The crater island is one of the longing destinations of many Aegean fans, but has had the disadvantage of a very poor infrastructure for yachts for many years. There is a marina in the south of the island near Vlichadia, but it is practically fully occupied by local fishermen and excursion catamarans, who sail through the lagoon for day guests, and because of its unfavorable location it is constantly silting up, so that you can only get there after prior request via the current conditions is recommended. In addition, the Marinrund is 12 kilometers from the main town.
Now "Enterprise Greece", an agency of the Greek Ministry of Economic Affairs, has launched an initiative together with the port authorities of Santorini (ThirPort Fund) for the construction of a new marinan on the east coast near Monolithos, near the airport. At an appointment with representatives of the authorities and the mayor of Santorini, the plan was presented, but it basically only contains an investment plan and a possible license examination. Only then will investors be sought for the approximately 40 million euro project, who will then develop specific plans and take over the construction and operation.
Location of the planned port
The facility will then have around 350 berths and should also be designed for mega yachts. Monolithos is a fishing port close to the airport and about 5 kilometers from Santorini city. According to the authorities, the implementation should take place in "about two years", which seems very optimistic.
Anyone who currently wants to visit the island by yacht is best served if he moored at the large iron barrel off Oian on the north coast and lays a long shore line to a dilapidated pier. From there it is only a climb to Oia, the actually nicer place on the island, because the main town Thir is mercilessly overrun by cruise and land tourists. This also applies to Oizwar on many days, but if you anchor there and come early in the morning and later in the evening when the cruise ships have left, you will find a wonderful spot.