Vathi Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor anywhere in the western half of the bay in 3–4m on clean sand. Good holding throughout. The omega-shaped bay gives nearly all-round shelter even in meltemi conditions — gusts over the hills can be squally but the bay remains calm. Keep away from the small mole on the N side (limited water 2.5–3m, space for 3 yachts stern-to with rings). Taverna by the church on the N shore provides water and electricity.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Vathi is primarily sand with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–5m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (35m chain at 5m 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, Mantus, Spade, Delta. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Vathi are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to SW and W winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 65m radius before going below for the night.65m covers typical swing in a 3–4m anchoring depth on sandy bottom. The horseshoe shape limits fetch from all but SW/W, so the radius can be tightened to 50m in calm settled conditions. If SW swell develops, the bay becomes uncomfortable — increase to 80m and re-check holding.

May–June and September are ideal: uncrowded, reliable meltemi shelter without the July–August peak crowds. July–August is viable but the bay fills quickly — arrive early and expect katabatic gusts. Avoid overnight in strong SW conditions (rare in summer).

Navigation Hazards

• Katabatic gusts over the surrounding hills during meltemi — the bay surface remains calm but gusts can be sudden and strong; ensure anchor is well set
• Small mole on the N has depths of only 2.5–3m on the outside — check draft carefully
• Open to SW and W: groundswell can make the bay uncomfortable if a SW wind develops; monitor forecasts
• Posidonia fringe around the bay edges — anchor in the central sandy area only
• Very busy in July–August; arrive before 12:00 to secure a spot

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required for all yachts over 7m. Space for 3 yachts stern-to the small N mole (water/power available via taverna). Anchor on sand — avoid the posidonia fringe near the bay edges. Do not enter under sail (the bay can funnel gusts over the headlands).

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Apollonia (Sifnos capital, taxi required) (0nm)
• Restaurant: 3–4 waterfront tavernas including the well-known Manolis; all serve fresh Sifnian cuisine. Taverna by the church has water and electricity for boats.
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Definite safest anchorage on Sifnos — the horseshoe shape and hill deflection make it exceptional for meltemi season; this is the go-to option for F5+ meltemi nights
2. Arrive before noon in July–August; by 14:00 the bay is full and swinging room is tight
3. The taverna next to the Taxiarchis Church (NE corner) can supply water and power by dinghy — ask before arrival
4. Snorkel the anchor to verify it is set on sand, not posidonia, before leaving the boat