Pilot A Yachting Pilot for Cyprus This yachtsman's pilot for the island of Cyprus is based on our cruising notes following our trip around southern Cyprus in the summer of 2015. We did not visit and it is not included at this time. No pilot is ever “finished” of course and your input would be useful, so if you have any amendments, additions, useful photographs or general comments about this pilot please send them to me at [email protected]. This pilot is completely free of charge and you may pass it on to anyone who would like a copy. However, please note that the contents are covered by various copyrights (details below). You may print the pilot but copying and editing the text has been disabled because we want to retain the integrity of the document and not have odd pages being distributed around. The latest version can always be downloaded freely from http://cruisingtips.net/ pdf/Cyprus_Pilot.pdf. The version date of this copy can be found in the “Last updated” date at the bottom of every page. Businesses I think will be of interest to people cruising Cyprus are listed and they have been encouraged to provide additional information. If you have a business that you think should have been include but was left out, please contact me with your information.

The Standard Disclaimer Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information presented here, you use this pilot entirely at your own risk. Neither Rick Munden nor any of the contributors provide any guarantee or warranty as to the suitability or accuracy of this information. You alone are responsible for the navigation and safety of your vessel. Acknowledgements This pilot was inspired by Tony Cross's Crete Pilot which I have plagiarized to the best of my ability. Copyright Information This document contains images from Google Earth and these are copyright ©Google Inc. According to the Google Earth website (http://earth.google.com/support/bin/answer.py?answer=21422&topic=1141) it is legal for me to use these images in this document provided I do not sell it. Therefore you may not sell it either.

Last updated 24 March 2016 2 Cyprus Pilot General Information on Cyprus From Wikipedia: “Cyprus is the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean, and a member state of the European Union. It is located south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, northwest of Israel and the Gaza Strip, north of Egypt and east of Greece. It is roughly 115 nautical miles East to West and 68 nautical miles north to south and has about 400 miles of coastline. It is center about 35 degrees North and 33 degrees East. While there are no natural harbors that offer all-round protection, there are many anchorages that are safe during typical summer weather. ”The Republic of Cyprus is de facto partitioned into two main parts; the area under the effective control of the Republic, comprising about 59% of the island's area, and the north,[29] administered by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognised only by Turkey, covering about 36% of the island's area. The international community considers the northern part of the island as territory of the Republic of Cyprus occupied by Turkish forces. [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] The occupation is viewed as illegal under international law, amounting to illegal occupation of EU territory since Cyprus became a member of the European Union.”

For the purpose of describing the ports and anchorages here we have divided the island into four quarters; the west, south, east and north and, starting with the west quadrant, we will travel around the island in an anti-clockwise direction. Information on the north, occupied quadrant will be added at a later date. No vessel, with the same captain, that has ever visited Northern Cyprus, may enter the Republic of Cyprus. That is currently the law. Many people have violated this law and gotten away with it – but not all. As of 2015, Cyprus is a member of the European Union but is not a member of Schengen. If, on entry, you tell immigrations you intend to stay on your boat, you may be given a “Landing Permit” rather than a stamp in you passport. The Landing Permit allows you to stay in Cyprus as long as your boat is here. It should be noted that Cyprus is not a “dog friendly” country. Dogs are not allowed on beaches and may face quarantine on entry. The Cyprus Tourism Organization has information offices in many towns. They are usually very good sources of information both local and island wide.

Last updated 24 March 2016 3 Cyprus Pilot Cyprus Weather Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate with long, dry summers from mid-May to mid-October and mild winter from December to February. Summer is a season of high temperatures and cloudless skies. Winds are predominately from the West, are often calm in the morning but increasing to force 4 or 5 in the afternoon. They tend to follow the coast but may have an on-shore component during the day and an off-shore component at night. Winters are mild with rain. Winter winds are more variable. March seems to be the windiest month.

