Corfu Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips
Updated: September 2026Sailing in Corfu offers a wide range of anchorages and harbours, with options for both sheltered cruising and more exposed passages.
The island combines calm eastern waters with a weather‑dependent west coast, making it one of the most diverse sailing destinations in the Ionian.
Overview
Geographically, Corfu (Κέρκυρα) is the northernmost major Greek island, located less than two nautical miles from the Albanian coast and marking the transition between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
The island is defined by a mountainous spine running north to south, which directly influences local wind patterns and sea conditions. This creates a clear distinction between its sheltered east coast and the more exposed west coast.
The east coast, facing the Greek mainland, is relatively protected and offers numerous bays, harbours, and key infrastructure, including Corfu Town and Gouvia Marina. It is the most reliable area for overnight stops and protected sailing.
In contrast, the west coast is fully exposed to the open Ionian Sea and is affected by stronger afternoon winds and swell, particularly from the prevailing NW (Maistro). While it offers dramatic scenery, it has fewer safe anchorages.
For sailors, Corfu serves both as a key operational base—with provisioning, repairs, and marina facilities—and as a cruising destination in its own right, offering a wide range of conditions and anchorages within short distances.
Renting a Boat in Corfu
Corfu is the best starting point for sailing in the northern Ionian, especially if you plan to visit Paxos and the Diapontia islands. Most charters depart from Gouvia Marina, which is well-organized and easily accessible. If you are looking to rent a boat from Corfu, choosing a reliable charter company is key — especially during high season.
Corfu Yachting
Corfu Yachting is a well-established charter company based in Corfu, offering a range of sailing yachts and catamarans. They operate mainly from Gouvia Marina and are a good option if you want a straightforward charter experience with local support and knowledge of the area.
- Base: Gouvia Marina, Corfu
- Fleet: Sailing yachts, Catamarans and Motor Yachts
- Best for: Exploring Corfu, Paxos and the northern Ionian
Tip: Contact them early in high season as availability can be limited.
Sailing Conditions in Corfu
Corfu offers some of the easiest sailing conditions in Greece.
- Winds: NW (Maistro), typically 10-20 knots
- Mornings: calm, ideal for passages
- Afternoons: steady breeze builds
- West coast: more exposed to swell
- East coast: sheltered and ideal for overnight stays
The sailing season runs from April to October, with peak conditions in summer.
Corfu Coast Overview for Sailors
Understanding Corfu’s coastline is key:
East Coast
- well protected
- many harbours and anchorages
- ideal for beginners
West Coast
- exposed to open sea
- fewer safe overnight stops
- spectacular scenery
Corfu Sailing Itinerary Ideas
Popular routes include:
- Corfu → Paxos → Antipaxos
- Corfu → Sivota → Parga
- North Corfu → Diapontia Islands
For more route ideas, check out the detailed Ionian sailing itineraries guide, including multi-day routes from Corfu.
All Anchorages & Harbours in Corfu
This guide covers all major anchorages and harbours in Corfu, from the well-protected east coast to the more exposed but spectacular west coast.
