Wildlife· Despotiko· Greece — Cyclades
Monk Seals & Posidonia Meadows (Despotiko Natura 2000)
36° 58.2′ N · 25° 1.6′ E · approximate
The shallow channel between Antiparos and Despotiko lies inside a Natura 2000 site where the endangered Mediterranean monk seal is a permanent resident, over seagrass meadows that shelter a rich marine life.
Practical
Wikipedia: the Despotiko strait is very shallow (about 1 m at its narrowest); Posidonia meadows provide habitat; the monk seal (Monachus monachus) lives here year-round. Kavas: the water in the southern strait is 4-10 m deep. Anchor only in clear sand, never on the seagrass; if you see a seal, keep your distance and do not feed or follow it. Approx position: the Despotiko–Tsimintiri anchorage coordinate already in this catalogue, in the middle of the protected area.
Best for
Swimming in the protected strait; watching quietly for seals
Nearby
- Despotiko Anchorage (Despotiko–Tsimintiri)Right here
- Panagia Beach (Despotiko)0.2 NM away
- Agios Georgios Anchorage (Antiparos)0.3 NM away
- Captain Pipinos (Agios Georgios, Antiparos)0.3 NM away
- Mpakas Fish Tavern (Agios Georgios, Antiparos)0.3 NM away
- Zombos Taverna (Agios Georgios, Antiparos)0.4 NM away
- Sanctuary of Apollo (Despotiko)0.6 NM away
- Tsimintiri Islet (Despotiko channel)0.6 NM away