Yacht Charter in Southern Crete
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Boating.
Yacht Charter in Southern Crete
Discover Southern Crete by Yacht Charter
Southern Crete offers an unforgettable yacht charter experience, bridging Europe and Africa. As the largest island in the Aegean Sea, Crete stretches 140 miles east to west and about 20 miles north to south. Its landscape is mostly mountainous and rocky, with fertile plains on the northern coast and the Lasithi Plateau, where a variety of fruits and vegetables flourish.
Navigating Southern Crete’s Waters
During the summer, the notorious Meltemi wind blows from the NW-WNW. It reaches its peak in July and August, with winds often between force 5-6 on the northern coast, and a gentler force 3-4 elsewhere. In spring and autumn, winds shift from the south at force 2-4. Adventurers must be cautious of sudden squalls on the southern coast as these fierce winds sweep down from the mountains. With summer temperatures averaging 35°C and occasionally spiking to 40°C, expect warm sailing conditions.
Anchorage Highlights
- Nisis Gramvousa: Situated off Crete’s southern coast, offering a protected bay on the island’s SE side. Yachts can anchor or dock at the quay, with water available from a nearby well by the chapel.
- Palaiokhora: Located near Crete’s SW tip. Dock at the new harbor or anchor in the adjacent bays based on wind direction. The village provides water, fuel, and provisions, with excellent tavernas to visit.
- Ak Mouros: Features anchorages on both sides. At Ormos Loutra and Ormos Foinikias, limited provisions and a few tavernas can be found in the village.
- Skafion: Anchor near the village in calm weather conditions. Skafion boasts tavernas and full provisions in its now bustling tourist setting.
- Ay Galini: Offers bow-stern docking or alongside the quay with good sandy holding. Sheltered from the Meltemi, the town provides water, fuel, provisions, and inviting tavernas.
- Matala: A picturesque horseshoe bay suitable for calm weather anchorage. It’s steeped in history, mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, and was a significant Roman port. Enjoy local provisions and tavernas here.
- Kali Limenes: A small bay open to the east and south but otherwise sheltered. Anchor here for a peaceful stay with limited village provisions and some tavernas.
- Ierapetra: A medium harbor with maritime history dating back to the Minoans, though little ancient architecture remains. Dock conveniently, with full provisioning and delightful waterfront dining options.
- Kato Zakros: Acclaimed for its Minoan palace ruins, this sandy bay provides a tranquil anchorage with a couple of tavernas ashore.
- Ormos Grandes: A spacious bay offering refuge from the Meltemi. Nearby, anchor off the sandy beach of Vai, just two miles north of Kouremenos, where tavernas await.
Culinary Delights
Crete’s cuisine is a feast for seafood lovers, featuring tuna, swordfish, sea bass, octopus, and more. From savory beef, pork, lamb, and goat dishes to specialties like rabbit stew, cheese pie, and fried cheese (staka), the flavors are rich and diverse. Satisfy sweet cravings with yogurt and honey tarts (kaltzounia), and enjoy the island's fine wines.
Explore the wonders of Southern Crete by yacht for a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and culinary pleasure.
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