Weather Forecasts for Cyprus Cyprus Radio broadcast weather forecasts at 0600, 1000, 1600, and 2200 with notification on channel 16 then switching to another channel. The forecasts are for 24 hours and cover the four coasts. The Internet-based weather services provide more detailed and longer-term forecasts, often up to 7 or more days ahead and often with resolutions down to a few kilometers. Almost all of them are derived from numerical computer models and most use the data from the NOAA GFS model, this uses a 1⁄2-degree grid length (551⁄2km) and is run every 6 hours. Meso-scale local forecasts are generated by more specialized computer models which typically use the GFS data for their initial conditions and which may also include real weather data or take account of local topography. These models can produce local forecasts with grid lengths of 9km or less. The two main forecast delivery methods are to download grib files to a grib-aware application on your PC or tablet, or to display weather information directly in your web browser. The two commonest grib-based services that cover Cyprus are Ugrib and Zygrib . Both allow you to download the latest grib files and display the resulting forecast in the associated application on your PC or tablet. Zygrib displays a wider range of weather data than Ugrib and most people find Zygrib's displays easier to read and use. A third source of grib file for the area is openSkiron. It offers files of 0.1 degree resolution and one hour increments though for only 2 day forecasts rather than 5 or 8. There are a plethora of websites that provide web-based forecasts covering Cyprus and everyone has their personal favorite. Some popular weather sites are, TurkMeteo, ISRAMAR, PassageWeather , PredictWind , AthensObservatory , WindGuru , WindFinder , WeatherOnline , and ECMWF . We would advise you to carefully check the source data of each forecast you use to be sure you don't rely on two apparently different forecasts which in

Last updated 24 March 2016 4 Cyprus Pilot fact come from exactly the same computer model! Internet-based forecasts are very useful for planning purposes but it would be unwise to rely on them alone, especially around a rugged island like Cyprus. We recommend that you always listen to the VHF weather forecasts, or monitor the NAVTEX weather broadcasts, and also use your own observations and experience. Computer models can only produce statistical predictions, they are not a statement of fact even though they are often presented as such. The weather does not know itself to within a Beaufort force, neither do human forecasters, nor computer models. It's always better to be in port wishing you were at sea than to be at sea wishing you were in port!

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Republic of Cyprus

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Ports of Entry

Latchi Latchi may be the least complicated port of entry. It is the closest for boats arriving from Turkey. The Marine Police monitor VHF channel 16. The Port Authority can be reached by phone at: +357 994 68750. Customs does not have an office in Latchi but will send an agent from Pafos if needed.

Pafos Pafos is the western most port of entry. The harbor is shallow and may present problems for boats with more than two meters draft. Both the Marine Police and Port Authority monitor VHF channel 16. Port Authority phone number is: +357 26 946 840, email: cpa.@cytanet.com.cy.

Limasol Boats may clear in at either Marina or St. Raphael Marina. The officials in Limassol are more thorough than elsewhere on the island. Extra time should be set aside for formalities even if you have entered Cyprus at another port. The information below is provided by Con Sprenger of “Big Sky”: Clearing into Cyprus at Limassol Marina

November 5th, 2015 Boats arriving at Limassol, Cyprus marina must clear in. All officials have offices in the marina and the process is quick and efficient. Most of us who have sailed from one EU country to another, are accustomed to not having to check in with customs - Cyprus is different. Officials are to be visited in the following order: 1) Port police, 2) Immigration 3) Customs Cyprus is part of the European Union but not part of Schengen (yet). All officials are courteous and friendly and try hard to complete the process quickly and easily, their goal is to make you feel welcome. Cyprus also has the 90 in 180 day rule for people and the 18 month rule for non EU boats. If you or your boat remain for longer periods, inform the officials and in general they will find ways to accommodate your plans. Port Police: Boat registration, insurance and a crew list as well as passports are required. Immigration: Cyprus has the same rule as most other countries, non- residents are allowed to stay for 90 days in a 180 day period. If the intended

