Antipaxos Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips

Voutoumi (pronounced Vutúmi from “Βουτούμι” since “ou” is pronounced as “u” in Greek) is considered one of the best beaches in the world. Upon entering the cove, you are met with stunningly clear, turquoise water, white sand, and a backdrop of cypress trees. The adjacent beaches of Mesovrika and Vrika share these characteristics and are connected by a scenic path.

However, this natural beauty comes with a price. Thousands of visitors arrive daily on excursion boats from Paxos and the mainland, creating a hectic marine environment. Most are day-trippers who depart around 4 p.m.

Voutoumi beach has two restaurants: one right by the beach and another, “Bella Vista,” perched on the hill above, accessible by a flight of stairs. From here you can enjoy the view you send as a photo when you want to casually remind your friends of your superior life choices.

Anchoring

The three adjacent coves are not protected from the prevailing NW afternoon wind, and swell is common. The only way to find proper shelter is to take stern lines to the northwestern rocks in Mesovrika cove around 39⁰09.624′ N, 20⁰13.567′ E. These spots are occupied by large barges throughout the day, but they typically leave by 3-4 p.m., freeing up the space for the evening.

Before that time, you can anchor freely at Voutoumi on a sandy bottom in 4-6 metres with excellent holding. Due to the crowds, you may be forced into deeper water. The cove of Vrika has a visible submerged cable; avoid anchoring here to prevent damage.

Agrapidia

Type: Small harbour & anchorage
Best for: Quieter stop away from main bays
Protection: Limited; exposed to NW when anchoring freely
Holding: Average; Seaweed and sand

Appox. Pos.: 39⁰9.227′ N, 20⁰13.961′ E

Agrapidia (Αγραπιδιά) is the small harbour of Antipaxos, primarily serving local fishing boats. It offers a peaceful alternative to the chaos of Voutoumi. Sailboats can anchor outside the harbour and take stern lines to the northern breakwater. Anchoring freely is also an option, but this provides no protection from the prevailing NW afternoon wind.

Another option is to anchor in the cove between Voutoumi and Agrapidia (approx. 39⁰09.339′ N, 20⁰13.879′ E ) and take stern lines to the northwestern rocks.

Chrille Bay

Type: Bay anchorage
Best for: Remote and quiet anchoring
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Moderate (coarse sand)

A peaceful bay with beautiful waters and no facilities ashore.

You can anchor in two main areas:

• Northern Part: 39⁰9.033′ N, 20⁰14.347′ E (take stern lines to the northern rocks)
• Southern Part: 39⁰8.953′ N, 20⁰14.357′ E (take stern lines to the southern rocks)

The bottom is coarse sand. Be prepared to make several attempts to set the anchor securely.