The North Aegean

The North Aegean spans a large sweep of islands from Thasos and Samothraki in the north down to Samos and Ikaria in the south, with Lemnos, Lesvos, and Chios between them. The islands are well separated, with open-water passages of 50 miles or more between some of the major ones. Each island has a distinct character, and the area as a whole is less frequented by cruising yachts than the Cyclades or Ionian despite the range of things to see and do ashore.

On Samothraki, the Sanctuary of the Gods is an ancient religious site that drew initiates from across the ancient world and was the original home of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, now in the Louvre. The Therma Spa offers thermal spring-fed pools on a quiet hillside with cold-water swimming available at the beach below. The old town of Samothraki Chora sits above the coast with cobbled streets, stone houses, garden cafes, and views toward the sea and castle.

Lemnos has a strong draw for those interested in history. Poliochne Prehistoric Settlement is among the earliest urban settlements known in the Aegean, with cliff-top remains, an on-site museum, and active excavation. Myrina Castle gives wide views over the port and toward Mount Athos from the top of the hill above town. The Faraklou geological Park on the east of the island features wind-carved sandstone formations in colours ranging from blue to red to yellow. The Moudros East Military Cemetery holds the graves of Australian, New Zealand, British, French, Indian, and Egyptian soldiers who died during or after the Gallipoli Campaign, for which Lemnos was the main staging area, along with White Russian evacuees from 1920.

On Lesvos, the Castle of Mytilene is a large partially restored fortress in Mytilini with an Ottoman school, baths, and underground cistern inside, and views across to the Turkish coast. The Old Turkish baths nearby date from the 1820s and are well preserved, set in the old Muslim quarter close to the castle and a cluster of cafes. The Natural History Museum Petrified Forest near Sigri covers the island's fossilised forest and includes a guided tour and a walk through an outdoor park of petrified specimens. Lesvos is famous for its ouzo, and two distilleries welcome visitors: the Ouzo Museum: The World of Ouzo in Plomari runs factory tours and tastings for the Plomari brand, while the Ouzo Museum in Mytilini offers free tours and tastings of the Barbayanni brand across five generations of family history.

On Chios, the Nea Moni Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 11th century, with mosaics in the katholikon that are among the finest surviving examples of Byzantine art. The monastery was sacked during the Ottoman destruction of Chios in 1822, and an ossuary on site holds the remains of those killed. It sits around 15 kilometres inland from Chios town.

Samos offers the Eupalinus Tunnel, a 6th-century BC aqueduct running almost a kilometre through the mountain and excavated from both ends simultaneously, a feat of ancient engineering. Tours run at set times with hard hats provided. The Potami Waterfalls at the western end of the island involve a short hike through trees to reach the canyon, where the approach to the falls is by swim. The Pythagoras cave is a steep climb to a high vantage point with sea views in all directions; tradition holds the cave was used as a refuge by Pythagoras and others fleeing tyrants.

The Archeological Museum Of Agio Kirkos on Ikaria holds a permanent display of finds from across the island and is free to enter.

The passages between islands in the North Aegean are long by Greek standards, and conditions during the Meltemi season can be demanding. The standard approach for cruising yachts is to head north early in the season, before the Meltemi establishes, and then return south with the wind. The already strong winds accelerate between islands and around headlands. Hugging the Turkish coast offers more shelter for yachts working back up through the southern part of the area.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Lagonisi ★ 5.0 This anchorage features a well-protected area with calm conditions. Multiple reviews highlight the tranquility and beauty of the setting, with reports of secure anchoring even in strong winds. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
	Ormos Ftelies ★ 4.7 Clear waters characterize this bay, with sandy areas suitable for anchoring. Daytime sees some motorboat traffic, but nights are peaceful. The beach taverna offers snacks, while flies and wasps may be bothersome in the evening.
	Psara harbour anchorage ★ 4.7 Psara Safe anchorage exists on the East side of the bay in 6 meters of sand. Visitors reported wind protection with some gentle rolling. Amenities include clean beaches, free sunbeds, and a drinking water kiosk nearby.
	Paralia Chrousos ★ 4.7 Lesbos The anchorage provides good holding in sandy conditions. Visitors experienced varied wind conditions but noted that some swell can occur, particularly with northern winds. It is advised to anchor in deeper areas to ensure stability and comfort during overnight stays.
	Diaporos S Anchorgae ★ 4.5 Shelter and protection from all directions are notable at this anchorage. Multiple visitors report good mud holding and a peaceful atmosphere at night. Daytime sees rental boats, but the area remains spacious and accessible to nearby amenities.
	Ormos Kamari, Khios ★ 4.5 Chios The anchorage features beautiful scenery and offers protection from the Meltemi wind. Visitors observed good holding characteristics but noted limited space for multiple boats. Access to nearby beaches and restaurants enhances the overall experience, though some may find it crowded.
	Posidonio ★ 4.4 Samos The anchorage features clear water and a sandy bottom, offering good holding conditions. Visitors frequently note the beautiful setting but mention the challenges posed by swirling winds and heavy boat traffic during peak months. Expect limited services and busy conditions in summer.
	Marathokampos Anchorage ★ 4.3 Samos Anchoring in Marathokampos Anchorage provides a safe experience, with good holding in sand even during strong gusts. Facilities include several tavernas, a bakery, and a small grocery store. Caution is needed near the soap factory due to occasional smoke.
	Skala Kallonís anchorage ★ 4.3 Lesbos A spacious bay allows for comfortable anchoring in depths of about 5 meters. However, difficulty with muddy bottoms can complicate anchor recovery. Noise from vehicles at night may detract from the experience.
	Porto Koufos ★ 4.2 This anchorage features good holding in mud with depths ranging from 6 to 20 meters. It is reported as well-protected, with nearby tavernas and a gas station offering boat supplies. The site provides a peaceful atmosphere despite some comments on water clarity.

