Kalymnos Greece
- Ancient
- Untouched
- Culinary
- Ancient
- Untouched
- Culinary
Ultimate place for world-class climbing
Kalymnos is a dream for climbers, where world-class limestone routes meet the island’s deep-sea diving history. For seven days, we sail the turquoise Dodecanese, chasing the Meltemi winds to hidden coves. Each day, we step straight from the boat onto legendary crags like Sikati Cave and epic Deep Water Solo lines, skipping the long hikes. After climbing, we relax in quiet harbors and savor fresh seafood at charming Vathi tavernas. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Airport
Kos, Greece (KGS)
Accommodation
7 days on sailboat or catamaran
Group size
8–10 people (solo / couples / private boat)
Climbing grades
5a–5.13d US / 4c–8b EU
routes
Single and multi pitch
Keren
Sailing from Kos to Kalymnos was more than just a trip — it was a journey of connection, courage, and adventure. We spent our days climbing stunning limestone cliffs, swimming in turquoise water, and chasing the wind. Even when the weather tested us, our captain’s calm experience turned it into another adventure story worth telling. This was my second sail-and-climb with him, and each time, the bond between crew, climbers, and sea runs deeper. It’s a unique experience that leaves you changed — grounded, grateful, and already dreaming of Croatia next year.
Our 7 days adventure
Preparation & getting to know each other
Welcome aboard! Let's kick off this epic trip! We'll get you settled on the boat, find your bunk, and get everything prepped. It’s always fun getting to know the crew and getting excited for the week of climbing and sailing ahead!Farewell & Departure On the last day we're disembarking before 09:00, energized, inspired, and ready for your next adventure.
Harborside Tavernas & Serene Inlets
Vathy is a truly unique place, where this gorgeous, serene inlet cuts deep into the island. We anchor right in the harbor, giving us access to climbing crags after a scenic walk or a quick, fun taxi boat ride. But the real reward comes afterward: Vathy is famous for some of the best, most authentic Greek dinners on the island. We’ll eat fresh fish or even legendary kalamari at a seaside taverna, with our tables literally set up right on the water’s edge, creating a romantic, tranquil atmosphere. As you relax, you can enjoy the view of the blue fishing boats and even pick up an authentic natural sponge, a nod to the island's famous, courageous history.
Breathtaking Views & Exceptional Eats
Next up is Palionisos, which is just stunning. We usually tie off to one of the mooring buoys and then take the little dinghy right ashore. It’s only a ten-minute walk from the beach up to the crag, which gives you the most incredible view overlooking the whole serene bay! The climbing is varied enough that everyone finds their perfect challenge here. After a long day on the rock, dinner at the local spot is non-negotiable — the food is genuinely exceptional, fresh-caught, and perfectly authentic. It’s the ultimate reward for a day well spent.
Photogenic Slabs & Friendly Wildlife
This sector perfectly captures the essence of a climb-and-sail vacation! It’s the ideal spot for a relaxed climbing day, offering a fantastic mix of low-commitment slabs, some tricky offwidths, and endurance routes, meaning absolutely everyone will find their sweet spot here. It’s ridiculously photogenic, especially if we stay to climb until the sun starts to drop. Fair warning, though: it’s popular with the local wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you have a bit of company from the goats wandering around!
Elite Overhangs & Beach Access
Get ready for an absolute highlight on Thursday: Sikati Cave! This place is a truly unique, world-class wonder. We're skipping the brutal, long approach by simply dropping anchor right off the secluded white beach at the cave's base. For our elite climbers, the cave's overhanging routes are some of the most incredible lines you'll ever see.
A Canyon of 1,000 Routes
We drop anchor in the gorgeous Arginonta Bay. Arginonta Canyon is huge, offering a massive variety of routes —over 1,000 sport climbs spanning grades 4 all the way up to 9! We can go wild here, whether you’re easing into a 6a/6b line in the shade or pushing your limit on something tough.
Exclusive Crags & Sunset Views
We’ll enjoy a great sail over to the smaller, iconic island of Telendos. Since the best crags there—like Eros, Pescatore, and Irox—are really only accessible by boat , we get to climb where others can't! We'll explore a couple of sectors with different styles until sunset, giving us that breathtaking, one-of-a-kind view of the sun setting over Kalymnos Island.
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Highlights
Enormous climbing caves
One of the island’s most iconic spots, boasting huge overhanging routes and wild, sculpted limestone features like giant tufas. The climbing here is unique, and the whole cave is incredibly photogenic—the view of the Aegean from inside is insane.
Greek couisne
Authentic, fresh-caught dinners at tranquil seaside tavernas is an experience by itself. Be sure to try the legendary local honey and the fresh seafood, including famous kalamari or traditional dishes like “Xtapodokeftedes”. It’s the perfect, authentic reward after a big day of climbing.
