri by a narrow causeway, creating one of the most famous swimming and anchoring spots in the Saronic Gulf. The setting is spectacular, with turquoise water, rocky coves, pine trees, and abundant marine life.

The islet hosts a beach club and α fish restaurant and attracts large numbers of day visitors, excursion boats, and yachts during summer.

The area is renowned for its crystal-clear water, excellent snorkelling, stunning sunsets, and pine-covered scenery. Fish, sea urchins, peacocks, deer, and other wildlife are occasionally encountered around the island. Horse-riding trips are also available around the nearby lake.

Watch a YouTube video featuring spectacular views of Aponisos.

Anchoring

There are two main anchorages, one south and one north of the islet. For the prevailing northerly winds and overnight stays, the southern anchorage is usually the better choice. The northern anchorage, however, offers the most impressive water colours.

⚓ South Anchorage

• Approx. Pos.: 37°40.997′ N, 23°19.344′ E
• Protection: Good from N and E; less comfortable in S and NW
• Holding: Good in sand
• Depths: 10–20 metres, occasionally deeper than charts indicate

How to Anchor

Anchor in deep water, reverse towards the shore, and secure one or two stern lines ashore.

• Seabed: Sand with some rocks.
• Stern Lines: Commonly used due to the depth and limited swinging room.
• Space: The bay is relatively small and can become crowded during summer.
• Crossed Anchors: Different anchoring styles are common, increasing the risk of fouled anchors.
• Swell: Can become uncomfortable in southerly or northwesterly conditions.
• Dinghy Landing: The small fishing harbour, at 37°41.034′ N, 23°19.384′ E.

⚓ North Anchorage

• Approx. Pos.: 37°41.113′ N, 23°19.348′ E
• Protection: Good from E and S; exposed to N
• Holding: Good in sand
• Depths: 5–10 metres

How to Anchor

Both free anchoring and stern lines ashore are possible. Located in front of the restaurant and beach area, this anchorage is famous for its remarkable water colours.

• Seabed: Sand with some rocks closer to shore.
• Space: Limited; only a few yachts can anchor comfortably.
• Swimming Area: Marked by buoys, reducing the available anchoring space. Using an outboard engine through the swimming zone is prohibited. Rowing is permitted.
• Traffic: Heavy daytime activity from swimmers and small boats during summer.
• Dinghy Landing: Use the small fishing harbour at 37°41.034′ N, 23°19.384′ E after rounding the peninsula.

West Agistri Coves

Type: Cove anchorages
Best for: Secluded overnight, crystal-clear water, quiet surroundings
Protection: Generally good except from N–NW swell
Holding: Good in sand with some rock slabs

Directly north of Aponisos, there are two neighbouring, unnamed coves on the west coast of Agistri that share similar characteristics. They are often used interchangeably depending on available space. Both offer a much quieter and more natural setting than the better-known anchorages of Aponisos.

The area is characterised by:

• Crystal-clear turquoise water.
• Pine-covered rocky slopes.
• Small beaches and isolated atmosphere.
• Good swimming and snorkelling.

Despite their sheltered appearance, both coves are vulnerable to residual swell from the northwestern sector, which can make overnight stays uncomfortable even in otherwise calm weather.

General overview

The coves are relatively small and suitable mainly for:

• Stern-to anchoring with shore lines.
• Small numbers of boats.
• Calm to moderate weather conditions.

They are often chosen:

• When nearby anchorages are crowded.
• For quieter overnight stays.
• By crews comfortable with shore lines ashore.

The southern cove gives access to a small inland lake via a short walk.

Anchoring

North Anchorage Pos.: 37°41.284′ N, 23°19.569′ E

South Anchorage Pos.: 37°41.196′ N, 23°19.464′ E

• Depths: 5–10 metres, deeper towards the centre.
• Seabed: mainly sand with some rock slabs and stones.
• Holding: generally good in sand.

Most boats:

• Anchor in sand patches.
• Reverse towards shore.
• Use one or two stern lines ashore.

⚠️ Important:

• Some submerged rock slabs exist near the inner parts of the coves.
• Holding becomes poor if the anchor lands on rock.
• Space is limited, typically only a few boats comfortably.

The clear water usually allows:

• Easy visual inspection of the seabed.
• Precise anchor placement.

Protection

• Generally protected from:
  • Southerly winds.
  • Moderate easterlies.
• Less protected from:
  • North and northwesterly swell.
  • Residual swell from distant weather systems.

This NW swell is:

• Persistent.
• Underestimated by forecasts.
• Capable of creating an uncomfortable roll overnight.

Even in otherwise settled weather, mornings can become rolly.

Going ashore

• Dinghy landing possible on small beaches.

Atmosphere

• Quiet and secluded.
• Much less crowded than Skilomango or Aponisos.
• Often only a handful of boats overnight.

The sunsets and water colour are exceptional.

Overall

These west Agistri coves are among the most peaceful anchorages around the island when conditions are favourable.

