Samaria National Park
Samaria is a two days sea kayak trip that takes place within the Samaria national park in an absolutely stunning sea kayaking environment. No previous experience is required. You need to be in good fit and not more than 105kg (that is the limit on weight in the hull of our boats regarding stability).
Overview of the trip
During the trip, we will paddle towards Loutro and Agia Roumeli villages (not accessible by roads). We will pass some of the most famous beaches of Crete; Glyka nera (sweet water beach), Marmara, Agios Pavlos and optional the Domata beach. All those areas are within the range of Samaria national park.
EXPERIENCE NEEDED
The whole trip is about 40-45km.
This equates to about 20km/day in 2 days.
For Samaria trip you need to be fit enough to paddle 20-25km per day.
Paddlers without previous experience are welcome to join but they will enjoy it much more if they do an introduction course at least a day before (extra cost 80€ per person).
WHAT IS INCLUDED
The trip fee includes all of the paddling equipment and accommodation. High quality composite kayaks from Nigel Dennis & 3kymia are available. There are also plastic Valley Etains 17-5 & 17-7 for those that prefer them.
Air or ferry to Crete, lunches, drinks and any kind of food, personal clothing and accessories, baggage and trip cancellation insurance, airport taxes and gratuities are not included.
ACCOMMODATION & FOOD
There are several tavernas in Agia Roumeli (the name of the village where we will overnight) to have dinner.
We can also stop for lunch during the paddle in a taverna or you can pack your lunch if you prefer.
All you need is some snacks for the day and of course water.
There is no need for more than 2lt of water as we will be able to refill during the day if necessary.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURES
We will meet in our base at Ilingas beach 10 am. There is plenty of secure parking (free) if you are traveling with your car. You should arrive in Chania or Heraklion city the day before.
The closest airport with bus connection is from Chania town.
There is a bus every day during the summer months that arrives just before 10 am in Chora Sfakion; that village is just 2 minutes away by car.
If you don't have a car you can just give us a call and we will be happy to pick you up.
On the last day of the trip we will return back to Ilingas beach early evening; that will give you enough time to get the bus back to Chania (departs near 7 pm) or of course overnight near by and depart the next day in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be able to leave my suitcase with you?
Ideally try to have all your stuff for the trip inside multiple and small dry bags and those inside a suitcase or any other rucksack. It is important to have your stuff in either rucksack or suitcase as usually we have very limited space inside the car and need to carry all passengers stuff in the roof rack with straps. The driver can store afterwards your suitcase or rucksack in our warehouse and bring it back to you once the trip finish. Of course if you are staying in a hotel prior and after the trip you can ask them to store your stuff there if you prefer.
When in your opinion is a good time to do the expedition?
September and October used to be the best months for paddling in terms of calm sea. If you want to plan an early multi day trip then April and May are good choices or mid November for a late season trip. If you have no problem paddling in winter then March is a superb month. The scenery is outstanding as most of the mountains are covered by snow. Ground temperature at the sea level varies from 8-18oC while water at 15oC. March is usually a calm month in terms of sea conditions.
Can I rent all camping equipment?
We can provide all the equipment for camping apart from sleeping bag for an extra cost.
You can get a high quality 3 or 4 season tent for an extra 30€ for the whole duration of the trip and also the mattress.
Stove (complete set from Trangia) and gas canister are an extra 30€ and is suitable for 2-3 persons.
What to bring for the trip?
- Swim suit
- Sun hat
- Sun screen
- Sun glasses
- Towel
- Wet shoes (neoprene) along with an extra normal shoe for hiking.
- Light clothes as well as some warmer ones (ie. fleece) depending the season.
- Head torch
- Sleeping bag
- Mosquito repellent
- Any medication needed for special personal medical condition.
What sea conditions should I expect during the trip?
Having 6 days calm weather is nearly impossible.
Expect to paddle up to 2 meter waves occasionally and in strong head winds nearly every day at some point. This is an advanced trip as the eastern part of the islands gets most of the wind (offshore).
This is an adventure trip!
How can I pay to book/confirm for the trip?
Please fill the booking form as it has extra information that we need.
Once you fill the booking form we will let you know within 1-2 days about the availability and will send you a link where you can pay the 20% of the total price to confirm booking.
You can pay us the rest of the money either in cash or with your credit card two days before the starting date as we need to have the funds cleared before the trip.
