Overview of Souda Bay

The island of Crete, the largest in Greece, is filled with attractions ranging from stunning beaches to ancient cities and natural landscapes. Among these, Souda Bay captures a particular interest for some visitors from the United States due to its military significance.

Souda Bay hosts a U.S. military installation, U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay. This base covers 110 acres within the larger Hellenic (Greek) Air Force Base, playing a crucial role in supporting reconnaissance missions for both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. Approximately 750 military personnel and civilians work at this strategic site.

Moreover, Souda Bay gained attention in 2012 when it was referenced in discussions surrounding the Benghazi incident, highlighting its geographic significance just 200 miles from Libya across the Mediterranean Sea, where the waters are termed the “Liviakos” or Libyan Sea.

Location of Souda Bay

Located on the northwestern coast of Crete, close to the city of Chania, Souda Bay has been pivotal historically and militarily. It serves as the nearest point of Crete to mainland Greece, strategically positioned on the maritime route from Italy and other European ports.

Access to Souda Bay

Access to Souda Bay is restricted for those who are not family members of service personnel stationed there. The coastal areas are largely controlled by military installations, comprising the U.S. presence, Hellenic Air Force Base, and Hellenic Naval Base. The deep, protected harbor has rendered Souda Bay important for countless centuries. Consequently, drivers on the National Road may catch glimpses of the bay, and several nearby villages offer excellent viewing points.

Military Cemeteries in the Area

Given its strategic importance, Souda Bay was the backdrop for intense combat during the Nazi invasion of Crete in 1941, particularly during the Battle of Crete. Nearby, a German war cemetery can be found at Maleme, just a few miles from Souda Bay. Additionally, an Allied war cemetery and a memorial to British Royal Air Force members are located in the vicinity, drawing many descendants of the service members who lost their lives during the conflict.

What to Know If You Go

In the Chania area, visitors can find a range of locally owned hotels catering to various budgets, situated near the war cemeteries and along the National Road that runs across the northern part of Crete. The best way to reach Souda Bay is by flying into Chania International Airport and then renting a car or utilizing public transportation to your hotel and Souda Bay.