Corfu Town Area
- Corfu Town (New Port, Old Port, Mandraki, NAOK) – main hub with multiple docking options
- Garitsa Bay – best anchorage near town, wide and relatively comfortable
- Agios Nikolaos Bay – smaller anchorage, more exposed to traffic wash
- Vido Islet – scenic stop, anchoring only in very calm weather
East Coast (best protection and easiest sailing)
- Gouvia Marina – main marina, full facilities, safest harbour on the island
- Kommeno Bay – well-protected anchorage near Gouvia
- Benitses Marina & Anchorage – organized marina plus nearby anchoring
- Moraitika Beach – good sandy anchorage, protected from NW winds
- Messonghi Beach – quiet anchorage with easy shore access
South Corfu & Lefkimmi Bay
- Petriti Harbour & Anchorage – authentic fishing harbour, good shelter except SE
- Notos – spacious and very comfortable anchorage
- Kaliviotis Beach – quiet, protected anchorage inside Lefkimmi Bay
- Alikes – clear water but exposed to NW winds
North-East Coast
- Kassiopi Harbour & Imerolia Bay – popular stop with limited berths
- Agios Stefanos – well-protected anchorage, but affected by wash
- Kalami – scenic anchorage, best with stern lines
West & North-West Coast (weather-dependent)
- Palaiokastritsa (Liapades, Agia Triada) – stunning anchorages, multiple beaches
- Agios Georgios Bay – large bay with good holding
- Porto Timoni – spectacular but exposed anchorage
- Cape Drastis – magnificent landskape, visit only in calm conditions
Where to Anchor in Corfu (Quick Guide)
If you’re looking for the best anchorages in Corfu, here is a quick overview based on conditions and sailing style:
- Safest marina: Gouvia Marina – full services and excellent protection in all weather
- Best anchorage near Corfu Town: Garitsa Bay – most comfortable option with easy access to town
- Best quiet harbour: Petriti – authentic village with good protection (except SE)
- Best east coast stop: Kommeno Bay or Kalami – sheltered and convenient
- Best south Corfu anchorage: Notos – spacious, calm, and reliable holding
- Best for isolation: Kaliviotis Beach – protected and far from mass tourism
- Best north-east stop: Kassiopi – lively but very busy, limited space
- Best west coast anchorage: Agios Georgios NW – large bay with good holding
- Most scenic anchorage: Palaiokastritsa / Porto Timoni – spectacular but weather-dependent
General rule:
- Use the east coast for reliable overnight stays
- Treat the west coast as a fair-weather destination
Corfu Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours
Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Corfu, including Corfu Town, Gouvia Marina, Benitses, Petriti and Palaiokastritsa. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.
Map icons: 🏠 Village / ⚓ Anchorage / ⛵ Marina / 🌟 Highlight
Locations
Corfu town
Type: Port / Multiple docking options and roadstead anchorages
Best for: Access to Old Town, provisioning, formalities (check-in/out)
The capital and main port of the island, Corfu Town, is a stunning architectural and cultural crossroads, unlike any other in Greece. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, its labyrinthine old town is a living museum of Venetian, French, and British influence, evident in its grand fortresses, elegant buildings, and the famous Liston promenade. Wandering its narrow, winding cobblestone streets – known as “kantounia” – you’ll discover hidden squares, ancient churches, and a vibrant atmosphere where the scent of pastries blends with the sound of philharmonic bands, a unique legacy of the island’s history.
For visiting sailors, there are several convenient options for mooring or anchoring in the town, presented below. My personal recommendation is Mandraki Marina for docking, and Garitsa Bay for anchoring in a roadstead. If comfort is your priority, the most luxurious—though pricey—option is D-Marin Gouvia Marina, located about 15 minutes from Corfu Town by taxi.
The map bellow shows the available docking points and anchorages.
Docking
- New Port – used mainly for formalities; heavy ferry and cruise traffic, not suitable for small sailing boats
- Neo Frourio Quay – free berthing, but no services and possible swell in NW winds
- Old Port – good location for Old Town; conditions may have improved after breakwater expansion
- Mandraki Marina – well-managed marina with water, electricity, and excellent location
- NAOK Marina – closest to town, good shelter, but limited facilities and shallow depths
New Port
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰37.871′ N, 19⁰54.653′ E
The port area is a bustling zone of ferry, cruise ship, and yacht activity, requiring attentive navigation. The primary reason to come here is to clear in or out of Greece, as the Coast Guard office is located on the south side of the port. That being said, it is not mandatory to keep your boat here while you complete the paperwork. You can certainly moor elsewhere and visit the coast guard on foot. This port is not suitable for small sailing boats. Large ferry and cruise ship movements create significant wash and have the right of way. Constant vigilance is required both at anchor and while maneuvering.
Before entering, contact the coast guard on VHF channel 13 or by phone at +30 26610 365200, and they will guide you to a temporary mooring place. Do not dock without contacting them, as you may block access for a ferry, which will result in a fine. The available spaces for sailboats are not fixed and change depending on the schedule of large ships. Note that some bollards are missing, and the quay wall is damaged in places, so use plenty of fenders.
