Getting there

Antikythira is connected to the mainland only by sea. There is also a heliport for emergencies. The island is connected once a week with Piraeus (via Kythira), twice with Crete (Kissamos port in western Crete) and once with Peloponnisos (Gythio port, via Kythira). The island’s harbor is orientated towards the north, meaning that is not protected by the strong northern winds. This unfortunately means that when prevailing winds are strong (above 7 beaufort) the ferry cannot dock due to the small size of the port. So you can never be totally sure about your arrival and departure date. Therefore you may have to wait some days before coming and possibly you have to stay a bit longer. It is strongly recommended for all volunteers and visitors to plan their travel (flights etc) allowing some spare days especially for the departure. Check for the ferry timetable here.

The closest airport is that that of Athens (Eleftherios Venizelos, ATH) and Chania, Crete (Ioannis Daskalogiannis, CHQ). The airport of Irakleion, Crete (Nikos Kazantzakis, HER) could also work. To get from Chania or Irakleion to Kissamos you would need to get a bus. Check the bus company’s (KTEL) web page here for the bus timetable.

Accommodation

ABO volunteers stay in a guesthouse that has been recently built for this purpose. It can host up to 10 people but you have to bring your sleeping bag. There are 2 WC one for men and one for women as well as well organised kitchen for cooking.

Food and Water

Basic supplies for breakfast and cooking provided by the project. In the island there is a small tavern in which serves nutritious meals and is also a small shop. We normally visit it two-three times a week (average price per person 8-12€). Note that there is not great variety of food and vegetarians may find it difficult to find fresh fruits and vegetables sometimes. Water for all uses is mainly from rain stored in a tank. Drinking water supplies coming from a spring in daily basis. In general there is water scarcity on the island and everyone must make all efforts to consume as less as possible.

Housekeeping

ABO building is at all times clean and tidy. Volunteers take turns to do small tasks following the weekly duty sheet.

Communication

Mobile networks cover most of Antikythira. ABO also has a landline. Phone calls are not allowed except for emergencies but you can give the number to call you back. There is also internet connection which can be used for checking mails but not for surfing or working. The island has postal agent.

Things you need

Note that in Antikythira there is no ATM nor drug store or Supermarket. Hence you have to make sure you have everything you may need during your stay in advance. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and of course your binocular. Last but not least bring your good mood and you will have time to remember.