Parianos Anchorage
Parianos is a rounded harbour on the southwestern side of Epano Koufonisia. Due to its rounded-off area, it offers better shelter from the Meltemi. It is used as a parking lot for fishing boats and you will find several of them moored ashore, some of which stay anchored for months at a stretch. Lots of abandoned permanent moorings can also be found here.
Parianos is about 20 minutes on foot from the Koufonisia village. Water is clear and clean enough for a dip, but only daytime swimming is recommended. It also provides a great view of the horizon.
Mooring at Parianos
The inlet has a wide opening unlike the Koufonisia bay but use caution while anchoring as the bed is very shallow. Anchor suggestion is not more than three meters in the middle where you will usually find some space. If you are lucky, take an idle mooring to assist in anchoring and use a trip-line. Whatever you do, avoid the permanent moorings and stay away from the fishing boats and their paths. There is no schedule for the boats.
Choose a spot away from the parked boats to aid in sailing out of the harbour. Further caution is suggested while navigating in the bay to avoid rock ballasting.
Meltemi shelter is good but you should anticipate gusts during seasons.
Provisioning and Services
Provisioning will require you to go to the nearby village. The shore itself is mostly frequented by fisherfolks, and therefore, lacks proper provisioning setups. You may find a stall or two for emergency refreshments if you are visiting during summer.
