Setting Sail from Kos

The anticipation was palpable as we set sail from Kos town, the gentle hum of the traditional wooden boat beneath us. The harbor was a bit nippy with the wind, but as soon as we were under sail, the warmth of the Greek sun enveloped us. I found myself lounging on the top deck, a sun canopy providing just the right amount of shade, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of ownership over this moment. The crew was attentive, bringing drinks to those of us basking in the sun, and I indulged in a refreshing beverage as the coastline of Kos slowly faded into the horizon.

Our first destination was Kalymnos, an island renowned for its sponge divers. As a marine biologist, I was particularly intrigued by the island’s rich history and its connection to the sea. Upon arrival, we were treated to a delightful lunch, included in the trip, with options like chicken or lamb souvlaki, accompanied by a fresh salad and dips. The non-alcoholic drinks were a nice touch, though some opted to pay a little extra for wine or beer. After lunch, I wandered into town, guided by the crew’s recommendation to try the local doughnuts filled with chocolate. They were small but satisfying, and I couldn’t resist a quick dip in the harbor’s inviting waters.

Discovering Kalymnos and Pserimos

Kalymnos offered more than just a culinary delight; it was a feast for the senses. The long harbor promenade was perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the sight of the fisheries reminded me of the delicate balance between human activity and marine life. As we sailed past the fisheries, we were graced by the presence of dolphins, their playful antics a reminder of the ocean’s wonders.

Our next stop was Pserimos, a quaint island with a population of just 130. The island’s simplicity was its charm, with a main concrete path leading from the dock into the village. Here, time seemed to slow down, allowing for a leisurely swim in the turquoise waters and a moment of reflection at the local kafenio. The village’s church perched on a hill added a touch of serenity to the landscape, and I found myself lost in thought, contemplating the beauty of these islands and their connection to the sea.

A Serene Return to Kos

As we made our way back to the boat, the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the water. The return journey to Kos was a time for reflection, the gentle rocking of the boat lulling us into a state of relaxation. The sight of dolphins following us was a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty and adventure.

The only challenge of the day was the rope ladders used for swimming, which proved tricky for some. However, the experience of swimming in Kalymnos harbor and the tranquility of Pserimos more than compensated for this minor inconvenience. As we docked back in Kos harbor, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the day’s experiences and the opportunity to explore these enchanting islands under the Greek sun.

This Three Island Cruise was more than just a day trip; it was a journey into the heart of the Aegean, where the sea’s embrace and the islands’ charm left an indelible mark on my soul.