Technical details of Timbakion / Crete spot

Spot functioning

Spot with no kite infrastructure. Extremely strong and gusty offshore wind. For advanced/expert riders only. Only sail with a safety boat or experienced group.

Works from June to September but rideable days are limited to moderate Meltemi periods. In strong Meltemi, conditions are often too extreme even for experts.

On the water

Flat water near the coast (offshore), then Libyan Sea swell further out. Sandy bottom. Flat water near the beach is deceptive – wind pushes out to sea.

Required level

Advanced

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Parking

Parking along the coastal road in the Timbaki area. Agricultural village with basic services. Easy access from Heraklion via the Messara road.

Hazards

EXTREME DANGER: violent and very gusty offshore wind (gusts 40+ knots). The Messara gap wind is one of the most powerful in Crete. Drift towards Libyan Sea in case of problems. Wind variation of 10-15 knots between gusts and lulls.

NEVER sail alone. Safety boat essential. Waterproof phone and VHF recommended. Spot UNSUITABLE for any rider without significant experience in strong gusty wind.

Wind specificities

Messara gap winds: the Meltemi is channeled between Crete's two highest mountain ranges and descends towards the south coast with acceleration. Wind arrives from N/NNW as offshore, typically 20-35 knots when the Meltemi is active. On big Meltemi days, gusts can reach 40+ knots.

Wind is VERY gusty – brutal accelerations from katabatic effects (cold air descending from mountains) create 10-15 knot differences between gusts and lulls. Extreme conditions on some summer days.

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