Porto Koufo Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Porto Koufo has 2 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 Porto Koufo is primarily mud and sand with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 5–15m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (105m chain at 15m 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 Porto Koufo are excellent — 360-degree protection means minimal boat movement.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 50m radius before going below for the night.50m radius is generous for Porto Koufo — the bay provides absolute all-weather protection. The main concern is swinging room, not wind or swell. In the deep central anchorage (10–15m), use 7:1 scope minimum — that means 70–105m of chain. A snubber is recommended to reduce noise on the chain.

Porto Koufo is one of those anchorages that can be used in virtually any weather condition. If a front is approaching Halkidiki, this is the place to be. The bay is spacious enough that even in July–August it rarely feels overcrowded.

Navigation Hazards

• The entrance channel is narrow — stay in the centre and maintain watch for exiting vessels
• Deep water (10–15m) in the central anchorage requires long scope — ensure you have enough chain
• Occasional fishing boat traffic in the entrance — keep clear

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free

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: Neos Marmaras (10nm)
• Restaurant: Small tavernas on the W shore accessible by dinghy
• Provisions: None on site — Neos Marmaras (10nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Porto Koufo is one of the finest all-weather anchorages in the Mediterranean — use it when any bad weather is forecast
2. The deep central area (10–15m) is best for larger vessels; the N shallows (3–7m) for smaller boats
3. Take the dinghy to the W shore for dinner at one of the tavernas
4. The entrance is deceptively narrow — approach at low speed and give way to exiting vessels
5. A perfect storm refuge: the water inside is completely flat even in F7+ outside