Alyki Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Alyki 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 Alyki is primarily sand with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–6m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (42m chain at 6m 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, Delta. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

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

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 55m radius before going below for the night.55m for the main west bay in 3–6m on clean sand. Good holding in the sandy seabed. Open to E and SE — monitor for afternoon sea breeze. In settled NE meltemi this bay is comfortable; move to east cove (50m alarm) if S wind develops. Avoid anchoring within 50m of the marble shoreline — archaeological zone protection.

May–September. May and early June are the best months — crystal water, no crowds, archaeological site essentially to yourself. July–August is busier but the anchorage is large enough to accommodate. September is excellent. Avoid in persistent S or SE winds as both coves become uncomfortable.

Navigation Hazards

• Archaeological zone — stay clear of the marble peninsula when landing and follow posted signs; the site is inspected and violations are taken seriously
• Exposed to E and SE: afternoon sea breeze can build from the SE in summer; both coves allow you to switch to the more sheltered side
• Busy in July–August mid-day with day-tripper boats from Limenas and Potos — arrive early morning for best anchorage position and clear water
• Snorkelling near the marble shoreline: rocks and marble slabs at the water's edge are slippery — take care when entering/exiting the water

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required. Archaeological zone on the peninsula — observe posted signs. Do not land on the quarry platform or disturb the ruins. Anchoring in the water areas of both coves is permitted. Stay 50m clear of the marble shoreline. No campfires on shore.

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: Potos (south Thasos) (4nm)
• Restaurant: Small seasonal beach bar/restaurant on the western shore (June–September). Basic food and drinks. No provisions beyond snacks.
• Provisions: None on site — Potos (south Thasos) (4nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Anchor in the west bay in NE meltemi (sheltered), switch to east cove if S wind develops — the dual-sided peninsula is a rare and practical advantage
2. Best snorkelling: along the marble shoreline below the ancient quarry where rope grooves descend into the water — extraordinary historical and visual experience
3. Arrive before 09:00 in July–August to anchor before the day-trip boats arrive and crowds build on the beach
4. The ancient rope grooves in the marble — worn smooth by Thasian quarrymen 2,500 years ago — are one of the most extraordinary human-made features you can see directly from a snorkel