Click here for a nice virtual tour of the port offered by Corfu Port Authority.
Neo Frourio Quay
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰37.647′ N, 19⁰55.070′ E
Located between the old and new port, Marina Neo Frourio offers a free alternative. You can dock alongside the outer pier if you find a spot, which can be challenging. There are no services: no water, electricity, showers, or bathrooms. A bad smell is sometimes present in the area. If the wind is from the NW, expect swell.
Old Port
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰37.685′ N, 19⁰55.154′ E
The Old Port was closed for expansion works from 2019 until its reopening in the summer of 2025. It is now open, and its location is excellent for visiting the Old Town.
Before the expansion, the prevailing afternoon NW wind brought significant swell into the port. The most comfortable place to moor was stern-to the east wall, close to its northern edge. The breakwater was expanded in 2024, which may have improved the situation. While mooring may now be comfortable throughout the port, I cannot confirm this as I have not visited since the reopening.
There is no electricity. Water can be delivered by truck. A BP station just west of the harbour delivers fuel by truck. Bad sewage odor has been reported in the port. The mooring fee is approximately €20 per day for a 12-metre monohull. A port authority employee collects the fees by visiting the boats. Note that if you are not onboard during collection, you are generally not pursued for payment.
Mandraki marina
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰37.487′ N, 19⁰55.650′ E
A marina worth visiting, owned by Corfu Sailing Club. How often do you moor right beside an impressive citadel? Its location is excellent, within a five-minute walk through the citadel to the Old Town. Additionally, the marina restaurant is among the best in Corfu.
The harbour master, Andreas, is kind and helpful. Contact him before arrival on VHF channel 68 or by phone at +30 26610 44383 or +30 69453 77674. The cost is approximately €50 per day for a 12-metre monohull, including water, electricity, and Wi-Fi. A discount for longer stays may be possible with prior negotiation. WC and one shower are available.
The berths on the south pier, close to the entrance, are subject to wash from passing boats. The north pier, on the other hand, is shallower, and some monohulls may only be able to moor bow-to. Short-term visitors are usually assigned to the north pier. Mooring lines are provided. In some berths, you will be instructed to keep your stern away from the wall. If you do not, you risk grounding your rudder on underwater rocks. For these berths, a long plank will be provided.
NAOK marina
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰37.237′ N, 19⁰55.577′ E
This marina, owned by the Nautical Club of Corfu (ΝΑυτικός Όμιλος Κέρκυρας), is the closest to the Old Town and offers a nice view of the citadel. It provides good shelter from winds of any direction.
Contact the marina on VHF channel 72 or at +30 26610 30470, but they often do not answer. Mooring assistance is sometimes provided if you are lucky enough to find Theo (+30 69406 54123) at the dock. Mooring is stern-to on the outer (southeastern) pier.
There is a mother chain along the harbour wall, but the mooring lines that were once attached no longer exist. You will need to use your own anchor. The bottom is muddy, providing excellent holding. If your anchor catches the chain, deal with it at departure. The depth is only 2.5-3 metres, so you can untangle it with a dive during daylight hours.
The price is approximately €40 per day for a 12-metre monohull. Electricity and water are not provided at the berths. Fuel and water can be delivered by a tanker truck. Showers are available in front of the beach, but the use of soap is not allowed. Toilets and showers within the marina clubhouse are intended for the club’s athletes.
Note that the nautical club’s bar frequently hosts parties with loud music that can continue until early in the morning.
