Full Description & Details
The Marina of Chania sits at the heart of the city on the northwest coast of Crete, directly on the edge of the old town. The harbour is split into two sections: the west side, lined with a promenade of restaurants and cafes, is exposed to the north and closed to boats, while the east side holds a small marina packed with local craft and a visitors quay to the right of the entrance. The setting is the Venetian harbour, with the Grand Arsenal and the old town immediately ashore. The marina is well protected from the meltemi, though strong northerly gales can blow through in season.
The visitors quay offers space for around 15 boats moored stern or bows to, with pickup lines available. Draft is limited to 2.5 metres and the maximum length is 60 metres. When the lines are taken, another four or five yachts can anchor out, but the bottom is soft mud interspersed with rocks and holding is not always secure; many boats lay two anchors. A mooring chain lies some 30 metres off the quay and should be avoided when anchoring. Water and electricity are charged at a fixed rate of EUR 3 for the first cubic metre or kilowatt, with a small additional charge for further use.
Berths come with water, power, wifi, showers and fuel, and there is a restaurant on site. The harbour master and local businesses can help with everything from supermarket locations to veterinary services. Supermarkets, a camping gas refill vendor and a laundry are within walking distance, and the old town market is lively. The harbour front is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. The marina is open year-round and overnight stays are permitted.
Contact the harbour authorities on VHF channel 12 or by phone at +30 2821 098888. If the harbour is full, Souda, about 7 km east, is the best harbour in Crete and a reliable alternative. The marina is a port of entry for Greece. Prices are in the mid range. Watch for strong northerly gales; when one is blowing, take a line to the other side of the harbour if anchored.
How to get there
Approaching Chania from the east, check whether live firing is scheduled at the NATO missile range on the Akrotiri peninsula; the harbour authority in Chania can advise on VHF channel 12 or by phone at +30 2821 098888. The harbour entrance is protected by a breakwater, which can be hard to spot over the waves in strong winds and rough seas, so approach with caution when the weather is up. The visitors quay lies to the right of the entrance.
Chania International Airport (Ioannis Daskalogiannis) is about 15 km away, with taxis, rental cars and public transport to the harbour. The marina is at Agiou Markou 8, in the centre of town, with the old town and its promenade directly ashore. Chania is a port of entry and exit for Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum draft and length at Marina of Chania?
The Marina of Chania allows a maximum draft of 2.5 metres and a maximum length of 60 metres.
How many berths does Marina of Chania have?
The visitors quay at Marina of Chania has space for around 15 boats moored stern or bows to, with pickup lines available.
What VHF channel does Marina of Chania use?
The Marina of Chania harbour authorities monitor VHF channel 12, and can also be reached by phone at +30 2821 098888.
What facilities are available at Marina of Chania?
Marina of Chania offers water, power, wifi, showers, fuel and a restaurant, with supermarkets and a laundry within walking distance.
Is Marina of Chania protected from the meltemi?
Yes, Marina of Chania is well protected from the meltemi, though strong northerly gales can occur and anchored boats should take a line to the other side of the harbour when one blows.
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