Show more

Marinas

	Marina Mytilene ★ 4.7 Lesbos Marina Mytilene features friendly staff and adequate security with locked pontoon gates. Sanitary facilities are maintained well, with regular cleaning and free laundry services. Visitors find the marina well-protected yet occasionally experience swell from southeast winds.
	Ormos marina ★ 4.5 Samos Usage of Ormos Marina is characterized by strong community support and good facilities, including clean showers and reliable wi-fi. Visitors noted helpful staff, though some negative experiences were mentioned regarding animal behavior. Facilities for wintering boats have been improved significantly over time.
	Ormos Marathokampos ★ 4.1 Samos Protection from winds is generally robust, though some Reviews indicate exposure to southeasterly swell. The marina offers free water and electricity, but several outlets may be out of order. Visitors have reported friendly service, making it a secure option.
	Chios Marina ★ 4.0 Chios The marina provides shelter from Meltemi winds, with specific areas such as the end of the breakwall noted for safety. Visitors mention a lack of facilities, but a supermarket is available nearby. Recent reviews indicate mixed conditions regarding dust and cleanliness.
	Aretsou Marina Thessaloniki ★ 4.0 This marina is well-protected and offers friendly staff. Facilities include water and electricity at available moorings. Nearby, there are numerous shops and restaurants, plus access to transport for the airport is convenient.

Show more

Harbours

	Mithymna ★ 4.6 Lesbos Mithymna's harbour offers shelter from southern winds, with mooring alongside the breakwater reported by some visitors. Amenities include water and electricity. Travelers appreciate the town's charming streets, but note the touristy atmosphere and limited market options.
	Phythagorio ★ 4.6 Samos Pythagorio offers a vibrant atmosphere with various tavernas and shops available. Visitors appreciate the town quay's assistance for mooring and the availability of supermarkets. Noise from bars is noted, particularly during the night.
	Myrina Harbour ★ 4.5 Lemnos Myrina Harbour is well-protected with multiple anchoring options. Electricity is available, but water points have limited functionality. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions and local history, though anchoring may require caution due to variable holding ground.
	Mandraki, Oinousses ★ 4.3 A small island town features beautiful surroundings and clean water. The harbour charges €7 per night for mooring but lacks working water and electricity taps. Visitors report efficient staff interactions but note potential delays with the Port Police.
	Psara ★ 4.3 Psara Check-in procedures are in place, with port police verifying documentation. The harbour is effective during strong northerly winds. A taverna offers enjoyable meals at reasonable prices.

Show more

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

Shipyard Karlovassi Samos ★ 5.0 Samos The shipyard offers comprehensive facilities for boat work with a staff noted for their friendliness. Visitors appreciate the nearby amenities in Karlovassi, highlighting overall positive experiences over a longer duration of stay. Professional service is consistently mentioned.

Chandlers

	Marine Store Pythagorion Samos ★ 5.0 Samos Service is high-quality at this chandler. Visitors report helpful staff, specifically mentioning assistance provided by Nektarius. Such positive experiences suggest a supportive environment for those in need of chandler services.
No image	Nautilus ★ 5.0 Nautilus features a competent staff and offers a wide range of supplies for sailing needs. Customers can place online orders for pickup, ensuring items are ready upon arrival. Supplies are typically available within 1-2 days if not in stock.
No image	Tsouros Marine ★ 4.7 Lesbos A large chandler with a strong selection of fishing and scuba gear. Visitors appreciated the assistance and helpful advice available regarding their issues. A few reviews note a positive experience with knowledgeable staff.

Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Greece: