Six-Day Expedition in South Crete
A true adventure along one of the most stunning and remote coastlines in Europe.
This six-day sea kayaking expedition is ideal for paddlers with at least 2–3 years of experience.
To fully enjoy the trip, you should be comfortable maintaining a paddling speed of 6–7 km/h and have experience paddling in windy conditions, especially katabatic winds common in this region.
While our guides will plan around the weather, conditions may occasionally require itinerary changes.
If you’re unsure about your skill level, feel free to contact us.
Group size
Our guided sea kayaking trips normally have a maximum of 12 participants. Groups of 13–20 can be accommodated by prior arrangement, with a booking made at least one week in advance, so we have time to transfer additional tandem kayaks from our warehouse. Please contact us before booking a larger group.
Overview of the trip
The expedition covers 120+ km along the breathtaking southern coast of Crete — the exact distance depends on the weather and the group’s pace, so we sometimes paddle more and sometimes less. Over the course of six days, we’ll pass through or near iconic coastal villages like Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, Chora Sfakion, Rodakino, Plakias, Agios Pavlos, Agia Galini and Matala to name a few.
If weather prevents paddling on a given day, we often explore Samaria Gorge or nearby hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go?
Any month except November–February, when strong westerly and southerly winds are common.
What should I bring?
You should bring:
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat, sunscreen & sunglasses
- Towel
- Wet shoes + hiking shoes
- Warm layers if is not in the summer
- Head torch
- Mosquito repellent
- Personal medication
- Tent, sleeping bag, mattress (sleeping bag not needed in July–August; a light liner is enough)
Sea conditions?
A big part is exposed to katabatic winds — waves are usually no more than 1.5-2 meter.
Late October and early April chances are higher for rougher weather.
July and August nearly impossible to do it due to very strong katabatic winds that blowing in big parts of the route (going above 100km/hour)
Luggage and storage
Bring your gear in dry bags of 15 litres or less — the kayaks have round 24" hatches and bags need to fit through the opening. Several smaller bags (5–15L) packed in a suitcase or rucksack work best. We’ll store it in our warehouse and return it at the end.
If staying at a hotel before/after, you may ask them to store it for you.
Arrival and departure
The trip officially begins in the morning in Heraklion city, where our team will meet you. The exact meeting time will be arranged based on participant arrival times.
Important: The transfer from Heraklion to the expedition starting point is not included in the trip price. We will organize a shared taxi or other suitable transportation for the group. The exact cost will depend on the starting location of the expedition and will be split among participants. The same applies for the return transfer at the end of the trip. We will keep you informed in advance and ensure everything is arranged smoothly.
Best airport: Heraklion (HER)
Alternative: Chania (CHQ)
We’ll meet at a central location in or near Heraklion (you’ll receive exact details via email). After everyone arrives, we’ll drive south west to our launch point. The drive usually takes about 4 hours, with a stop for coffee and a detailed itinerary briefing.
Those that traveling from Chania airport can meet us direct to the starting point (about 1.5 hour drive).
Camping and food
This is a self-catered expedition:
- Each participant is responsible for their own breakfast, lunch, and snacks
- Group dinners are typically prepared in rotation
- We begin the trip by purchasing two days’ worth of food and water in Heraklion
- We will restock as we pass through coastal towns, weather permitting
- In the off-season (late October to late April), we recommend carrying three days’ worth of supplies
Meals at seaside tavernas may be possible—but not guaranteed, depending on weather and itinerary changes. Your guide will keep you informed.
How do I book?
Please submit your booking through the South Crete Expedition booking form. We need some additional information from each participant before confirming the trip:
- Your paddling experience
- Your details including a phone where we can reach you via WhatsApp or Viber
- Your body type (height, weight)
- Your age and if there is any health issue that we might have to know
Once everything is confirmed, we will send you a payment link for the deposit through the booking system. The remaining payment is made either in cash on the day of the trip or by credit card online during checkout.
Payment with credit card the day of the trip is not possible.
In case of any problem with email (seakayakingcrete@gmail.com) please contact me directly at +30 694 614 0777 via WhatsApp.
Photos from our trip
