Anavyssos – Arsida

We sail off at the boat slip (Glistra) located on the west side of the Anavyssos bay, parking at the entry point. Anavyssos is located on the southeast coast of the Saronic Gulf, about 30 km southeast of Athens, between Saronida (direction to Piraeus) and Palaia Fokea (direction to Sounion).

Entering the water, we head southwest enjoying the coastline of Anavyssos Bay. We will have the opportunity to play in scattered “rock gardens”, enter a cave and paddle in blue waters and small beaches while on course to the Church of Agios Nikolaos, located at the western end of the bay. After meandering among anchored sailboats that are sheltered in the bay, we reach a small sandy beach, above which stands the stone church of Agios Nikolaos. The church is located in an idyllic landscape, near the sea surrounded by the remnants of a prehistoric settlement. The ideal fortress spot and the traces of walls on the slopes, point to the fortress of Anaphlystos as mentioned by Xenophon.

A perfect spot for our first break. A snack and a few dives in its wonderful waters will give us the necessary energy to continue with a crossing to Arsida.

Exiting Anavyssos bay, we see our island destination. Arsida (also Eleousa or Elaousa or Artsida or Argenta) is an islet located in the Saronic Gulf, very close to the west coast of southeastern Attica. The island spans across 800 acres and we will approach its eastern end to enjoy a unique circumnavigation.

ΤThe southern part of the island features steep cliffs of unique beauty but what will make our visit to this island special is a unique cave. A narrow passage will lead us to the large cave that easily fits all our boats and which is home to a seal we may be lucky enough to come across. We take care to show the appropriate respect and avoid upsetting it. The cave is open-topped, offering a truly unique landscape.

After taking the necessary photos and saying a few words about the cave, we will continue our circumnavigation, heading to the northern part of the island where there are three beautiful beaches. In one of them we will take our long break to dive into the crystal clear waters and have a small meal. After resting and regaining our strength, we take the way back following the retrograde course.

In a Nutshell

The trip: Anavyssos Glistra – Agios Nikolaos Beach – Arsida – Anavyssos Glistra.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate Level – Aimed at kayakers who can paddle for at least 2 hours non-stop and be in good physical condition. The trip can be shortened by visiting only Agios Nikolaos Beach.

Total distance: 7 n.m.
Total cruising time: 6 hours.
Points of interest: The stone-built church of Agios Nikolaos and the Cave in Arsida.

Crux Points: Especially during the summer months, special attention should be paid to boats entering the water from Glistra (boat slip). In northern winds (Land Winds) we should be very careful not to make the trip unless we have the relevant experience.