Last updated 24 March 2016 7 Cyprus Pilot stay is for less than 90 days, your passport will get an entry stamp. If your stay is for longer than 90 days, officials will keep your passport and issue a landing card. Validity of the landing card is flexible and immigration officials will allow all reasonable timeframes. If a longer period is needed an extension will be granted. Certain nationalities might require a visa; I have not checked this out. When departing, you will get a departure stamp in your passport, and if you were issued a landing card, your passport will be returned and stamped upon surrendering the landing card. Customs: Everybody must report to customs, even if you are an EU registered boat with VAT paid status – no exceptions. Documents required are: Ship’s registration, crew list, and power of attorney if the captain is not the owner. If your stay is for a short period, say a week or less, the clearing in process is quick, simple and easy. If your stay is for longer periods additional steps are required as outlined below. Non EU registered boat - VAT not paid: A temporary import license will be issued, for the duration of your stay or for 6 months. In case of longer stays, extensions are easily obtained. The temporary import licence is only available for non EU citizens and proof must be provided, usually your passport will suffice. If you leave Cyprus, say by plane, and your boat stays, inform the customs official and the “clock” on your temporary import license stops for as long as you are out of the country. Make sure to let customs know when you return. EU registered boat - VAT paid: The following documents are required: 1) Certificate of Registry 2) Builder’s Certificate 3) Certificate of Conformity – if under 24 meters 4) Bill of Sale (Original) 5) T2L – My understanding is that this is a documents providing proof that the boat was manufactured in accordance with EU standards and regulations. 6) Document to prove that VAT has been paid. In most cases this would be the original invoice from the factory to its first owner. Custom’s official(s) will visit your boat to verify serial numbers – boat and engine. If you do not have all the documents listed above, the customs officials will work with you to overcome any obstacle. Non EU registered boat – VAT paid: As EU registered boat above. Our boat falls into this category, lacking some of the required documents. The customs official suggested that it would be simpler to issue a temporary import license, which was done on site at no cost.

Leaving: Plan ahead. The port police office is staffed 24/7, immigration will be called by the port police, the customs office is staffed from 7 AM to 3 PM Monday to Friday. If you are planning to leave when the customs office is closed, clear customs ahead of time during their regular working hours.

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Larnaca Boats approaching from the east, Israel or Lebanon usually clear in at Marina. Both the Marine Police and the marina monitor VHF channel 16. The marina phone number is: +357 24653110 and their email is: [email protected]. You will need to visit the Marine Police when arriving and leaving even if you are remaining in Cyprus waters.

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Western Cyprus

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We define Western Cyprus as extending from the UN buffer zone east of Pomos to the base of the Peninsula. It has two all weather harbors suitable for yachts at Latchi and Pafos. Both of these are also Ports of Entry. There are fishing shelters at Pomos and Agios Georgios but both are usually full. The Pomos shelter is also shoal with a controlling depth of about 1.5 meters. Depending on weather, good anchorage can be found at Pomos, Aphrodite's Beach, Blue Lagoon, Geranissos, Lara Beach (outside of turtle season), Coral Bay, Timi, , and .

Pomos There is a tiny fishing harbor here but it is usually full and has an entrance depth of only 1.5 meters. However, there is a very nice, fairly well protected, anchorage just 0.2 miles east. It consists of a large area of clear sand with 4 to 6 meter depths. The water can be warmer here than in other anchorages. From the anchorage you can dinghy ashore or into the harbor. Kanalli Restaurant sits above the harbor and has WiFi. A beach bar is located just north of the harbor.

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Pomos

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A hike into the town is possible.

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Latchi Latchi is a port of entry for the Republic of Cyprus operated by the Cyprus Ports Authority. The marina is a fishing harbor that has been extended to accommodate charter boats, tripper boats, and yachts. It is crowded and busy in the summer but the harbor master will do his best to find space for visiting yachts. Prices are quite reasonable and include water and electricity however, there are no toilets or showers. Fuel can be had by tanker. Haul-outs are possible. Some boats winter here. There are no chandlers in Latchi but some supplies may be ordered through the two dive shops. The harbor is lined with restaurants, bars, and stores. Most groceries can be had locally. For a wider range of groceries and other goods, take a 10 minute bus ride in to Polis. From Polis buses connect to Pafos and on to the rest of Cyprus. On entering the harbor, you will need to find a temporary mooring then go see the harbor master in the Port Authority office. If possible, you are advised to call him in advance at: +357 994 68750 or via email: [email protected]. The Marine Police monitor VHF ch. 16. The Port Authority monitors VHF ch. 09 from 0730 till 1430, Monday through Friday When entering give the end of the breakwater a wide berth.

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Latchi

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There is a good chance you will be assigned a berth on the north breakwater. If so, be sure to go in bow first. Otherwise, submerged rocks may damage your rudder.

Submerged Rocks along North Breakwater

Last updated 24 March 2016 16 Cyprus Pilot Aphrodite Beach Aphrodite Beach is about one mile long. The Anasas Hotel is on the East end and the Ttakkas Bay Restaurant is on the West end. You can anchor anywhere along the length of the beach. Staying close outside the swim buoys, you will generally be in about 6 meters of water. The bottom in most places is sandy patches surrounded by rocky outcrops. You can drop your anchor in the sand but your chain will inevitably get wrapped around the rocks. This is generally not a problem and will just make your boat that much more secure. Afternoon winds in the summer can range from force 3 to force 5 but usually come from off-shore keeping the anchorage much cooler than the harbor.

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Aphrodite's Beach

Be careful swimming outside the buoyed area. The tripper boats will try to pass between the buoys and your boat as they go from Latchi to Blue Lagoon and back.

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The best WiFi seems to be from Ttakkas Bay Restaurant and the Aphrodite Beach Restaurant immediately East of it.

Aphrodite's Beach (North end)

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Blue Lagoon

This is the most popular anchorage in the Latchi area and can be packed with small boats during summer days. However, there is always room to anchor further out and away from the constant traffic. In addition to the multitude of small motorboats – many of them rentals – the bay is visited by several tripper boats, some of which do not always display good manners or seamanship. If you anchor in about 6 meters over clear sand you will be clear of the crowd. At sunset, the anchorage rapidly empties and you will find nights here peaceful.

There are a multitude of roads and trails ashore that can be hiked when the weather is not too hot. Snorkeling around the rocks is interesting but be careful of the boat traffic.

Blue Lagoon

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Blue Lagoon

Last updated 24 March 2016 21 Cyprus Pilot Fontana Amorosa This anchorage is not for the feint of heart or deep of draft. It has a small area of clear sand with 3.5 meters depth that looks good from the air. But the sandy patch is not very large and is surrounded by rocks, some of which have less than 2 meters cover. If you anchor here be sure to limit your swing. Alternatively, you can anchor further out in 6 to 8 meters over rocks and sand or just go to the adjacent Blue Lagoon.

Fontana Amorosa

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The shore here is popular with fishermen and campers. When we visited one camper was continuously running a noisy gasoline powered generator.

Fontana Amorosa

Last updated 24 March 2016 23 Cyprus Pilot Geranissos This smallish anchorage is open to the south but protected from most weather. Although it is protected from the west by a small islet, it might be dangerous when a large swell is running. Anchor in 5-6 meters over sand. Check your swing area and set a stern anchor to hold your bow into the swell when the wind dies at night. Tripper boats come here occasionally but do not stay long. A few people may visit the beach by 4WD vehicles but most of the time you will be alone here. The night we anchored here a herd of goats came and positioned themselves along the cliffs on the East side of the bay.

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Geranissos

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Geranissos at sunset

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Lara Bay

The Lara Peninsula has bays both North and South. Lara Beach is in the North bay. Both bays are closed to anchoring during turtle nesting season (July and August).

