Mainland Greece – North Ionian Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips
Updated: September 2026The North Ionian mainland coast, located opposite Corfu, Paxos, and Antipaxos, offers a rugged and less crowded alternative to the nearby islands. It is commonly combined with these islands in sailing itineraries, making it an accessible and rewarding extension for yachts cruising the northern Ionian.
This coastline combines dramatic scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a handful of well-sheltered harbours with numerous anchoring spots. While less organized than the island destinations, it provides quieter stops and a different sailing experience.
For routes further south, you can continue along the coast by exploring the Mainland Greece – Central Ionian Sailing Guide.
Overview
The North Ionian mainland coast, stretching from the Albanian border down to the entrance of the Ambracian Gulf, offers a markedly different sailing experience from the nearby islands. This rugged and indented coastline is defined by a sequence of open bays, dramatic cliffs, and isolated coves, interspersed with a few well-developed harbours such as Plataria and Sivota. Unlike the island-centric cruising grounds of Corfu, Paxos, or Lefkada, this region feels more exposed and less uniformly organized, rewarding careful planning with access to some of the clearest waters and least crowded anchorages in the Ionian.
Geographically, the coast is fully exposed to the prevailing NW afternoon wind (Maistro), which dominates local conditions throughout the summer. While this creates predictable sailing, it also limits the number of truly all-weather anchorages. Most bays are open to the western sector, making timing and anchoring technique—often involving stern lines to rocks—essential for a comfortable stay. Exceptions exist in naturally sheltered areas like Sivota, where offshore islets create protected channels and anchorages suitable for overnighting in most conditions.
For cruisers, the mainland serves both as a scenic detour and a strategic complement to the islands. It offers quieter alternatives to busy Ionian hotspots, striking water clarity, and unique destinations such as Parga and the Sivota islets. However, infrastructure is more limited and dispersed, with fewer marinas and organized facilities compared to Corfu or Lefkada. As a result, this coastline is best suited to crews comfortable with anchoring and adaptable planning, who will be rewarded with a varied and visually impressive cruising ground just a short sail from the region’s main hubs.
Sailing Conditions in Mainland Greece – North Ionian
The North Ionian mainland is strongly influenced by the prevailing NW (Maistro) wind, which dominates summer conditions.
- Mornings: generally calm, ideal for passages
- Afternoons: steady NW wind builds, often stronger along exposed coastline
- Evenings: wind typically drops
Unlike the Ionian islands, much of this coastline is open to the western sector, meaning that swell and wind exposure are significant factors. Many anchorages require stern lines to the shore for a secure and comfortable stay.
Naturally sheltered areas such as Sivota provide reliable protection, but overall the region requires more careful anchoring decisions than Corfu or Paxos.
Mainland Coast Overview for Sailors
The North Ionian mainland offers a linear and exposed cruising area, very different from the sheltered island environments nearby.
Northern Section (Plataria – Prapa Mali)
- Multiple anchoring choices
- Exposed to NW, except Sivota and Plataria
- Great water quality but weather-dependent
- Highlight: Sivota
Southern Section (Parga – Ambracian Gulf)
- Larger bays (Lichnos, Ammoudia)
- Better protection in some areas (Parga, Agios Giannakis)
- Challenging anchorages with beautiful waters
- Highlight: Parga
Overall:
- Few all-weather anchorages
- Frequent use of stern lines required
- Rewards careful planning with clear water and low crowds
Mainland Greece – North Ionian Sailing Itinerary Ideas
Popular sailing routes along the mainland include:
- Corfu → Plataria → Sivota → Parga – classic coastal route
- Paxos → Sivota → mainland beaches (f.i. Zavia) – popular day/overnight extension
- Sivota → Parga → Ammoudia → Ambracian Gulf – longer coastal passage
This coastline is often used as a complement to island sailing, offering quieter alternatives to Corfu and Paxos. For more route ideas, check out the detailed Ionian sailing itineraries guide, including multi-day routes from the mainland.
All Anchorages & Harbours in Mainland Greece – North Ionian
This guide covers the main harbours and anchorages along the mainland coast.
