The shipping platform

Location: Souda Bay is situated at the head of Ormos Soudas, to the N of the NW coast of Crete. General overview: Souda (or Suda) Bay is a well sheltered, natural harbour and is considered a safe anchorage. The port is located at the head of Souda Bay and is an important naval and ferry port A small ferry port on the SW end of the bay is currently being enlarged and fortified Greek/Nato Navy berths on the N part of the bay. Note: Foreign vessels require prior permission from the Harbour Master, Chania, to enter navigation passage to the commercial port, this is granted for daylight passages only. The port of Souda serves also commercial purposes, while here is handled a large volume of the agricultural production of the prefecture, in olive oil and vegetables. It is considered one of the most important ports in the Eastern Mediterranean, since, because of Crete’s location, it is situated on the route of ships traveling through the Suez Canal to the western Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Exports: Include citrus fruits, olive oil, soap, wine and market garden produce. Imports: Include seeds, potatoes, sugar and timber. Traffic figures: Approx 540,000t of cargo, 1,050 vessels and 1,100,000 passengers handled annually. Load line zone: Summer. Max size: -Commercial Port: Draught 10m. -East Refueling Wharf: LOA 260m, draught 8.2m plus tide. No restrictions for anchoring.