 Expedition planThe 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
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.
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