Sea kayak rentals, Milos Island, Greece

Rentals are available to experienced sea paddlers, and to groups with experienced leaders, for use around Milos and Kimolos.

An experienced kayaker is one who has paddled sea kayaks in a wide variety of water and weather conditions and is proficient in self-rescue and assisted rescue techniques.

Experienced leaders must have strong sea kayak leadership, navigation and personal skills, in advanced sea conditions. British paddlers should hold the BCU 5 STAR SEA award. Non BCU members and potential group leaders from other countries should read the BCU 5 STAR SEA syllabus to self assess their skills and qualifications.

We do not want the responsibility of providing kayaks to people who do not have this background. Just as there is great enjoyment to be had from a competently planned and conducted trip, there are too many things which can go wrong for persons of insufficient experience in ocean paddling.

There are sound reasons for restricting sea kayak rentals to experienced paddlers:

1) There is a common tendency among visitors to Milos to underestimate the power of the Aegean Sea. Although often calm and tranquil, winds of Force 6 (or above) occur at least every week, and sometimes, for an entire week. Therefore, rough seas and strong offshore winds can be expected, especially if attempting a circumnavigation.

2) Our sea kayaks are designed for fast, efficient travel, however being a closed cock pit kayak, the possibility of a capsize requires proficient rescue skills . As such a situation is more likely to occur in advanced sea conditions, it is necessary to have practiced and mastered deep water rescues in rough water and strong winds.

3) Sea Kayaks are not the only craft on the water. Hazards such as swimmers, power boats, yachts, fishing boats and nets, ferries and large ships can result in situations ranging from being an annoyance, to a collision. Effective planning, group control, speed estimation and awareness whilst on the water, are necessary at all times.

Therefore, we will ask potential renters to give information about their experience and qualifications. If you have any doubts about your ability or experience, we suggest you take a sea kayaking course in your own country or join us for our guided day-trips or expeditions. Our guided trips are designed to satisfy experienced paddlers, as well as people new to the sport.

Rental Prices for 2012

Type of rental	Rental rate
Single kayak, boat only (see note 1)	30 euro per day
Single kayak, fully equipped (see note 2)	40 euro per day
Double kayak, fully equipped (see note 2)	70 euro per day
Delivery of kayak (see note 3)	30 euro per trip
Collection of kayaks (see note 3)	30 euro per trip
Local knowledge guide (Rod Feldtmann BCU L4)	250 euro per day

Notes:

1. Boat only rentals include Rainbow lazer kayak only. All other equipment must be supplied by the renter.

2. Fully equipped kayak rentals include:

- Rainbow lazer kayak
- Werner glass paddle (Shuna or Corryvrecken; straight shaft; 215 and 220cm)
- Buoyancy aid (Peak sea-vest)
- Spray-deck (shockwave PVC or neoprene)
- Spare paddle for group
- Sponge per kayak

3. Delivery and collection of kayaks: As we are not based by the sea it is necessary to deliver kayaks and equipment , by car and trailer to a pre-arranged starting location. There is no charge for delivery of 6 kayaks or more for multi-day rentals.

4. We do not hire out camping or snorkelling equipment, tow-lines or pumps.