Sitia

Nestled on the northeastern coast of Crete, the friendly town of Sitia is a fun and uncrowded destination for yachtsmen seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. It is a port town within Sitia Bay along the Sea of Crete, 70 kilometers east of Agios Nikolaos. With a population of 10,000, the town has a very lived-in vibe, where tourism makes up a part of its colorful tapestry of daily life and culture rather than being the sole focus, helping the area to retain its traditional Cretan character, with charming narrow streets, quaint tavernas, and tidy shops. The unhurried pace of life allows yachtsmen to unwind and soak in the tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape.

Sitia itself is fun to explore, and it also makes for a comfortable base to use while enjoying the treasures of eastern Crete, particularly Cape Sidero, known for its stunning bays and beaches as well as the largest palm forest in Greece. The town has a few historic sites to discover, one main sandy beach with great windsurfing, and excellent hiking in the local mountains. There are also many small, charming villages within easy sailing distance.

Sitia’s History: From Minoans to Modernity

Sitia boasts a rich historical heritage dating back to the Minoan civilization. Legend has it that it was in this region of Crete that the god Zeus was born, hidden from his father Cronus. Today, numerous archaeological sites offer captivating glimpses into the ancient past.

The area around Sitia has been inhabited since pre-Minoan times, and many fascinating sites have been excavated from as early as the Bronze Age, including the Minoan Palace of Petras and the settlements of Itanos and Mochlos. Ancient Sitia itself was founded by the Minoans as Iteia, and it prospered as a port city through the Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

After the Venetians took Crete in 1204, the town saw many disasters, including earthquakes, pirate attacks, and battles with the Ottomans, leaving only the Kazarma Fortress in the wake of the destruction. After lying abandoned for many centuries, the town was rebuilt in 1870 by the Turks and briefly called Avniye. Despite many political upheavals in Crete, Sitia has only grown more prosperous and modern over the years, becoming the charming place it is today.

Sailing and Anchorage Conditions

Sitia's coastal location provides yachtsmen with excellent wind and water conditions for sailing and exploration. The Meltemi winds, which blow from the north in the summer, offer perfect conditions for thrilling sailing adventures along the northern coast of Crete, around Cape Sidero, and along the island’s east coast.

Sitia Bay acts as a natural shelter, providing safe anchorage for yachts and shielding them from winds and waves. The main harbor offers some facilities for visiting vessels, but it is also a busy commercial harbor, so guests should not expect many luxuries. Water and electricity can be replenished, but space is limited. More luxurious amenities can be found in the neighboring city of Agios Nikolaos, and sailors in this region also enjoy overnight stays in the remote anchorages of Kouremenos and Ormo Zakros.

Popular Beaches:

The crystal-clear, biodiverse waters surrounding Sitia are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The town is also conveniently located near Cape Sidero and the easternmost coast of Crete, where many famous Greek beaches and natural wonders can be found. The area is exposed to the Meltemi, so any beach without natural protection will be a bit wavy. Most beaches are sandy and don’t require sea shoes until the sand gets too hot in the afternoon. The waters are pleasantly warm for swimming from late June to early October.

Within town, the main beach is Sitia Beach, a long sandy shore with excellent windsurfing, public showers and bathrooms, and many waterfront businesses offering equipment rentals and refreshments. Unlike the more popular neighboring beaches, this location rarely gets crowded; however, there is a chance of increased crowds in the busy months of July and August.

One of the most popular locales on Crete is Vai Beach, known for its stunning palm tree forest, golden sands, and turquoise waters. It is less than 30 kilometers outside of Sitia, located on the opposite side of Cape Sidero. It is not an easy place to anchor, though anchoring is allowed. The picturesque locale generally has low crowds, is equipped with parasols and sun beds, and has a small Greek restaurant on the premises.

Another great place to check out is Kouremenos Beach, located about 25 kilometers from Sitia. It is renowned for its exceptional wind conditions, which attract windsurfers and kite surfers from around the world. The wide bay has shallow waters that are ideal for families with kids. At 2 kilometers long, the shore is rarely crowded. It can be difficult to anchor at the beach itself, but there is a well-equipped marina within walking distance.

There are many other bays, beaches, and islets nearby just waiting to be discovered by adventurous sailors, including Petras, Erimoupolis, Itanos, and many others.

Things to Do:

Apart from sailing and exploring the mesmerizing coastline, Sitia offers a range of activities to engage in. Travelers can visit the Archaeological Museum of Sitia and Kazarma Fortress to delve deeper into the region's fascinating history. They can explore the picturesque village of Palekastro, known for its traditional architecture and charming tavernas. Many outdoorsy types choose to embark on a hiking adventure to the Toplou Monastery, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Finally, no trip to the region is complete without indulging in delectable Cretan cuisine, sampling local wines, and experiencing the warmth of Cretan hospitality at the many fine businesses along the narrow streets on and near the waterfront.