Pilos Marina

Greece is a country celebrated for its enchanting landscapes, historical depth, and vibrant maritime culture. Within this illustrious setting lies Pilos Marina, nestled in the picturesque town of Pylos. Despite its prime location in the Bay of Navarino, the marina has remained in an unfinished state since 1995. Acquired by the Vernicos group, the marina has yet to see completion, with work stalled as of June 2013. Despite this, the marina has been usable, serving local fishing boats and visiting yachts alike. It’s a testament to the resilience of the maritime community that, even in its unfinished and unmanaged state, Pilos Marina has become a sanctuary for boats seeking refuge without charge. Some vessels even choose to winter here, although it’s advised not to leave boats unattended for extended periods due to security concerns.

The marina, which has been in limbo since the mid-90s, offers a unique charm with its free berthing and strategic location, despite lacking formal management and facilities. The absence of active development work, combined with the marina’s use by local and visiting yachts, paints a picture of a facility caught between its storied past and a future full of possibilities. Plans for its development have been in the air, with intentions to transform it into a modern marina. This ambition is echoed by the global marina network D-Marin’s recent announcement to develop Pilos Marina into a premium modern facility, signaling a new chapter for this hidden gem of the Ionian Sea.

Location

Pilos Marina is situated on the waterfront of Pylos town, within the Bay of Navarino. The area is renowned for its incredible natural beauty, traditional architecture, and the famous Castle of Pylos, which once played a pivotal role in Greece’s military history.

Approach to the Marina

Currently, Pilos Marina operates as a free haven due to its unofficial closure, leading to a lack of formal entry and navigation procedures. Boaters typically find a spot along the quay or nearby, with the understanding that some locals may falsely claim ownership of berths. Despite this, the town of Pylos and its welcoming community make the approach worthwhile, offering a glimpse into the local sailing culture. The approach to Pilos Marina requires navigation from the north, staying close to the northern side to avoid shallow waters on the southeast. The marina operates without formal procedures due to its unofficial closure. Boaters looking to check in can find berthing spots along the main outer wall or the finger pontoons, keeping an eye out for the locally known shallow areas.

Specifications of the Marina

Before its closure, Pilos Marina boasted a berthing capacity for 129 yachts up to 30 meters in length. The marina covered a sea area of 85,379 sqm and a land zone of 32,195 sqm. Although currently without official maintenance, the marina provided essential amenities, catering to the needs of the yachting community.

Infrastructure, Services, and Facilities

As it stands, Pilos Marina lacks official services and facilities due to its closure. However, the local sailing community and town of Pylos compensate with a range of services including a well-sorted chandlery, Fotis at Mares, and access to fuel via local arrangements. Pilos Marina provides no formal facilities or services. The marina’s layout includes a small hard area for boat repairs. Pilos Marina operates on a ‘find and manage for yourself’ basis, including sourcing a crane for boat haul-outs and creating a makeshift cradle. Security at Pilos Marina is virtually non-existent, with reports of individuals attempting to exploit the marina’s users. Boaters are advised to be vigilant and wary of anyone trying to offer official services or demanding fees.

Amenities in the Marina and Nearby

Despite the absence of formal marina amenities, Pylos town, a short walk from the marina, offers a rich array of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Notable dining establishments include Trichordo and Krinos, which are highly rated for their culinary offerings. Additionally, the town’s architecture and the tranquil beaches nearby provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

How to Get There

By Plane

The nearest airport to Pylos is Kalamata International Airport, providing connections to major cities in Europe and beyond. From the airport, Pylos is accessible by road, with car rental services available.

Flights search

By Road

Pylos is well-connected by road, with regular bus services from Kalamata and Athens. The scenic drive offers stunning views of the Messinian countryside.

By Sea

For those arriving by sea, Pilos Marina provides an informal but welcoming point of entry into the Bay of Navarino, with the local community offering guidance and assistance as needed.

Attractions Nearby

While awaiting the transformation of the marina into a modern facility, visitors can explore a variety of nearby attractions that make this destination truly captivating.

Castle of Pylos (Niokastro)

The Castle of Pylos, also known as Niokastro, is a must-visit historical site. Built by the Ottomans in 1573, this well-preserved fortress offers panoramic views of the bay and the town. The castle’s museum provides insights into the region’s maritime history and the Battle of Navarino, a pivotal naval battle in the Greek War of Independence.

Voidokilia Beach

Renowned for its perfect omega shape and pristine beauty, Voidokilia Beach is a natural marvel. Located just a short drive from Pylos, this beach offers crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and is part of a protected nature reserve, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and bird watching.

Gialova Lagoon

The Gialova Lagoon, part of the Natura 2000 network, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. It’s one of the most important wetlands in Europe, providing a habitat for over 270 species of birds, including the rare African chameleon. The lagoon offers excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and experiencing the tranquility of unspoiled nature.

Ancient Messene

A historical treasure, Ancient Messene is an archaeological site that provides a comprehensive view of the classical city-state, untouched by modern development. Located approximately an hour’s drive from Pylos, it features well-preserved ruins, including a theater, stadium, massive city walls, and sanctuaries, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Greek civilization.

Methoni Castle

Methoni Castle, located to the south of Pylos, is another spectacular Venetian fortress that guards the southern entrance of the Bay of Navarino. Its impressive gates, battlements, and the famous Bourtzi tower stretching into the sea are evocative of the strategic importance of this area through the centuries.

Sfaktiria Island

Accessible by boat, Sfaktiria Island lies at the entrance to the Bay of Navarino, opposite the town of Pylos. The island played a significant role in the Battle of Navarino and is home to several monuments and memorials dedicated to the fallen soldiers. It’s a peaceful place for reflection and offers unique perspectives of the bay and surrounding landscapes.

Navarino Underwater Park

For diving enthusiasts, the Navarino Underwater Park offers a unique adventure to explore underwater archaeological sites, including sunken ships from the Battle of Navarino. It’s a rare opportunity to dive into history and witness the remnants of naval warfare amidst the natural beauty of the sea.

Local Gastronomy and Market

Pylos and the surrounding area are known for their delicious local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, olive oil, and traditional Greek dishes. The town square and nearby streets are lined with tavernas and cafes where visitors can savor these culinary delights. Additionally, local markets offer the chance to purchase handmade crafts, local produce, and other souvenirs.

Hotels and Apartments near Pilos Marina