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Milos Island, GREECE


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Expeditions > Western Crete

Expedition plan

The aim of the expedition is to circumnavigate western Crete, form Hania on the north coast to Sfakion on the south coast, via the Rodopos and Gramvousa peninsulas (see map). The total distance is about 160km.  This equates to about 20km/day in 8 days, however bad weather days will make it necessary to increase the daily mileage.

Plan A is to offload the boats into the Harbour, stock up on supplies and begin paddling.  If strong northerly winds make this plan unfeasible then we will travel by car to an alternative location.  Plan B would be to start at Sfakion, and attempt the expedition in reverse.  Plan C, if strong northerly winds are likely to persist, could be to start at Falisarna on the west coast and continue south, thereby missing the Rodopos and Gramvousa peninsulas.

Required paddling experience

This expedition is for strong and competent paddlers who would like to enjoy the experience of an extended sea trip, including an open crossing of 15km.  Experience of specialist sea kayaks is essential.  To join us you should be:

  • Fit enough to paddle up to 30km/day on the expedition

  • Have effective support strokes and be able to cope with moderate seas

  • Have some experience of rough water

  • Able to control the boat down wind and across the wind

Our around Milos expedition, six day-trip package or intermediate course, on Milos, will provide excellent preparation for this expedition.

Your arrival and departure dates to/from Hania (sometimes spelt Chania)

The advertised dates include 8 full paddling days.  We will meet at the El Greco Hotel, Hania on Saturday November 5 at 8.00am.  You should , therefore arrive on (or before ) November 9. 

We will return to Hania, by car on the afternoon of the 12th.  Therefore you will need accommodation on the night of November 12 and your departure the following day.

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.  You are welcome to bring some food from home if you wish, however I suggest we buy most of the food, and especially water, after we meet in Hania and have decided on a plan.  If we need to relocate to an alternative location, then the less we have to carry the better.  We will buy 2-3 days worth of supplies at a time as we will be able to restock.  Meals in seaside towns or beachside Tavernas are a possibility.

Stoves and fuel

Metholated spirits, unleaded petrol, White gas (Kerosene), camping gaz and screw-on gas canisters are available. I also have some gas stoves for loan to save you bringing your own.

Weather

For a month by month comparison of weather statistics in the Cyclades see the Milos weather table.  Crete will be slightly warmer, if anything.

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, etc) are not required.

See a complete packing list

Maps

Laminated A4 maps at various scales, will be provided.

Sea Kayak Milos is owned and operated by Rod Feldtmann and Petrinela Vikeli, of Triovasalos, Milos Greece.       home | about Milos | about us | contact us