The Best Places to Anchor a Boat in Kavala, Greece

Kavala is one of northern Greece’s most beautiful coastal cities, where history, turquoise waters, and island-hopping adventures meet. For sailors and sea lovers, it offers more than just a charming harbor view. The region is filled with calm coves, sheltered bays, and scenic islands that make it a dream for those exploring by catamaran.

If you are looking for the best places to anchor a boat in Kavala, this guide will take you through the most stunning spots around the city and its nearby islands. Whether you are stopping for a swim, lunch at a seaside taverna, or a peaceful overnight stay, the waters of Kavala are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Why Kavala Is Perfect for Anchoring and Day Trips

Kavala is known as the “Blue City” for good reason. Sitting gracefully on the northern Aegean Sea, it combines calm sailing conditions with rich maritime history. The harbor is well protected, the winds are predictable, and the coastline offers a mix of sandy beaches and rocky peninsulas.

For boaters, Kavala is a fantastic starting point for both short day trips and longer journeys. From here, you can sail toward Thasos, explore secluded mainland bays, or anchor near coastal villages where Greek life moves at a slower pace.

The area’s deep history adds another layer of wonder. Anchoring near Kavala means floating beside routes once used by ancient traders and explorers who linked Asia and Europe. It’s a place where natural beauty and human stories blend perfectly.

Top 7 Places to Anchor a Boat in Kavala

If you are planning to explore by catamaran, these are some of the most scenic and safe anchorages in the Kavala area. Each offers something different, from quiet coves to lively harbor towns.

1. The Bay of Nea Iraklitsa

Just a few miles west of Kavala, Nea Iraklitsa is one of the most convenient and picturesque spots to anchor. The bay is well protected from northern winds and offers clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.

You’ll find beach bars and tavernas just steps from the water, yet the bay still feels calm and relaxed. The anchorage has sandy holding and moderate depths, making it ideal for catamarans and smaller yachts.

You can explore the small caves nearby or take a short dinghy ride to Cape Vrasidas, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystalline water.

2. Nea Peramos Bay

A few minutes of sailing west from Nea Iraklitsa brings you to Nea Peramos Bay, another favorite among local sailors. The long sandy coastline and the nearby Ammolofi Beach create an incredible view from the deck of your boat.

Anchoring is easy with good holding ground in sand, and protection from most winds except strong southwesterlies. During summer, you’ll often see other catamarans and sailboats anchored here, creating a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

Take your tender ashore to enjoy a seaside meal at one of the beach tavernas, or simply stay on board to watch the golden sunset reflect across the water.

3. Ormos Eleftheres

If you want a quieter stop, continue west toward Ormos Eleftheres, a wide open bay framed by hills and olive groves. It’s peaceful, scenic, and rarely crowded.

The water here is deep blue, and the holding is reliable on sandy bottom. The surrounding landscape gives excellent protection from most wind directions, especially from the north. This makes Ormos Eleftheres one of the best overnight anchorages near Kavala.

It’s also a great spot for snorkeling. The underwater visibility is exceptional, and the coastline has rocky sections where small fish gather.

4. Kavala Town Anchorage

Anchoring near Kavala’s old port gives you a front-row view of the city’s iconic castle and amphitheater-style hills. It’s a convenient place if you want to explore on land while keeping your boat nearby.

Although space can be limited, it’s possible to anchor off the marina in settled weather. The harbor offers good holding in sand and mud. You’ll be close to shops, restaurants, and historical attractions, including the Byzantine fortress and the old aqueduct.

Watching the city lights reflect on the water as night falls is one of the most memorable experiences when sailing around Kavala.

5. Ormos Alikes, Thasos Island

Thasos Island lies just across from Kavala, around 12 nautical miles away. Ormos Alikes, on the southeast side of the island, is one of the most beautiful anchorages in the northern Aegean.

The bay has crystal-clear water, a sandy bottom, and a lovely curve of beach backed by pine trees. It’s sheltered from most directions and ideal for swimming or paddleboarding.

The area is also home to the ancient marble quarries of Aliki, where white stone was once mined and shipped across the ancient world. From your boat, you can still see the remnants of old columns under the sea.

