Preveza

Nestled on the western coast of Greece lies the enchanting town of Preveza—a dream destination for yachtsmen seeking a harmonious blend of idyllic atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking beaches. It is located in the region of Epirus at the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf, on the north side of the gulf’s entrance. Due to its large international yacht harbor, the town is quite lively and stylish with many restaurants, shopping areas, and nightlife venues located along the beautiful pedestrian-only waterfront. Over the years, it has become a commercial harbor and tourist hub, with many marinas, four museums, two cinemas, an open theater, and a music hall. 

Preveza exudes a magical blend of old-world charm with Italian influences and modern vivacity. Visitors can troll along charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with blooming flowers, and then duck into the local businesses to enjoy modern luxuries. It is a region where guests can embark on a captivating journey, where ancient myths come to life and the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea beckon.

Wind, Water, and Anchorage Conditions

Preveza's strategic location offers yachtsmen the perfect combination of reliable winds, calm waters, and safe anchorage. With the prevailing summer winds, primarily from the northwest and west, sailing in the region is a breeze. It is easy to anchor in sheltered bays and marinas, where comfortable berthing and vibrant social scenes await.

The town lies at the entrance to the large Amvrakikos Gulf or Ambracian Gulf, which provides natural protection from most strong currents and gusts. The period with the calmest winds lasts from early April to late October, and the calmest month is August, with an average hourly wind speed of about 7 miles per hour. The gulf is entered via a half-mile-long channel which is dredged to a depth of six meters and has a few sandbanks on either side. The town sits on the northwest side and has a half-mile-long quay with space for dozens of vessels. Additionally on the southeast side, there are three large marinas. There is also an underground tunnel which links the two sides of the channel for convenience. 

Local Myths and Cultural Sites

Steeped in history and mythology, Preveza presents a captivating fusion of ancient legends and cultural landmarks. Mythology enthusiasts will undoubtedly find delight in exploring the town's ties to ancient tales. Just a few kilometers north of town is the Acheron River, or ‘River of Woe’, which was believed to be one of the main waterways of the Underworld, and many clay figurines depicting Hades and Persephone have been found nearby. This area is also proclaimed as a location where Odysseus ventured to seek the counsel of a dead seer among other adventures. According to legends, Preveza is also believed to be the site of the Battle of Actium, where Mark Antony and Cleopatra faced the forces of Octavian in a defining clash that shaped the fate of the Roman Empire. What's more, these are only a small fraction of the fascinating events, both mythical and historical, that have taken place in this fascinating region.

Visitors to Preveza are incited to unearth the rich cultural heritage by visiting the ancient sites located nearby. There is the ancient city of Nicopolis, founded by Emperor Augustus to commemorate his victory in the Battle of Actium. Travelers can marvel at the fortified Venetian castles, like the Castle of St. Andrew, perched atop a hill overlooking the sea. These and many other remnants of bygone eras stand as testaments to Preveza's historical significance.

Popular Beaches and Bays

Preveza is blessed with breathtaking beaches and bays that captivate sun-seeking yachtsmen. The Vrachos-Loutsa beach, with its fine golden sands and turquoise waters, is very well organized with public facilities and equipment rentals, though it can be a little windy. A short sail away, Monolithi Beach is known for its plentiful beach bars and modern infrastructure, and certain areas have lifeguards on duty. There are many other similar locales along the coast, and for bays where boats can moor, there are more options closer to Parga to the north or Lefkada to the south.

The important thing to remember is that most of Preveza’s beaches face the open sea. The waters can become a little choppy, and boats cannot anchor easily. It is best to leave one’s vessel in the marina and travel to the beaches another way. It's also important that children and weak swimmers are well-attended in the water. That being said, these beaches are pristine, most of them having been awarded Blue Flags. Additionally, the waters are very pleasant. The period with the warmest waters lasts from June to October, with an average temperature above 74°F (23°C). The peak tourism months are July and August, but crowds can ebb and flow in the shoulder seasons as well.