Anchoring off Corfu Town
- Agios Nikolaos Bay – smaller anchorage, exposed to NW winds and constant wash
- Garitsa Bay – widest and most comfortable anchorage; sheltered from NW but open to southerlies
Agios Nikolaos
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰37.559′ N, 19⁰55.583′ E
Agios Nikolaos (Άγιος Νικόλαος) bay is exposed to the prevailing afternoon NW wind, unless you can tuck in close to the Mandraki marina. It is protected from southerlies by the citadel peninsula. Significant swell from passing ferries and cruise ships is a constant factor. The bottom is mud, offering good holding in 3-7 metres. You can leave your dinghy in the scenic Contra Fossa channel, which separates the Land Castle from the Sea Castle. Alternatively, you may be able to use the Mandraki marina dinghy dock (confirm with the harbour master).
Garitsa Bay
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰37.082′ N, 19⁰55.439′ E
Garitsa (Γαρίτσα) Bay is the widest and most comfortable anchorage. For a better view of the citadel and closer access to the Old Town, anchor on the northern side of the bay. Be aware that this area is not protected from southerly winds. The entire bay is sheltered from the prevailing NW wind, but swell from ferry traffic is still considerable. The bottom is primarily weed, with sandy patches that provide better holding. If anchored on the northern side, use the NAOK marina to leave your dinghy. If anchored further south, you can use one of the small piers along the promenade or the pier leading to the red lighthouse (39⁰36.710′ N, 19⁰55.691′ E ).
Vido Islet
Type: Anchorage (fair weather only)
Best for: Short visit, swimming, views of Corfu Town
Protection: Limited – only from S and SE
Located less than one nautical mile from Corfu Town, Vido (Βίδο) Islet is worth a visit despite the lack of a properly protected anchorage. You can easily walk around the island and enjoy excellent views of the town and its citadel.
There are two main anchorage options, both suitable only in calm conditions, as neither provides protection from the prevailing NW winds.
- West Anchorage – generally the preferred option
Approx. pos. 39⁰38.540′ N, 19⁰55.217′ E - North Anchorage – more exposed and requires caution
Approx. pos. 39⁰38.770′ N, 19⁰55.341′ E
Caution: If using the northern anchorage, avoid the rocks with depths of around 1 metre located at: 39⁰38.729’ N, 19⁰55.395’ E
The area is busy with boats during the day, but traffic decreases significantly in the evening.
Benitses
Type: Village with marina & anchorage
Best for: Secure marina stay or anchoring on the east coast
Protection: Very good in marina; anchorage protected from NW
Benitses (Μπενίτσες) is a village with a marina that serves both fishing boats and visiting yachts. It is located on Corfu’s sheltered east coast, approximately 5 nautical miles south of Corfu Town. In my opinion, its former charm as a small fishing village has been overshadowed by its development for tourism. South of the marina, you’ll find a pleasant beach, offering a “traditional” swimming experience. If you fancy a nice walk by the sea, the Achilleion Palace is about 3 km to the north.
A few decades ago, Benitses was known for its vibrant nightlife and late-night parties. Today, it primarily attracts families and couples, with the old clubs having been replaced by quiet bars and numerous restaurants.
Docking
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰32.944′ N, 19⁰54.797′ E . Keep clear of the red light due to shoals.
The marina is run by Benitses marina and you can request a birth in advance through this link. You can contact them on VHF channel 67 or by phone at +30 26610 72627 or +30 6937 133 662 (mobile).
The marina provides excellent protection from winds of any direction. Moor stern to dock using the lazy lines. The marina’s staff is very helpful and friendly. They will meet you with a dinghy at the marina entrance and guide you to your berth, providing any assistance you may need.
The marina is well organized and its facilities (toilets, showers, etc.) are spotless. Services include water, electricity, a fuel dock, Wi-Fi, dockhand support, repair and diving services, and cleaning and laundry. The price is about €80 per day for a 12m monohull (!), but you should confirm this in advance.
Watch aerial views of the marina on Youtube.
Anchoring
You can anchor in sandy patches at a depth of 3-7 metres in the areas indicated on the chart below. The holding is good, and these spots offer protection from the prevailing afternoon NW wind. Some swell from passing ferries is to be expected. Additionally, noise from the nearby road can be noticeable.