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Agios Georgios This is a small fishing shelter. You will be unable to dock here. However, there is room to briefly anchor behind the breakwater in 3 meters over sand and rock. A restaurant sits atop the cliff overlooking the harbor. Beware of above water rocks to port when entering.

Agios Georgios

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Agios Geogios Fishing Shelter

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Coral Bay The north side of the south bay offers protection from the westerly swell. Anchor outside the swim buoys in about 6 meters over sand and rock and leave room for the tripper boats that come in around 1100 every day. WiFi is available from the beach bars. Phillipos is a great store for groceries and DIY supplies though it is a bit of a hike. It may be possible to anchor in the cove on the south side of the bay but we have no reports. There are ruins you can visit on the North shore.

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Anchored with Tripper Boats in Coral Bay

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Pafos Pafos is a port of entry operated by the Cyprus Ports Authority. It is shallow with only a few berths deeper than 2 meters but offers good shelter. This is not a marina and has only basic facilities such as toilets, water and electricity. There are no showers. To the north of the harbor is a large archaeological park. To the east is a tourist district with a lifetime supply of bars and restaurants. There is a very large supermarket within reasonable walking distance. There are no chandlers. The Marine Police and the Port Authority both monitor VHF ch. 16. Contacting the Port Authority in advance at (+357) 26946840 or by email at [email protected] could make your arrival go more smoothly. WiFi is available from the many restaurants along the dock. The visitors berth, when available, is to the left of the harbor entrance near the Marine Police dock. We found Pafos to be entertaining. The marina area is very tourist oriented. From the bus terminal near the marina you can travel around town or to the intercity bus terminal. is less than two hours away. Pafos is also a good place to stock up on food and drink. A small airport has some flights to European cities.

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Pafos

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The Visitors Berth in Pafos

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Timi South of Pafos Airport, the cove containing Kathari Beach offers some shelter from the swells. Go around the rocks that extend south off the point then back toward where you will see some small fishing boats moored. Anchor outside the swim buoys in about 6 meters over sand and rock. You will want a stern anchor to hold your bow into the swell that works its way around the point. WiFi can be had from the Bonamare bar and Restaurant on the east side of the cove. Water temperature here is colder than at other anchorages.

Timi

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The next cove east looks like it may be a good anchorage but we have had no reports.

Timi Anchorage

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Pissouri Bay In season, Pissouri Bay is a very active water sports area. It is well protected from the westerly swell but still gets the full force of the wind – which in summer is a good thing. Anchor near the fishing boat moorings in about 4.5 meters over clear sand. WiFi can be had from Yialos Restaurant. Wakes may be annoying during the day.

Pissouri

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Pissouri Anchorage

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Avdimou Bay Just east of Pissouri is another bay that is also well protected from the westerly swell. It has much less activity. Anchor near the fishing boat in about 3 meters over clear sand. WiFi is available from Melanda Restaurant.

Avdimou

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Avdimou Anchorage

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Southern Cyprus

Southern Cyprus

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We define Southern Cyprus as extending from the Akrotiri Peninsula east to Larnaca Bay.

Lady's Mile Beach Lady's Mile is a very long beach on the east side of the Akrotiri Peninsula with good anchoring along its entire length. It faces east and is calm in summer. There are five restaurants spaced out along the beach and all offer WiFi. The strongest WiFi is in the middle off Captain's Cabin. The least wakes are at the south end off Lady's Mile. You will generally anchor in 3 to 6 meters depending which area you are in. The South end is most popular for anchoring and has the fewest wake generating activities.

Captain's Table Lady's Mile Beach

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Limassol Anchorage A reasonably secure anchorage can be found between Limassol Marina and the commercial port. You can anchor in either the East or West sides. The West offers the best protection from strong West and Southwest winds. The bottom is sand and weed with good holding. The East is more convenient for shopping and WiFi. The bottom is clay and weed with excellent holding. The area is not scenic but the water is clean, the town is close, and it is free.