6. Skala Kallirachi, Thasos

Another excellent place to anchor on Thasos is Skala Kallirachi, a charming fishing village on the island’s west coast. The small harbor is picturesque, and the nearby waters are calm and shallow, perfect for catamarans.

Anchoring here gives you a glimpse of everyday Greek island life. Locals fish from the pier, children play along the waterfront, and tavernas serve fresh seafood caught just offshore.

It’s an ideal stop if you want a combination of authentic culture and peaceful surroundings.

7. Livadi Beach, Thasos

Livadi Beach, located beneath the monastery of Archangel Michael, is one of Thasos’s most dramatic anchor spots. Steep cliffs rise behind the beach, creating a stunning backdrop for your boat.

Anchoring is possible in calm weather, with good sand holding and clear water. The monastery perched above the cliffs adds a spiritual, almost cinematic atmosphere to this location.

This spot is ideal for those seeking natural beauty and a bit of adventure, as the area is perfect for hiking and photography.

What Makes Kavala’s Coastline So Unique?

The coastline around Kavala is shaped by centuries of geological and cultural history. The waters are calmer than many southern Greek regions, which makes them ideal for relaxed sailing. The Aegean Sea here is dotted with small islands, coves, and capes that create a sense of exploration even on short day trips.

Beyond the scenery, the sea has always been central to Kavala’s identity. It was once a hub of trade and fishing, and even today, the rhythm of daily life still follows the tides. Sailing in these waters feels like traveling through time, connecting modern-day travelers with ancient routes once used by Phoenician traders and Byzantine ships.

Best Time of Year to Anchor in Kavala

The sailing season in Kavala runs from late April through October. During this period, winds are light to moderate, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming.

June and September are particularly pleasant months. The weather is warm, the sea is calm, and there are fewer crowds both in town and around the anchorages.

In high summer, the Meltemi winds can occasionally reach the northern Aegean, but Kavala’s geography provides plenty of sheltered bays that remain calm even during stronger gusts.

How to Choose the Right Anchorage Around Kavala

When planning your route, it’s helpful to consider three main factors: wind protection, holding ground, and access to shore.

Sheltered bays like Nea Iraklitsa and Ormos Eleftheres offer great all-around protection, while areas like Livadi Beach are best enjoyed in calm weather. Most anchorages in Kavala have sandy bottoms, which provide reliable holding for catamarans and sailing yachts.

If you plan to go ashore, look for places with nearby tavernas or small docks where you can safely tie your tender. Local sailors are usually friendly and happy to offer advice or a helping hand.

What to See and Do Near Each Anchorage

One of the best parts of sailing around Kavala is how easily sea life blends with cultural exploration.

At Nea Iraklitsa, you can visit local wineries or hike to nearby viewpoints. Nea Peramos offers vibrant beach life and traditional tavernas serving local specialties like grilled octopus.

Around Thasos, the options expand even more. Visit ancient ruins, monasteries, or mountain villages known for honey and marble. Each stop has its own rhythm and story, and part of the adventure is discovering them at your own pace.

Practical Tips for Anchoring in Kavala

• Always check the weather forecast before setting out, as northern Greece can experience sudden afternoon gusts.

• Use a depth finder, as some areas, especially near cliffs, can deepen quickly.

• Keep an eye out for fishing nets near the coast, particularly close to small villages.

• Bring snorkeling gear. The water clarity around Kavala and Thasos is among the best in the Aegean.

• Respect local regulations and avoid dropping anchor near protected archaeological or marine zones.

These small habits will help you enjoy the region safely while preserving its pristine beauty for future visitors.

Conclusion: The Magic of Anchoring in Kavala

Anchoring in Kavala is more than a sailing experience. It’s a way to connect with Greece’s natural rhythms and centuries of seafaring tradition. Each bay tells a story, from the calm waters of Nea Iraklitsa to the ancient ruins of Aliki.

When you drop anchor here, you are surrounded by the same timeless beauty that inspired poets, fishermen, and travelers for generations. The crystal water, golden light, and gentle pace of life invite you to slow down and savor every moment.

Whether you come for a day or a week, the journey will stay with you long after you sail home.

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