Agia Galini
If you are looking for sea caves, crystal clear water and great landing places for snorkeling then this is a trip for you. Located about an hour driving from Rethymno town and more or less the same from Heraklion, it is suitable for most of the people that staying in or near those cities.
Overview of the trip
Paddling distance: We can either move to the west, south east (15-21km max) or even for experienced paddlers (you need to be at 4* level) to do an open crossing (15km) to Paksimadia islands (37km total). The exact route is planned based on the level of participants and the weather forecast.
Equipment: Single or tandem (double) kayaks are available. People with no experience will be given a tandem kayak as those are easier to paddle unless you want to try a single. Experienced paddlers can get superb boats from Nigel Dennis, Valley, North Shore, P&H and 3kymia sea kayaks. We use mainly composite kayaks in our trips.
Plan of the trip: The route is very well protected from the north winds that usually blown during the summer while giving some exciting conditions when the wind is coming from the west. A trip suitable for all levels.
There will be a short introduction to paddling for those that have no experience. From the starting point we've got a few options about paddling route. Swimming and snorkelling is of course a must during the trip. You will be amazed by the color of the water, a crystal clear green/blue with up to 25 meters visibility; it gives you a feeling that you swim in a huge swimming pool! Lunch can be either in a taverna (great food and cheap prices) or you are welcome to pack your own lunch. If you end up doing the open crossing, you should have packed your lunch as there isn't anything in the islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
If you don't want to have lunch in the taverna be sure you pack your lunch. Other than that you will need 1.5lt of water (ideally in small bottles),sun glasses, hat, sunscreen, swimsuit, lycra shirt or any t-shirt ideally with UV protection. You will also need shoes that you do not mind getting soaked as you will get your feet wet. Ideally a light neoprene shoe will work great. It is not required to wear shoes but they will help as the majority of the beaches are with small pebbles.
Where do we meet?
Check out the following link for the exact meeting point, it is located on the left side of the marina as you are coming towards the big parking. Access to the parking is for free.
Google map link:
https://goo.gl/maps/hdid6deVgN52
How do I book?
Use the "BOOK NOW" link located on the top of this page as the booking form has extra details that we need. After submitting the form you will get an email within 1-2 days (usually the same day) with a confirmation. The payment can be done either by cash when we meet or via credit card payment two days prior to the starting date as we need the funds to have cleared by the date of the trip.
What time do we meet & finish?
We start by 10 am and finish between 4-5pm. If time change for any reason you will be notified by email. You will have to be on the beach a few minutes before 10 am.
Do you provide transfer?
We pick up clients from Heraklion and any other location as long as it is on our way to Agia Galini. If you need transfer and you are not sure get in touch with us. Remember to send us the exact location of your hotel, not just the name. Transport is charged at 20€ per person.
Do you run this trip all year long?
For a minimum of 4 participants we can run the trip all year long.