Kos night life
Since our trip starts and ends on Kos, you can easily dive into one of the Greek Islands’ most vibrant nightlife scenes! Kos Town is the capital of the party, especially around the famous Bar Street (Nafklirou Street). Whether you want laid-back drinks with amazing yacht views or dancing until dawn at a pumping nightclub, Kos has you covered for a fantastic night out.
Touch of Ancient history
You’ll find a touch of the ancient Greek world, from the way sponges were mentioned by Homer to the beautiful, traditional infrastructure, like the narrow alleys and white houses in serene villages. But the heart of the island is the legacy of the ancient sponge divers. These incredibly fit, brave men would free-dive to crazy depths using just their breath. Sailing here means you’re literally connecting your modern, vertical adventure to their fearless, centuries-old spirit of the sea.
Blue sea
The sea around Kalymnos is pure magic—we call it Aegean Blue for a reason! It shines with an enchanting palette that shifts from bright turquoise to deep navy blue. The water is unbelievably crystal-clear, making that post-climb jump from the boat the ultimate, refreshing reward. You’ll be sailing and swimming in some of the most stunning waters on Earth.
Friendly people
The atmosphere here is one of the biggest highlights; the local people are incredibly friendly and welcoming! Kalymnos has a vibrant community that attracts climbers from all over the world, making it easy to meet like-minded adventurers. You’ll feel that famous, warm Greek hospitality everywhere, especially when sharing a laugh and a traditional meal at a family-run seaside taverna.
What's in price?
included
Sailboat
Your yacht is your floating home — choose a classic monohull or a roomy catamaran and sail at your own pace with a group of adventure-lovers.
Professional skipper
Each yacht is led by an experienced skipper, both navigator and storyteller, who’ll quickly feel like part of your crew.
Food & drinks
Enjoy meals and drinks onboard throughout the trip. (Alcohol not included.)
Logistics & organization
We handle weather, anchoring, climbing access, logistics, and coordination so you can focus on the adventure.
Extraordinary Moments
Expect unforgettable sunrises, stunning climbs, secluded bays, cultural stops, and great company—this is a journey you’ll remember.
Onboard Comfort
All yachts include towels, bed linen, WiFi, stereo speakers, and final cleaning.
not included
Flights & Transfers
You arrange your own travel to and from the marina.
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend travel insurance for your peace of mind.
IFMGA mountain guide
Our trips are self-guided, so you need to belay and climb independently, but our skippers are experienced alpinists to help set up routes; IFMGA guides available on request.
Cash Kitty (100 € per person)
A shared fund covers sailing costs such as port fees, fuel, shore power, and water, with amounts varying by yacht, date, and location.
Tips
If your skipper and host made your week amazing, it’s customary to leave a tip.
What Leading voices in travel say
See what the world’s top travel media and publications are saying about this incredible destination.
Offbeat Kalymnos with world-class climbing and unassuming villages.
Greek island with spectacular limestone — a magnet for climbers and divers.
Euro sport-climbing paradise with thousands of routes above the Aegean.
Island life, sponge-diving heritage and a year-round climbing scene.
Kalymnos welcomes visitors February–November thanks to its outdoor appeal.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Why Join Us
With over 15 years of sailing experience and a decade of alpine and rock climbing adventures, we know how to craft a week that blends excitement, safety, and good vibes.
Every boat is captained by a certified professional skipper, and our itineraries are built on deep local knowledge — from the best climbing crags to hidden anchorages that most never find.
We keep things simple:
- Well-planned logistics and flexible daily rhythm
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere — but always professional and safe
- International guests from around the world, many returning year after year
Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll feel at home from day one.
Boat Life
Spending a week on a sailboat is something special — a mix of freedom, teamwork, and connection that’s hard to find anywhere else.
You’ll share a cabin (usually two per cabin) — we pair guests thoughtfully, often guys with guys and girls with girls. Space is limited, so pack light and skip the hard suitcases — a soft travel bag or large backpack is perfect.
Most boats have 3–4 shared toilets, which everyone uses equally. Keeping things clean and comfortable for all is part of the crew spirit.
We cook together and share every meal. On the first day, we shop for the week’s supplies — fresh fruit, local ingredients, coffee, bread, maybe even a bottle or two of local wine. Cooking and cleaning duties rotate naturally — teamwork makes everything smoother (and tastier!).
Boat life is about community. We help each other with ropes, dinghy rides, docking, and dinner.
Leave the ego on shore — bring curiosity, kindness, and a sense of humor.
Some evenings are for swimming under stars, others for long talks, music, or quiet time with a book.
No matter who you come with, you’ll leave with new friends and lifelong memories.
