Cruising Crete

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is a must-visit destination for sailing enthusiasts. Its waters are generally not accessible to mainstream charter fleets, making it an ideal location for those seeking a more secluded and unique experience. With a length of around 140 nautical miles from east to west and a width of approximately 31 nautical miles, the island is home to a variety of scenic locations waiting to be explored.

The sailing season in Crete offers consistent cruising, thanks to the typical North-Northeasterly prevailing winds, especially during the long summer afternoons. Some of the must-visit destinations accessible by sea include:

Milatos, where you can visit the Malia Palace;

Loutro, an ancient port with fertile surroundings;

Agios Nikolaos, a stunning town with an iconic Voulismeni Lake;

Sitia, a delightful location off the beaten track;

Vai, an anchorage with ancient ruins to explore;

Paleohora, a charming small harbour with castle ruins and recently completed quays offering more secluded space;

Chania, featuring castles and mosques and a tranquil port oasis in an otherwise bustling town;

Georgioupolis, a lovely small village located on the river Almiros;

Rethymno, offering a beautiful approach and a port guarded by a castle;

Panormos, a charming little and safe port;

Iraklion, featuring museums and an ideal landfall when sailing from Santorini/Thira.

Spinalonga lagoon, located west of Nisos Spinalonga, is a picturesque location featuring a Venetian fortress set in shallow yet deep enough waters.

With its variety of stunning destinations, consistent winds, and secluded waters, Crete is a must-visit destination for any sailing enthusiast.