Best Anchorages — Kythira & Antikythira

Kythira Channel — Meltemi Warning

The Kythira Channel between Kythira and the Peloponnese is one of the most windward stretches in the eastern Mediterranean. The meltemi accelerates through the channel and can reach F7–8+ when it is only F4–5 on the islands to the N. Current up to 2kt runs northward in strong N meltemi. Meltemi can trap boats at Kythira for 2–4 days. Always plan your departure window and escape routes before arriving. Early morning (04:00–08:00) is typically the lightest period.

Kapsali — Know Your Escape Routes

Kapsali is the most beautiful bay on Kythira — but it is completely exposed to S/SW swell. In any southerly, the bay can become dangerous in under an hour. Always have an escape plan to Diakofti (E coast, 8nm) or Avlemonas (NE, 6nm) before anchoring at Kapsali. Monitor forecasts every 6 hours.

Antikythira — Experienced Sailors Only

Antikythira is 38nm SE of Kythira with a population of 40 people and no fuel, no marina, and no medical facilities. The nearest rescue services are 36–38nm away. Strong currents around the island at all times. Visit only in settled July–August high-pressure conditions with a 48-hour stable forecast. Self-sufficient for 72 hours minimum.

The Antikythira Mechanism

The island is famous as the location of the 1900–1901 shipwreck discovery that yielded the Antikythira Mechanism — the world's oldest known analog computing device, a bronze astronomical calculator dating to approximately 150–100 BC, now in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The wreck site off Antikythira is a protected archaeological zone.