Limassol Anchorage

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Limassol Anchorage West End

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Limassol Anchorage East End

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Limassol Marina

Just east of the big commercial harbor in Limassol, is the upmarket, new Camper & Nickolsons marina. It is a very posh, full service marina having nicer showers and toilets than most hotels. Their summer daily rates are astronomical but the wintering rate, with discount, is reasonable. The marina is surrounded by upmarket shops and restaurants. It has 650 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 110 meters. A chandler, Comar Marine, is next to the boatyard. The marina monitors VHF ch. 12, telephone (+357) 25020020, email: [email protected], and website: www.limassolmarina.com. Their current price list can be found on-line. When entering the marina you will be directed first to the arrivals dock. Here you will first see the Marine Police, then possibly immigrations and customs before going to the marina reception desk. Formalities here seem to be more involved and take longer than at other ports in Cyprus. Allow a couple of hours.

Limassol Marina

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Limassol Marina

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The City of Limassol Because Limassol Marina is potentially a popular place for cruisers to winter, more detailed information about the city is included. The population of Limassol is about 200,000. Information on bus routes and schedules can be found at: www.limassolbuses.com. International flights operate out of both Pafos and Larnaca airports either of which can be reached by bus in about one hour and a half. The tourist office is exceptionally helpful. If you winter n Limassol and enjoy hiking, look into the Cyprus Rambles Club at: csrc.ws

Provisions There are many small groceries in the marina area but only three large stores within walking distance. They are Lidl, Carrefour, and Plus Discount.

Chandlers There are six chandlers in Limassol with a wide selection of items in stock. All within walking distance of the marina. Most also offer specialized services. Comar Marine, Limassol Show Room, 3601 Limassol, (+357) 25-051240, [email protected], www.comar-marine.com Elias Liassis Ltd, 102 Mishaouli & Kavazoglou 96, (+357) 25 560 474, [email protected] Marina Stores, Franklinou Rooslvelt Av 85B, (+357) 25384999, [email protected] Mercury Divers, (+357) 25 877933, [email protected], www.mercury.com.cy Ocean Marine, 245 A7B, Andrew Str., (+357) 25369731, [email protected] C.A. Petrides Ltd, 46 Franklinou Rousvelt, (+357) 25 564200, [email protected], garmincyprus.com

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Limassol Markets and Chandlers

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Other Services Inflatable dinghy repair: M.Y Island sports & accessories, (+357) 97 667866, [email protected] Marine upholstery: G.D. Mavros, (+357) 25568106 Marine electronics: Tototheo Group, (+357) 25569 155, [email protected], www.tototheo.com Although there is no sail maker for yacht sails in Cyprus, many sailors use North Sail Israel, (+972) (0)9-957-7989, [email protected], www.northsails.com

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St. Raphael Marina

St. Raphael Marina is about six miles East of Limassol Marina on the eastern edge of Limassol and is a port of entry. It is part of a large resort complex with a 5 star hotel. The marina has 237 berths and can accommodate vessels up to 30 meters LOA and 4 meters draft. It is full service and has hard standing, two restaurants and two Blue Flag beaches. They monitor VHF ch. 09 and 16, telephone (+357) 25 - 834 255, [email protected] , http://www.raphael.com.cy/straphaelmarina/ . The office is closed Sundays.

St. Raphael Marina

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Governor's Beach

Although this anchorage offers some protection from the west, in the normal south-westerlies it may be uncomfortable. Anchor in 4 to 5 meters. The bottom near the swim buoys is uneven sand and rock.

Governor's Beach

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Zygi

Zygi is a fishing shelter / marina operated by the Department of Fisheries. It has about 240 berths and as of August 2015 was not full. Electricity is not available at most berths. There is a minimum 5 day charge for using the harbor but it is inexpensive. The harbor master does not monitor VHF however, you may be able to reach him by phone at: (+357) 24817097 or by email at [email protected]. If you cannot contact him in advance, your best bet is to take a berth stern-to the wall on the left as you go in. Three of the berths have tailed moorings. You will find 3 meters depth in the entrance and at least that at most berths. Boats up to 30 tons can be hauled and stored here by independent operators. Fuel may be delivered by mini tanker truck.

