Lefkas Canal & Floating Bridge (Agia Mavra)

38° 49.1′ N · 20° 43.3′ E

Lefkada is an island only because of a canal: a dredged channel through the lagoon links the northern approach to the Inland Sea, crossed at its north end by the Agia Mavra floating bridge that swings open to let yachts through.

Ionian Islands Saronic Gulf & Argolic

Practical

Corinthian settlers first cut a canal through the shingle spit in the 7th century BC (sailingissues.com). The bridge swings both ramps to the eastern shore and leaves a 30 m gap; yachts heading south officially have right of way. Status: closed to all vessels from midnight July 14, 2025, when its safety certificate expired (To Vima), but operating again in 2026 on a published schedule (see the passage entry). In 2026 openings were disrupted by water-pipeline works (June) and by operator staff shortages (October 14, 2026 openings at 4pm, 6pm and 10pm cancelled). Always confirm the next opening with the Port Authority. When the bridge is closed, boats moving between the north and south Ionian must go round Lefkada's west coast via Cape Lefkatas.

Best for

Short cut between the north Ionian and the Inland Sea

Practical

Best for

Nearby