As we have already had occasion to say in the fact sheet concerning Naxos and its marina, the island of the Cyclades, one of the most beautiful naturalistically speaking, “boasts” a truly desultory scarcity of landings. The only real port is in Naxos: double ports, indeed, the commercial one and the marina behind it. For the rest, one must rely on more or less sheltered anchorages on the island. Apollonas (Apollona), located on the northeast coast of the island, a short distance from Naxos, is a partial exception. Partly for two reasons: it is not a real port, at all, although on the surface you might think you would find even a similar facility; secondly, Apollonas does offer shelter, but it offers it to very, very few boats. In case you can’t find room at the Naxos marina, in short, it may be worth popping over here to Apollonas to seek shelter; it must be said that the site is worth a visit regardless, in spite of the very few berths it offers. It is a very scenic little bay where tranquility reigns. There is no “big-number” tourism here, there are no streets with fancy stores, there is little or no hubbub, and you can really devote yourself to recharging your batteries (your own, forget about columns or other services!). Apollonas is a small fishing village; a long sandy beach, a few waterfront taverns, a few small stores, and stop. Noteworthy-as well as the main reason for Apollonas’ fame-is the colossal (10.5-meter) statue (incomplete) that stands on the hill overlooking the village: the statue of Kouros, as it is called, dates back to the sixth century B.C. and supposedly represents the god Dionysus. It is the largest and oldest marble statue found in all of Europe. The bay and village are lovely in themselves; it is a place to rest, enjoy the sea, and hike inland. In addition to reaching the above-mentioned statue, you can browse here and there on the surrounding heights and enjoy worthy views.
As for nautical hospitality, it is at a minimum but at least it is there. The small breakwater on the west side of the bay offers moderate shelter from the meltemi, although the easterly winds all come in (they are the only really dangerous ones here, though: the bay can certainly be called sheltered without fear of contradiction). One can moor at the breakwater (with a rather long line), or venture to the very small pier that marks the beginning of the fishermen’s port. Here you moor fore or aft in a depth of about 3 meters: be careful, however, the depth varies quite erratically. Avoid the minsucolo breakwater to the south: the depth verges on one meter. There are no water and electricity columns. Lastly, keep in mind that the breakwater consists of large rocks arranged also quite irregularly, it is not advisable to approach at all, always keep a good safety distance.In case there is no place here, you can drop anchor inside the bay itself. Depths vary from about 2 to about 4 meters, the bottom is sandy and the hold is moderate. Another alternative, if it really is not possible in Apollonas to slip in for the night, is to go down the east coast of the island to Moutsona Bay. It is not an extremely sheltered place: it offers shelter from the northwest, with winds from other directions you are exposed. Due to its conformity, however, the bay offers coves and bays where you can anchor to spend the night; depths range from about 2 to 8 meters, and the bottom is not reported to be a good keeper. There is also a small pier in front of the village named after the bay: shallow depths (1, maximum 2 meters) and little room, but you can try it