Monemvasia - Docking

Docking in Monemvasia

For important arrival information see entrance notes and cautions.

See recommendations for when visiting Monemvasia by yacht.

Mooring South of Monemvasia island

The marina lies to the south of Monemvasia Island and the causeway. The breakwater can be difficult to identify on approach, especially in poor visibility. It is advisable to arrive during daylight hours, as vessels often anchor close to the entrance, potentially obstructing the fairway.

Once around the breakwater, yachts can berth side-to the outer mole extending eastwards. Note that this area is shallow (approximately 1.8 metres), exposed to northerlies, and has poor holding due to an irregular and rocky seabed. Exercise caution: boulders extend from the harbour side of the mole into about half of the entrance. It is safer to approach from the center-left side of the entrance, as yachts frequently go aground here.

There may be berthing space further inside the harbour, particularly along the southern quay. The most secure mooring option is to lie alongside the inside of the breakwater, which offers the best protection within the harbour.

While the harbour generally provides adequate shelter, a strong northerly or north-easterly can create a significant surge, making conditions uncomfortable. Water and electricity are available at certain sections of the quay.

Mooring North of Monemvasia island

An alternative mooring option can sometimes be found just north of the causeway, inside the ferry quay. This area is primarily used by larger vessels and offers good protection from westerly and easterly winds, but is completely exposed to northerlies and southerlies. It is not suitable in unsettled conditions and should only be used in calm weather.

Anchoring in Monemvasia

Anchoring in the immediate vicinity of the old Kastro of Monemvasia is generally not recommended, for a number of reasons:

1. The seabed here is rocky, with numerous outcrops, making it easy for your anchor to get snagged.
2. Additionally, there is an underwater cliff, which creates an unsafe environment for anchoring.
3. Sea and wind conditions in this area can change rapidly. The anchorage is frequently exposed to swells and gusty winds, which can result in an uncomfortable, hazardous and rolly anchorage, particularly if weather worsens unexpectedly.
4. Local customs and community sentiment are against anchoring in this area as it disrupts the historic view of the Byzantine cityscape and detracts from the experience for both residents and visitors.

If necessary, small vessels may attempt to anchor just south of the causeway, near the fishing harbour. The seabed here consists of mud, rock, and weed, with patchy holding and variable depths. The anchorage is tight, offers little protection, and is only suitable for small vessels in settled conditions.

Alternatively, for improved shelter, yachts may consider anchoring in the bays approximately 3 nautical miles north of Monemvasia. These bays can offer better protection depending on the wind direction. However, be aware that the Kastraki Beach area, located in this region, can act as a wind funnel during easterlies or westerlies, resulting in stronger local wind speeds than forecasted.

Getting Ashore

It is not recommended that dinghies approach the Portello entrance in the old city. The only safe location for a quick drop-off is directly in front of the metal stairs. Both sides of the entrance have rocky column outcrops that can damage dinghies, so please do not leave them unattended. A drop-off can be made by a skilled operator if there is no one swimming and during high tide, but leaving the dinghy tied here is not advisable.

All visitors are kindly asked to respect the local marine environment. Please pick up any floating debris you may encounter and take care to ensure the safety of swimmers, divers, and fellow sailors.

Last updated:  August 2025