Best suited for calm-weather overnight stays by crews comfortable with stern lines ashore and careful anchor placement.

Dragonera Beach

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming, beach atmosphere, overnight in settled weather
Protection: Moderate (best from E–S sector)
Holding: Good in sand

Aprox. Anchorage Pos.: 37°41.873′ N, 23°19.818′ E

Dragonera Beach (Δραγωνέρα) is a popular anchorage on the west coast of Agistri, known for its crystal-clear water, pine-covered surroundings, and relaxed beach atmosphere. It is one of the few anchorages around the island where free swinging is generally easy, without the need for stern lines ashore.

The beach is especially popular as:

• A swim stop.
• A relaxed overnight anchorage.
• A stop on the route between Athens and the Peloponnese.

General overview

The anchorage lies in front of a small beach with a seasonal beach bar and sunbeds. The setting is attractive and natural, with rocky hillsides and clear turquoise water.

Compared to the narrower coves nearby:

• Manoeuvring is easier.
• There is more swinging room.
• Anchoring is straightforward.

However:

• The bay remains exposed to northerly swell.
• Noise from music and passing motorboats can affect comfort in summer.

Anchoring

• Depths: 6–9 metres.
• Seabed: mainly sand with some weed and isolated rocks.
• Holding: very good in sand.

Anchoring is usually simple:

• Drop in clear sand outside the swimming buoys.
• Plenty of room for several boats.
• Sand patches are easy to identify in clear water.

⚠️ Important:

• Northerly swell can enter the bay unexpectedly.
• Pass stern lines on the north side in stronger conditions.

Protection

• Good protection from easterly and southerly winds.
• No protection from northerlies.
• Exposed to NW and N swell.

Even with light wind:

• Residual swell and boat wake may create rolling overnight.

Going ashore

• Easy dinghy landing on the beach.
• Seasonal beach bar with:
  • Drinks and snacks.
  • Sunbeds and umbrellas.
  • Music during summer.

A walking path connects the area with other parts of Agistri.

Atmosphere

• Relaxed beach atmosphere.
• Crystal-clear water ideal for swimming.

Depending on season:

• Music from the beach bar may continue into the evening.
• Fast small boats can create daytime wake.

Outside peak season, the area becomes very quiet and peaceful.

Overall

Dragonera Beach is a very attractive and straightforward anchorage, particularly suitable for relaxed overnight stays in settled conditions.

Best suited for swim stops or overnight stays in calm to moderate conditions, especially with winds from the E or S sectors.

Metopi Islet

Type: Open anchorage
Best for: Swimming stop, lunch stop, overnight in northerlies
Protection: Good from N–NW
Holding: Variable (sand over rock)

Aprox. Anchorage Pos.: 37°43.257′ N, 23°23.030′ E

Metopi (Μετώπη) is a small uninhabited islet between Aegina and Agistri, known for its shallow turquoise water and sandy beach. It is a very popular stop for swimming and lunch breaks, particularly for boats sailing between Athens, Aegina, Poros, and Agistri.

The anchorage is attractive and spacious, but the seabed can be deceptive, as sand often overlays hard rock slabs.

⚠️ Attention: Care is required when approaching from the west, as there are reefs between Metopi and Agistri. The safe passage is indicated by two red and two green buoys.

General overview

The main anchorage lies along the southern side of the islet.

The area offers:

• Crystal-clear turquoise water.
• Sandy seabed mixed with rock.
• Excellent swimming and snorkelling.
• Good shelter from northerly winds.

It is especially popular:

• In calm summer weather.
• As a daytime stop.
• During passages to or from Athens.

Tour boats frequently visit during midday.

Anchoring

• Depths: 4–10 metres.
• Seabed: sand with extensive rock plates.
• Holding: variable.

⚠️ Important:

• Some sandy-looking areas are actually thin sand over rock.
• Multiple anchoring attempts may be required before achieving a secure set.

Best holding is generally found:

• Further offshore in deeper sandy patches (7-10 metres).
• Away from shallow rocky shelves near the beach.

Protection

• Good protection from northerly and northwesterly winds.
• Some swell from passing ferries and tourist boats.
• No protection in southerly conditions.

In settled weather:

• The anchorage can be very calm overnight.

Alternative anchorage

In case of easterly or southeasterly winds, anchor northwest of the islet, around 37°43.443′ N, 23°22.591′ E.

Going ashore

• Dinghy landing is possible on sandy sections of the beach.
• Water shoes are recommended due to:
  • Rocks.
  • Sea urchins.

Walking on the island is possible, although:

• Vegetation is dense in places.
• Some plastic pollution is present ashore.

Atmosphere

• Beautiful transparent water and swimming conditions.
• Quiet outside midday excursion hours.
• Tourist boats with loud music often arrive around lunchtime and leave later in the afternoon.

Evenings are usually peaceful once day traffic departs.

Overall

Metopi is an excellent swim and lunch stop, and can also work as an overnight anchorage in suitable northerly conditions.

Best suited for daytime stops or calm overnight stays with careful anchor setting.

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