Zakynthos Sailing Guide: Anchorages and Tips

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos (NMPZ) covers the southern part of Zakynthos and includes the main nesting beaches of the Caretta caretta sea turtle. To protect the turtles during the nesting and hatching season, specific restrictions on sailing and fishing apply from 1 May to 31 October. The park is divided into four zones, each with different rules. Fishing is prohibited in all zones.

Zone A

• No vessel may enter.
• Marked by circular yellow buoys, spaced 75 metres apart.

Zone B

• Vessels may enter.
• Maximum speed: 6 knots.
• Mooring and anchoring are prohibited.
• Marked by three lighted buoys.

Zone C / Γ

• Vessels may enter.
• Maximum speed: 6 knots.
• Mooring and anchoring are allowed.
• Marked by conical buoys, spaced approximately 150 metres apart.

Zone Iα

• Vessels may enter.
• Maximum speed: 6 knots.
• Mooring and anchoring are allowed.
• This zone is not marked.

Docking

Pos.: 37°46.847′ N, 20°54.271′ E

The port of Zakynthos Town accommodates all types of vessels, from ferries to small fishing boats, each with its designated berthing area. Sailboats moor on the north‑eastern pier, marked as “Recreational Vessels” and shown with a red line on the map. Note that free anchoring within the port is prohibited.

Mooring

Moor stern‑to with your anchor anywhere along the red line of the map. Prefer the berths north‑west of the T‑shaped section of the pier, around 37°47.074′ N, 20°54.126′ E, as the berths south‑east of the T‑shaped part are exposed to ferry wash. The bottom is mud with excellent holding, and typical anchoring depths are around 6 metres. Protection from the prevailing north‑westerlies of the summer is very good. However, in the rare case of strong southerlies, the north‑eastern pier becomes unsafe.

Port Management

The port is officially managed by the Zakynthos Port Fund, which can be reached at +30 26950 48157 (office hours). It is not possible to book a berth through them. The approximate mooring fee is €6 per day for a 12‑metre monohull, and the price is doubled for catamarans.

To pay mooring fees and obtain the prepaid card for water and electricity, visit the Port Fund office — the orange building at the south corner of the port. Alternatively, you may occasionally encounter a Port Fund employee on the pier wearing a white blouse with a blue insignia labelled “ZAKYNTHOS PORT FUND”.

Facilities

Along the pier there are pillars for water and electricity. To use them, you must purchase a prepaid card from the Port Fund office and return it before departure. You may load any amount you wish, but unused credit is non‑refundable. Electricity is charged at €0.70/kWh and water at €3/m³ — although the water from the pillars is salty and not suitable for drinking.

Note that this is a port, not a marina, so facilities such as showers or bathrooms do not exist.

Booking a berth

If you wish to book a berth, you may do so through Yachting Club Zakynthos (YCZ), a private service. They can be contacted on +30 6993 779646, by email at info@yachtingclubzakynthos.gr, or via their Navily profile. Besides reservations, they also provide mooring assistance, delivery of provisions, and yachting‑clearance paperwork. The service of booking and mooring assistance costs about €30 per day for a 12‑metre monohull, but you should confirm this in advance. Their staff can be identified on the pier by their blue shirts.

Fuel and potable water

Fuel and potable water are available from a tanker truck that visits the pier twice daily. Note that water from the truck is significantly more expensive, at around €10 per 100 litres.

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°43.079′ N, 20°59.429′ E

Porto Roma (Πόρτο Ρόμα) offers an easy and pleasant anchorage in clear water. Anchor freely in 5–8 metres. The seabed is a mix of sand, seaweed, and rock, but the sandy patches are easy to identify and provide excellent holding. Protection from the typical W, NW and N summer winds is good. Expect a light swell of around 0.2 metres. Nikos Beach Bar Restaurant is good and worth a visit. During the day, there is activity from small rental boats, which some may find disturbing.

There is an underwater pipeline you should avoid when anchoring. Its approximate position is 37°43.183′ N, 20°59.398′ E, but it does not appear to run in a straight line, so it is best to avoid the general area altogether.

