Detailed harbour file for each stop on the route. Information compiled from the charter company briefing, Imray pilot book (Ionian & Aegean Seas), and skipper's research. Always verify depths and berth availability on approach and on arrival. Greek quays fill quickly in July — plan to arrive early. VHF listening is important at Poros and Hydra; other stops are informal.
The marina is large and well organised. Pier 6 is specifically leased to Sea Novels — our berths will be clearly signed. The marina security is good. Showers are in the central facilities building. The ATM between Piers 4 and 5 is the most convenient — withdraw cash here before departure as some stops (Perdika, Bistiou) are cash-only environments.
Perdika is a small fishing village on the SW tip of Aegina. The quay can accommodate 6–8 yachts stern-to. In July it can be full by early afternoon. Anchoring in the bay north of the quay is equally attractive — sand bottom with good holding in 3–6m clear water. The anchor bay is the preferred option if the quay is crowded.
Antonis Restaurant: One of the most famous fish restaurants in the Saronic — sits right on the quay. Book ahead in July. The seafood is excellent and the setting is beautiful. Worth a reservation on arrival.
The Poros town quay runs along the northern shore of Poros island, facing the mainland across the strait. It is the main waterfront of the town, with cafes and restaurants directly behind. Arrive before 14:00 to secure a good berth. The harbour master monitors VHF Ch 12 and will direct you to an available spot.
Important: ferry berths. The western end of the quay is used by the Piraeus–Poros ferry and Flying Dolphin hydrofoils. These berths are marked — absolutely do not occupy them. The harbour master will immediately ask you to move if you are in the wrong place.
Poros town is charming — the clocktower on the hill, the narrow streets, the constant activity of the strait with ferries and small boats. The waterfront restaurants are well-priced and the local wine is excellent. Recommended: walk up to the clocktower for a view before dinner.
Ermioni sits on a pine-covered headland that splits into two bays. The northern bay (facing NW) is used primarily by local fishing boats and is exposed to the NW Meltemi in the afternoon — not suitable for overnight in July. The southern bay (Koiladhia) faces SE and is well-sheltered from the prevailing NW wind. This is where we anchor.
Anchor in 5–10m over sand in the southern bay. Holding is excellent — a solid single anchor set is sufficient. The bay is usually calm even when the Meltemi is 20kt+ outside. Alternatively, stern-to the town quay on the southern waterfront if you prefer quay facilities, but the anchorage is more peaceful and more beautiful.
Ermioni is genuinely underrated on the Saronic circuit. The town is prosperous, clean, and welcoming without being touristy. The restaurants serve excellent grilled fish and local produce. Book a table for dinner early in the day — the best places fill up in July. Worth every minute here.
Call the harbour master on VHF Ch 12 approximately 15 minutes before entry. State your vessel name and length, and ask for a berth assignment. They will direct you to a specific spot. Be prepared for rafting (mooring alongside another yacht, 2–3 boats deep from the quay) — this is normal at Hydra in July. Set fenders on both sides before entering.
Water taxis: Hydra's only motorised transport on water (besides ferries) is a fleet of small wooden water taxis (the "sea taxis") that run continuously. They create significant and unpredictable wash. Your lines must be properly secured and your fenders set. Check lines every few hours especially in the afternoon when they are busiest.
Hydra is extraordinary. No cars, no motorbikes. Stone-paved streets, neoclassical mansions, a working port with fishing boats alongside superyachts. The Hydra experience of sitting on the quay with a cold Mythos watching the daily drama unfold is genuinely memorable. The evening is excellent — restaurants on the upper alleys are quieter and often better than the tourist-facing waterfront spots.
Bistiou Bay is on the northern coast of Poros island, tucked into the hillside and sheltered by the terrain from the prevailing NW Meltemi. This is a deliberate choice for the final night at sea — calm, quiet, beautiful, with the scent of pine and thyme from the hillside and typically excellent stargazing with minimal light pollution.
Anchoring: Approach from the east, reducing speed as the bay shallows. Best spot is in the middle of the bay in 5–6m over the sand bottom. Drop the anchor, motor slowly backward to set it, and let out scope 5:1. Give the chain a brief burst in reverse to confirm good hold. In July the bay is usually calm overnight — the NW hills provide complete shelter from the Meltemi.
The bay is rarely crowded even in high season — most charter yachts rush back to Poros Town or go straight to Alimos. Our choice of Bistiou is a small act of seamanship: using the geography to find a quiet anchorage rather than defaulting to the nearest quay.