With a slightly Aegean scent, as the coasts of southeastern Attica have left the Euboean Gulf and gaze at Andros, Gyaros, Tzia… These waters have a deep blue color that becomes crystal clear at shallow depths. Combined with the rocky and often rugged coastline, they are an enjoyable environment for short sea tours.

The starting point is Vravrona Beach (Ippokampos Akti) where there is access for unloading boats. On the side of the beach where Macedonia Street begins, there is a passage where a car, not too low, can approach the water.

A great advantage of the beach is the supply of fresh water exactly at the point where we will sail, so for anyone who wishes, they can wash themselves and their boat, but with care not to become annoying for bathers, especially during the summer months. The coastline to the north is the coastline of Artemis. To the south, there is a rich environment with beaches, rocky bays, islets, capes and other beautiful spots, extending to Porto Rafti, and beyond (for the very adventurous).

These areas require special attention when there is a strong north wind – over 3bf, as cruising can be particularly demanding for the average paddler.

There are a few route options that vary in distance and difficulty, which is dictated by weather conditions, as the coast is exposed to the north.

Course 1:

The cruising starts heading south. After a few minutes we reach the small island of Vravrona that hosts the picturesque Ag. Alexander chapel. After the circumnavigation of the island, there are two points where we can make our first stop. On the SE part of the island there is a small beach – with some sand and rocks, and on the SW side there is a natural harbor, with a small coast.

The entrance to the harbor is a narrow passage between rocks and reefs, ideal for practicing accurate handling of the boat.  On the islet we will find rock gardens, also suitable for mooring boats and temporary anchorages.

The course continues heading SE, where we meet Mikri Chamolia beach, a wonderful coast, which, if not crowded, is an ideal place for a swim and a break at the beach.

Continuing SE, we paddle past small bays, which offer exit points, and with a relaxed half-hour cruise we arrive at the island of Lagos! An island without a name, without a beach, but with many hares, which often stand observing the passing boats.

The total trip distance is approximately 6.5nm. However, the route can also be partially done for less experienced rowers and the overall cruising distance can be adjusted to a much shorter one.

Course 2

This cruise is more demanding as it is likely to require continuous paddling for over an hour. Not recommended for beginners.

We head north. A recommended course when there is strong north wind, so that our return is a little more relaxing. We cruise along the entire coast of Artemis. There are many points of interest as the coast is mostly rocky. The beaches on the other hand are crowded and sometimes occupied by houses or businesses in the area, so their approach is not recommended. Paddling for 3.2nm we reach the islet of Ag. Nikolaos, with the homonymous chapel, and the adjacent islet Faros, which are located opposite the coast at the end of Artemis. There are a few exit points, sandy or rocky, which offer enough space for our boats and us to take a break before we start our return trip.

The trip distance ranges from 6.5 to 7.5nm.

In a Nutshell

ΤThe trip: Vravrona Beach – Vravrona Island – Mikri Chamolia Beach – Lagos Island.
Or alternatively Vravrona Beach – islet of Ag. Nikolaos
Difficulty level:: Course 1, for all levels – aimed at kayakers who can paddle for at least 1 hour without stopping and have a rudimentary physical condition. The trip can be shortened to the first or second destination.
Course 2, Intermediate Level – Aimed at kayakers who can paddle for at least 2 hours without stopping and are in good physical condition.

Course 1 Total distance: 1.5 to 6.5 n.m.
Total cruising time: From 2 to 4 hours.
What to visit: The picturesque chapel of Ag. Alexandros on the small island of Vravrona as well as its small bay.
Course 2 Total distance: 7.5 n.m.
Total cruising time: 5 hours. What to visit: The picturesque chapel of Ag. Nikolaos and swim on the small island.

Crux Points: The north winds that cause waves while in strong south winds (Land Winds) we should be especially careful and not make the route unless we have the relevant experience. Also, during the summer months Vravrona Beach is very crowded and requires special attention