About 25 minutes on foot from Porto Roma, you can visit the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center, where you can learn why so much effort goes into protecting the Caretta-Caretta turtle. A little further down the same road lies Gerakas Beach, one of the island’s main nesting sites. Access to the beach is allowed from 7a.m. till sunset. It is a beautiful spot, and anchoring there is wonderful — but it is prohibited from 1 May to 31 October to protect the nesting and newly hatched turtles.

Marathonisi

The small island of Marathonisi (Μαραθονήσι) has two main points of interest:

• The caves at 37°41.008′ N, 20°52.212′ E and
• The beach at 37°41.254′ N, 20°52.045′ E.

The beach is a major nesting site for the Caretta‑Caretta turtle. You will see the wooden protective cages volunteers place over nests. A floating cantina also operates here, offering snacks and excellent cocktails.

You may leave your dinghy temporarily on the beach, but anchoring around Marathonisi is prohibited, as the island lies entirely within Zone B of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos.

Cameo Island

Cameo Island (Καμέο) is privately owned and hosts a very good cocktail bar. Its small beach at 37°42.812′ N, 20°51.921′ E can be viewed and photographed while passing by with your dinghy, but landing is not permitted. The island is also a popular wedding venue, with many ceremonies taking place on its wooden deck during the summer. You can visit the island from land via the wooden footbridge leading from Agios Sostis Port.

Keri Caves

The south‑western coast of Zakynthos is rugged and full of caves and natural rock arches. Most of them lie within the cove at 37°38.823′ N, 20°50.298′ E, an area known for its spectacularly clear waters. To visit the caves by dinghy, you will need a capable one, as the route leaves Laganas Bay and enters more open waters. Anchoring a yacht is also possible in calm conditions; the depth is around 20 metres. The bottom is sand with rocks, so use a trip line to facilitate retrieval in case the anchor becomes fouled. The gulf is protected from the prevailing north‑westerlies, although swell is common due to motorboats travelling at high speeds even inside the cove.

Laganas

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°43.187′ N, 20°52.043′ E

Anchoring

The anchorage lies between the beaches of Agios Sostis (Άγιος Σώστης) and Laganas (Λαγανάς), within Zone C of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, where anchoring is permitted. Anchoring directly off Laganas Beach is prohibited, as it lies within Zone B.
The line separating Zones B and C is defined by: 37°41.050′ N, 20°51.100′ E and 37°43.667′ N, 20°52.448′ E.

The bottom is sand/mud with excellent holding, and typical anchoring depths are 3–4 metres. Protection from the prevailing north‑westerlies is good, though some swell from the south can be expected.

Conditions

During the day, dozens of motorboats operate in the area, searching for sea turtles. Some of them do not respect the 6‑knot speed limit. These boats are rented from the small fishing port of Agios Sostis and from the permanent moorings just northwest of it.

The village of Laganas is the nightlife centre of the island. It is particularly popular with British youngsters who party nightly until dawn. They can get quite rowdy, and visiting with a family at night is not recommended. Music from the nightclubs does reach the anchorage, but usually not at a disturbing level.

Refer to the Southern Dinghy Rides section for details on visiting Marathonisi, Cameo Island, and the Keri Caves by dinghy from this anchorage.

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°41.051′ N, 20°50.397′ E

Keri Lake (Κερί) is a small village with a wide public beach. The village, which lies right next to a small lake, offers the essentials (supermarkets, tavernas, and cafeterias), but it is not particularly quaint. It should not be confused with the inland village of Keri, located further up the hill. The beach is pebbly, with natural shade from the trees along the shore. There are free public showers by the beach — a sign of typical Greek hospitality, perhaps now lost in other places. The water near the shore is beautifully coloured, although you will need to anchor further out.

The anchorage is well protected from the prevailing north‑westerlies of the Ionian. It is spacious and can accommodate all visiting boats. In case of strong winds, anchor closer to the small fishing port at 37°40.887′ N, 20°50.282′ E. The port itself is shallow and, apart from fishing boats, hosts many daily rental motorboats. The bottom is sand with good holding and the typical anchoring depth is around 6 metres.

