Mathraki Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips
Updated: September 2026Mathraki is a small, low-key island with limited facilities, suited for calm-weather stops and relaxed anchoring in uncrowded surroundings.
Overview
Mathraki (Μαθράκι) is the southernmost and smallest of the inhabited Diapontia Islands. This tranquil island offers a serene escape with its rugged coastline, clear waters, and limited development, making it an ideal destination for sailors seeking solitude. You can easily hike from one side to another and then swim in excellent waters with almost nobody around you.
Recommendation: The west coast of the island is exposed to the prevailing NW wind, with a coastline of numerous reefs and shoals. Therefore, it is not recommended for anchorage. What I recommend is sail around the island – since it is so small – anchor at Portello beach or dock at the port from the east side, and if you are bored of staying in one place, hike to the west side. You can cross the island in about 20 minutes on foot.
Mathraki Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours
Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Mathraki. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.
Map icons: 🏠 Village / ⚓ Anchorage / 🌟 Highlight
Locations
Mathraki Port (Plakes)
Type: Village with harbour
Best for: Only docking option on the island
Protection: Poor, especially from E, NE and SE; some swell in all conditions
A picturesque small port with a long sandy beach nearby. The only commercial facility is the “Dolphins” taverna, which operates from May through early autumn.
Docking
Entrance Pos.: 39⁰46.849′ N, 19⁰31.226′ E
This is the only quay on the island. It does not offer good protection, especially from E, NE, and SE winds, and some swell can be expected in any conditions.
The inner basin is shallow and often occupied by local boats. However, two alongside berths on the NE edge of the inner basin can accommodate a sailing vessel with a draught of up to ~2 metres. If these berths are taken, use the outer section of the quay. Be sure to avoid the area designated for the ferry, as shown in the following picture. Stern-to mooring is generally preferred over alongside to maximize limited space. No services (electricity, water, etc.) are available. Docking is free.
Portello Beach
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Day anchorage, swimming and quiet stop
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰46.588′ N, 19⁰31.366′ E
This extensive sandy beach stretches for approximately 1.3 nautical miles along the island’s northeastern coast, offering abundant space and solitude. Its crystal-clear waters make it an ideal daytime anchorage for swimming and relaxation.
Anchoring
Anchor off the beach, on a sandy bottom with good holding, giving due regard to shallow water. Typical depths are 4-8 metres. Due to its exposure, this anchorage should be avoided in NE, E, or SE winds.
Arvanitiko
Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Sheltered anchorage with access to taverna
Protection: Good from NW
Holding: Good in sand
Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 39⁰45.703′ N, 19⁰32.164′ E
Arvanitiko (Αρβανίτικο) is a cove on the island’s southeastern tip, known for its turquoise waters. It is protected from the prevailing NW wind and you can anchor on a sandy bottom in 4-7 metres of depth. The holding is good. A charming, family-run taverna and hotel, the “Corfu Paradise“, is located on the beach and is recommended.
Explore nearby Othoni and Erikousa, as well as Corfu, in the full Ionian sailing guide.