Harbours & Villages
- Plataria – sheltered harbour and marina
- Sivota – main hub with multiple docking and anchoring options
- Parga – scenic town, anchoring in Valtos Bay
- Ammoudia – village with anchorage and provisions
Beach Anchorages (Weather Dependent)
- Zavia – good anchorage except SE–SW
- Megali Ammos – deep anchorage, mixed holding
- Mega Drafi / Mikro Drafi – exposed but scenic
- Sophitsa / Sofas – exposed NW anchorages
- Arillas – large open bay
- Stavrolimenas – enclosed cove with shifting wind
- Karavostasi – large beach anchorage
- Prapa Mali – exposed but excellent holding
- Lichnos – wide sheltered anchorage
- Agios Giannakis / Skouliki Bay – protected with mixed holding
- Kerentza – small cove with limited space
- Skala (Two Rocks Bay) – popular protected anchorage
- Alonaki – complex anchorage with amazing waters
Where to Anchor in Mainland Greece – North Ionian (Quick Guide)
If you’re looking for the best anchorages along the North Ionian mainland, here is a quick overview:
- Best all-weather area: Sivota (multiple protected options)
- Best marina stop: Plataria
- Best scenic town: Parga (via Valtos Bay)
- Best protected anchorage: Between Sivota & Agios Nikolaos
- Best wide, comfortable bay: Lichnos
- Best water colour: Prapa Mali / Skala Bay
- Best quiet anchorage: Agios Giannakis Bay
- Best large open anchorage: Arillas
General rules:
- Most anchorages are exposed to NW winds
- Prefer Sivota or sheltered bays for overnight stays
- Use open beaches and coves in settled weather only
Mainland Greece – North Ionian Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours
Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Mainland Greece – North Ionian, including Sivota, Parga and various wonderful beaches. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.
Map icons: 🏠 Village / ⚓ Anchorage / 🌟 Highlight
Locations
Plataria
Type: Harbour village with marina & anchorage
Best for: Safe overnight stop and provisioning
Protection: Good overall; some swell in NW
Holding: Excellent in mud
Plataria (Πλαταριά) is a small coastal village in Thesprotia, located on the mainland opposite Corfu. Nestled in a wide, sheltered bay, it is a safe and convenient stop for yachts cruising the Ionian. The village is calm, not overly touristic even in high season, and offers easy access to tavernas and shops along the waterfront. Its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings make Plataria an ideal overnight stop before crossing to Corfu or exploring the nearby Sivota islands.
Anchoring
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰26.916′ N, 20⁰16.376′ E
You can anchor off the waterfront in a wide, open bay. The bottom is mud with excellent holding. While exposed to the NW afternoon wind, the resulting swell is generally manageable.
Docking
Pos.: 39⁰27.105′ N, 20⁰16.521′ E
The Plataria Marina offers a care-free stay. The harbour master, Babis, provides mooring instructions and assistance. Contact him at least one day in advance at +30 6942 853942 (also available on WhatsApp) to book a berth. Upon entering the bay, contact him on VHF Channel 9 for specific mooring instructions. Alternatively, you can book a berth through the SaMMY app or this link. The cost is approximately €50 per day for a 12-metre monohull. Water and electricity are available for an extra €10. Fuel can be delivered by a tanker truck.
Sivota
Type: Village with marina & multiple anchorages
Best for: Protected anchoring and variety of options
Protection: Excellent in sheltered spots
Holding: Good (sand and mixed seabed)
Sivota (Σύβοτα) or Syvota — not to be confused with Sivota in Lefkada—is a coastal village in mainland Greece. It is surrounded by three lush green islets (Agios Nikolaos, Mourtos, and Mourtemeno) that create a stunning landscape. The area boasts many spots with amazing water, most accessible only by boat. This leads to a huge number of small, unlicensed rental motorboats, creating a hectic marine environment. The village itself is highly touristic, offering numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.
The map and descriptions below detail the area’s nautical points of interest. Points 1-3 are docking options. For an overnight stay, I recommend option 3 for docking or option 6 for anchoring. In calm weather, you can use a reliable dinghy to visit the other recommended spots.
- Sivota Marina
- Karvouno
- Sivota Retreat Hotel
- Zeri Beach or Monastery Bay
- Gallikos Molos Beach
- Between Sivota and Ag. Nikolaos
- Bella Vraka
- Diapori
- Blue lagoon
- Sivota Marina. (39⁰24.502′ N, 20⁰14.282′ E ). A safe marina protected from all winds. Book a berth by calling the harbour master, Petros, at +30 6937 685902. Contact him on VHF Channel 9 before arrival. Moor stern-to the dock using the provided mooring lines. Water, electricity, and fuel are available. Note: Securing a berth in high season is difficult. The price is approximately €50 per day for a 12-metre monohull. The town quay is also part of the marina; you must contact Petros to register there.