A more peaceful and even safer anchorage can be found less than a mile to the north, around 37°41.736′ N, 20°50.560′ E. The bottom is sand and the typical anchoring depth is 3-4 metres.

Refer to the Southern Dinghy Rides section for details on visiting Marathonisi, Cameo Island, and the Keri Caves by dinghy from this anchorage.

The iconic rocks of Myzithres (Μυζήθρες) lie at the south‑western edge of Zakynthos. Passing between them by boat is possible, although I have never personally done it.

Anchoring here is not safe, as the area is completely exposed to the prevailing north‑westerlies. The bottom is sand mixed with large rocks, and typical depths are 15–20 metres. Myzithres should be visited only in the morning, when the weather is usually calm. Even with no wind, you will experience swell because the area is fully open to the Ionian Sea. The eastern (leeward) side offers slight shelter, but anchoring is recommended only in calm conditions and for short stays.

Quite frankly, the view from above is far superior, so you do not miss much by skipping a boat visit. To see them from the top, drive to the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant and then continue on foot for about ten minutes through a beautiful forest. From this viewpoint, both the sunset and the view of Myzithres are stuning.

Piscines Beach

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°40.100′ N, 20°47.981′ E

Piscines (Πισίνες) — literally meaning swimming pools — is a spectacular anchorage, but completely exposed to the prevailing winds. It is accessible only by sea. The turquoise water is truly stunning and makes the place a memorable swimming stop. On the north‑west side of the beach, there are beautiful caves to explore. During the day, there will be small motorboats in the area, but the night is peaceful.

Anchoring is advisable only in calm weather. Swell is present even when there is no wind. Anchor in about 10 metres of sand; the holding is good.

Korakonisi

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°43.147′ N, 20°44.045′ E

The small cove north‑east of Korakonisi rock (Κορακονήσι) offers a beautiful and secluded anchorage. Anchor in about 10 metres of sand and take stern lines to the rocks ashore. There are some easily visible rocks on the seabed that should be avoided. The cove provides adequate protection from the prevailing north‑westerlies, and the water colour is stunning. Visit the famous rock arch at the eastern end of Korakonisi, as well as the beautiful caves to the south, by dinghy — or swim there if you are up to it.

For a preview from above, you can watch an aerial view of Korakonisi on YouTube.

Kampi

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°46.384′ N, 20°40.533′ E

The anchorage at Kampi (Καμπί) takes its name from the nearby semi‑mountainous village of the same name. The water is a deep blue, surrounded by vertical white cliffs that create a dramatic and beautiful setting. Ashore, there is a small beach to the north‑east, and to the south‑east you will find caves to explore. The spot is accessible only by sea.

The bottom is sand with good holding, and the typical anchoring depth is around 10 metres. The northern half of the cove is preferred, as it has the largest sandy patch. You may optionally pass stern lines to the rocks, but finding a suitable rock is not always easy. The anchorage is not protected from the prevailing north‑westerlies and should be visited only in calm conditions. Expect some swell even when there is no wind.

Zachari

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°47.377′ N, 20°40.607′ E

Zachari (Ζάχαρη) is a small cove with characteristics similar to Kampi. The water colour is stunning, and the vertical white cliffs create a dramatic backdrop. The anchorage is protected from northern winds but not from north‑westerlies, and considerable swell often enters the cove. You may optionally take stern lines to the rocks ashore. The bottom is sand with large rocks, so using a trip line is wise to facilitate anchor retrieval. The typical anchoring depth is around 12 metres, and there is space for only a couple of sailboats.

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°49.313′ N, 20°37.947′ E

Porto Vromi (Πόρτο Βρώμη) is a small cove with two beautiful beaches worth exploring. Note that the beaches are not connected by road, despite being very close to each other. The area is protected from the steady north‑westerlies of the afternoon, but strong, short gusts are common. Despite the cove’s narrow opening to the south‑west, swell still enters, which some may find uncomfortable. The cove has served as a natural harbour since antiquity, and many daily rental boats take refuge here.

