Ormos Agios Georgios Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor in 4–6m at the NW end for best shelter from prevailing N winds. Slowly shelving sandy bottom gives very good holding. Beautiful aspect toward the islet of Despotiko to the SW. A quiet, uncrowded alternative to the busy Paros anchorages. Open to S and SE — any southerly makes the bay uncomfortable.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Ormos Agios Georgios is primarily sand and weed with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 4–8m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (56m chain at 8m depth).
2. Drop into the wind or current and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back — do not allow chain to pile on the anchor.
3. Set firmly in reverse. Apply moderate throttle astern for 30–60 seconds. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Take a GPS bearing. Note your position once set and compare to the scope calculator to confirm you have adequate chain for the depth.

Recommended anchor types for this bottom: Rocna, Delta, Mantus, Danforth. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Ormos Agios Georgios are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to S and SE and E winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 70m radius before going below for the night.70m in this open but well-oriented bay. The NW end gives best protection and tightest holding — alarm can be reduced to 55m if anchored close in. Open S/SE: any southerly wind raises the alarm radius requirement significantly; consider departing rather than extending radius in southerly conditions.

Best May–June and September when quiet. Moderate July–August traffic but nothing like the Paros crowds. A worthy destination for sailors willing to explore beyond the main hubs.

Navigation Hazards

• Open to S and SE: southerly swell or wind makes anchorage uncomfortable; monitor forecasts
• Some weed patches in anchoring area — ensure anchor has penetrated through to sand
• Shoaling toward the bay head — stay in 4m+ depths
• No navigational aids — day approach only unless familiar with the bay

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required. No navigational aids. Sandy bottom with some weed patches — verify holding under power before going below.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Antiparos Town (4nm)
• Restaurant: Captain Pipinos taverna: highly regarded for fresh seafood; seasonal (June–September)
• Provisions: None on site — Antiparos Town (4nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. A quieter alternative to the crowded Paros/Naoussa bays; highly recommended for those who want a peaceful Cyclades overnight
2. The ruins of the Despotiko sanctuary on the islet opposite are worth a dinghy visit (ongoing archaeological excavations — check access before landing)
3. Anchor at the NW end of the bay for best protection and holding on sand
4. Provisions and water available in Antiparos Town (4nm); plan a morning trip before returning to the bay