Full Description & Details
The Marina of Makrygialos is a small harbour at the heart of Makry Gialos, a beach resort on the south-east coast of Crete. The harbour sits at the west end of a 1 km sandy beach that runs east, with fishing boats and yachts moored along a compact waterfront promenade lined with fish tavernas. The gulf opens to the south, and the island of Koufonisi is visible on the horizon. The surrounding town is a busy summer resort, but the portside area keeps a quieter, working-harbour character.
Protection is moderate: an algorithm based on local elevation identifies safe wind directions, but the harbour is open to the south and offers no full enclosure. Depths are typical of a small fishing harbour, suitable for yachts and small craft rather than deep-draft vessels. Berthing is alongside the quay or on moorings within the harbour, and overnight stays are permitted. Holding in the harbour is not described; anchoring outside is possible but exposed to southerly winds.
Facilities at the Marina of Makrygialos include water, power, wifi, showers, laundry, and fuel. A crane and travel lift are available for haul-outs. Local shops and tavernas are within walking distance of the quay; the tavern 'Steki tou Mina' is recommended for good food. The marina is a working harbour, so space may be limited during the summer season when the town fills with visitors.
Approach from the south is straightforward in settled weather, but the harbour offers no all-weather shelter. The best season is late spring to early autumn, when the meltemi is less severe on this coast. There are no reported restrictions on visiting yachts, but skippers should confirm berth availability on arrival. Nearby attractions include the Makry Gialos Roman Villa, the Makry Gialos Minoan Villa, Pefki village, and Kapsa Monastery, all within a short distance inland.
How to get there
Approach the Marina of Makrygialos from the south, heading for the harbour entrance at approximately 35 degrees 2.22 minutes north, 25 degrees 58.43 minutes east. The harbour is small and the entrance is not marked by a leading line; use the town and the beach to the east as visual references. Depths are suitable for small craft, and the holding ground outside is not described, so plan to berth alongside the quay.
There is no VHF channel published for the marina; contact the harbourmaster or a local taverna by phone if you need assistance. Once ashore, the town of Makry Gialos is immediately behind the harbour, with shops, tavernas, and accommodation within a short walk. The nearest major town is Ierapetra, 25 km to the west, and Sitia is 33 km to the north-east.
Formal port entry procedures are not described; as a Greek domestic port, check in with the local port police if arriving from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available at the Marina of Makrygialos?
The Marina of Makrygialos offers water, power, wifi, showers, laundry, and fuel, plus a crane and travel lift for haul-outs.
Can I stay overnight at the Marina of Makrygialos?
Yes, overnight stays are permitted at the Marina of Makrygialos.
What is the maximum draft for the Marina of Makrygialos?
The published sources do not specify a maximum draft; the harbour is small and suited to yachts and small craft rather than deep-draft vessels.
Is there a VHF channel for the Marina of Makrygialos?
No VHF channel is published for the Marina of Makrygialos; contact the harbourmaster or a local taverna by phone for assistance.
What is the best time of year to visit the Marina of Makrygialos?
The best season is late spring to early autumn, when the weather is settled and the meltemi is less severe on this south-east coast of Crete.
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