In 2024, the Ionian Environment Foundation (IEF) awarded a new grant to our long-term grantee iSea, to advance our conservation efforts aimed at protecting Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Inner Ionian Sea and Erimitis peninsula. This project builds on previous work, targeting the assessment and mitigation of anchoring pressures on Posidonia meadows—a critical yet endangered ecosystem in the Mediterranean.

Through the generous support of Edmiston, a leader in luxury yacht brokerage, this partnership is advancing the IEF’s efforts to safeguard the vital Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Ionian Sea. The IEF is proud to partner with iSea once again, a distinguished environmental organization dedicated to protecting marine and coastal ecosystems in our region. Together, IEF and iSea are working to mitigate the effects of anchoring pressures on these precious habitats, ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and the natural beauty of the Ionian waters for future generations.

Project Background and Achievements

Posidonia oceanica meadows serve as essential habitats, carbon sinks, and contributors to water clarity and marine biodiversity in the Ionian Sea. However, the surge in boat traffic, particularly during peak tourist seasons, has posed significant threats to these meadows. With the new grant, our goal has been to deepen our understanding of these impacts and propose actionable solutions.

With work running throughout the summer, the iSea team has managed to complete extensive mapping and data collection from the Inner Ionian Sea and Erimitis peninsula. During July, August, and September, comprehensive drone surveys, covering critical zones in Erimitis and the islets of Formicula, Atokos, and Arkoudi. Multiple flights captured details about the vessel type, anchoring locations, and habitats affected, with findings showing the majority of boats anchored directly on Posidonia meadows.

The efforts undertaken last summer have laid a robust foundation for long-term conservation solutions. Assessments for eco-mooring placements, informed by our findings, to help mitigate anchoring damage in the most affected zones. The collected data will be analysed and compiled into detailed anchoring heatmaps, guiding targeted conservation measures that will maximize protection for vulnerable areas. Additionally, a dedicated outreach campaign has been launched on social media to share our progress, raise awareness, and promote responsible boating practices among both local communities and visitors, fostering a collective commitment to preserving the Ionian Sea’s natural treasures.

Project Outcomes

From July to September, iSEA’s drone surveys recorded 409 boats in the Inner Ionian Archipelago, with over half anchoring in the fragile Posidonia meadows—a vital marine habitat!

In the Erimitis area, 490 boats were recorded, with 65% anchored in Posidonia meadows, further stressing this already vulnerable ecosystem.

Atokos Bay experiences the highest anchorage pressure in the Inner Ionian Archipelago, accounting for 41% of all recorded anchorages.

In Erimitis, Arias Bay faces the greatest pressure due to boat traffic. Meanwhile, larger vessels like cruise boats and yachts—which cause even greater damage—frequently anchor at Vrachli and Akoli beaches.

Habitat Loss Alert: The Neptunian meadows in the bay have shrunk by 32% since 2000, based on aerial data. This decline underscores the urgent need for protective measures.

Uncontrolled Anchoring: Drone assessments show that 62% of boats approaching the area anchor directly on Neptunian meadows, a practice with irreversible effects that makes this habitat extremely vulnerable to anchor pressure.

To protect these vital habitats, iSEA will continue working with boat rental and cruise companies to promote best anchoring practices and raise awareness among sailors.

🔗 Explore the full report on anchorage pressure in the Inner Ionian Archipelago

iSea-IEF_Erimitis & Inner Ionian Arcipelago

IEF is dedicated to the continued protection of the crucial Ionian Sea’s Posidonia meadows. Together, our small actions can create a lasting impact.