Kissamos: Morning Kayak Tour to Shipwreck & Exclusive Beach

This sea kayak tour in Kissamos, Crete, offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenic views, and interesting sights. Spanning about 5.5 hours, this small-group experience takes you along the rugged coastline, where you’ll encounter a shipwreck, ancient mine ruins, a secluded beach, and a sea cave—all accessible only by water.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines active exploration with relaxing moments—paddling past captivating natural formations and stopping for swims in pristine waters. The guides are genuinely knowledgeable, and the small group size creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

A potential consideration is that the tour can be quite strenuous—so, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable on the water. If you’re looking for a laid-back day on the beach, this may feel a bit demanding. However, if you’re after a memorable, authentic adventure with stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

This kayak trip is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, love exploring coastlines, and want to see Crete from a different perspective—on the water. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find it particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Active and scenic: Combines kayaking, snorkeling, and sightseeing into one experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure safety and enrich the trip with stories.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 9 people) foster a personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• All-included equipment: Kayaks, safety gear, snorkeling equipment, waterproof containers, drinks, and snacks.
• Flexible & stress-free: Options to reschedule due to weather, with reservations that allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Authentic sights: Visit a well-known shipwreck, ancient mine ruins, and explore a secluded beach and sea cave.

An In-Depth Review of the Kissamos Kayak Tour

Starting Point: The Beach near Ippokampos Restaurant

The adventure kicks off at a scenic beach close to Kissamos, where you meet your guides and get fitted with safety equipment. The meeting point’s proximity to the town makes it easy to reach, and it sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

The Safety Briefing and Equipment

Your guides, including Gianni (noted for his professionalism and kindness), conduct a thorough safety briefing. They show you how to handle the kayaks, use the paddles, and stay safe while on the water. The equipment is described as clean, new, and high-quality, which adds to the comfort and peace of mind.

Waterproof containers are provided so you can bring along personal items without worry, and SPF shirts help protect you from the sun—important in Crete’s bright climate.

Paddle to the Manassa Rose Shipwreck

The first highlight is paddling toward the famous Manassa Rose, a shipwreck sitting in the middle of Kissamos Bay. It’s not just a photo opportunity, but an opportunity to learn its story—something your guide will share, making the experience more meaningful. The shipwreck’s eerie silhouette against the blue sea makes for a memorable sight.

One reviewer mentioned that the trip “had excitement when boarding” and appreciated the storytelling aspect, which added context to this well-known wreck. You can expect to get close enough for some great photos and to feel the thrill of seeing a real maritime relic up close.

Exploring the Ravdoucha Metal Mine Ruins

Next, the tour takes you past the metal mine ruins from 1905. The guides share snippets about the history and significance of these old structures, giving you a taste of the area’s industrial past. The paddling here is along a rugged coastline dotted with small chapels and natural rock formations, adding a scenic backdrop to the history lesson.

This stop appeals to those interested in history or geology, but it’s also an impressive visual highlight—craggy rocks and tiny chapels built into the landscape, all set against the clear blue sea.

The Private Beach: Rest, Swim, and Snorkel

One of the tour’s most praised features is reaching a small, secluded beach only accessible by sea. This is truly a highlight—here you can relax, enjoy a cold drink, and explore the underwater world. The water’s clarity and underwater formations offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, as one reviewer joyfully described, “swimming and snorkeling in its amazing underwater formations.”

This stop typically lasts about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to unwind away from crowds. It’s perfect for a quick dip, soaking up the sun, or snapping some photos of the pristine surroundings.

Exploring the Ravdoucha Sea Cave

The final major stop is the sea cave of Ravdoucha—a dramatic natural feature. Paddling into the cave, you’re likely to feel a sense of adventure and wonder. The guides facilitate exploration, making sure everyone feels comfortable inside the cave’s natural space.

Return and Wrap-up

After the cave exploration, the tour concludes with a paddle back to the starting point. The entire experience, including briefing, paddling, stops, and return, spans about 5.5 hours. The ending point is back at the same beach restaurant where you started, making logistics straightforward.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour provides high-quality kayaks and paddles, snorkeling gear, waterproof containers, and safety gear, all of which contribute to a comfortable, worry-free experience. The inclusion of drinks and snacks—water, juice, energy bar—keeps you energized, especially considering the physical activity involved.

Photographs taken during the trip are included, so you’ll leave with memories (and images) to cherish. The availability of a sailing option with kayak sails is a unique feature, offering a fun twist if you’re into sailing or want to learn a new skill, although it requires prior arrangement.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 9 participants, the small-group setup ensures personalized attention and a relaxed environment. This size is perfect whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends or family—but note that the minimum age is 18, and it’s not suitable for children or pregnant women.

Weather and Rescheduling

Since the tour depends on sea conditions, your guides keep a close eye on weather forecasts. If conditions aren’t ideal, they’ll contact you to reschedule, which adds reassurance. This flexibility helps ensure safety without sacrificing your plans.

Practical Tips

• Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities.
• Be prepared for some physical exertion—it’s a spirited paddle!
• Inquire about the kayak sailing lesson if interested in the optional sails.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Travelers repeatedly praise the guides, especially Gianni, for his professionalism, kindness, and quick support when needed. One reviewer mentioned that the equipment was “very clean and new,” which is a reassuring detail for comfort and hygiene.

Another comment highlighted the stunning views and interesting storytelling—these small details turn a simple kayak trip into a memorable experience. The seaworthy nature of the kayak and the well-supported safety measures make it accessible yet exciting.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This kayak tour offers a beautiful mix of activity, scenery, and history that’s hard to match in a half-day adventure. The combination of paddling past a shipwreck, exploring ancient mine ruins, and stopping at a pristine, private beach makes for a well-rounded experience. The guided aspect ensures safety and enriches your understanding of the sights, making it great for travelers who want more than just paddling.

It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy active pursuits and are comfortable on the water. The small group size makes the trip intimate and personal, perfect if you prefer a more tailored experience.

While physically demanding, the overall value is high considering the inclusions—snorkeling gear, snacks, photos, and expert guides. Plus, the flexibility to reschedule due to weather adds peace of mind.

In summary, this tour is perfect for adventure lovers, history buffs, or anyone craving a unique way to see Crete’s coast. It’s a chance to embrace the outdoors, learn some local stories, and soak up the stunning scenery—all in one memorable morning.

FAQ

Is this kayak tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old, as it involves physical activity and safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Comfortable, water-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The guides monitor weather forecasts and will contact you if rescheduling is necessary.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, so you can enjoy underwater exploration at the private beach.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, including safety briefing, paddling, stops, and returning.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Is there any sailing involved?
There’s an optional kayak sailing feature available with prior arrangement and an introductory lesson.

Does the tour involve a lot of paddling?
Yes, it involves active paddling, which can be strenuous, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Non-swimmers are advised against participating, as swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience.

To sum it up, the Kissamos Morning Kayak Tour to the Shipwreck and Exclusive Beach offers a superb mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural interest. It’s a fantastic way to see Crete from a different perspective, with knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or eager to try something new, this trip promises a memorable gliding across the waters of Kissamos.