The village of Zygi has a population of about 500, and has three small supermarkets and at least ten restaurants. A complete tour of the town should take about an hour.

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Zygi Marina

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Meneou Beach

Although not a particularly well sheltered anchorage, you may find calm water here. Anchor in 4 meters over clear sand. You may be able to get WiFi from the Meneou Beach Bar when they are open.

Meneou Beach Bar

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Larnaca Marina

This is a full service ~250 berth marina with fuel, toilets, showers, bars and restaurants. It is also a port of entry. Some of the facilities are in need of repair and/or updating but are still serviceable. In September 2015 the fee was 0.60 euro per meter per day. Power is charged separately. Most docks are floating with finger piers although boats Med moor to the cement wall along the shore. The marina is running near capacity so it would be wise to call ahead for reservations (+35724653110 email: ctolar@c y tanet.com.cy). WiFi can be had from the Ponatha Yacht Club. Propane bottles can be refilled at the Petrolina station in the marina. It is the easiest place in Cyprus for filling Camping Gaz bottles. There is an outer harbor but it is unsafe in strong easterlies. A few liveaboards winter here.

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The two chandlers in town are: Comar Marine, 10 Arch. Kyprianou Ave., (+357) 24 624162, [email protected] Diomedes Rousoudiou, Falirou & 27 Georgiou Seferi Str., (+357) 99430161, drous ou [email protected] Also, for engine parts: Stelios Livadiotis, 6 Apollonos St., (+357) 24652774, louiza.s.livadiotis- [email protected] may be useful.

Larnaca Marina Last updated 24 March 2016 Larnaca Chandlers 59 Cyprus Pilot

Larnaca Anchorage

On hot summer days when marina residents need to go out for some breeze and a swim, they often go to the anchorage just north of the commercial harbor. There shelter can be found in 4.5 meters of clear water over a sand bottom. The scenery is not great and there is no place to go ashore but the water is calm and the swimming is good.

Larnaca Anchorage

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Eastern Cyprus For this guide, we define Eastern Cyprus as extending from Larnaca Bay, around Cape Greco, to the UN buffer zone south of .

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Potamos The Potamos anchorage is not well sheltered but unless there is a strong wind with a southerly component it is still comfortable. There is a fishing shelter here built on what might be a river in the wet season. It has no room for visitors so is not worth trying to find a channel in. Instead anchor well off in 3 to 5 meters over rock and sand. The bottom is uneven and shallows well off shore so watch your depth sounder carefully. Three restaurants are on shore. Demetrion has the strongest WiFi. You will not be disturbed here by motorboat activity.

Potamos Anchorage from Demetrion Potamos Anchorage

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Ayia Napa

This fishing shelter has room for only one or two visitors. In September 2015 entrance depth was found to be 2.0 meters at high tide and we were told it was only 1.2 meters at low tide. Dredging is scheduled for October 2015. The area around the harbor is developed for tourism. Marine Police are here but we found no harbor master. The only free berths were on the right as you go in.

Entrance to Ayia Napa Harbor Ayia Napa Harbor

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Blue Lagoon (El Greco)

This is one of the nicest anchorages in Cyprus. It offers good protection in all but Northeast winds, has plenty of room and good holding. Tripper boats will come and go during the day. Some will play loud music but they stay only about one hour. The anchorage empties at night. Anchor anywhere in 9 to 11 meters over clear sand. From 8 meters the bottom becomes rock and rises rapidly. Landing a hard dinghy may be a problem. An inflatable can be pulled up on the rocks. An ice cream truck parks on the hill during the day. It provides WiFi along with refreshments at reasonable prices.

