Peristera Island Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Peristera Island 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 Peristera Island 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 4–10m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (70m chain at 10m 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. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Peristera Island are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to NE and E winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 70m radius before going below for the night.70m covers normal swing in 4–10m on mixed sand and rock. The rocky patches mean holding quality varies — verify the set before finalising the radius. A trip line is strongly recommended to avoid losing the anchor on rock. Reduce to 55m if anchored on a clearly sandy patch in the 4–5m band.

Best in May–June and September when settled NE meltemi allows comfortable overnight use of the NE bay. July–August: viable in lighter meltemi conditions but afternoon F4–5 NE gusts can make the bay rolly; consider Steni Vala for overnight. SE coves are day-only anchorages year-round.

Navigation Hazards

• Rocky patches throughout the anchorage — use a trip line; snorkel before finalising the set
• Exposed to NE and E: in any NE wind the main NE bay becomes uncomfortable quickly; have a departure plan for Steni Vala (1.5nm W)
• NMPANS regulations: fishing and diving on the archaeological wreck site are prohibited without permit — be aware and comply
• No facilities of any kind: carry sufficient water, food, and fuel; a breakdown requires a tow from Steni Vala or Patitiri
• Monk seal habitat: maintain 200m distance from any seal hauled on rocks or swimming near the boat

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: NMPANS Zone B: anchoring permitted; fishing strictly prohibited. The ancient shipwreck site NE of the island is a protected submarine archaeological monument — no diving or anchoring in the immediate wreck area without authorisation from the Ministry of Culture. DEKPA and TEPAI required. No facilities ashore. No fires. Take all rubbish with you.

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: Steni Vala (Alonnisos) (1.5nm)
• Restaurant: None — nearest provisions at Steni Vala (Alonnisos) (1.5nm)
• Provisions: None on site — Steni Vala (Alonnisos) (1.5nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Truly one of the gems of the Sporades — a silent, pine-scented anchorage with electric blue water; come in May or September for the full experience without crowds
2. Dinghy ashore and hike the ancient trails to the Byzantine ruins on the ridge — bring water and footwear; spectacular views over the strait to Alonnisos
3. Snorkelling from the dinghy around the rocky NE tip offers visibility of 20–25m and abundant sea life typical of the marine park
4. Use Steni Vala (1.5nm) as a supply and weather base; day-trip to Peristera coves and return for dinner