Sea kayaking in crystal blue seas, sleep under the stars on isolated beaches on traditional islands, where you can sample real Greek life.

This programme is designed for those who enjoy sea kayaking and desire to discover the hidden beauties of Greece. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauties of the Ionian Sea, stopping at delightful authentic Greek Islands and sampling the natural and cultural delights. Ever since mythical sailor explorers, the Ionian Sea has held an irresistible fascination for seafarers. It is easy to see why. Set in crystal clear waters, dozens of islands extend from uninhabited sandy beaches to forested mountains rearing high out of ocean. Every day, paddling in the area’s protected waters and every evening exploring the islets interiors offering excellent hiking opportunities amongst cypresses, whilst enjoying the sweeping views and idyllic sunsets.

Level Requirements:
Although it is a moderate level of sea kayaking, some previous experience is required. Paddling for 4 –8 hours and covering distances of between 8-12 miles daily. An inflatable motorboat will accompany the trip, carrying the gear and to assist in any kind of emergency. The hiking is considered easy.

Trip Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Athens, welcome dinner
Depending on your flights, you will be met at Athens International Airport and transferred to the hotel, which is conveniently located in the heart of Athens. Settle in the hotel. In the evening you will meet with your guide for a short walking tour of Athens and enjoy dinner in a traditional Greek taverna in Plaka in the old part of Athens,. Overnight in a 3 star hotel in Athens.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Athens, drive to Lefkada -Vassiliki
After breakfast a half day sightseeing tour of Athens, the host of the Olympic Games 2004. Visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon and Panathinaikon Stadium, the stadium where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896 and the Olympic Games of 2004. By private bus or minibus (around 6 hours drive), transfer to the village of Vassiliki on Lefkada island, where our local base is located. Depending on the arrival time, either get used to the kayaks by participating in a short trip to a nearby fishing settlement or take a walk in the village and enjoy dinner in a local taverna. For the trip, you will be given waterproof bags to pack your gear for the week and the guides will advise what is useful, so that you can safely leave any extra luggage at the site. Overnight in organised camping in Lefkada - Vassiliki.

Day 3: First day Paddling to the island of Meganissi
After breakfast departure for the first day’s paddling. Paddling for approx 6 hours (11.5 nautical miles) from Vassiliki to the island of Meganissi. This is a green little island with mountains, cliffs and beautiful beaches. On the way visiting the famous cave of Papanikolis that was a hiding place for Greek submarine during the second world war. Spend the night camping on a beach on the island of Meganissi and walk to the taverna for the evening meal. Overnight camping on the beach

Day 4: Meganisi-Skorpios-Meganisi
In the morning paddling to the town of Meganissi-Spartochori, leaving the Kayaks in the small marina and walking up to the town where there is an old castle that offers spectacular views of the Ionian Islands. Then leaving the island of Meganissi and paddling to the famous island of Skropios that is still owned by the famous Onassis family (the famous personalities of Jackie Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis). Paddling around this beautiful island and getting a view of the beach bungalow of Jackie Kennedy. This day’s paddling is approx 5 hours (11 nautical miles). Returning to Meganisi at the end of the day for dinner at a local taverna, sleep on a beach at a campsite.

Day 5: Day trip to the island of Fornicoula
In the morning paddling past the west coast of Meganissi that has many caves and head for the island of Fornicoula (volcanic) full of beautiful caves and interesting snorkeling. On Fornicoula enjoying some snorkeling on the reef and then paddling to the island of Kalamos. On the way to Kalamos stop at Porte de Leone for a picnic lunch. Day’s total paddling time approx 8 hours (13.5 nautical miles). Spending the night on the isolated beach of Kalamos, that can only be reached via the sea and sleeping under the trees around the fire. Taking the Zodiacs to a tiny little fishing village, approx 5 minutes, for a traditional meal at a taverna. Overnight on the beach camp.

Day 6: Sea kayak to the island of Kalamos
From Kalamos crossing to the olive covered island of Kastos with its crystal clear waters. A stop for snorkeling and picnic on an isolated beach. A walk to the settlement of the island for coffee in the afternoon. Returning to Kalamos for overnight, camping on the beach.

Day 7: Last Day Sea Kayaking that ends in Mitikas
The most relaxing day. The paddle from Kalamos to Mitikas is only 3 hours. Relaxing at Mitikas in the fishing village awaiting pick-up and transfer back to Athens, via Delphi. Optional visit to the Delphi archaeological site. Overnight in 3* hotel in the centre of Athens.

Day 8: End of sea adventure
Depending on flight schedules, transfer from hotel in Athens to Athens International Airport.