ANAFI

  • GRANA
  • Latitude: 36.3427
  • Longitude: 25.7709
  • East Mediterranean
  • Port in Greece

Location: Greece

Anafi is a small island situated in the Aegean Sea, southeast of Santorini in Greece. While it is not renowned for having a large or industrially significant port compared to other Greek islands, it does offer a quaint and functional harbor that supports its local population and visiting tourists.

Anafi Port: Agios Nikolaos

Location:
The main port of Anafi is called Agios Nikolaos, situated on the northwest coast of the island. It serves as the primary gateway for sea travelers to and from Anafi.

Port Facilities and Specifications:

  1. Harbor Type:

    • Small coastal harbor.
    • Natural bay protected by a breakwater.
  2. Docking Facilities:

    • Quay:
      • Limited berthing space, primarily accommodating small ferries, local fishing boats, and yachts.
      • Ferries typically connect Anafi with Piraeus (Athens), Santorini, and other nearby islands.
    • Anchorage Zones:
      • Available for yachts and larger boats with deeper drafts.
  3. Depth:

    • Inner harbor and quay areas can typically accommodate vessels with a draft of up to 5 meters.
  4. Services:

    • Mooring: Basic mooring assistance for docking.
    • Fuel: Limited fuel supply; availability needs to be checked in advance.
    • Water and Electricity: Generally available, but with limited capacity.
    • Provisions: Basic provisions can be sourced from nearby settlements.
    • Repairs: Basic repair facilities available; major repairs would require travel to a larger port like in Santorini or Piraeus.
  5. Transport Links:

    • Shuttle Services: Transport services including taxis and buses connect the port to Chora (the main village on Anafi), which is approximately 2 kilometers from the port.
    • Visitor Amenities: Small tavernas and cafes near the port area, along with local businesses catering to tourists.
  6. Customs and Immigration:

    • Being a small port, customs and immigration facilities are minimal. Major customs checks and processes are generally handled at larger entry points like Santorini for international travelers.

Usage and Significance

  • Economic Activity: Primarily centered around local fishing, small-scale tourism, and ferry transport.
  • Tourism: The port serves as the main entry point for tourists visiting Anafi, which is known for its idyllic landscapes, tranquil beaches, and traditional Cycladic charm.
  • Cultural Importance: The port is essential for maintaining the connectivity and economy of this remote island, enabling the transport of goods and people between Anafi and the rest of the Greek islands.

Important Considerations

  • Weather Conditions: The Aegean Sea can experience strong winds, particularly the Meltemi in the summer months, which may affect docking and sailing schedules.
  • Off-Season Operations: During the off-peak season, ferry services may be less frequent, and port activities might be limited.

Anafi's port, while quaint and limited in large-scale commercial capacity, plays a vital role in the island's connectivity and sustenance of its local economy and tourism.

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