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El Greco Anchorage (Blue Lagoon) Last updated 24 March 2016 65 Cyprus Pilot

Konnos Beach

This is a developed beach under a hotel-topped cliff in the northwest corner of Konnos Bay. It is well sheltered except from the southeast. Anchor outside the swim buoys and mooring buoys in 8 to 10 meters over sand. Jet skis and motorboats are rented here so you should expect some traffic. In addition, some of the tripper boats stop here. You can take you dinghy to the east end of the beach. There may be a small pontoon you can tie to. Hikes can be made to the Cyclops Cave to the east or to the church on the point on the south side of the bay. At the top of the hill you will find “Pirillis”, a small supermarket. On the low hill overlooking the south end of the beach is a bar/restaurant named “Kiosk” which has WiFi. When you are cruising north along the east coast, Konnos will seem like a busy place. When you stop on your way back south, it will seem quiet.

Konnos Anchorages

Last updated 24 March 2016 66 Cyprus Pilot

Konnos Beach Anchorage

Last updated 24 March 2016 67 Cyprus Pilot

Vizakia Beach

Vizakia Beach (Panayia on some charts) is small and less developed than Konnos or Fig Tree. There are no jet ski rentals here. Anchor in the center outside the swim buoys in 6 to 8 meters over sand. Take your dinghy around the rocks and to the far left end of the beach. A path there will take you to Le Cygne Restaurant. Follow the street next to the restaurant to get to Best Buy supermarket.

Vizakia Beach Vizakia Beach Anchorage

Last updated 24 March 2016 68 Cyprus Pilot

Fig Tree Bay

Fig Tree Bay is a long intensely developed beach. It is a center for motorized water sports. You can anchor near the south end in 5 to 6 meters over sand and rock outside the swim buoys. Where ever you anchor you will be in the path of water skiers and jet skis. They were there first and have established tracks. You can take your dinghy in to the south end of the beach near the rocks or to the long pontoon the ski boats use. A water tap (for foot washing) is on the beach near the pontoon and water jugs can be filled there. While this is not a particularly pleasant anchorage during the day, it is the closest anchorage to Lidl.

South Fig Tree Beach Fig Tree Bay Anchorage Last updated 24 March 2016 69 Cyprus Pilot

Sunrise Beach

The north end of Fig Tree Bay is called Sunrise Beach. We went there hoping to escape the high speed traffic but if anything, it was worse. You can anchor there in 4 meters over sand.

North Fig Tree Beach Sunrise Beach

Last updated 24 March 2016 70 Cyprus Pilot

Sirena Bay

Sirena Bay is one of the most pleasant anchorages on the East coast. It is away from the commercial activity of Fig Tree. A small beach overlooked by the Sirena Taverna is at the head of the bay. Anchor in 4 meters over clear sand. Do not go too far into the bay as it becomes shallow and rocky. Also, rocks extend out from the point on the south side of the bay. A small pontoon for dinghies is situated on the north point. Water may be obtained from the fishing shelter in the next bay to the south.

Looking into Sirena Bay

Last updated 24 March 2016 71 Cyprus Pilot

Fireman's Beach

The anchorage off Fireman's Beach is an open roadstead but in summer it may be calm for long periods. You can anchor in 4 to 5 meters over clear sand. This is another small, lightly developed beach overlooked by a snack bar. It is quiet here. A water tap (for foot washing) is on the beach and can be used to fill jugs. A street leads up to the main road where there is a large supermarket and many restaurants.

Fireman's Beach during a severe dust storm

Last updated 24 March 2016 72 Cyprus Pilot

Buffer Bay

About one-half mile north of Fireman's Beach is the UN buffer zone. It is as far north as you may legally sail. There is not much here except solitude and views of the buffer zone and beyond that Famagusta. You can anchor in 4 meters over sand with some rock.

Just South of the Buffer Zone

Buffer Bay (my name) Last updated 24 March 2016 73