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Alonissos Marine Park
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The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades was established in 1992 and is currently the largest marine protected area in Europe. The park encompasses the island of Alonissos, six smaller islands, and 22 uninhabited islets in the Aegean Sea. Its primary mission is the protection of the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus), one of the world's most endangered mammal species, which uses the archipelago's sea caves as breeding grounds. In addition to the seals, the park provides a habitat for rare bird species like Eleonora's falcon and various species of dolphins and whales. The park's waters are exceptionally clear, supporting vast Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows that serve as nurseries for countless marine organisms. The protected area is divided into zones with varying levels of restriction, ensuring that human activities do not interfere with sensitive wildlife. Furthermore, the park is home to significant underwater archaeological sites, including well-preserved ancient shipwrecks.
- Location: Greece
- Nearby: Mourtero (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 11 | 12 | 15 | 19 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 67 | 59 | 60 | 34 | 26 | 29 | 20 | 16 | 43 | 52 | 61 | 88 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The protected maritime zone is rigorously accessed exclusively through specialized licensed boat tours constantly departing from the bustling central port of Patitiri.
Best season
The reliably calm, gorgeously sunny mid-summer months definitively ensure the absolute greatest underwater visibility and the most enjoyable marine sailing conditions.
Terrain & paths
The specific physical environment essentially consists entirely of remarkably deep aquatic spaces punctuated sporadically by entirely barren, totally uninhabited rock islets.
What to bring
Premium optical sun protection and broad coverage hats are utterly indispensable on the open decks. Dependable underwater snorkeling equipment greatly elevates the marine journey.
Parking
Personal vehicles are practically abandoned at the designated public port parking facilities, which frequently become astonishingly overcrowded during peak tourist summer weeks.
Safety
Stringent marine environmental regulations mandatorily prohibit physically approaching the endangered seals. Strict adherence to the captain's maritime rules is utterly crucial.
Time needed
Professionally guided comprehensive marine expeditions logically operate as entirely full-day oceanic voyages, generally incorporating several prolonged deep-water swimming stops.
Geography
Facts
- The park was established in 1992 as the first marine protected area in Greece.
- The total area of the marine park covers approximately 2,260 square kilometers.
- It is home to the world's largest population of the Mediterranean Monk Seal.
- Piperi Island is the core zone of the park and is strictly off-limits to visitors.
- More than 300 species of fish have been documented within the park's waters.
- The park contains the 5th-century BC Peristera shipwreck, an ancient cargo vessel.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Alonissos Marine Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which animal is the symbol of the park?
The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) is the park's most famous and protected animal.
Is diving allowed in the park?
Diving is allowed in specific zones, but often a permit or guide is required.
How do you reach the marine national park?
Best by excursion boats that depart daily from the port of Patitiri on Alonissos.
Are there restrictions for private boats?
Yes, there are strict rules regarding anchoring and speed to protect the ecosystem.
When is the best time for wildlife watching?
Summer months offer calm waters, making it easier to spot dolphins and birds.
Alonissos Marine Park: where is it located?
Alonissos Marine Park is located in Greece.
Alonissos Marine Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Alonissos Marine Park: why is it worth visiting?
The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades was established in 1992 and is currently the largest marine protected area in Europe.
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