- Karvouno. (39⁰24.292′ N, 20⁰14.030′ E ). This pontoon is managed by Karvouno Villas. Docking is free if you have dinner at their restaurant (minimum €30/person). The restaurant is quite good, offering a cost-effective alternative to the marina. Water costs €10; electricity is not available. Garbage disposal is provided. Contact the port master at +30 6973 564784 or use their Navily link to reserve. Moor stern-to or alongside as instructed. The village is a 15-minute walk away.
- Sivota Retreat Hotel. (39⁰24.046′ N, 20⁰13.991′ E ). A cheaper and more peaceful alternative to the marina, located in the channel between Sivota and Mourtemeno. The hotel’s pontoon offers good wind protection. Moor stern-to using your own anchor. The cost is approximately €15 per day for a 12-metre monohull, including water and electricity. For €35/person, you can access the breakfast and dinner buffet and the hotel’s facilities (e.g., pool).
- Zeri Beach or Monastery Bay. (39⁰24.760′ N, 20⁰13.988′ E ). Features crystal-clear water and is a safe anchorage in good weather. Anchor outside the swimming area buoys. It is exposed to the NW afternoon wind. The bottom is sand near the beach and seaweed further out.
- Gallikos Molos Beach. (39⁰24.659′ N, 20⁰14.158′ E ). Essentially a continuation of Monastery Bay. Swimming buoys limit the available space for anchoring in shallow water. Look for sandy patches to drop your anchor.
- Between Sivota and Ag. Nikolaos. (39⁰24.338′ N, 20⁰13.874′ E ). An excellent overnight anchorage. Anchor in approx. 8m of sand and take stern lines to the rocks of Agios Nikolaos islet. It is protected from all wind directions. Inside the cove of Ag. Nikolaos there are permanent moorings that should be avoided.
- Bella Vraka. (39⁰24.007′ N, 20⁰13.992′ E ) or (39⁰23.987′ N, 20⁰14.236′ E ). A highlight of the area. This beach on Mourtemeno islet is connected to the mainland by a shallow (0.5m) underwater path that people use to walk to the islet. Anchor on either side of the path in 3-4m of crystal-clear water. The bottom is seaweed and sand with good holding. The anchorages are protected from all winds. A floating bar on the beach serves excellent cocktails.
- Diapori. (39⁰24.162′ N, 20⁰13.426′ E ). Located in the channel between Agios Nikolaos and Mourtos. The channel is busy with small motorboats; navigate with caution. Anchor in the middle on a sandy bottom and take stern lines to the rocks of Mourtos, minding the shallow depth near the shore. Using a dinghy from your main anchorage is also an option due to the traffic.
- Blue Lagoon. (39⁰24.294′ N, 20⁰13.181′ E ) Probably the most famous spot in the area due to the marvelous water colour. The wonderful natural scenery is somewhat marred by the countless motorboats that visit it at 10p.m. – 6 a.m. Anchor in sand and pass stern lines to the southeastern rocks. The cove is open to the NW wind of the afternoon.
- Cave Papanikolis. (39⁰23.964′ N, 20⁰13.049′ E ). This cave was used for hiding by the submarine “Pappanikolis” during WWII. Enter by dinghy to enjoy the water colour. You can swim inside but be cautious of the many small motorboats entering the cave. Use the nearby cove to the north (39⁰24.064′ N, 20⁰12.874′ E ) to anchor. This is not a safe anchorage and should be used in calm conditions.
Zavia Cove
Type: Beach anchorages
Best for: Overnight anchorage
Protection: Good except SE, S, SW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰23.975′ N, 20⁰15.008′ E
Zavia (Ζάβια) is a beautiful cove and a great anchorage, suitable for an overnight stay unless winds are from the SE, S, or SW. Anchor in the middle on a sandy bottom and take stern lines to the western rocks. Swinging freely at anchor is also a valid option.
Megali Ammos Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Beach access
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Mixed (seaweed with sand patches)
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰23.858′ N, 20⁰15.389′ E
Megali Ammos (Μεγάλη Άμμος meaning “Long Beach”) is a popular beach with plenty of beach bars. The swimming area buoys are placed far from the shore, forcing you to anchor in 10+ metres of depth. The bottom is seaweed with sandy patches that you must locate for better holding. It is protected from the prevailing NW wind. In my opinion, there are better options in the region for sailors.
Mega Drafi Beach / Mikro Drafi Beach / Nikocaro Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Scenic stop
Protection: Exposed to NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰23.543′ N, 20⁰16.069′ E
A single anchorage serving two beaches: the north‑western beach is known as Mega Drafi (Μέγα Ντράφι), and the south‑eastern as Mikro Drafi (Μικρό Ντράφι meaning “Small Drafi”). The water colour is strikingly clear and inviting.