- Northern Anchorage: Approximately at 39⁰32.767′ N, 19⁰54.936′ E
- Southern Anchorage: This larger area can be identified using the two jetties onshore. Approximately at 39⁰32.606′ N, 19⁰54.988′ E
Moraitika Beach
Type: Beach anchorage near village
Best for: Quiet overnight anchorage with access to tavernas
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰29.216′ N, 19⁰55.890′ E
Moraitika (Μοραΐτικα) offers a good anchorage protected from the prevailing NW wind, located off Moraitika Beach. The bottom is sand, ideal for anchoring in approximately 5 metres of depth. You can leave your dinghy ashore and walk to the village, which is approximately 10 minutes uphill on foot. The village offers some exquisite taverns; I particularly recommend “The Village Taverna”.
Messonghi / Mesoggi Beach
Type: Beach anchorage near village
Best for: Quiet stop with easy access ashore and river exploration
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰28.551′ N, 19⁰56.282′ E
Messonghi (Μεσσόγγη) Beach offers a peaceful anchorage. Anchor on a sandy bottom in approximately 5 metres of depth. It offers good protection from the prevailing NW afternoon wind. Ashore, you will find supermarkets and restaurants along the beach. You can leave your dinghy on the beach, taking care to avoid the swimming areas marked with yellow buoys. For a different experience, you can take your dinghy up the river that runs through the village. Its entrance is at 39⁰28.788′ N, 19⁰56.098′ E
Petriti
Type: Fishing village with harbour & anchorage
Best for: Authentic stop, fresh fish, sheltered anchoring
Protection: Good from NW, W and SW; harbour exposed to SE
Holding: Very good in sand
Petriti (Πετρίτη) is a small fishing village that has retained its character despite the influx of mass tourism. It is a popular spot where locals come for fresh fish. The village features a small, active harbour that serves as a base for fishing boats, with a nice sandy beach located to the south. A nice YouTube video describing the area can be found here.
Docking
Pos.: 39⁰27.187′ N, 20⁰0.174′ E
You can dock a sailboat with a 2-metre draught on the inner side of the east mole. There are approximately 8 berths available between the streetlight and the end of the mole; the rest of the harbour is shallow. You can moor stern-to or bow-to, as in some places boulders are close to the mole. Your anchor will set on a sandy bottom in about 3 metres of depth with excellent holding. The harbour is completely open to SE winds but is protected from other directions. Some boaters use the outer side of the mole, but this is not recommended as it is fully exposed to wash from passing ferries.
Contact the harbour master on VHF Channel 67. Water and electricity are available for an extra cost. Two toilets and one shower are available.
The management of the harbour was recently taken over by SaMMY. You can view related information or book in advance through this link. The cost of booking in advance is approximately €50 per day for a 12-metre monohull.
Anchoring
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰27.132′ N, 20⁰0.228′ E
You can anchor south of the harbour, in front of the beach, with protection from the NW, W and SW winds. Some wash from passing ferries is to be expected. The bottom is sand with good holding in 3-6 metres depth.
Notos
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Spacious and comfortable anchoring
Protection: Good from NW; open to N, NE, E
Holding: Excellent in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰26.839′ N, 20⁰0.391′ E
Notos (Νότος) is a very comfortable and spacious anchorage, offering good protection from the prevailing NW wind. It is open to the N, NE and E winds. The depth is adequate until very close to the shore. Anchor in 3-5 metres on a sandy bottom with excellent holding. There is ample space for many sailboats. Ashore, tavernas provide a small quay for your dinghy.
Kaliviotis Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Spacious and comfortable anchoring
Protection: Good from NW; open to N, NE, E
Holding: Excellent in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰26.198′ N, 20⁰1.043′ E
Kaliviotis Beach (Καλυβιώτης), located in Lefkimmi Bay, offers an escape from more touristic areas. It is protected from winds of most directions, except for N and NE. Anchor on a sandy bottom in approximately 5 metres of depth. The small harbour ashore is not suitable for sailboats due to depths of less than 1 metre, but you can safely leave your dinghy there. A single, excellent taverna is located ashore.
