Level 1 Sea Kayak Course

Master the Fundamentals of Safe and Efficient Sea Kayaking.
This introductory course is designed for individuals with little or no prior kayaking experience who wish to learn how to paddle safely and efficiently.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have paddled before, this course will give you a solid foundation in technique, confidence, and safety awareness.
You’ll learn essential skills while enjoying scenic routes along Crete’s coastline — the ideal environment for hands-on training.

What You Will Learn

You will develop the following key skills:

Proper techniques for carrying and loading the kayak
Forward paddling with endurance and efficiency
Sideways movement (static & while moving)
Straight-line paddling
Effective stopping techniques
Correct posture & fitting
Launching & landing on different shore types
Overview of kayak construction & safety equipment
Deep-water re-entry and wet exit
Low brace to prevent capsizing
Skeg use & trimming
Turns & 360° pivots
Stern rudder, edging, and leaning
Navigation basics with nautical charts & compass

Course Details

📅 Duration & Schedule

3 full days
Typically 10:00–16:00
Winter: flexible scheduling (we coordinate with weather + participants)

👥 Group Requirements

Minimum age: 16 years
Must know how to swim
Minimum group size: 3 persons
Maximum: 6 persons

📍 Locations

Depending on the weather:

Most often Ligaria Bay (near Heraklion — ~20 min drive)
Alternative: Pantanassa Marina
Summer: held at Ilingas Beach (South Chania)
→ If joining in summer, flying to Chania Airport is recommended.

For groups of 6, we can run the course anywhere in Crete (Chania, Rethymno, etc.).

What to Bring

Summer

Swimsuit
Light neoprene shoes recommended
Sunscreen, hat, water bottle

Winter

Change of clothes (sea is cold!)
We provide:
- Sea kayaking neoprene suit
- Windproof jacket
Limited stock of neoprene shoes — bring your own if possible.

Transfers & Meeting Point

We offer free transfers from:

Heraklion city
Amoudara area

If you’re elsewhere, you can meet us at a designated location.
Exact meeting point sent via email before the course.

Price & Payment

€300 per person
Pay in cash on the first day
No refunds if you cannot complete the course
(but you may join a future course to finish remaining days)
Private courses with flexible dates available all year
Credit card payment must be completed online during checkout