Greek maritime power covers a great chapter of Greek history, having mythological sources as the starting point. The sailing adventures of Odysseus in the prominent Odyssey, the sailing trip of Jason to Colchis in his quest to find the Golden Fleece are the most representative and old references to the relation between sea and people. Greek naval history dates back thousands of years with the Minoan period being the first evidence official evidence. In honor of this former sea power, the biannual “Minoan” cup of the present Heraklion Sailing Club reminds this starting point.
Nowadays, this part of Cretan identity has extended to cultural and sports institutions as the Heraklion Sailing Club. The philosophy of the Club is to initiate the members to values and ideals that sea sports promote. Besides the bonding relation with water, members acquired a plethora of personality structural values. Good physical conditions, the sense of responsibility, discipline, solidarity, team spirit, are imparted through an entertainment and sporting activity. As a result, these people, especially children, are armed with a positive attitude of life.
The Heraklion Sailing Club is located in the former premises of the port refrigeration plant, east of the Port Authority building. It is also easily identified by the frescoes of the two local heroes, Icarus and Daedalus. The institution holds a 24 years of successful course in both Triangle Sailing and Offshore Sailing, having trained more than 2,.000 adults and 700 children.