The small uninhabited island of Spinalonga, officially known as Kalydon, is located in the gulf of Elounda,  in north-eastern Crete.

The island has been used as a leper colony. Spinalonga has appeared in novels, television series, and a short film and has a rich but dramatic history.

In this sea kayak trip we will explore the whole area in a superb nature!

The Island is a historical novel written by Victoria Hislop. It has won several awards including Newcomer of the Year at the 2007 British Book Awards. The book was also nominated for the Book of the Year award at the same event and of course is about the island of Spinalonga.

During our kayaking trip we will have the chance to visit the island and make a tour inside the walls which is now working as a museum. Fee entrance is not included at the listed price.

We have two options in terms of paddling. The shortest (12 km) is taking place inside the Elounda bay while on the 2nd we will circumnavigate the Kolokitha peninsula (20km).

On both cases we will visit Spinalonga unless it is very windy near by which in that case we will adapt the route accordingly.

If windy, is a great test if you want to join our eastern Crete kayak expedition.

Detailed Information

Price: €80 per person

Duration : We start by 10 am and finish between 3-4pm. If time change for any reason you will be notified by email.

Minimum participants: Two

Price Includes: Complete sea kayak equipment, Spinaloga ticket and local guide.

Tour starts : From Elounda Village

Distance : 12 km

What to bring : You will need to pack your lunch. Other than that you will need at least 1.5lt of water (ideally in small bottles),sun glasses, hat, sunscreen, swimsuit,Lycra shirt or any tshirt 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. Is is not required to wear shoes but they will help as the majority of the beaches are with small rocks.

Transport : We pick up clients from Heraklion and near Agios Nikolaos. Many times we are able to pick up clients from other locations as well but it needs to be on our way to the starting point. If you need transport 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 provided for free.

What will happen if weather is bad and can't visit Spinalonga ? If weather is too windy and we will cancel the trip a full refund will be given. If it is very windy only around Spinalonga (it is very common) we wont reach the island and instead we will paddle near by. In that case if the group requires to visit the island can be arranged with a local boat. The cost of the boat (usually 10-12€) is not included in listed price.

Notes: Please bear in mind that the itinerary can be altered for numerous reasons beyond our control (e.g. harsh weather) to ensure the safety and the well being of the group. The final selection is left up to the guide.

Temperature during summer months (June - early September) are between 30oC - 42oC. Sun cream and hat is a must! During the winter temperature might dropped down to 8-10oC.

Book

Book now! Send us an e-mail, when you have some dates in mind to check for availability, along with any other questions you may have.  All e-mails are answered promptly, usually within 24 hours.