This post is continued from our previous post.
Dodecanese Sailing with Andreas and Les
Dates: October 24 – 29, 2025
Route: Symi → Nisyros (Pali) → Kalymnos (Pothia & Vathy)
We kicked off the trip from Symi Harbour on the morning of October 24th, departing around 10:00. The conditions were calm, making for an easy and enjoyable sail over to Pali on Nisyros.
We spent a couple of nights in Pali (24th–26th), which turned out to be a great stop—quiet, relaxed, and well-sheltered. It gave everyone a chance to slow down a bit and enjoy the island atmosphere.
On the 27th, we sailed across to Pothia, the main port of Kalymnos. Docking here was straightforward, with fees at €15 per night. (Pay extra for power and water) The following day was Ohi Day
We moved on from Pothia and heading into Vathy—definitely a highlight of the trip. The approach through the narrow, fjord-like entrance is always impressive, and once inside it’s incredibly calm and scenic. Even better, docking here is free.
We stayed in Vathy through to November 1st, enjoying the peaceful setting and using it as a base to relax.
casting off from stunning Symi and heading toward the next island
By late October 2025, we were securely tied up in Paloi Harbour on Volcanic Nisyros, soaking in the quiet harbour life.
I think Andreas and Les might have started getting a little tired of my Greek salad, which I made every day. So I switched things up and bought homemade Greek sausages from a butcher shop in Symi—spicy, medium, and mild. They tasted amazing, and the owner was super friendly too!
Kalymnos Island
October 28 – 29, 2025
Pothia → best for logistics, provisioning, fuel..Fresh from Vathy 🥬🍊
I bought cabbage and oranges straight from a little truck. The man selling them said they were just picked from a farm in Vathy. I had no idea before that. After chatting and exchanging greetings about various things—and even receiving some extra fruit as a gift—I took a photo with the kind farm owner.
Les and Andreas already visited Vathy last time…me? Never been! So yes, I’m officially excited to explore this little village 🍊✨
Vathy → best for overnight beauty, calm anchorage, relaxation
After Pothia .. then Vathy
Vathy Valley on Kalymnos
Walking through a living agricultural valley, not just scenery
We thought we could sneak a quick orange through the fence… until Andreas and I heard the guard dog barking 👀🐶🍊
Orange orchards 🍊 – Rows of fragrant citrus trees, especially vibrant in harvest season
Vegetable plots – Small-scale farms growing seasonal produce like tomatoes, zucchini, and leafy greens…Cabbage grows really well there because:
The valley has more water than the rest of the island 💧
The soil is richer and more fertile
It’s slightly cooler and sheltered from strong winds
Fruit trees – Depending on the region and season: figs, pomegranates, lemons, or olives ….persimmons
Our next post : End of cruising 2025 ✨
Stopped by Lipsi and Arki before heading back to the boatyard 💛