Alikes Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Clear water anchorage near Lefkimmi Bay
Protection: Exposed to NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰26.783′ N, 20⁰3.323′ E
Alikes (Αλυκές – meaning “salt flats” in Greek) is located at the eastern end of Lefkimmi Bay. The area is no longer used for salt production and is now a protected bird sanctuary.
This anchorage features crystal-clear water. However, it does not provide protection from the prevailing NW afternoon wind. On the bright side, it offers good holding in approximately 5 metres on a sandy bottom. You can anchor on either side of the harbour, with the southwestern side being preferable.
The nearby harbour does not have adequate depth for sailboats. The entrance is very shallow, and caution is advised even when entering with a dinghy; try to stay a few metres away from the northern breakwater. The “Petrakis” tavern is excellent and offers a jetty for your dinghy.
Palaiokastritsa
Type: Village with multiple anchorages
Best for: Exploration and day stops in settled weather
Protection: Good from NW; katabatic gusts possible
Holding: Sand and seaweed (varies by cove)
Palaiokastritsa (pronounced Paleokastrítsa, from “Παλαιοκαστρίτσα” — where “αι” is pronounced as “e” in Greek) is famed for the exceptional clarity and beauty of its waters, making it a premier destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. The area is not a single bay but a sprawling coastline of six distinct coves and beaches. You can easily spend days exploring the various coves and the scenic sea caves. Be prepared, however—the waters here have a reputation for being the coldest in Greece.
The small harbour of Alipa is reserved for small rental motorboats used for daily excursions. Most of these are rented out without a license, with all the safety implications this entails for navigation in the area. It is almost certain that you will not find a suitable berth for a sailboat there. There is a small chance you can moor stern-to the eastern mole, close to its northern end, or alongside the end of the mole itself. Consequently, your best option is to choose one of the beautiful surrounding coves to anchor.
Anchoring
There are three main anchorages, marked as A, B, and C in the chart below. They are all protected from the prevailing NW afternoon wind. In winds exceeding 20 knots, expect katabatic gusts. During the day, you will be surrounded by small motorboats, but traffic typically ceases after 7 p.m.
A – Liapades 39⁰40.413′ N, 19⁰43.687′ E
The widest and safest anchorage in the area. The bottom is sand with 6-10m depth. The best option is to anchor with stern lines to the northern rocks.
B – Agia Triada 39⁰40.368′ N, 19⁰42.813′ E
It is often difficult to find a spot to anchor in comfortable depths here. The seabed has patches of sand and patches of seaweed. You can anchor with a stern line to the rock in the middle of the cove.
C – Spiros beach 39⁰40.470′ N, 19⁰42.592′ E
Not recommended as safe anchorage due to numerous surrounding shoals and reefs, which also limit swing room. There is space for 2-3 sailboats on a sandy bottom with good holding. Stern lines to the shore are essential if you plan to stay the night.
Points of Interest
Use a reliable dinghy with extra fuel in a jerrycan to explore the caves and beaches of the area.
- Cave of Nausika 39⁰40.249′ N, 19⁰42.155′ E
- Agios (Saint) Spiridon Beach 39⁰40.327′ N, 19⁰42.200′ E
- Cave of Agios (Saint) Nikolaos 39⁰40.225′ N, 19⁰42.503′ E
- The Blue Eye Cave 39⁰40.292′ N, 19⁰42.848′ E
- Glyko Beach 39⁰39.940′ N, 19⁰43.429′ E
- Klimatia Beach 39⁰39.980′ N, 19⁰43.470′ E
- Unnamed Cave 39⁰40.023′ N, 19⁰43.554′ E
- Rovinia Beach 39⁰40.237′ N, 19⁰43.660′ E
- Monastery of Paleokastritsa 39⁰40.165′ N, 19⁰42.085′ E
Dating back to 1225, the monastery (point 9) offers amazing views and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Take your dinghy to the western end of Agios Spiridon beach; the walk up is about 15 minutes but steep. On your way, you can also visit the noteworthy Corfu Aquarium.
