Kea
From CruisersWiki
Kea
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Background
Kea (Κέα) or Tzia (Τζιά) belongs to the Cyclades and it is the nearest to Athens from that group of islands. It is a mostly barren island with about 2,000 inhabitants who raise mostly livestock. Its tallest peak is Mt. Ayios Ilias 561 m (1840 ft.). The steep sides of the island are characterized by large stone fences to keep the animals within individual boundaries. In the last few years there have been a sizable number of Athenians who have bought properties and built fancy villas in the area of Koundouros. Most of these villas are attractive. During weekends there are a large number of motor cruisers in Vourkari and in the Koundouros cove.
The main town, Kea or Chora is way inland. The total population today is about 2,000 people. Despite the island's proximity to Athens, its beaches are surprising clean.
Kea West is an informative web with local news on Kea.
Charts
BA 1038 Stenó Sífnou to Stenó Kafiréa
Imray-Tetra G31 North Cyclades
NIMA 54344 Saronic Gulf and Gulf of Petalion
Greek 421 Karystos to Naxos
Radio Nets
Also see Cruiser's Nets
- Coast Guard - VHF channel 12
Details?
Check-in facilities
None.
Ports and Popular Stops
The main harbor Korissia together with the smaller yacht harbor of Vourkari are in the large bay of Ayios Nikolaos at the NE side of the island. In addition to these harbors there are several very attractive coves.
Vourkari
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Vourkari (Βουρκάρι) [37° 40' N 24° 19' E] is the main anchorage for yachts. It is at the NE side of the Ayios Nikolaos Bay and a yacht can either anchor off-shore or moor stern-to at the quay. It is very well protected from the meltemi but with strong westerlies there is a very uncomfortable and possible dangerous swell. In that case move to Korissia. The cove is deep but there is good holding but because of the depth use at least 40 m of chain. In the summer months, the anchorage is very crowded, especially during weekends. Make sure that you arrive early. Also keep in mind that most boats are on permanent moorings with a small swing radius.
There are a number of restaurants and 2 small stores ashore. They all tend to be overpriced. There are better stores in Korissia.
It is the regrettable practice of the restaurants to dump their cooking oil in the sea. This not only pollutes the nice bay but can stick to tenders and ropes.
Marinas & Yacht Clubs
None.'
Anchorages
List details of all safe anchorages in the area.
Offshore Islands
List Islands
Routes/Passages To/From
Popular passages/routes, timing, etc.
Tourism & things to do ashore
See each Port/Stop
Marine Stores & Facilities
See each Port/Stop
References & Publications
Publications, Guides, etc.
Cruiser's Friends
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
Forum Discussions
List links to discussion threads on the Cruiser Log Forum
External Links
Personal Notes
Personal experiences?
.
