Ermioni – Porto Heli

National Holiday Sailing.

After weathering four nights in Ermioni, we decided to head further west. So, on the Austrian National Day, we sailed from Ermioni to Porto Heli.

 

October 26th, 2023: Ermioni – Porto Heli: After a relaxing morning, we lifted anchor at 11:15 AM and motored out of the bay on a course of 34 degrees. Right at the start, we tried once again to repair the autopilot, which hasn’t worked since our crossing from Italy to Greece. Unfortunately, we had no success again. At 12:15 PM, we adjusted our course further west to 238 degrees, finally setting the genoa and turning off the engine. With 4 Beaufort wind, we managed to cover some distance and enjoyed the sail along the Peloponnese. Sadly, the sailing fun was short-lived, and soon we had only 1 Beaufort of wind, contrary to the weather forecast. So, the motor had to be used again. Three and a half hours after departure, we set course for Porto Heli (9 degrees) under motor only. The bay was quite full, but due to its size, we had plenty of space and anchored between an abandoned boat and a party boat in 6 meters of water.

Porto Heli is well-known, especially in the German-speaking region, for its Trans Ocean base, which serves as a hub and support center for long-distance sailors. This makes it a popular destination for German sailors seeking a well-equipped and familiar port in Greece.

We found the town and marina itself to be unexciting, and the German influence was noticeable in the higher prices. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the night there due to the sheltered location.

 

General Infos: Porto Heli

Porto Heli is a popular coastal town on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese, known for its large natural harbor and vibrant sailing community. It offers a range of amenities for sailors, including marinas, shops, and restaurants. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and clear waters, making it a favored spot for both local and visiting yachts. While the town may not be very thrilling, its strategic location and well-protected bay make it a convenient stopover for sailors exploring the region.

 

Additional Passage Facts

  • Duration: 3 hours 25 minutes
  • Distance: 14.3 nautical miles