Anchoring is possible but not recommended, as the cove is very deep (around 20 metres) and the seabed is a tangle of ropes and chains. Most of the space is also occupied by permanent moorings. If you do not mind the cost, the best option is to rent one of the red‑marked permanent moorings, available for €50 per day.

According to local tradition, Mary Magdalene arrived in Zakynthos at this very cove on her way to Rome. It is said that she preached to the inhabitants shortly after witnessing the Crucifixion of Christ — long before the mission of Apostle Paul — which is why Zakynthians consider themselves part of the first Christian community in Europe.

Navagio Beach

Pos.: 37°51.625′ N, 20°37.447′ E

Navagio (Ναυάγιο), literally meaning shipwreck, is the most famous beach in Zakynthos. It lies in a cove with striking turquoise waters. Anchoring inside the cove, swimming, and stepping onto the beach are now prohibited, as landslides from the surrounding cliffs pose a serious danger. You may only pass through with your boat, take some photos, and move on. Note that from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the cove is full of boats doing exactly that.

The shipwreck on the beach is the Panagiotis, which was smuggling cigarettes in 1980. Due to an engine failure combined with strong north‑westerlies, it ran aground on the beach. The crew attempted to escape by boat, as the beach is inaccessible from land because of the surrounding cliffs. They were eventually arrested in the nearby village of Volimes. The locals quickly learned about the ‘precious’ cargo, and by the time the police arrived, it was almost completely gone.

The shipwreck is slowly deteriorating due to corrosion, and it will likely disappear in the coming years.

Blue Caves

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°55.777′ N, 20°42.305′ E

The famous caves of the north‑eastern coast of Zakynthos are accessible only by boat. However, they are visited by hundreds of boats daily, which reduces the quality of the experience. Anchor freely near the position above, in about 7 metres of sand, and visit the caves by dinghy — they lie just north of the anchoring spot.

Swimming inside the caves is not advised, as small motorboats pass through them constantly. You can, however, swim safely near the anchoring position, where the water is beautiful and full of fish.

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos (Άγιος Νικόλαος) is a convenient port in north‑eastern Zakynthos. It is often used as a base to explore the northern side of the island, as there is no other port on the north or west coasts. Around the port you will find a few tavernas and a supermarket, and you can also visit its small, peaceful beach. It is not a particularly quaint place to stop, but it is a very practical one.

Since there is no shame in leaving the wheel to someone else occasionally, you can explore the Blue Caves and the northern coast of Zakynthos up to Navagio Beach with an organised excursion. Many options operate from Agios Nikolaos, with Theodosis Cruises being the most popular.

Makris Gialos Beach

Approx. Anchorage Pos.: 37°52.750′ N, 20°43.577′ E

Makris Gialos (Μακρύς Γυαλός) lies in a comfortable cove that is protected from the prevailing north‑westerlies. Swell is still present, even at night when the wind drops. Anchor freely outside the yellow swimming buoys, in about 7 metres of depth. The bottom is sand with good holding. There are easily visible rocks on the seabed that you should avoid.

The water colour is beautiful, and there are sea caves to explore in the rocks ashore. The beach is organised with sunbeds, and you can find restaurants a short walk uphill from the beach.

Xigia

The area of Xigia (Ξύγκια) is comprised of three small beaches:

• the northern one at 37°52.118′ N, 20°44.096′ E,
• the middle one at 37°51.904′ N, 20°44.246′ E, and
• the southern one at 37°51.847′ N, 20°44.341′ E.

The sea here has a unique milky turquoise colour, caused by sulphurous springs flowing from the nearby caves. Most boats anchor off the middle beach, where the bottom is sand with good holding. Protection from the prevailing north‑westerlies is moderate, and the area can be a bit swelly, as it is relatively open.

The rocks surrounding the beaches form beautiful caves, especially north‑east of the northern beach, around 37°52.096′ N, 20°44.051′ E.