The cove is exposed to the prevailing north‑westerlies, and it is best avoided in the afternoon when these winds typically strengthen. The bottom is sand, with good holding, and typical anchoring depths are around 10 metres.
You can land your dinghy on either beach. On Mega Drafi, there is a beach bar.
Sophitsa Cove
Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Anchoring with stern lines
Protection: Exposed to NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰23.441′ N, 20⁰16.163′ E
Sophitsa (Σοφίτσα) is a nice, secluded cove with beautiful water, but open to the NW wind. Anchor in sand at approximately 10 metres depth and take stern lines to the rocks.
Sofas Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Swimming and snorkeling
Protection: Exposed to NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰22.765′ N, 20⁰16.766′ E
Sofas (Σοφάς) is another cove with amazing water, also exposed to the NW wind. Anchor freely in sand at 7-10 metres depth. The rocks north of the main beach are great for snorkeling. “Camping Sofas” operates on the beach.
Arillas Beach
Type: Bay anchorage & small harbour
Best for: Spacious anchoring and shelter in harbour
Protection: Anchorage exposed to NW/W; harbour protected
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰21.293′ N, 20⁰17.193′ E
Arillas (Αρίλλας) is a large beach and cove that can comfortably host plenty of boats on anchor. It is open to the NW and W, so expect swell with these winds. There are plenty of restaurants by the beach.
At the south end of the cove there is a small harbour. The southeaster pier is shallow and only catamarans can moor there. Monohulls can go stern-to the breakwater dropping the anchor in the harbour for excellent protection against the NW wind.
Stavrolimenas / Stavrolimnionas Beach
Type: Enclosed cove anchorage
Best for: Turquoise water colour
Protection: Variable (wind shifts)
Holding: Average; Sand and seaweed
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰20.947′ N, 20⁰17.113′ E
Stavrolimenas (Σταυρολιμένας) is a narrow cove with amazing water colour. Anchor in the cove and take stern lines to the windward rocks. Wind direction shifts frequently here due to the cove’s shape. The beach is road-accessible and has a cantina.
Karavostasi Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Large anchorage with shore access
Protection: Open to western sector
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰20.302′ N, 20⁰17.099′ E
Karavostasi (Καραβστάσι) is the largest and most popular beach in the area, with many beach bars and restaurants. Anchor in sand at about 5 metres depth. It is open to winds from the western half of the horizon. Be sure to avoid the two submarine cables near the islet to the south.
Prapa Mali Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Water colour and calm weather stops
Protection: Exposed to W and NW
Holding: Excellent in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰19.453′ N, 20⁰17.525′ E
Prapa Mali (Πράπα Μάλι) is one of my personal favourites due to the amazing water colour. Anchor in 4 metres of sand with excellent holding. Visit only in calm weather, as it is exposed to the western half of the horizon.
Parga
Type: Town anchorage
Best for: Visiting Parga
Protection: Good from NW (in Valtos bay)
Holding: Excellent in sand (in Valtos bay)
Parga (Πάργα) is one of the most picturesque towns on the northwestern coast of mainland Greece, renowned for its colourful houses cascading down a hillside to a vibrant waterfront. A Venetian castle overlooks the bay, blending rich history with stunning natural beauty. The narrow streets are filled with shops, cafés, and tavernas, creating a lively yet charming atmosphere. Surrounded by lush hills and turquoise waters, Parga is a favourite destination for visitors seeking a blend of culture, scenery, and authentic Greek hospitality.
Mooring
The jetty in Parga is reserved for ferries, sea taxis and daily excursions boats. Sailboats use the Valtos bay (39⁰16.999′ N, 20⁰23.540′ E ) located west of the castle for mooring. The small harbour on the west of Valtos bay is shallow for most sailboats. You can take stern lines to the outer part of its breakwater, but you must keep your stern well off due to submerged rocks nearby. Because of this, anchoring freely is the most popular and recommended option.
The anchorage in Valtos bay is wide and comfortable, offering protection from the prevailing NW wind of the afternoon. Anchor outside the swimming area that is marked with yellow buoys. The bottom is sand and the holding is excellent. During the high season it gets really overcrowded. Expect lots of boats on anchor and lots of water sports activities around you.
Access to Parga
If you want to visit Parga from Valtos Bay (and you should), there are three options.
1) Water Taxi: The most convenient method. A service (€7/person) will pick you up directly from your boat. Call +30 6980 067521.
