Merichas port in Kythnos is the main harbour and ferry dock of the island. Yachts can moor stern-to between the breakwater and the fishing quay whereby the inner area right at the breakwater has to be kept clear for cargo vessels and large excursion boats. Since the completion of the new ferry dock (at the outer quay of the breakwater), yachts not only have more room to moor but it is also ...
distinctly calmer. In the past, the anchored yachts used to be affected by the incoming and outgoing ferries, which often caused a lot of damage. Since 2013 the ferries have moored off the breakwater so that the yachts in the harbour are now sheltered from the swell. However, when there is a westerly wind, especially from the NW, there is a swell in the harbour.
The bay is sheltered from the prevailing winds. But when the Meltemi blows, strong gusts sweep through the harbour area.
Merichas port is nearly always full in the season as Merichas is a popular starting point for yachts sailing to and from Athens. Alternatively, boats can anchor in the bay or stern-to at the head of the fishing quay where spaces are often available. The street going past the harbour is closed to traffic (high season) so that this area then becomes a pedestrian zone.
Water and electricity is available for a fee. Sailors can get the cards needed at the first supermarket, which also sells fuel for yachts.
The village may not be typical of the Cyclades, but it provides an attractive sailing destination with its various cafés, restaurants and shopping amenities.
Details
Number of berths:15
Type of berthing:
Stern-to
Depth:3 - 10 m
Berthing assistance: Few
Facilities
Electricity
Fuel station
Gas (bottles)
Water
Safety
Wind protection:
Dangerous winds:
Swells from:
Safety note
Be aware of the ferries propwash for boaters berthing closed to the ferry dock.
Anchor ground and holding
The bottom is sand, mud and weed. The anchor holds moderate.
Merichas ist ein beliebter Hafen auf dem Weg von und nach Lavrion bzw. Athen. Man hat viel Platz zu mannövrieren und die Wassertiefe ist überall unproblematisch. Die Karten für Wasser gibt es im Supermarkt.
What I didn't like:
Man sollte nicht zu spät kommen, sonst sind alle Plätze belegt und man muss im Hafenbecken ankern.
We stayed here one night. The assistance from the port was 100%. We paid 14 Euros for our stay + water + elecricity. Lot of restaurants was open. We were saatisfied...
Stayed here in late October. Very pleasant port with typical white steps and Greek tavernas. Lots of places to eat snacks and dinner. Ferry does regularly visit but wash was not noticeable. Water does shallow at the southern end of the quay so be careful if mooring up against the concrete jetty by fish market (<1.5m)
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