Palaiokastritsa coast. Background Photo by Rob Hooft, CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons
Agios Georgios Bay (Saint George)
Type: Large bay anchorage
Best for: Spacious anchorage with good holding
Protection: Good from NW; open to S
Holding: Excellent in sand (with some weed patches)
Agios Georgios Bay (Άγιος Γεώργιος) – not to be confused with Agios Georgios Village which is further south – is a wide bay on the northwest coast of Corfu. The shoreline features a long, sandy beach with restaurants and supermarkets. The water is typically crystal clear.
Anchoring
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰43.233′ N, 19⁰39.955′ E
Anchor in the northwest part of the bay for protection from the prevailing afternoon NW wind. Expect some gusts if the wind exceeds 20 knots. The area is open to southerly winds. The bottom is sand with depths of 4-10 metres, offering excellent holding if you avoid scattered seaweed patches. There is plenty of space available.
Agios Georgios and Porto Timoni. Background Photo by Dr.K., CC BY-SA 3.0. via Wikimedia Commons
Porto Timoni
Type: Scenic anchorage
Best for: Scenic stop and sunset
Protection: Exposed to NW
Holding: Moderate in coarse sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰42.886′ N, 19⁰39.382′ E
Porto Timoni (Πόρτο Τιμόνι) is a spectacular double beach, but the western side is the more scenic anchorage. While it is exposed to the NW wind, the location is magnificent. The area is busy with small motorboats and hikers during the day but becomes very peaceful in the evening with amazing sunsets. The bottom is coarse sand, which can make it difficult for the anchor to dig in properly. It is essential to set your anchor thoroughly with a strong reverse to ensure it is holding securely.
If you enjoy hiking, trails lead both north and south from the beach of Porto Timoni. Head for the viewpoint “Kartieri” to the north (39⁰43.030′ N, 19⁰39.478′ E), or the Chapel of Agios Stylianos to the south (39⁰42.748′ N, 19⁰39.300′ E).
Cape Drastis
Type: Scenic anchorage
Best for: Short visit in calm conditions
Protection: Limited; weather-dependent
Holding: Sand with rocks (use caution)
Approx. Anchorage Pos.:
- Western Anchorage: 39⁰47.848′ N, 19⁰40.272′ E
- Eastern Anchorage: 39⁰47.922′ N, 19⁰40.697′ E
Cape Drastis (Δράστης) offers a magnificent landscape of dramatic cliffs and pristine waters. You can anchor either east or west of the cape. Visit only in calm conditions, as neither anchorage offers protection from the prevailing NW wind. The western anchorage provides a better view of the cliffs and sunset, while the eastern one offers some protection from westerlies. The bottom in both anchorages is sand with rocks. Using a trip line is advised to facilitate retrieval if the anchor becomes fouled.
Kassiopi
Type: Town with harbour and anchorage
Best for: North-east stop with shore access
Protection: Harbour protected except NE; quay protected from S and NW
Holding: Poor in seaweed (anchorage)
Kassiopi (Κασσιόπη) is a small town nestled beside the ruins of a large Byzantine-Venetian castle. It has preserved its traditional aesthetic and authentic character, with a picturesque charm defined by its narrow, paved alleys and small shops. The town occupies a peninsula, culminating in a beautiful, picturesque harbour on one side – the centre of local life – and ending at Imerolia Bay via Kalamiona Beach on the other.
Four pebbly and rocky beaches are carved into the Kassiopi peninsula: Kanoni, Bataria, Pipito, and Kalamiona, all washed by crystalline blue waters.
Docking
There are two docking options available.
- Harbour of Kassiopi. Entrance Pos.: 39⁰47.482′ N, 19⁰55.393′ E
The harbour is now run by SaMMY , and you can view related information or book in advance through this link. The cost is approximately €30 per day for a 12-metre monohull. Mooring is done by using your anchor and going stern-to the western mole; the eastern berths are preferred as the western ones are shallow close to the mole. The harbour is protected from all winds except NE. The harbour master, Voula, provides mooring assistance. Water and electricity are available for an extra charge, and fuel can be delivered by a tanker truck. Note that showers and bathrooms are not available. There is room for about five sailboats, and the harbour is always a very busy area.
