KAYAK TRAINING AT THE FOOT OF PELION
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Code:D00001T
If you want to participate in Dopamine Team events but have no experience, feel unsure or want to build on your basic kayaking knowledge, this event is for you.
We will tailor to each paddler's individual needs, focusing on improving performance. This course will help you feel more confident on your adventure trips.
The program is training in nature with overnight camping or hotel accommodations.
It is run on a single kayak.
ATTENTION: To pay 50% in advance use promo code - advance
The remaining amount is payable locally (cash/card) or by bank.
10% discount for early bookings until 01.05.2025
IMPORTANT!!! Discounts are not combined, the biggest discount is taken into account!
Four-Day Sea Kayaking Training Based on the British Canoe Association Standards in Pelion, May 8-11, 2025
Welcome to Pelion – the land of gods, the home of centaurs, and one of the most enchanting corners of Greece!
Pelion is not just a place – it is a legend, an inspiration, and raw beauty combined into one. Here, where the Aegean Sea gently kisses the rocky shores, and the lush mountain forests descend into crystal-clear coves, kayaking is not just a sport – it is a way to merge with nature and feel the rhythm of the waves.
According to myths, the Olympian gods descended here to rest from their immortal duties, while the centaurs galloped through the ancient forests and hidden beaches. Today, we will paddle through these waters, explore the secrets of this ancient coastline, and refine our skills according to the highest international standards.
This training will not only enhance your technical skills but also develop your ability to make informed decisions regarding navigation, safety, and paddling in real marine conditions.
We work individually with each participant – whether you are a beginner or advanced!
10:00 PM (May 7, 2025) – Meeting at Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia. The excitement is in the air – we are heading to Pelion!
~8:00 AM (May 8, 2025) – Arrival in Pelion. Our base camp in Horefto Camping is located right on the shore, where the sea meets the mountains.
8:30 AM – Breakfast with a view of the Aegean Sea.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Theoretical preparation (on land)
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Meteorology and how weather affects the sea
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Currents, tides, and topography of the area
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Trip planning – maps, compasses, and safe zones
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Equipment – how to choose the right one for sea kayaking
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Lunch at the campsite.
1:30 PM – 4:30 PM – First practical water lesson
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Fundamentals of kayak control – balance and paddling
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Course control – maintaining a straight line and maneuvering
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Group communication and water safety
5:00 PM – Practical session in real conditions
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Short coastal trip, applying the fundamental techniques
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Orientation in open water
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Maneuvering and adapting to waves
6:00 PM – Dinner and sharing impressions from the day.
8:00 AM (May 9, 2025) – Breakfast.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Water training and navigation
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How to read the sea – recognizing currents and waves
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Overcoming side winds and course correction
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Group dynamics – moving as a team
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Basic techniques to avoid capsizing
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Self-rescue and assisted rescue
12:30 PM – Lunch on Alatas Island. Exploring the medieval monastery.
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Long sea crossing and skill application
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Practicing adaptation to different sea conditions
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Maneuvering around coastal obstacles
6:00 PM – Return to the campsite, free evening.
8:00 AM (May 10, 2025) – Breakfast, preparing for a real challenge!
9:00 AM – Transfer to Paltsi Port, where we start our expedition along the western coast.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Advanced technique improvement
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Maneuvering between rocks and narrow spaces
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Navigation in open waters – using natural landmarks
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Response to extreme conditions – waves, currents, wind
12:30 PM – Rest at Melani and Potistika beaches.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Applying skills in real conditions
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Navigation training – planning a route based on conditions
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Incident simulation – response and team coordination
5:00 PM – Dinner in the village of Agalasti.
8:00 AM (May 11, 2025) – Final breakfast in paradise.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Final skill assessment
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Individual evaluation – personal feedback
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Last crossing focusing on efficiency and technique
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Discussion on future development and next steps in kayaking
12:00 PM – Lunch and farewell to the sea.
2:00 PM – Packing up and departure to Sofia.
4:00 PM – Stop for gyros – because every Greek adventure must end deliciously!
~11:00 PM – Arrival in Sofia.
Equipment
Personal responsibility is the provision of:
1. Drinking water. 1;
2. Sunglasses (with high UV protection; the presence of polarization is recommended);
3. Sun hat/head towel;
4. Swimsuit or beachwear;
5. Gloves for kayaking (can also be for a bike);
6. Sunscreen (high factor);
7. Beach shoes (quick drying) - there are sea urchins in the sea!
8. A light, airy, light and comfortable outer garment (for sun protection when paddling). Long sleeved lycra with UV protection is best;
9. Thin water/windproof jacket;
10. Lightweight and compact beach towel or scarf;
11. Folding knife, thermos, and beverage jug;
12. Waterproof mobile phone case;
13. ID card and money in local currency, if needed for the day;
14. Food for the day depending on personal preference;
15. Dry (waterproof) bag with a capacity of 15 - 30 l;
16. Depending on conditions, a pair of dry clothes to change into (stowed in a waterproof bag/pack);
17. For diving enthusiasts - mask, snorkel, fins.
18. Flashlight and/or headlamp.
Personal items for the campsite:
1. Tent, mattress (shawl) and sleeping bag (or blanket);
2. Toiletries (toothbrush and toothpaste, soap and shampoo);
3. Drying towel (microfiber towels are more compact);
4. Mosquito spray/lotion.
Level of difficulty
Difficulty level according to the distance of the adventure programs:
1 out of 4
- Introduction to kayaking performed in lakes, bays with calm waters.
- Distance from shore less than 1.6 km
- Distance covered in a day - 3-6 km.
- Overall time on the water for the day - 2-3 hours
- No previous experience required
- No swimming skill required
2 of 4
- Distance from shore less than 1.6 km
- Paddling for the day - 6-14 km.
- Overall time on the water for the day - 3-4 hours
- No previous experience required
- No swimming skill required
- Participants must be able to spend at least 1hr in the kayak.
3 of 4
- Distance from shore less than 1.6 km
- Paddling for the day - 14-20 km.
- Overall time on the water for the day - 4-6 hours
- No previous experience required
- No swimming skill required
- Participants must be able to spend at least 1hr in the kayak.
4 of 4
- Distance from shore greater than 1.6 km
- Paddling for the day - 16-25 km.
- Previous experience is required.
- No swimming skill required
- At least average physical fitness required
- Participants must be able to spend more than 1hr in the kayak.
Warning:
Difficulty level may change depending on weather conditions, wind and waves.
