Mandraki (Nisyros) Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Distinctive black volcanic sand and gravel seabed. Good holding over sand/gravel; reduced over volcanic rubble — test carefully. Position well clear of the ferry approach track from Kardamena (Kos). Day-trip ferries create significant wash 09:00–18:00 in peak season. NE Meltemi deflection around the N of Nisyros can create confused conditions on approach from the Kos strait.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Mandraki (Nisyros) is primarily sand and rock 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. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Mandraki (Nisyros) are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to E and NE and SE winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 70m radius before going below for the night.70m for the black-sand anchorage N of the mole. Volcanic gravel bottom is slightly less reliable than pure sand — test holding and use generous scope. Position well clear of the Kardamena ferry approach track (NE of the mole). NE exposure means the anchorage deteriorates in any NE conditions.

May–June and September–October ideal. July–August viable but day-tripper ferry traffic is intense 09:00–18:00. Avoid in any NE or E forecast — relocate to Kamari Bay (Kos, 14nm) in easterly conditions.

Navigation Hazards

• Day-trip ferry traffic from Kardamena (Kos): 3–6 fast ferries daily 09:00–18:00; significant wash; anchor clear of the ferry approach track from the NE
• Exposed to E/NE/SE: any NE conditions make the anchorage rough — monitor forecasts
• Black volcanic beach fringing shelf — shallow area NE of the mole; keep clear
• NE Meltemi deflection around the N of the island can create confused approach conditions from the Kos strait

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required. Stern-to berths at the municipal quay may attract ~€5–10/night. Stay clear of the Kardamena (Kos) fast ferry approach track — 3–6 fast ferries daily bring 500+ day-trippers.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Mandraki village (0nm)
• Restaurant: Excellent tavernas in Mandraki village; local specialties include pitties (chickpea patties) and fresh seafood
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Arrive the evening before to experience Nisyros at its best — before the day-trip crowds arrive by ferry
2. The volcano excursion (caldera walk) is best done in the morning; organise transport from the village the evening before
3. Position your anchor on the N side of the mole, clear of the ferry approach track from the NE
4. The local pitties (chickpea patties) and souma (local spirit) are Nisyros specialties worth trying ashore
5. Kos Town (14nm) has fuel; carry adequate reserves