Military Exercises Close Chania Waters Throughout May

Thursday, 30 April 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Increased military activity is scheduled throughout May in the maritime zone around Chania, western Crete. The exercises include live-fire drills and the temporary activation of restricted sea areas within the Crete Firing Range. The Central Port Authority of Chania is coordinating the activity and will issue navigation warnings (NOTAMs and similar notices) ahead of each exercise period. Tourists planning boat trips, sailing excursions, or water activities off the Chania coastline should check with their operator or the local port authority before departure, as certain sea zones may be temporarily off-limits during active drill periods. The restrictions are temporary and localized. Land-based sightseeing, beaches, and tourism in the Chania region are not affected. Visitors can contact the Port Authority of Chania for up-to-date information on active exclusion zones before heading out to sea.