Poros – Hydra

Off to Hydra.

After a wonderful time with my dad, we set off to the next island. At the end of October, Poros is still full of tourists and charter boats, as well as flotillas. What will it be like in Hydra?

 

October 20th, 2023: Poros - Hydra

At eleven o'clock, we left the harbor of Poros. There was barely any wind and hardly any waves, but the strong autumn sun made the sea glisten. Unfortunately, we had to motor the entire way, but by now, we're used to that here. Hydra is known for its crowded port. Boats often anchor three deep in the port, creating complete chaos. Additionally, there are lots of chains and other debris in the water.

So, we decided to anchor and first headed to the anchorage Mandraki, north of the port. This spot is particularly deep and requires a stern line to shore, especially during high season. From a distance, we could see it was quite full, so we chose not to stop there and instead went south of the town. After about three hours, we reached Vlychos and anchored with plenty of space between two other boats.

Although Vlychos is not a protected bay, with the right wind and swell, it is quite sheltered due to its proximity to the Peloponnese. The only annoyance is the taxi boats that create a lot of swell as they pass too close to anchored boats. However, this is quickly forgotten when you look at the incredibly turquoise water. Nearby, there is a great taverna and a dinghy dock, usually used by the taxi boats, but available for us too. The town is a 30-minute walk along a panoramic path. Highly recommended.

 

General Infos: Hydra

Hydra is a stunning island in the Saronic Gulf, famous for its picturesque harbor, stone mansions, and lack of motor vehicles. Instead of cars, donkeys are the primary mode of transportation, adding to the island's unique charm. Visitors can enjoy walking through charming streets, hiking to scenic viewpoints, and exploring historical sites. The island offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Hydra is accessible by ferry from Athens, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

 

Additional Passage Facts

  • Duration: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Distance: 13.3 nautical miles