2) Dinghy & Walk: Land your dinghy at the eastern end of Valtos beach. It’s about a 10-minute walk (uphill) to Parga. From there, do not miss the Venetian castle; the entrance is nearby and the views are spectacular.
3) Dinghy to Parga: You can take your dinghy to Parga’s waterfront, but finding a space on the small, busy quay is not easy.
Lichnos Bay
Type: Large bay anchorage
Best for: Comfortable anchoring
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Excellent in sand (east side)
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰16.841′ N, 20⁰26.422′ E
Lichnos Bay (Λίχνος) offers a wide and comfortable anchorage, protected from the prevailing NW wind. For the best holding, anchor on the eastern part of the bay where the bottom is sand. The western part has a weedy bottom and is best avoided. The beach itself is densely packed with hotels and tourists.
For a more peaceful alternative, anchor off Prioni Beach (39⁰16.595′ N, 20⁰26.037′ E ) on the western side of the bay, which is also accessible by dinghy from the main anchorage.
Don’t miss Aphrodite’s Cave (39⁰16.693′ N, 20⁰26.731′ E ) at the eastern end of the bay. It’s easily spotted by the kayaks visiting from the beach.
Agios Giannakis Bay
Type: Bay anchorages
Best for: Sheltered anchoring
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Average (mixed); better in Skouliki (sand)
Agios Giannakis (Άγιος Γιαννάκης) is a peaceful secluded bay with great protection from the prevailing NW afternoon wind. Note that there is no mobile reception in the area. You can anchor off the main beach at 39⁰16.748′ N, 20⁰28.009′ E . The bottom is sand and seaweed, providing average holding. Prefer anchoring at Skouliki bay (39⁰16.628′ N, 20⁰27.875′ E ) if there is space for better holding in sand.
Ammoudia Beach
Type: Village with beach anchorage
Best for: Comfortable anchorage and provisioning
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰14.297′ N, 20⁰28.616′ E
Ammoudia (Αμμουδιά meaning “sandy beach”) is a cove with a beach that a child would love, featuring shallow waters and soft sand. The anchorage is comfortable, with a sandy bottom in approximately 5 metres of depth, offering good protection from the usual NW afternoon wind. The beach has plenty of beach bars, and the nearby village has mini-markets for reprovisioning. There are also some restaurants from which I recommend “Roxani” to the north of the village.
The southern end of the cove is the estuary of the historic River Acheron. For the adventurous, you can take your dinghy up the legendary “River of the Dead” — just ignore any requests for payment to the ferryman Charon.
Kerentza / Odysseas Cove
Type: Small cove anchorage
Best for: Quiet stop and swimming
Protection: Semi-open to NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰12.932′ N, 20⁰29.054′ E
Kerentza (Κερέτζα) is a beautiful, less busy cove, perfect for a daytime swim. Aim for the sandy patch in the middle of the cove to drop your anchor in 3-5 metres of depth. There is space for approximately three sailboats. A simple cantina is located on the beach.
Skala Beach – Two Rocks Bay
Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Water colour
Protection: Good from NW; swell possible
Holding: Mixed (sand and rocks)
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰12.613′ N, 20⁰29.471′ E
This is probably the most popular anchorage in the area, known for its crystal-clear waters and protection from the typical NW wind. For the calmest stay, try to anchor in the NW corner; otherwise, you may experience swell. The bottom is sand with rocky patches, so using a trip line is advisable. Snorkeling near the western rocks is excellent. The bay is often crowded, and winds can shift frequently. This combination can lead to a restless night as boats swing differently.
The beach is named “Skala” —from the Italian ‘scala’ for staircase which is also used in Greek—due to the rough staircase used by land-based visitors. Climbing these stairs leads to a nice café/bar with a beautiful view of the bay.
Alonaki
Type: Cove anchorage
Best for: Water colour in beautiful scenery
Protection: Limited (depends on position)
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰12.316′ N, 20⁰30.251′ E
Alonaki (Αλωνάκι) is another beautiful cove with amazing water. It is less popular among sailors as it is not that easy to reach the protected area. You can anchor north of the big rock, which is in the middle of the cove, and take stern lines to the western rocks. The depth is 2-3 metres, but you must navigate carefully between dangerous underwater rocks, which are visible in the crystal-clear water. Anchoring south of the big rock does not provide wind protection but is a beautiful option in calm weather. There is a beach bar on the shore.
From the north Ionian mainland coast, you can easily sail to Paxos, Corfu and the Diapontia islands (Othoni, Erikousa and Mathraki)—discover them all in the Ionian sailing guide. For extended routes, continue south by exploring the Mainland Greece – Central Ionian Sailing Guide.