A Typical Day on a Climb & Sail Tour
Each morning, you’ll wake up somewhere new — the boat anchored in a quiet bay or near a small coastal town.
After breakfast (think coffee, fruit, eggs, and maybe a morning swim), we take the dinghy to the crag.
You climb as much as you like — push yourself on new routes, or take a slower day to explore and relax.
Around midday, we return to the boat for lunch, then sail to the next destination. The afternoon is for swimming, resting, and soaking up the sea breeze before dinner.
Evenings are relaxed — music, good food, stories, maybe a bit of stargazing.
Every day is different, but each one carries that same rhythm of sea, stone, and freedom.
Climbing Level & Safety
Each group is a mix of abilities, typically beginner to intermediate climbers (5a–6b).
What matters most is safety awareness and a team spirit — not grades.
We expect everyone to:
Know how to belay safely with a GriGri or similar device
Understand proper clipping and lowering techniques
Double-check your knots and your partner before every climb
- Please keep in mind, you should be able to belay and lead climb on you own. This is not a IFMGA guided tour with mountain guide!
All our crags are well-bolted and maintained, but climbing always involves personal responsibility.
We’re here to share knowledge, ensure safety, and create the best possible experience — both on rock and at sea.
Important Notes
If the weather turns — thunderstorms, strong winds, or big waves — the skipper will adjust the route to ensure safety. This may occasionally reduce climbing time, but safety always comes first.
Please respect the schedule: if we say departure is at 3 PM, be ready 10 minutes earlier.
Being late affects the whole crew and can cause us to lose our marina or anchorage for the night. Punctuality keeps the adventure running smoothly for everyone.
⚠️ Please keep in mind, you should be able to belay and lead climb on you own. This is not a IFMGA guided tour with mountain guide!
What do others say?
Luka
Jumping into the sea before coffee is honestly the best way to start the day — nothing wakes you up quite like it. Every place we visited was stunning, with perfect beaches and warm, crystal-clear water that made it impossible not to dive in at every stop. The climbing in Kalymnos was incredible too; the rock there is something every climber should experience. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and next time I’m definitely bringing more of my diving gear. Already counting the days until the next trip.
Kaitlin
Fantastic! It was a great mix of climbing, exploring, hiking, swimming, chilling, and so many other activities. My highlights during this sailing trip were climbing Pedra Longa and the evening alone in Cala Goloritzé. Matic was a great guide and skipper, super knowledgable and safe while being fun and chill. I especially appreciated how he always had a well-communicated plan, but adapted the plan around how we were feeling in each moment. I look forward to sailing with Matic again!
Andreas
The Climb and Sail Trip was a great experience, and everything always felt safe on board. The climbing days were a highlight for me: great routes and beautiful spots. No matter what level: everyone gets their money’s worth. The mix of water and rock, action and relaxation was just right. Super organization, mega atmosphere. I would do it again in a heartbeat! Thanks, Matic!
Nives
Rock Flow Festival had it all: daily climbing adventures that challenged and thrilled, sailing, sunsets that felt unreal, and a lively spark in the air that kept everyone buzzing. Burja tried to throw forks and knives around the boat, but the crew handled it like legends (long live duct tape). Skipper skills were next level (sails nearly kissed the sea on the way to Šolta). Nights under the stars, Dalmatian music in the background, and a hint of spice made every moment feel alive.
Jordana
Had such a great time exploring the different climbing spots in Croatia. Matic was very knowledgeable about all the different areas and always gave us different options on what we wanted to do each day. Definitely recommend climb and sail and would do again!
Marko
Great adventure with a lot of fun activities where we explored a lot of interesting places, did a lot of climbing and enjoyed our time on a boat. Big plus for managing to get some sailing done as well and huge thanks to the team for handling everything on board!
Florian
Matic ist wirklich ein entspannter Typ, er beherrscht das Segelboot & und gestaltet die Gruppendynamik angenehm und lustig.
Luke
Matic was an incredible skipper and took really great care of everyone. Excellent planning and chill vibes throughout. Would love to do it again.
Julia
The tour was just fantastic. The skipper Matic was super relaxed, adapted the tour flexibly to our wishes and was a very competent contact person the whole time. I liked everything about the tour and I would do it again at any time.
Karen
I was so nervous about booking this trip and spending a week living on a catamaran with total strangers in a foreign country. But the Universe had my back – this turned out to be the trip of a lifetime, and I’m so glad I went through with it! They say if you don’t take chances, you’ll never experience the best things in life. We boarded the boat as strangers and left as great friends. Boat life is something I’ll never forget – waking up on the Mediterranean sea to beautiful sunrises, cooking together, laughing, climbing, swimming, sailing into the sunset, and dancing under the stars laughing each night.