Alonissos Island

The water around this serene, green island has been declared a marine park, and is the cleanest in the Aegean.
ALONISSOS? main harbour is Patitiri, to the south of the island. Water, fuel, ice, provisions are all available. Although difficult to find berthing space during the busy season, yachts may anchor off the quay ? often with difficulty due to the limited space and winds. Many stay touched alongside other boats. An overnight can be scheduled at Steni Vala which is a splendid small fishing village opposite to Peristera Island and try delicious tastes of local fresh fish & lobster.

Most of the beaches are on the east coast, which means they avoid the strong summer meltemi winds.
We can mention Mourtia bay (SW with Megalos Mourtias, Valitsa, and Vythisma beaches), Votsi (a good shelter) situated north of Patitri, Leftos Gialos, Katerinas Vala, Kokinokastro beaches and Kokinokastro islet, Chrissi Milia Aghios Petros and Mourybeaches & Tzortzi Gialos / beach (E). Also Firakos bay (N) is not protected but you may pay a sail there just for a swim and lunch during a calm day.

Facilities and support for sailing yachts and motor boats in Alonissos is set out in the following table.

SHELTER POINTS in Alonissos Island are Patitiri main port, Votsi bay Steni Vala and Tzorti bay.

HAZARDS and NAVIGATION ADVICE for Alonissos Island and nearby area.
Attention to ferries and hydrofoils should be paid in Patitiri harbour because of its narrow entrance.
Several reefs and rocks surround the island, but they are clearly marked in all charts and pilots that charter sailing and motor yachts utilize.

WATER SPORTS in Alonissos Island
Water sports can be practised in the many coves, bays and beaches on the island and some organised beaches such as Chrisi Milia and Marpunta propose various sports like water-ski, windsurfing, puddle boats and canoes.

SCUBA DIVING in Alonissos Island
There are no diving centres in Alonissos as diving is strictly forbidden because of the many ancient remains.

RENT A CAR / BIKE in Alonissos Island
Turismo Travel Rent a Car, Mr DImakis Tel.: +30 24240 65075, 66273
Bikes for rent are available from small local agencies ? should check on the spot

HISTORY Information for Alonissos Island
The history of Alonissos begins from the Palaeolithic period according to evidence found on the island, the oldest known prehistoric habitation in the Aegean. It is believed that Alonissos was once called Ikos and together with the present islet of Vrachos it formed a single island that was possibly later separated by an earthquake. Alonissos became very famous for its production of fine wines, which was exported in amphorae carrying the name Ikos. The island was a busy destination and layover for shipping lanes as well, as indicated by the unusual number of ancient shipwrecks that have been discovered off its coast. In 1538 the island was devastated by the raids of pirate Barbarossa and was under ottoman population until 1830 when it was liberated.
The old capital of the island (chora), is no longer inhabited by local people due to an earthquake in 1965 that completely destroyed the village. Re-construction and growth was rapid and now Patitiri is the biggest village and the capital of the island. Many Germans and British bought land and restored old houses respecting local architecture, colour and tradition more than the local people do.

MUSEUMS and other interesting SITES in Alonissos Island
During your stay in Alonissos, you can visit the Historical and Popular Culture Museum of Alonissos (Tel. 24240 23494) exhibiting interesting findings and collections from all ages in Patitiri, the monastery of Analipsis (Ascension) in Gerakas that is reachable by sea and the National Marine Park, the first such nature reserve to be recognized in Greece solely devoted to the preservation of Greece's marine species and in particular the monk seal. What you should not miss is the old village (chora). Its little streets and alleys are absolutely adorable, and the view is amazing.

LOCAL THINGS & STUFF to check or BUY in Alonissos Island
For many, chartering a sailing yacht is not just the delightful joy of sailing itself, but a good opportunity to travel, explore, acquire different kinds of experience and broaden horizons. Shopping is sometimes included into the major package of sailing holidays in Greece and the Greek islands. In Patitiri you can get various souvenirs from small, picturesque boutiques that sell local handicrafts, beautiful hand made jewellery, souvenirs, wooden toys, books, paintings, colourful candles, antiques and various local products. Also, do not forget to buy something from the Marine Park such as little souvenirs and gadgets that are sold in order to finance the work to save the endangered Monk Seals (monachus-monachus). Before leaving Alonissos, make sure you try the local delicacies such as roasted figs with honey! Make sure that there is enough space into your luggage and onboard your sailing or motor yacht for all things you may buy from the island.

Photos from the island of Alonissos

Other names used for Alonissos are: Alonisos, Allonisos, Alonnisos, Alonnissos, Aloniso, Alonesse