Adventure Travel Legends to Embark on Cretan Kayaking Excursion

July 30, 2012 - PRLog -- Rick Sweitzer, founder and president of The Northwest Passage and PolarExplorers, will host George Wendt, Vernon Tejas, and other legends of the outdoor world for a one-time trip to the island of Crete.  Wendt, founder of Sobek and OARS, is best known for his pioneering work in traveling the Grand Canyon by Dory and raft.  Tejas, legendary Alaskan mountain guide, completed the first solo winter ascent of Denali and is the current record holder for climbing all seven summits in just 134 days.  Sweitzer is a legend himself, having led more expeditions to the North and South Poles than he can count.

Visited by many but truly explored by few, Crete is the ideal backdrop for this historic sea kayaking journey.  Sweitzer plans to base the trip from the bay of Matala, famous for its world-class sea kayaking, dramatic geological formations, delectable cuisine, unique heritage, and top-notch accommodations.  From there, they will explore the azure waters of surrounding bays and water-access-only villages.

“We are thrilled to offer this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to the public,” Sweitzer stated.  “We are proud to host the finest in the industry.”

Expedition dates are set for September 28- October 5, 2012.

The Northwest Passage was founded in 1983 and offers world-class adventure travel tours across the globe.  Specializing in sea kayaking, rock climbing, trekking, backpacking, mountaineering, hiking, stand up paddleboarding, dogsledding, cycling, skiing, and yoga expeditions that cater to the novice, expert, and everyone inbetween.  Owner Rick Sweitzer also founded and directs PolarExplorers and is a legend in his own.  

O.A.R.S. was founded in 1972 and has grown to become the most successful and respected rafting outfitter in North America.  One of the original Grand Canyon Dory pioneers, George Wendt was at the forefront of rafting the Grand Canyon and recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Adventure Travel Trade Association. Offering sea kayaking and rafting expeditions worldwide, O.A.R.S. continues to set the standard for adventure travel.  

Vernon Tejas is regarded as one of the world’s most famed mountaineers and has summited the highest mountain on each continent and has guided well over forty climbs on Mt. Denali.  He is regarded as one of the top climbers in the world and holds the current speed record for climbing/guiding all seven summits in just 134 days.  

If you’d like more information about this expedition or to schedule an interview with Rick Sweitzer, please call 847.256.4409 or email Dana Paskiewicz at dana@nwpassage.com.