Komiža Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Komiža has 3 distinct anchoring zones, each with different depth, holding, and exposure characteristics. Choose the zone that matches your boat size and the expected overnight conditions.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Komiža is primarily sand and mud with reliable holding when properly set.

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder. At 3–6m, deploy minimum 7:1 scope (42m chain at 6m depth).
2. Drop into the wind and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back.
3. Set firmly in reverse — 30–60 seconds at moderate throttle. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Snorkel to verify bottom type. Posidonia is widespread around Vis — confirm your anchor is on sand, not Posidonia (anchoring on it carries fines up to €2,000). Use the scope calculator to confirm adequate chain.

Recommended anchor types: Rocna, Mantus, Spade, Delta, CQR. See our guide to anchor types by bottom.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Komiža are feasible but require monitoring — the anchorage is exposed to S and SW and W winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 50m radius before going below. 50m for stern-to quay berths where movement is constrained by laid moorings. For free swinging in the outer harbour, increase to 90m. Bay head anchorage in calm conditions: 70m with 5:1 scope. The harbour is exposed to S and SW — in strong Jugo, the swell enters the harbour entrance and makes conditions uncomfortable; consider leaving for Vis Town in sustained SE conditions.

Excellent May–October. June and September are ideal: full facilities, warm, less crowded than July–August. July–August is vibrant with the fishing village atmosphere at its most lively but quay space is tight. October is charming — the fishing fleet is active, the konobe are open, and the light on the Venetian stonework is extraordinary. The harbour is usable year-round for Croatian-registered boats; foreign boats should be cautious in Jugo season (Nov–Mar).

Navigation Hazards

• S and SW exposed — Jugo (SE/S) sends swell into the harbour entrance and makes the outer berths uncomfortable; monitor forecasts and consider departing in sustained SE conditions
• Fishing fleet traffic throughout the day and night — keep clear of the working harbour areas and fishing boat moorings
• Summer fast ferries from Split approach at speed — give them a wide berth on approach and do not anchor in the ferry channel
• Bura: despite good hill shelter, extreme katabatic events can still generate wind acceleration over the ridge; ensure anchor is well set
• Limited quay space July–August — arrive before 16:00 or call the harbourmaster on VHF Ch 16 to confirm space

Rules & Regulations

• eNautička (MMPI) permit: Required for all foreign yachts — carry aboard at all times.
• Anchoring fee: Free to anchor in bay; quay berth fees apply (approx. €25–60 per night depending on boat size and season)
• Maximum stay: 7 days
• Restrictions: Harbour speed limit 3 knots. Keep clear of fishing boat channels. 150m beach exclusion applies to nearby beaches Jun 15–Sep 15. Harbourmaster assigns quay berths — do not occupy without assignment.
• 150m beach exclusion (SSVO 2025): No anchoring within 150m of public beaches, June 15–Sep 15.

For a full overview, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Available
• Restaurant: Several excellent konobe in the town including traditional establishments serving local wines (Vugava, Plavac Mali), peka cooking, and freshly caught fish. The fishing village atmosphere makes dining here a highlight of the Vis visit.
• Provisions: Available
• Wi-Fi: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Book a table at one of the traditional konobe for peka cooking — order the octopus or lamb peka 2–3 hours in advance as it cooks under the peka (iron bell) in charcoal embers
2. The Blue Cave (Modra špilja) day trips from Komiža run from approximately 09:00 — book the evening before from the town quay; arrive in Komiža the night before and depart early morning
3. Dried figs from Vis are among the finest in Croatia — buy from local producers in the market rather than tourist shops
4. The walk up to the Venetian tower above the harbour takes 20 minutes and gives a panoramic view over the bay and across to Biševo island
5. Local Vugava white wine is unique to Vis — try it at the source; it does not travel well so enjoy it here
6. The harbourmaster (lučka kapetanija) is helpful and speaks English — check in promptly on arrival for berth assignment