Docking:
Chania old town quay is a sheltered mooring with water and electricity available. Lazy lines are used here - depths of four meters.
On approach contact the Harbour Master to check for berth availability. See the comments section for information on entering this harbor at night.
The harbor is to port after passing the breakwater. Transit berths are available in the inner harbor on the starboard side (southern quay). It's possible to berth alongside (in quieter months) or Med style with laid moorings. The inner "marina" is normally full of local yachts and it is doubtful a berth can be found here.
There are water and electricity available and a public shower and toilets onshore (down an alley behind the restaurants on the waterfront). There is also a fuel station in town. Fuel can be delivered by mini-tanker. Ask the Coast Guard.
While space is limited, shelter is excellent and many cruisers find this a lively spot to spend the winter as unlike many other coastal Greek towns, it does not "die" during the winter months.
Local weather (in English) on VHF Channel 85 at 06:00/10:00/16:00 & 22:00 UTC.
Anchorages:
Gramvousa
Three hours west of Chania, this well sheltered anchorage is tucked in behind a steep mainland and island in less than 10 metres. Good shelter from all but west winds. Good stopover if coming to or leaving Crete from the west. Busy on sunny days with day tripper boats but quiet at night.
Marathi - Souda Bay
Two hours east of Chania, this bay provides a nice stopover in six to seven meters and is well sheltered from northerly winds. A bit of swell from passing ferries and cruise ships but nothing of any concern. Busy with day tripper boats during the summer but quite at night. A good taverna on the beach.
Last updated: November 2022
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Gramvousa anchorage, three hours west of Chania.
A well sheltered anchorage tucked in behind a steep mainland and island in less than ten meters. Great shelter from all but west winds.
Good stopover coming to or leaving Crete from the west.
Busy on sunny days with tripper boats, quite at night.
Marathì, anchorage Souda bay.
Two hours east of Chania.
A really nice stop over in 6/7 meters well sheltered from the north winds.
A bit of swell from the many passing ferries and cruise ships but nothing of any concern.
Busy with day boats during the sunny days but quite at night.
Taverna on the beach.
Chania old town quay is a delightful well sheltered mooring with water and electricity available. Lazy lines are used here, 4 meters depth.
Lots to do and see with many restraints and cafe bars only minutes away.
The HM keeps his office in the old mosque in the port.
It so nice here we were slow to leave
November 2017: We stayed here for 12 days in November and had a wonderful time. Called the harbourmaster (+30 6948113916) beforehand to ask about availability.
We approached with strong onshore winds, paying attention to the submerged breakwater and found a spot alongside the quay, which can get uncomfortable when swell enters the harbour (NW winds).
There were some 10 other boats, but only few with people on them. Public showers and toilets are in an ally behind the restaurant-lined waterfront, but quite run-down.
Lively town, friendly people, good base for exploring Western Crete. Paid 10 euros (laid lines / stern-to would have been 8) and a bit for electricity.
May 2014: Have been in Chania several times, last in May 2014. When approaching it is always good to contact local Coast Guard Tel.: +30 28210 98888, 52777, Fax: +30 28210 28387 to check is there a free berth.
Entrance in harbour is simple, however in night you have to come very close to spot flashing red light at the harbour entrance because of background street lights. At the entrance keep in the middle between shore and red light because on left and right is shallow.
After passing water breaker turn left and go inside harbour. Berths are after entrance inner harbour on the right side. You can go alongside on the mole or med style.
Don`t expect too much help with moorings. Coast Guard office is 20 m from berths, however entrance is from back street. Check inn as well port clearance is very straightforward and simple.
Prices low and acceptable. Ask Coast Guard for fuel, usually delivered by small truck. Spare parts for yacht you can find with Malinakis Marine store and if you need any spare part anywhere on Crete he will find a way how to deliver. Highly recommended.