What’s actually here
Anchor Bay is the small bay tucked into the cliffs west of Mellieha, with the Popeye Village film set occupying the head of the bay and visible immediately on approach. The wooden village was built in 1980 for the Robin Williams film and is now a paid tourist attraction, but from the water it gives the bay a unique visual identity.
Anchoring
Sand and rock mix in 4 to 8 metres. Holding can be patchy because of rocky patches, so set the anchor carefully and back down hard. The bay is small and tight, with space for only a handful of boats. In summer it fills early on weekends.
Shelter is good from south through east. Northwesterly winds wrap around the headland and bring some chop. In fresh weather the bay becomes uncomfortable and there’s not enough swing room to ride it out comfortably.
Practical notes
The village charges admission for land access. From the water you get the view free. Swimming around the bay is excellent, with rocky edges good for snorkelling and clear water through the middle. Combine with Mellieha or Paradise Bay for a north-coast cruise day. Best in the morning before the day-tripper boats arrive from Bugibba.