EXPEDITION Ithaca, 5-day kayaking adventure AUGUST 2026
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Code:D00390T
The Ithaca and Kefalonia sea kayaking adventure takes us in the footsteps of Odysseus—through the legendary lands where mythology and the sea become one. We paddle across the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, exploring wild bays, turquoise beaches, and sea caves along coastlines that have inspired myths, voyages, and legends for thousands of years. We reach places inaccessible by land, spend our nights by the sea, and end each day with swimming, snorkeling, and dinners in authentic fishing villages. This is a slow, mindful, and deeply rewarding experience—where sea kayaking, mythology, and freedom come together in a true Ionian adventure.
✅ Expedition-style sea kayaking adventure in the heart of the Ionian Sea – between Ithaca and Kefalonia
✅ Paddling along routes connected with the legends of Odysseus, the nymphs, and ancient seafarers
✅ Crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and secluded bays
✅ Visits to iconic locations: Afales, Vathy, Gidaki, Filiatro, Sarakiniko, Fiskardo, and authentic seaside villages
✅ Sea caves, natural rock arches, and underwater formations accessible only by kayak
✅ Swimming and snorkeling at some of the most beautiful locations in the Ionian Sea
✅ A balanced combination of active paddling days and relaxing afternoons
✅ Overnight stays by the sea – camping under the stars and at welcoming coastal campsites
✅ Evenings in traditional taverns serving local cuisine and fresh seafood specialties
✅ Friendly atmosphere, small groups, and a shared journey of discovery
✅ Professional guides, complete organization, and safety on the water
✅ High-end sea kayaks and equipment
The program is adventure-based with overnight stays in the wild under the stars.
Suitable for:
✅ Intermediate and advanced paddlers.
✅ Children aged 14+ accompanied by an adult may paddle in a tandem kayak
✅ Children aged 16+ may paddle a single kayak
Important:
✅ Reservations are accepted online through our website only.
✅ You may pay a 50% deposit using the promo code "advance".
✅ All available places are displayed on our website, so there is no need to call and ask about availability.
Gather a group of 3+ participants and get -15% off
Bring a friend –10% off
Ithaca & Kefalonia Sea Kayak Adventure
This sea kayaking adventure is a journey between myth and reality—across the waters that, according to legend, were once home to Odysseus, and along the shores of some of the most beautiful Ionian Islands. Over the course of several days, we travel entirely by sea, following the natural coastline of Ithaca and northern Kefalonia, far from mass tourism and the usual travel routes.
Our paddling takes us past picturesque fishing villages, untouched turquoise bays, sea caves, and beaches accessible only from the water. We will explore narrow inlets, paddle around chapels perched on rocky headlands, and spend our nights both on wild beaches beneath the stars and at carefully selected campsites and coastal locations that offer the perfect balance between wilderness and comfort.
The route is designed as a social adventure filled with memorable experiences—we are not chasing kilometers, but unforgettable moments. There is plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on fine sandy beaches, spending afternoons in charming harbor towns, and enjoying evenings in traditional taverns serving fresh seafood. At the same time, the itinerary includes longer, rewarding paddling days that provide the true feeling of sea kayaking and the freedom of exploring under your own power.
This adventure is for those who want to discover the islands from a perspective that very few visitors ever experience—from the sea, at a slow pace, with awareness and authenticity. It is for those seeking more than a holiday—for those searching for history, exploration, and the feeling of true freedom on the water.
Program:
Departure
On the evening of 18.08.2026, we meet at 20:30 in front of Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia.
At 21:00, we depart for Greece and the beginning of our sea kayaking adventure around the islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca.
Our first stop will be in the Kresna area, where we will have time to stock up on food and drinking water before continuing our journey.
Arrival in Kefalonia – From Fiskardo to the Wild Bays of Ithaca
In the morning, we arrive in Vasiliki (Lefkada Island) and take the ferry to Kefalonia. After disembarking, we head to the picturesque village of Fiskardo – one of the most beautiful and authentic settlements in the Ionian Sea.
Fiskardo has a unique atmosphere: it remained completely untouched by the devastating 1953 earthquake, making its architecture exceptional for the region. Traditional houses, flower-filled balconies, and traces of its aristocratic past create the feeling of stepping back in time.
We take a walk around the harbor, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, and, if necessary, stock up on any last-minute supplies.
