You need to be close to 4* skills (based on British Canoeing) to join this trip. You don’t need to hold any certification, just be sure that your skills are up to that level.
Part of the trip faces strong katabatic winds and need super attention. This is where you can get benefit from our experience, to paddle safely in a wonderful coastline.
We will paddle close to Asterousia mountains (1243 meters the highest summit) and Dikti (2148 meters).
Many remote beaches along the way. The largest part without an option for landing is about 15km.
Paddlers with 4* skills will love the conditions and will be a great test towards the 5* for those that are interested in. A few camping spots during our trip have little to none light pollution and is great for those that are interested in night photography. If that is the case don’t forget to bring a tripod!
EXPERIENCE NEEDED: ADVANCED
The whole expedition is about 150km. This equates to about 25km/day in 6 days, however bad weather days will make it necessary to increase the daily kilometers up to 35 or more.
- Fit enough to paddle up to 35km/day
- Comfortable in sea state 4 (~2 meter waves)
- Been able to paddle with an average speed of 6 km per hour
- Able to control the boat downwind & across the wind
Notes: We will meet near the city of Heraklion between 8-9 am. You should arrive in Heraklion the day before. On the last day of the trip we will return back to Heraklion by our car and will be glad to drop you in the airport if your flight is on same date. Your flight needs to be late enough as we need about 2.5 hours to get there from the place that will finish our sea kayak trip. An alternative airport if you do find a much cheaper flight is the one in Chania but bare in mind that you will need to meet us in Heraklion city afterwards (2 hours & 45 minutes by bus).