PILOS

• GRPYL
• Latitude: 36.9169
• Longitude: 21.6969
• East Mediterranean
• Marina in Greece

Location: Greece

Port of Pilos (Pylos) Description

Pilos is a historic coastal town located in the southwestern part of the Peloponnese Peninsula in Messenia, Greece. It faces the Ionian Sea and is known for its picturesque surroundings, rich history, and strategic maritime significance. The town and its port have been important since ancient times and played a crucial role in various historical events, including the Battle of Navarino in 1827.

Specifications and Features

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 36.9131° N latitude and 21.6950° E longitude.
• Region: Messenia, part of the Peloponnese region.
• Nearest Major Cities: Kalamata (around 51 kilometers away) and Sparta (around 115 kilometers away).

Port Features:

• Port Type: Seaport, mainly used for fishing, tourism, and some commercial activities.
• Harbor Type: Natural harbor, providing protection from prevailing winds and rough seas.
• Water Depth: Varies; the entrance channel depth is around 3.5 meters while the depth alongside quays can range from 3 to 6 meters.
• Tidal Range: Tidal range is relatively minimal, typical of Mediterranean ports.

Facilities:

• Berthing: Several piers and jetties, capable of hosting small to medium-sized vessels, including fishing boats, yachts, and small cruise ships.
• Cargo Handling: Limited; primarily serves local and regional trade, focusing on small-scale goods and supplies necessary for the local community.
• Passenger Services: Facilities to accommodate passenger ferries and small cruise ships, important for the local tourism industry.
• Fishing Port: Significant part of the local economy, with dedicated areas for fishing boats and related activities.
• Marina Services: Providing services to leisure vessels and yachts, including refueling, water, and basic repairs.
• Navigation Aids: Standard Mediterranean port navigation aids including buoys, beacons, and lighthouses, complemented by on-call pilotage services for larger vessels.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Connected to the national road network, with routes to Kalamata, which has the nearest international airport.
• Air Access: Kalamata International Airport is the closest airport, providing both domestic and international connections.
• Local Transportation: Available through bus services, taxis, and car rentals for access to the surrounding region and local tourist destinations.

Surrounding Area:

• Besides the port, Pilos is rich in historical and cultural sites, including:
  • Niokastro: An Ottoman fortress offering panoramic views and historical exhibits.
  • Palace of Nestor: An archaeological site from the Mycenaean period.
  • Voidokilia Beach: Known for its distinctive shape and pristine beauty, one of the most famous beaches in the area.
  • Navarino Bay: The site of the Battle of Navarino, a significant naval engagement during the Greek War of Independence.

Environmental Considerations:

• Being part of a historically and environmentally sensitive area, efforts are often undertaken to ensure sustainable operations and minimize the environmental impact of the port activities.

This provides an overview of the Port of Pilos, highlighting its main features and services.