sailing holiday in corfu.

GPS: No Info

Approach: The harbour is on the northern side of the old fortress of Corfu with its easily recognizable twin peaks from which the medieval name of Corfu derives (Corifi=peak), now the European name of the island, whereas in Greek it is Kerkyra. The harbour is distinguishable by day by the masts of the sailboats moored there, and by night by the red flashing beacon at the western edge of the breakwater. One should beware of approaching the walls of the fortress too close before entering, because it is quite shallow (1.0 to 1.2 meters) and of approaching the tip of the breakwater nearer than 6 to 8 meters because of the sunken rocks of the breakwater's slope.

Mooring: Mandraki is the seat of POIATH (Hellenic Off-shore Racing Club) and the IOK (Sailing Club of Corfu) and has permanent, laid moorings. You must contact the Club's guard for a berth. A few visitors' berths are usually available. Anchoring is not advised because if your anchor should catch on the laid moorings, a diver will be required to disentangle it. The harbour is about 4 meters deep in the middle, 1.0 to 3 meters near the quays, less on the eastern side. The harbour provides good holding in all weathers, although in a southerly or N,NW if you are moored on the inside of the breakwater, you will get splashed when entering your boat.

Further information: Water is available, electricity upon agreement with the guard, telephone in the club building, and a restaurant with a limited selection of meals. Mandraki is the old Venetian fort of Corfu from the times when the town was entirely enclosed within the city walls; it is very picturesque and quiet. About five minutes' walk away is the central square of Corfu, the Esplanade; however access by car is only possible by special permission of the guards at the entrance of the fortress. The other advantage is that you will meet local sailors there, eager to provide information and help.