MALIA

• GRGAO
• Latitude: 35.2963
• Longitude: 25.4739
• East Mediterranean
• Marina in Greece

Location: Greece

Malia is a small town located on the northern coast of the island of Crete, Greece. It is primarily known for its vibrant tourism scene rather than as a major marine port. As such, Malia lacks the extensive port facilities found in larger, commercial ports. However, it does have some local infrastructure that serves smaller vessels and tourist activities.

General Overview:

Location:

• Northern coast of Crete, Greece
• Approximately 34 kilometers east of Heraklion, the capital of Crete

Port Description:

Port Name:

• Malia Port

Type:

• Small, local port primarily catering to fishing boats, small yachts, and tourist vessels

Coordinates:

• Latitude: 35.2833° N
• Longitude: 25.4620° E

Facilities and Services:

• Docking: Adequate for small boats and yachts. The port is not equipped to handle large commercial vessels.
• Mooring: Basic mooring facilities for small marine craft.
• Fueling: Limited availability; may need to rely on nearby larger ports for refueling services.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Very basic, if available at all. Most serious repairs would need to be conducted at larger shipyards in Heraklion or other larger Cretan ports.
• Security: Minimal; suitable for the typically low traffic and tourism-focused activities.
• Customs and Immigration: Not available. Vessels requiring these services must use the facilities in Heraklion or other larger ports.
• Restaurants and Shops: Numerous in the nearby town of Malia, catering largely to tourists.
• Tourism Services: Excursions, day trips, water sports, and fishing trips are available.

Navigational Information:

• Approach: Generally safe with straightforward navigation; however, attention must be paid to local weather conditions and seasonal tourism traffic.
• Anchorages: Nearby anchorage points suitable for small vessels.
• Water Depth: Shallow, adequate for small boats but not suitable for deep-draught vessels.

Nearby Attractions:

• Minoan Palace of Malia: A significant archaeological site located just 3 kilometers east of the town. It is one of the most important Minoan palaces on Crete.
• Malia Beach: Famous for its long sandy stretches and vibrant beach bars.
• Nightlife: Known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

Transport Links:

• Road: Well-connected by road to Heraklion and other major Cretan towns.
• Air: The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport (HER), approximately 32 kilometers away.
• Public Transport: Regular bus services to and from Heraklion and other nearby destinations.

Summary:

While Malia's port is not a major commercial hub, it serves its purpose well for local fishermen, tourists, and recreational mariners. Its primary draw remains its vibrant tourism scene, with plenty of facilities catering to visitors rather than heavy shipping or commercial maritime activities.