Halkidiki (or Chalkidiki), with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is one of the most picturesque destinations in Greece. The region is known for its delectable cuisine, scenic villages, and vibrant nightlife, making it the perfect spot for couples and families alike. In summer 2022 we decided to stay in the charming village of Ormos Panagias, located on the eastern side of Sithonia peninsula.
After exploring the beaches along the coast of Halkidiki's Sithonia peninsula, we decided to explore the nearby island of Diaporos, a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. We rented a boat from one of the local rental companies in Ormos Panagias and set off to explore the Diaropos' beautiful beaches.
Finns love boating as Finland is a country with a lot of lakes and a long coastline along the Baltic Sea. The archipelago off the coast of Finland consists of thousands of islands and islets that are dotted throughout the sea.Boating in the archipelago is a popular activity among Finns. I wanted to offer Jani the experience to ride a boat in Greece as he has never done it before outside Finland. He was such a capable and careful captain!
"Full steam ahead!"
"Aye, aye, captain Jani!"
We were in awe of the stunning natural beauty of the island, which was surrounded by turquoise waters and lush greenery. We found a secluded beach to anchor the boat and spent the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the island.
Philippos had a great experience being on a boat for the first time and he felt safe. Learning to ride a boat can be a fun and exciting experience, but it's important to take safety precautions and follow boating rules and regulations. Lots of tourists rent boats to visit Diaporos, so all visitors should follow safety tips as instructed by the rental companies and as common sense dictates.
Some tips for beginners include:
Wear a life jacket at all times while on the boat.
Familiarize yourself with the boat and its equipment, including the steering and throttle controls.
Follow boating rules and regulations, including speed limits, no-wake zones, and navigational markers.
Pay attention to weather conditions.
Keep a close eye on other boats and watercraft in the area to avoid collisions.
Learn how to properly anchor the boat if needed, and how to tie it up securely when docking.
Always have a backup plan in case of emergencies, including having a communication device like a VHF radio or cell phone on board.
Never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Our experience was memorable and we safely returned our boat to shore after exploring Diaropos.