Leaving Fiskardo behind, we paddle past the old lighthouse and head into the open sea, crossing the strait towards Ithaca. This is true open-water sea kayaking, with a wonderful sense of space and freedom, as the northern coastline of the legendary island of Odysseus gradually unfolds before us.
Our first major stop is Afales Bay – one of the most spectacular and unspoiled places in northern Ithaca. Here, several secluded beaches of white sand and light-colored pebbles lie beneath towering, rugged cliffs.
The water displays the characteristic turquoise shades of the Ionian Sea—exceptionally clear and transparent. It is the perfect place for a long break, lunch, and swimming. The bay is also an outstanding location for snorkeling thanks to its underwater rock formations and abundant marine life.
After our break, we continue paddling along the northern and northeastern coastline of Ithaca – a region with very little development, peaceful coves, and an almost untouched natural character. The sea here is often calm, while the coastline constantly reveals new and breathtaking scenery.
In the early afternoon, we arrive in Frikes – a small harbor village that has preserved its authentic Ionian charm. Life moves slowly here: stone houses, a small fishing harbor, and a handful of traditional waterfront taverns.
It is the perfect place to relax after the long sea crossing, stroll through the village, and enjoy a well-earned rest.
Paddling distance for the day: approximately 18 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 4 out of 4
After a relaxed Mediterranean breakfast, we begin the day with an enjoyable paddle along the eastern coastline of Ithaca. The sea here is sheltered, and the shape of the coastline creates a feeling of security and rhythm—an ideal setting for a long, contemplative day on the water.
Our first stop is Παραλία Νησάκι (Nisaki Beach) – a small and exceptionally beautiful bay, renowned as one of the best snorkeling spots in the area. The crystal-clear water, rocky seabed, and abundant marine life turn this place into a natural underwater aquarium.
Here we stop for swimming, snorkeling, and a short break—a moment when the sea reveals its very best.
We then continue towards Vathy, the capital of Ithaca and one of the most impressive natural harbors in Greece. The town lies deep inside a uniquely shaped bay resembling a fjord—a narrow entrance that gradually widens into a completely sheltered body of water.
Seen from the sea, Vathy is especially captivating—with its colorful houses, sailing yachts, and a peaceful atmosphere rarely found elsewhere.
After landing, we have time to stroll through the narrow streets and waterfront promenade, enjoy a coffee or an ice cream, and experience the authentic rhythm of Ithaca's capital.
The evening ends in the best possible way—with dinner at a traditional local tavern overlooking the bay, where the day slowly fades into the soft evening light reflected on the water.
This is a day to simply enjoy the journey—without rushing, surrounded by the sea, history, and the unique Ionian tranquility that stays with you long after you leave.
Paddling distance for the day: approximately 15 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 3 out of 4
The morning begins slowly and peacefully. We have plenty of time before launching the kayaks, so we stroll through the town, enjoy a coffee by the harbor, and embrace that unmistakable Ionian luxury—there is no need to rush. A refreshing frappé, a beautiful view across the bay, and the feeling that the day ahead will be long and unforgettable.
Afterwards, we launch the kayaks once again and continue our sea adventure along the coastline of Ithaca.
Gidaki Beach
Our first destination is Gidaki Beach—one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the island. It is almost inaccessible by land, which keeps it wonderfully peaceful. The beach is covered with white pebbles, while the water is a deep turquoise and becomes deep immediately from the shoreline. It feels like a hidden natural sanctuary—perfect for swimming and our first extended break of the day.
Filiatro Beach
We continue towards Filiatro Beach, where we will stop for lunch. This is one of the most popular beaches near Vathy, yet it still maintains a pleasant balance between organized facilities and natural beauty. The beach is covered with small pebbles, the water is exceptionally clear, and the snorkeling conditions are excellent. Here we take a longer break to enjoy lunch, swimming, and a well-deserved rest.
Sarakiniko
In the afternoon, we head towards Sarakiniko—a beautiful sheltered bay with crystal-clear waters. This is where we slow down. We swim, relax, and let the sea dictate the rhythm of the afternoon. The bay is ideal for unwinding—peaceful, protected, and offering the feeling of complete seclusion.
Παραλία Καμίνια (Kamínia Beach)
Towards the end of the day, we continue to Παραλία Καμίνια (Kamínia Beach)—a wild and less-visited beach where we prepare for the evening. The place is rugged and authentic, with dark pebbles and deep, crystal-clear water. Here we prepare dinner and set up our tents for the night.
