Santorini Sea Kayak

Who they are

Santorini Sea Kayak is a sea kayaking and paddleboarding school and company that has worked in Santorini since 2011. Its founder is Haris, a sea kayaker, and the team also includes Antonis, head of operations and paddleboard instructor, and Kostas. It has a sister company in Crete, Sea Kayaking Chania. The base is on Akrotiri beach, about 300 metres below the prehistoric site, and the office is open from 9:00 to 18:00. On its website it appears with the Greek tourism registration number (MHTE) 116741738000.

What trips it runs

Most of its trips cover the volcanic coast in the south of the island. The South Discovery is the introductory one: about three hours, two and a half of them paddling, between 2.5 and 4 nautical miles, passing the Red, Kambia and White beaches, with stops to swim and snorkel. It leaves between 9:00 and 12:00 depending on availability and sea conditions, and is for over-14s who can swim and are in good shape. Groups are up to 16 people, in double kayaks.

The Family Sea Kayak Tour is designed for children from age 6: it lasts about two and a half hours, covers 2 nautical miles along the same coast and goes out with between 6 and 12 participants; if the group does not reach six, it may be cancelled or turned into a private one. There are also sunset trips, the lap of the lighthouse, the caldera crossing to Amoudi, paddleboarding at Vlychada, tailor-made trips, an expedition to the Small Cyclades, sea kayaking courses and multi-day trips.

What is included and who guides

On the introductory trips the guide is included, who speaks English and holds a British Canoeing qualification, as well as the kayak equipment, snorkelling gear, dry bag, cap, a light picnic with local produce and fruit, taxes and the activity insurance. Photos cost €3 and hotel pick-up is optional. You need to bring swimwear, a towel, a litre of water, sun cream, footwear that can get wet and, if possible, long sleeves.

For reference, the South Discovery costs from €115 per person in a semi-private group (€145 with transfer) and the family one, from €125 (€155 with transfer). Private ones are more expensive.

Booking and cancellation

No booking is confirmed until the deposit is paid, on its booking validation page. If you cancel more than five days ahead, €10 per person is charged; between two and four days before, 50%; with less than 48 hours or if you do not show up, 100%. If the trip is suspended because of the weather or sea conditions, everything is refunded. The phones are +30 22860 85237 and the mobile +30 6951 801051. Trips are guided in English.