Mandraki Marina & Port

Mandraki Marina & Port offers a delightful haven for yachtsmen seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean experience on Rhodes Island. It truly stands out among other holiday marinas due to its status as an ancient harbor on the historic island. The marina is located on the northern tip of the island of Rhodes, the largest and most historically significant island of the Dodecanese archipelago. In fact, its historic location, called Mandraki Harbor, is an important site within the island’s Old Town district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mandraki Marina has merged beautifully with the historic sites nearby and is surrounded on all sides by fascinating ancient structures, including the iconic deer statues, medieval windmills, and the impressive Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. It is 40 meters long with 170 berths and several facilities available to visiting yachtsmen and boaters. It is also conveniently located near the island’s international airport. With its breathtaking natural surroundings, excellent anchorage conditions, and easy access to nearby attractions, Mandraki Marina presents a perfect blend of tranquil ambiance and recreational opportunities to satisfy the desires of all seafaring enthusiasts.

Atmosphere and Adjoining Historic Sites of Mandraki

Mandraki Marina boasts a captivating atmosphere, blending the allure of Greek history with the excitement of modern-day leisure. Surrounded by vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes, the marina overlooks the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, creating a stunning backdrop for yacht owners and visitors. From the marina, visitors can also witness the awe-inspiring sight of the Knights of St. John's medieval fortifications, further enhancing the unique ambiance.

Mandraki has been the main harbor of Rhodes for centuries, and most notably, it is the historic location of the Colossus of Rhodes, a dramatically large statue that has been lost to time. In place of the Colossus, guests are now greeted by two statues of deer, who are called “Elefos” and Elafina”. These iconic structures have been erected where the feet of the Colossus once stood and are the first sights to greet visitors who arrive at the harbor by boat. Also near the northern entrance to the harbor is the Saint Nicholas Fortress, an ancient defensive fortress that was completed in 1467 and today serves as a lighthouse.

The next sight guests may notice are three intact windmills along the eastern pier, which date back to the 15th century. In fact, this pier is traversed not only by visitors utilizing the marina facilities but also by the many tourists who are drawn to the Old Town of Rhodes by its storied past. Furthermore, marina guests can see the imposing medieval fortification walls and distant landmarks of the ancient city just meters beyond their boats.

Wind, Water, and Anchorage Conditions of the Marina

Mandraki Marina is an ideal spot for vessels to dock and refuel while enjoying their time among the historic sites of Rhodes. Some of the marina facilities and services include water, fuel, showers, ATM machines, and wifi, as well as a customs and immigration office. Additionally, visitors can find supermarkets for provisioning as well as a wide selection of restaurants, taverns, and cafes just a short walk from the pier. Mandraki is the busiest harbor on the island, so it is recommended that guests call ahead and reserve their space before arrival, especially if they are planning to visit during the peak tourism months of June through August. 

In terms of water conditions, the marina provides safe and tranquil waters for anchorage. From May to October, the prevailing wind in the region blows from the west or northwest. The National Observatory of Athens issues a sailing forecast each day, which can help anticipate the conditions yachtsmen will find upon reaching the island. Additionally, boaters should be wary of the rocks and shallow waters on the north side of the harbor’s entrance.

Mandraki Harbor Activities

Though the waters of Mandraki Marina are calm, clear, and come in stunning shades of blue, this is not a good spot for swimming, snorkeling, or other water sports due to the busy nature of the harbor. Instead, guests can dock their vessels and explore the many historic sites that surround the waterway. For those seeking a day of swimming and sunbathing, Elli Beach is quite close and features pebbly shores that are well organized by local businesses providing equipment rentals and refreshments.

Beyond the marina, the town of Rhodes offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions waiting to be explored. As previously mentioned, the Medieval City of Rhodes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is within walking distance and features cobblestone streets, fascinating medieval architecture, and ancient structures like the Palace of the Grand Master. Additionally, there is the Acropolis of Rhodes, located on the hill of Monte Smith, which is slightly beyond the Old Town. This ancient site showcases the remnants of a once-grand temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and offers panoramic views of Rhodes.

For those who don’t mind venturing a bit further, the island of Rhodes has a wide range of attractions. Most notably, approximately 50 kilometers south of Mandraki Marina lies the captivating village of Lindos, renowned for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and the magnificent Acropolis of Lindos, perched on a hilltop. Furthermore, for those seeking an active adventure, a trip to Prasonisi, a unique peninsula located at the southern tip of Rhodes, offers unparalleled conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.