The anchorage at Porto Azzurro is very large. Located on the eastern side of the Island of Elba, it is approximately 500 meters wide. The anchorage is well protected from westerly winds but is, on the other hand, exposed to easterly winds. The sirocco winds create a strong undertow.
Porto Azzurro has a small marina. Inside the marina, there are floating docks that offer a good number of moorings; however, very often—especially in August or during the summer season—it is crowded with tourists’ boats, making it difficult to find a spot for your own boat. Facilities are limited but useful: you can recharge batteries, refill water, and have your boat hosed down.
The Porto Azzurro anchorage, located east of the harbor entrance, is a good alternative mooring spot. The seabed, which reaches a maximum depth of 10 meters, is muddy but does not always provide a secure hold.
In the innermost part of the Anchorage, the depth drops sharply, and the seabed is not exactly ideal: depending on the location, the consistency of the mud varies greatly. Anchoring near the southern shore is not recommended, as this area experiences heavy traffic from ferries maneuvering in the area.
To reach the heart of the town, you must enter directly from the anchorage, since Porto Azzurro is tucked away behind the fortress, which is still used as a prison today. It is a small village rich in colors and scents, where you can buy anything you might need and take advantage of a wide range of services—none of which are available within the anchorage itself.
There is no shortage of bars, restaurants, ice cream shops, and all kinds of small cafes where you can relax and unwind. The town center is full of grocery stores, boutiques, and clothing stores; there is also a small outdoor movie theater.
There is a gas station in town that sells various types of fuel, including diesel. Along the waterfront, heading toward the Toremar pier, there is also a well-stocked ship chandler.
Within the anchorage there are a large number of coves and small inlets. To the north of the entrance lies Cala Barbarossa. This cove faces southeast but is well sheltered from other directions. It is characterized by rocky, rugged shores to the north and a lush, green landscape to the south. The seabed consists of seaweed, interspersed with a few rocks, and sandy patches. The southern side of the cove is very steep, but the rest of the seabed slopes gently.
There is no shortage of beaches, both within the anchorage and in the surrounding area. La Rossa Beach, despite its proximity to the port, is known for its crystal-clear waters. It consists of sand and fine gravel, is about a hundred meters long, and is very popular because it is close to town and therefore easily accessible on foot.
Just outside the Anchorages lies La Pianotta, a gravel-bottomed cove: its waters are extremely clear, making it the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Since it’s exposed to easterly winds, it’s also very popular with windsurfers.
Cala di Mola is located next to the Rada di Porto Azzurro. The Mola shipyard is only 300 meters away to the northeast.
Two miles from the anchorage of Porto Azzurro opens into a bay called Seno D’Ortano, ideal for relaxing between dives.
