Aim of the expeditionThe aim of the expedition is
to cross from Milos to Santorini, via the islands of Kimolos, Poliegos, Folegandros, Sikinos and
Ios (see map). We aim to camp near the crossing point each night, rise early and
complete the crossing in the morning, then spend the afternoons
exploring the length of each island, at a leisurely pace.
This may include walks, or climbs, to villages, lighthouses or viewpoints.
We will encounter
restaurants and shops, for
food and water, at least every second day.
Expedition plan
The
advertised dates comprises 8 full
days for the expedition. We will depart from Pollonia on
the NE of Milos on the morning of day 1. The total distance to arrive at
Santorini is about 190km.
This equates to about 24km/day in 8 days, or 27km/day in 7days. If we have a good run of weather we
should arrive to Santorini on day 5, giving us 3 full days to explore the Santorini
caldera.
At the end of the expedition
we will take the ferry back to Milos. Day 8,
the final day will be a Thursday. A ferry departs Santorini every Thursday at
8pm and arrives to Milos at about midnight.
About
the crossings
The expedition comprises two open crossings of
24 and 22km in length (see map). These crossings are a significant
undertaking, taking around 4 hours to complete.
Required Paddling Experience
This
expedition is for strong and competent paddlers who would like to enjoy
the experience of an extended sea trip, including open crossings of up to
24km.
Experience of specialist sea kayaks is
essential. To join us you should be:
-
Fit enough
to paddle 25-30km/day on the expedition
-
Have
effective support strokes and be able to cope with moderate seas
-
Have some
experience of rough water, either on the sea or white water
-
Able to
control the boat down wind and across the wind
-
Able to
paddle into strong wind.
Arrival and departure dates to/from Milos The advertised dates include 8 full paddling days,
beginning and ending in Milos on a Wednesday. You
must be in Milos the day before the first paddling day. You
can book your departure from Milos anytime from the Thursday after the
expedition. B&B for your arrival and last nights at
Petrinela's
Guesthouse, is included in the cost.
Camping
Camping will be wild, on or near beaches.
Most are remote and there will be no facilities, not even water.
Tents are recommended as their is a possibility of rain and there will be a
heavy due most nights. Most nights we will have a campfire.
Food
The expedition is self catering.
You must buy and prepare your own meals. Food for the first stage can be
bought in Milos on your arrival day. Advice will be given
on arrival day as to what is available and from where.
You are welcome to bring food items from home if you wish
There will be an opportunity to stock up every second or third day,
therefore we can travel light and live well. An occasional
restaurant meal is also an option (Greek salad and calamari for lunch?).
Stoves and fuel
I have several stoves and pot
sets available for loan (Gas trangias). Fuel can be bought in
Milos
Weather
For a month by month comparison of weather
statistics in the Cyclades see the
Milos weather table.
What to wear
For
paddling, shorts and a shirt will be sufficient on most days. A
cagoule (waterproof jacket) may be required if its windy or
overcast. Cold weather paddling gear, (wetsuits, drysuits, etc) are not
required.
See a complete
packing list
Maps
Laminated A4 maps at various
scales, will be
provided.
|