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Western Crete
A challenging expedition for experienced Sea Kayakers. An 8-day journey along the west and SW coast of Crete from Kissamos to Ag Galini. The total distance is approx 190 km. Although highly dependant on the weather conditions, we plan to start on the north coast and round the Gramvousa peninsula on day 1, camping below the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island. On day 2 we will proceed down the west coast, then westwards along the south coast. The expedition is “open ended”, meaning we get as far as conditions and enthusiasm of the group allows.
The Price includes:
- Fully guided by Rod Feldtmann
- Full logistical and emergency support
- All sea kayaking equipment
- 7 days' sea kayaking
- 7 nights' wild camping
- Last day pack up and return to Hania
- Camping equipment
- Food and food preparation - this trip is self catered
- Hotel in Kissamos on arrival night (approx €50 per room)
- Hotel on last night (approx €50 per room)
- Shared transfer from Hania to Kissamos on arrival day (approx €20pp)
- Shared transfer from Sfakia to Hania at end of trip (approx €50pp)
2024 Price : €870
Maximum 11 persons
For experienced sea kayakers
How to Book >
Expedition Calendar >
Arrival and departure
The advertised dates indicate your arrival and departure dates to and from Hania.
- Arrive at Hania anytime before 4 pm. A shared transfer to Kissamos (1 hr) will be booked for you when everyone’s flight details are received. Or, find your own way to Kissamas (one way taxi fare is approx €80).
- Depart from Hania anytime on departure day.
- You can fly direct to Hania from Athens with Olympic Air or Sky Express.
- There are several day and overnight ferries from/to Piraeus
Expedition Plan
- Arrival day; Arrive to Hania, shared transfer to Kissamos, stay in Hotel (actual hotel TBA)
- Day 1. Unload trailer, pack boats, hotel breakfast, supermarket shopping, start paddling
- Days 1 to 7: A 7-day expedition with 7 nights’ camping.
- Day 8: Pack up camp, unload boats, load trailer, transfer to Hania, stay in Hotel.
The aim of the expedition is to circumnavigate western Crete, from Kissamos on the north coast to Sfakion on the south coast, via the Gramvousa peninsula (see map). The total distance is about 140km. If all goes well we may continue to Plakias (170km) or Ag Gallini (200km).
Maps
A laminated A4 map will be provided.
Required Paddling Experience
This expedition is for experienced sea kayakers. You should have enough stamina to paddle an average 25 km per day for 7 days in a variety of sea conditions. You should be comfortable with the idea of paddling in moderate wind and waves, as challenging conditions are likely on at least some of the days. You should have practised the T-rescue and know how to do an assisted deep water re-entry.
If you have limited paddling experience, our Explore Milos Package will provide excellent preparation for this expedition.
Camping
Camping will be wild on remote beaches. There are no facilities and no water supply. All camping equipment, food and water must be carried in the kayak. A strong lightweight tent is essential. A quality, inflatable sleeping mat and pillow is recommended.
Food
The expedition is self catered. Usually we each look after our own breakfast, lunch and snacks and take turns to prepare a small group evening meal. Food for the first stage can be bought from a supermarket in Kissamos on the morning of day 1. You are welcome to bring food items from home. There will be an opportunity to stock up every second or third day, allowing us to travel light and live well. Occasional stops at restaurants and coffee shops are a possibility.
Stoves and fuel
Camping stoves will be provided – one per 4 persons. The Trangia stove, includes 2 pots, kettle and a frying pan. The stoves are powered by gas canisters with a screw-on fitting and are readily available in local supermarkets.
Weather
April in Crete, is a comfortable spring month, with average temperature fluctuating between 13°C and 18°C. On average, rain falls on 7 days/month, so we can expect some wet weather. The sea temperature is around 17°C. Source www.weather-atlas.com
What to wear
For paddling, shorts and a shirt will be sufficient on sunny days. A cagoule (waterproof paddling jacket) and neoprene trousers or similar may be required if its windy or overcast.
See a complete Packing list >