Explore: Argostolion (Kephalonia)
General Info
Description:
This is a smart, but relaxed, tourist destination on the west coast of the island. It is the island’s capital.
Once in the Gulf of Argostoli you will see the town of Lixouri to port, opposite the entrance to Argostolion town inlet easily spotted by a Doric-style lighthouse on the headland.
Approaching this port at the head of its inlet with a following F5/6 afternoon breeze is “interesting” when undertaken for the first time!
Position:
38° 11.86’N, 020° 28.75’E (entrance to Gulf of Argistolion)
Clearance
For full details on clearing into or out of Greece see Greece Formalities.
This is a Port of Entry.
If clearing into or out of Greece here, moor in the Customs compound on the south side of the ferry quay.
The Port Police are reported to be friendly here. You may be asked to show the boat’s papers (insurance and registration documents) – they normally use these to calculate the mooring fee.
See this report (August 2017) from an American yacht who grounded on the approach to Lixouri and found himself subject to impounding and a surveyor’s report before his papers were returned. Note that after the earthquake in 2014 the port channel markers were removed and have not been replaced.
Last updated: August 2017.
Docking
Town Quay
Once past the cruise ship dock, the ferry dock and the commercial quay (all to starboard), there is space for at least 300 boats on the main town quay to starboard.
Best spots are at the northern end of the quay, in the lee of the commercial quay which offers good protection from the prevailing wind. It can be a little bumpy as the wind gusts through the harbour causing quite a swell. This normally calms down late evening. There is limited water hoses available on the quay. Alongside mooring is allowed but there is a 45% surcharge and for catamarans 150%. The Port Police will ask for berthing fees.
Anchoring
There is an anchorage on the eastern side of the entrance but the shelter is not so good here. The bottom is mud and the holding good. It is also possible to anchor off the town, south of the marina.
Marinas
Argostolion Marina, opposite the commercial quay, remains unfinished and has no facilities. It is however a useful place to go in inclement weather.
Maistratos Harbour to the north of the town and cruise ship dock, tends to be full of local boats. It may be worth enquiring once docked on the town quay if any space is available, however in high season it’s highly unlikely.
Lixouri
Located directly across the gulf from Argostolion, Lixouri is a quieter option although care should be taken with uneven depths here due to heavy commercial traffic and silting and an earthquake in 2014.
Yachts can berth on the west quay, south of the ferry quay where there are water and electricity. There can be an uncomfortable surge in this harbor.
Ferries run between Lixouri and Argostolion.
See this report (August 2017) from an American yacht who grounded on the approaches to Lixouri and found himself subject to impounding and a surveyor’s report before his papers were returned.
Last updated: August 2017
Related Businesses
Argostoli Marina
Address: Argostolion, Greece,
Position:  38°10.854'N, 020°29.702'E
Entrance is directly opposite the customs quay on the east side of the bay. As with many Greek marinas, this one also lies... Read More
Maistratos Harbour
Address: Argostolion, Greece,
Situated just to the north of the cruise ship dock. Berth stern or bow-to on the NE or SE quay. Good shelter. Water on the... Read More
Port Authority – Argostolion (Kephalonia)
Address: Argostolion, Greece,
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