- Public Quay at Imerolia. 39⁰47.387′ N, 19⁰54.619′ E
This quay is not in Kassiopi per se but is close enough, situated at the west end of the Bay of Imerolia (Ημερολιά). It is a 15-minute walk to Kassiopi town, or you can take the dinghy to Kalamionas beach at the edge of town. No amenities are provided, though fuel delivery is possible by tanker truck (contact: +30 6936 565 297). The quay is protected from southerlies and the prevailing NW wind. The bottom is seaweed, and holding is poor. You can moor alongside or stern-to anywhere, with the southern berths offering the best protection.
Anchoring
You can anchor in the wide Imerolia Bay. The bottom is seaweed, and several attempts may be required to set the anchor properly. To visit the town, leave your dinghy at Kalamionas beach.
General area of Kassiopi. Background Image: © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Agios Stefanos
Type: Village with anchorage
Best for: Protected anchorage with shore facilities
Protection: Excellent from NW
Holding: Good in mud
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰45.985′ N, 19⁰56.976′ E
Agios Stefanos (Άγιος Στέφανος) is a village in a small bay offering a supermarket and good restaurants. You can anchor in mud at a depth of 4-8 metres. The bay offers excellent protection from the prevailing north-westerlies.
Be aware that swell from passing ferries and local rental motorboats is common, and the water clarity is often less than ideal.
Kalami
Type: Village with anchorage
Best for: Stop with access to beach and tavernas
Protection: Better on N side from NW
Holding: Average (sand and seaweed)
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰44.633′ N, 19⁰56.101′ E
Kalami (Καλάμι) is a small village set in a bay of the same name. For the best protection from the prevailing NW wind, anchor in the northern side of the bay. The bottom is a mix of sand and seaweed, providing average holding. The safest option is to anchor with stern lines to the northern rocks. Ashore, you will find many restaurants and small supermarkets along the beach. The place is, in my opinion, a bit touristic.
Kommeno Bay
Type: Anchorage
Best for: Safe anchorage near Gouvia
Protection: Good from NW; exposed to NE, E, SE
Holding: Excellent in mud
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰39.893′ N, 19⁰51.511′ E
Kommeno bay (Κομμένο) offers a safe anchorage protected from the prevailing NW wind, though it is exposed to NE, E, and SE winds. The bottom is mud with excellent holding. Its proximity to Gouvia Marina is convenient for refueling. A pleasant beach is located at approximately 39°39.955′ N, 19°51.684′ E. You can also access facilities (swimming pools, restaurants) at nearby hotels.
Gouvia Marina
Type: Marina
Best for: Base, provisioning, full services
Protection: Excellent in all conditions
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰39.010′ N, 19⁰51.098′ E
Gouvia marina (Γουβιά) is the largest one on the island and one of the biggest in Greece. It has every service your boat may need, though it is considered pricey by Greek standards.
The marina is run by D-Marin and can be booked in advance via their website or app. Contact them on VHF channel 69, by phone at +30 26610 91376 or by email at gouvia@d-marin.com.
The cost is approximately €100 per day for a 12m monohull. All berths have lazy lines; anchors are not to be used within the marina. Services include water, electricity, toilets, showers, fuel dock, Wi-Fi, dockhand support, repair and diving services, cleaning, laundry, restaurants, supermarket, and a swimming pool. It even features a croquet field—the only one I have ever seen in Greece.
The marina offers excellent protection from winds of any direction, making it the best place to leave your boat with peace of mind. The distance to Corfu Town is about 6 km. A car rental shop inside the marina offers normal prices, making it a good option to leave your boat for a day and explore the west side of Corfu by car.
More information and pictures can be found on the official D-Marin website.
From Corfu, you can explore the Diapontia islands of Othoni, Erikousa and Mathraki, as well as Paxos and the mainland coast—discover them all in the Ionian sailing guide.