Ios - Docking
The port of Ios is on the west coast of the island, opposite the northern end of Sikinos, 3.5NM away. It is easily spotted by its white “Chora” on top of the hill and two windmills below.
On approach take care with the high-speed ferries rushing back and forth and strong gusts from the Meltemi blowing into the bay.
In the harbor basin yachts can moor to the Eastern Quay where there are laid moorings. The mooring chain runs north to south, marked by buoys. Each “parking place” has a laid line attached to the yellow concrete bollard on the quay with a bright orange buoy in the water next to the quay.
Use plenty of fenders and pull the boat well off the quay as the ferries arrive at speed and create a lot of surges. You might also find space on the Northern Quay in the evening once the ferries have stopped running. This quay is supervised by the Port Police. Holding is good in mud.
The usual facilities are available on the quay and the town has everything you might need (including Camping Gas in the “Chora”).
Anchoring in the bay is prohibited due to the many fast ferries serving the island.
Note: A recent cruiser report (June 2022 – see Related User Comments) indicates that visiting yachts are being told by port staff that no moorings are available. Moorings are being blocked and being kept available for charter catamaran companies.
Last updated: November 2022
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Be advised that cruisers are often being told on arrival by port staff that there are no mooring available. Moorings are being blocked off with dinghy’s and lines by the port staff who are keeping these berths free for certain catamaran charter companies.
I have witnessed port staff being abusive to cruisers trying to dock in this port.
Greek charter skippers and port staff working hand in hand.
To my knowledge they have no right to block of moorings, cruisers have to get more assertive with these people on arrival when they are being turned away.
Bad form from this port authority.
Note that as of April 2022, Ios is not a Port of Entry. There are no Customs offices here. They sent us away to Syros where one can check into Greece.