Steni Vala Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Small but well-protected natural harbour enclosed by the Peristera strait to the east. Anchor in 3–8m on sand and mud, or take a stern-to berth on the quay if space allows (the quay is short; locals and fishing boats take priority). The meltemi channels between Alonnisos and Peristera can funnel NW–W, giving this harbour its one exposure direction. In strong NW conditions, depths in the outer anchorage become uncomfortable; move to the inner position closer to the quay. The NMPANS park warden office is located here — obtain latest park regulations and a park information leaflet.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Steni Vala is primarily sand and mud with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–8m, 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, Mantus, Spade. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Steni Vala are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to NW winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 60m radius before going below for the night.60m is appropriate for the main anchorage area in 4–7m. The harbour is reasonably enclosed but NW channelling between Alonnisos and Peristera can accelerate winds — use 70m in NW conditions. Anchor well clear of the quay approach and the small ferry berth on the N side.

The park is most enjoyable May–June and September when conditions are ideal and crowds are minimal. July–August brings charter fleets and day-tripper boats. The park area has a quiet, off-season character from October onwards; Steni Vala facilities close by mid-October.

Navigation Hazards

• NW channelling between Alonnisos and Peristera: meltemi-driven NW gusts can be strong in the strait even when conditions elsewhere are moderate; ensure anchor is well set
• Small quay with limited space — local fishing boats and the small inter-island ferry have priority; do not block the ferry berth
• NMPANS regulations apply: fishing prohibited in Zone B; approach Zone A (Gioura, Piperi) only with permits
• Monk seal sightings in the strait — maintain 200m distance if a seal is present; do not start engine
• Basic provisions only — stock up fully in Patitiri or Skopelos Town before heading further into the park

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free (anchoring). Quay berths subject to harbour dues.
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required. NMPANS Zone B area — anchoring permitted but all fishing prohibited. Visit the park warden office on arrival to obtain latest NMPANS zone boundary information. Do not approach or disturb monk seals. Do not take any marine life or coral.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Available
• Restaurant: Three to four seasonal tavernas serving fresh fish and local cuisine. The Ikion taverna is popular with cruising sailors. Diesel available by jerry can from the fuel station; occasionally by hose — ask at the quay.
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Register with the park warden on arrival — they are helpful, speak basic English, and will give you an up-to-date park map showing Zone A/B boundaries and any seasonal closures
2. Best base for dinghy exploration of Peristera Island (0.5nm east) — beautiful deserted coves accessible only to shallow-draft dinghies
3. Peristera village ruins on the hillside are worth a dinghy and hike; bring water as there is nothing ashore on Peristera
4. Strong meltemi afternoons: the strait accelerates; stay in harbour until it eases in early evening