Bali Sea Kayak Trip

This kayaking trip is the most easily accessible option whether you’re staying in Chania, Rethymno, or Heraklion.
It combines convenience with great natural beauty—featuring secluded beaches, impressive rock formations, and hidden spots ideal for cliff jumping.

Paddling distance: For groups with little or no experience, the route typically covers approximately 15 kilometers. More experienced paddlers, or those seeking an extended adventure, can enjoy a route of up to 21 kilometers, offering additional exploration and challenge.

Equipment: Participants can choose between single and tandem (double) sea kayaks. For those new to kayaking, tandem kayaks are generally recommended, as they are easier to paddle and more stable. Experienced paddlers will appreciate access to high-performance composite kayaks from top manufacturers such as Nigel Dennis, Valley, North Shore, P&H, and our own 3kymia Sea Kayaks.

Wildlife Encounters: We are often fortunate to encounter loggerhead sea turtles during our journey. Out of the world’s seven species, only three are regularly found in the Mediterranean, with the loggerhead being the only one that nests in Greece. Some of the most important nesting sites are found right here in Crete—in Rethymno, the Bay of Chania, and the Bay of Messara.

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Overview of the trip

Our trip begins in Bali, where we start with a brief but informative introduction to sea kayaking, including an overview of paddle strokes and essential safety practices. We’ll then adjust your kayak, paddle, and buoyancy aid to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

The route is tailored each time depending on the group’s level and the weather and we may paddle either eastward or westward along the coast:

Western Route: Exposed and remote—best suited for experienced kayakers. If this route is chosen, please note that there are no facilities en route, so bringing a packed lunch will be necessary. You will be notified by email in advance if this is required.

Eastern Route: More sheltered and ideal for less experienced paddlers.
The most favorable conditions for this trip occur from April to early June, when the sea is generally calm. We recommend avoiding July and August due to the strong seasonal Meltemi winds, which can make paddling conditions challenging.

Ready to paddle with us?

From 80€/person Reserve Your Spot

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I bring?

If you prefer not to have lunch at the taverna, please ensure you bring your own packed meal.

You will also need:

Approximately 1.5 liters of water (ideally in smaller bottles)
Sunglasses
Hat
Sunscreen
Swimsuit
Lycra or UV-protective T-shirt

Footwear:
Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet is recommended, as you will be walking through water. Lightweight neoprene shoes are ideal. While wearing shoes is not mandatory, they are helpful since most of the beaches are covered with small pebbles.

✅ Dry bags will be provided for storing your phone and other valuables. Snorkelling gear is also included.

Where do we meet?

Please refer to the following link for the exact meeting point:

Livadi Beach, located approximately:

30 minutes from Rethymno
40 minutes from Heraklion

Upon arrival, you may park your vehicle in the designated free parking area, where our kayak trailer and kayaks are parked.

📍 Google Maps:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/efE6viYF6uQKfhsX9

How do I book?

Please use the “Reserve your spot” button at the top of this page to access our booking form or click this link.

After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email within 1–2 days (often the same day).

Payment Options

Cash: Pay on the day of the trip
Credit Card: Pay online during checkout. Card payment is not possible on site, and the booking is not confirmed until the online payment is completed.

Please also review our booking terms and refund policy, available in the footer of every page.

What time do we meet & finish?

Start: 10:00 AM
Finish: Between 4:00–5:00 PM

Any changes to the schedule will be communicated via email.
Please arrive at the beach a few minutes before the starting time.

Optional transfer service

We offer an optional transfer service for an additional €20 per person, provided your accommodation is reasonably close to Heraklion and along our route to the trip’s starting point.

If you’re unsure whether your location is within our coverage area, feel free to contact us.

Important Notes

❌ We do not provide transfers from Chania or Rethymno
✅ Guests staying there must arrange their own transport

Driving Times

From Heraklion: ~45 minutes
From Chania: ~1 hour and 15 minutes
From Rethymno: ~30 minutes

Do you run this trip all year long?

Yes, the trip can be arranged all year for groups of at least four participants.

For smaller groups, the trip is available from April to October only.

Is there a limitation on weight?

Yes, the weight limit depends on the kayak type:

Single Kayaks

✅ Recommended up to 105 kg
⚠️ Up to 110 kg possible for experienced paddlers
❗ Stability is significantly reduced above 105 kg

Tandem (Double) Kayaks

✅ Can accommodate paddlers up to 115 kg
⚠️ Cockpit design often becomes uncomfortable above 105 kg

If your weight exceeds 105 kg, a trial may be required. In some cases, paddling may be impractical due to restricted legroom and stability limitations.

Note:
I have been designing and building sea kayaks for several years. My custom kayak brand, 3kymia, reflects this experience.