Toroneos Gulf

Situated between Kassandra and Sithonia peninsulas, the Toroneos Gulf offers a stunning vista for both land and sea admirers.

Geographic location

Its 50 km long waters span 12–25 km in width and reach up to 280 m deep. Connecting to the gulf of Thermaikos through the Potidea canal, the bay is historically associated with the ancient city of Toroni, located within Sithonia. Popular for its thousand-year-old heritage — the Likif fortress being amongst them — the area remains a popular destination today.

What to do nearby

Vacationers to the Halkidiki peninsula often take boat rides along the Toroneos Gulf. This is the ideal manner in which to admire the majestic sea between Kassandra and Sithonia, and to take in the sights. You can locate boat tours in many cities of Halkidiki, though they will typically sail from certain villages and bays. These trips can last anywhere from four to nine hours.

Toroneos houses multiple coves, beach spots, and coastal resorts. Cruises supply the chance to explore several spectacular venues.

• Neos Marmaras is a prominent destination in Halkidiki, boasting a waterfront walkway with magnificent views of the bay and the village’s marina. There will be ample time to amble around, sip coffee, and savor delicious iced yogurt during the layover.
• Pefkohori offers no historic sites, but it does provide a chill, resort-style atmosphere. In addition, the selection of souvenirs is excellent.
• Depending on the tour operator and the itinerary, a swim in the waters of Toroneos bay is typically included. Most often, travelers are taken to the beach at Toroni, adorned with soft, white sand.

Kelifos island 

Kelifos is a gorgeous island situated in the Toroneos Gulf, which is included in many cruise programs. It is nicknamed «turtle island» due to its shape resembling a turtle in water. Its land is mostly covered by forests and is a home to a large number of goats. The rocky shores of Kelifos are inaccessible, but cruise ships stop by for about 40–50 minutes for people to take a dip in the open waters of the bay. Furthermore, the waters around the island are teeming with animals, so it’s recommended to bring a diving mask!

For those keen to explore Toroneos, cruises depart weekly from two main points on the Halkidiki peninsula — Pefkohori on Kassandra, and Neos-Marmaras on Sithonia. The ships usually set sail around 9:30am. Passengers can purchase tickets at the pier or at the offices of travel companies. To reach the two embarkation points, you need to board bus number 79 to the Halkidiki bus station in Thessaloniki, and then transfer onto the appropriate bus to the desired village.

Tips

When visiting Halkidiki, one of the most popular tourist attractions is snorkeling, so make sure to bring all the necessary equipment. A hat, beach towel, sunscreen, and bathing accessories are a must.

Cruise departures in Toroneos are heavily dependent on the weather. If it’s stormy and the sky is clouding over, it’s advisable to have a backup plan — the cruise won’t be happening under such conditions.