The evening ends in a way that only Ithaca can offer—silence, the sound of the waves, stars above us, and the feeling of being exactly where we are meant to be. This is a day that cannot truly be described—it simply has to be experienced.
After breakfast and a morning coffee, we pack up the camp and launch the kayaks from Παραλία Καμίνια (Kamínia Beach). The sea is usually calm at this early hour, while the morning light highlights the rugged beauty of Ithaca's eastern coastline.
Chapel of Agios Ioannis
Our first destination is the small Chapel of Agios Ioannis, standing right on the shoreline. We paddle around it by kayak—a view that can truly be appreciated only from the water. The white walls of the chapel contrast beautifully with the deep blue sea and the dark cliffs, creating an atmosphere of silence and solitude.
The Lonely Beach
Before lunch, we stop at a small, completely secluded beach hidden between the cliffs. It is a short but valuable pause—swimming in crystal-clear water, a few moments of complete silence, and the feeling of being far away from everything else.
Andri (Άντρι)
We continue towards Andri, where we stop for lunch. The beach is peaceful, natural, and inviting—the perfect place to recharge and relax before the final stage of the day.
Sami → Camping Karavomilos
After lunch, we paddle towards Sami and Camping Karavomilos, where we will have dinner and spend the night. It is a more comfortable ending to the day—a well-equipped campsite by the sea, providing welcome amenities after several days spent on wild beaches.
Bonus
If time allows, we will visit two of Kefalonia's greatest natural wonders:
Melissani Cave – an underground lake illuminated by magical blue light.
Drogarati Cave – an impressive cave filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and extraordinary natural acoustics.
The day ends peacefully—with dinner by the sea, pleasant fatigue in our bodies, and the deep sense of satisfaction that comes only after spending an entire day on the water.
Paddling distance for the day: approximately 20 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 4 out of 4
We gather at 09:00, and together we pack up the equipment, wash the kayaks, and load them onto the trailers.
Afterwards, we take the ferry to Lefkada. We will enjoy a late lunch or an early dinner at a traditional tavern in Vasiliki before beginning our journey back to Bulgaria.
Expected arrival: in front of Vasil Levski Stadium – around 23:00.
How to get to Fiskardo?
You can travel completely free of charge with us in the vehicles used to transport the kayak equipment, subject to the availability of the 16 passenger seats, or you may travel with your own vehicle.
Once all 16 seats have been filled, participation is possible only with your own transport, with no change to the event price.
Luggage – what to bring
✅ Backpack or duffel bag with personal belongings (large, bulky suitcases are not permitted)
✅ Tent (if you will be staying at the campsite)
✅ Food and drinks for your stay
✅ There is no need to bring tables, chairs, or additional camping equipment—we provide everything you need.
Departure and return
Departure: Sofia – the parking area in front of the main entrance of Vasil Levski National Stadium
Return: to the same location
⚠️ We do not offer pick-up or drop-off at personal addresses.
Accommodation
We will spend most nights wild camping under the stars, with our final overnight stay at a campsite.
Accommodation at Camping Karavomilos
Accommodation fees:
– €10 per person per night
– €8 per tent per night
Accommodation fees are paid personally and directly to the campsite management.
The campsite does not offer hotel accommodation, but there are hotels and guest houses in the immediate vicinity for those who prefer additional comfort.
More information about the campsite is available here:
https://camping-karavomilos.gr/
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Level of difficulty:3 from 4
Registration Form for the Dopamine Team
IMPORTANT: When the booking is for more than one participant, the form must be completed individually by each participant.
Thank you for soon becoming part of our community.
You are about to join a kayak adventure in a natural environment, where good preparation, clear communication, and advance information are an important part of safe, calm, and fulfilling participation. Please take approximately 5 minutes to complete this form.
The information we collect will help us plan your participation in the most appropriate way, taking into account your experience, physical condition, health considerations, dietary restrictions, emergency contact details, and other circumstances that may affect your comfort, safety, and overall well-being during the event.
Personal Data Protection
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If the participant is under 18 years of age, the form must be completed and confirmed by a parent, guardian, or legal representative.
Please read and confirm that you are familiar with our GDPR Policy, which you can view HERE.


