ARCHELON in the Lakonikos Bay: Nature, Research, Volunteering
Lakonikos Bay is more than just a beautiful destination in southern Peloponnese. It is one of the most important habitats for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean. Although less known to the general public for this role, it is the area with the third-highest number of nests in Greece. Here, every summer, nature, science, and volunteerism come together.
During the summers, the beaches of the Lakonikos Bay become the setting for a small miracle. From the cosmopolitan Mavrovouni to the Eurotas estuary and the historic Valtaki, Selinitsa, and Vathy, hundreds of sea turtles return to lay their eggs in the sand where they themselves were born.
The year 2025 was a milestone: a total of 1,253 nests were recorded and protected, while 7 female turtles were equipped with satellite transmitters, sending valuable data about their journeys across the Mediterranean.
Challenges, however, remain. Light pollution, which affects nearly half of the nests at Mavrovouni, and the presence of beach furniture during the night, pose serious threats to turtles and their hatchlings. Reducing light pollution and properly arranging beach furniture at night are measures that ensure turtles can coexist harmoniously with humans.
At the heart of the program are the people. More than 40 volunteers from across Greece participate every year in ARCHELON’s actions in the Lakonikos Bay. The volunteer experience is unique: from morning tracking of turtle tracks in the sand at sunrise, to protecting hatchlings as they take their first steps toward the sea. Volunteers also actively contribute to public awareness, talking with residents and visitors about the importance of protecting the beaches and sea turtles. For them, it is a summer full of knowledge, collaboration, nature, and unforgettable moments.
Cinematographer Konstantinos Potamianos, who has a special connection to the area, wanted to capture the quiet but important efforts taking place in his homeland. He gifted us a wonderful short video that brings us to the heart of ARCHELON’s work.
The turtles of the Lakoniks Bay need you.
Watch the video, learn about our work, and become a volunteer with ARCHELON. Through our activities, protect the nests and engage with local hotels and all people in the area.
RECENT NEWS
- OUR NEWS23/01/2026
A turtle we treated 10 years ago was found in Spain!
“Castello” is a male Loggerhead turtle that was treated at our Rescue Centre in 2015. In 2025 he was found again at a Rescue Centre in Spain!
- OUR NEWS02/01/2026
Against All Odds: A Story of Marine Resilience from Amvrakikos Gulf
One turtle has been surviving for at least six years without a lower jaw!
- OUR NEWS29/12/2025
“Meetings with Remarkable Animals” A Heartwarming Reward for Our Efforts
Kristi Stassinopoulou shared with us a very personal moment: a sketch and a few pages from her book “Meetings with Remarkable Animals"
- OUR NEWS17/12/2025
ARCHELON’s Research: Expanding the Map of Mediterranean Green Turtles
In recent years, some green turtle nests have been recorded in Greece, indicating that the geographical spread of this species’ nesting areas in the Mediterranean is beginning to expand.
- OUR NEWS12/12/2025
The Power Behind Sea Turtle Conservation: Our 2025 Field Leaders
With deep gratitude, we honor all the Field Leaders who contributed to the success of the 2025 Field Projects.
- OUR NEWS10/12/2025
Unprecedented appearance of Leatherback Turtle on a Mediterranean beach
A new scientific record brings to light an extremely rare event for the marine life of the Mediterranean: the first confirmed appearance of an adult Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) attempting to nest in the Mediterranean basin.
- OUR NEWS08/12/2025
Applications Now Open for 2026 ARCHELON Field Leaders Posts!
ARCHELON is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Field Leader positions across all nesting projects (applications open until January 31st).
- OUR NEWS05/12/2025
Saving Sea Turtles Together – A Tribute to Volunteers
On Volunteer Day, we take a moment to celebrate all those who came from near and far, put on the blue T-shirt, and embraced this important responsibility.
- OUR NEWS01/12/2025
Laganas Bay, Zakynthos: Successful Loggerhead Reproduction, Ongoing Habitat Problems
On the beaches of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, around 2,155 turtle nests successfully hatched thanks to active protection measures, but human pressures on coastal and marine habitats continue.
- OUR NEWS26/11/2025
A Second Chance: Two Loggerhead Sea Turtles Return to the Sea Thanks to Dedicated Rescues
This summer, two adult loggerhead sea turtles, ‘Aktaia’ and ‘Herbert’, arrived at ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Rescue Centre needing urgent help after sustaining severe head injuries.
- OUR NEWS11/11/2025
Volunteering Projects 2026: Sea Turtles Need You, the Planet Needs Us!
ARCHELON welcomes volunteers from all over the world and of all ages (over 18) and no prior experience is required! If you speak English, are at least 18 years old, and are in good physical condition, you can do this!
- OUR NEWS10/11/2025
Outstanding Recognition for ARCHELON at the Effective Dialogue Conference 2025
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, ARCHELON received an honorary distinction for its substantial contribution to effective dialogue on sustainability, social responsibility, and the environment
- OUR NEWS06/11/2025
6th Year of Online Tours: The sea turtles are traveling across Greece once again!
Students from every corner of the country, as well as from international schools, have the opportunity to learn up close about the lives of the turtles cared for at the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Glyfada, Attica, and to discover how rescue efforts impact the marine world.
- OUR NEWS31/10/2025
The lecture turned into reality: A real turtle rescue for the students from Kallithea!
The students spotted a sea turtle floating in the water right after their educational tour of the ARCHELON Rescue Centre and immediately notified the rescuers.
- OUR NEWS24/10/2025
LIFE MareNatura Documentary Premier
From seabird monitoring and genetic sampling, to unique underwater footage of marine mammals, the testimonies of scientists bring to life the hidden stories of the sea.