Fiskardo Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Fiskardo 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 Fiskardo is primarily sand and weed with variable holding that requires extra attention. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 10–12m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (84m chain at 12m 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. Snorkel to verify. Given the fair holding here, it is strongly recommended to snorkel down and visually confirm the anchor is buried in sand, not resting on weed.

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

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

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

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 50m radius before going below for the night.50m for the N shore anchorage with lines ashore is adequate for the prevailing NW Maistro conditions. The harbour shape provides good NW shelter but is open E/SE. If a SE blow develops (rare in summer but possible with frontal systems Sep–Oct), shorten to 35m with a good stern line ashore, or move to Sami Bay (15nm south) which is much larger. Holding is fair — not the most secure anchorage in heavy weather.

Fiskardo is a year-round village but the anchorage is only really comfortable May–October. July–August is extremely busy. May, June, and September are the sweet spots. In October, frontal NE/SE winds can arrive quickly — keep a weather eye open.

Navigation Hazards

• Moderate holding only — rock and weed patches on N shore; anchor may slip if not properly set
• Strong E or SE winds (possible Sep–Oct with fronts) make the anchorage uncomfortable or untenable
• Crossed anchors common at the quay in peak season — always use a trip line
• Floating pontoon removed (2023) — reduced quay capacity; plan for anchoring rather than quay berth
• Approaching from the S at night: the headland at the NE tip has a small light — keep clear of the rocks

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: SW corner of inner quay reserved for local fishing boats. Not a port of entry — clear customs at Argostoli or Sami.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Fiskardo village (quayside shops and supermarket) (0nm)
• Restaurant: Excellent waterfront restaurants and cafes; reservations recommended in peak season
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Arrive by 11:00 in July–August for the N shore anchorage; by afternoon the ring bolts are all taken. If you arrive late, the Panormos hotel sector (SE entrance) is a reasonable alternative.
2. Always use a trip line here — the N shore rings are close together and anchors cross regularly. A trip line means you can retrieve without drama in the morning.
3. The channel between Kefalonia and Ithaka runs fast in the afternoons with the Maistro pushing through — plan your approach for the morning calm.