Chris and Joanna, sea kayaking on Milos
In June 04 Chris and Joanna went sea kayaking in Milos, Greece with Sea Kayak Milos.
Sea Kayak Milos was the subject of a feature in the 12-02 edition of Canoe Focus and others have written fairly detailed descriptions of kayaking around the coast of Milos such as this and this so I'll be brief.
We took the option of an eight night stay with six guided paddling days. The kayaks and kit were excellent and our friendly Greek-speaking Australian guide, Rod Feldtmann, has a familiar British-style approach to sea kayaking (he is pursuing relevant BCU qualifications and comes to Britain for training whenever he can fit it in). However Joanna was relieved to find that it was not necessary to eat seagulls, operate Trangia stoves, understand the rule of twelths or indulge in any other kind of beardedness. We simply enjoyed the fantastic coastal trips. The scenery round the coast of Milos is spectacular and there are dozens of sea caves and arches to explore as well as things like hot springs bubbling up from the sea bed, a recently wrecked ship, abandoned mines, and a ruined lighthouse to visit.
The weather was hot so the pace was relaxed and we cooled off when necessary by paddling into the shade of sea caves, practising rescues, snorkeling and swimming in the incredibly clear water. On several days we did short open crossings to smaller islands lying off the coast of Milos.
Rod's wife, Petronella, runs a guest house where we stayed, but Rod also offers camping trips. We had a great time and thoroughly recommend Milos as a warm water sea kayaking location suitable for all levels of paddling ability
All images ©2004 CSCC/Chris Stephens