Kalymnos
Kalymnos, an island world-renowned for its rock climbing, holds an equally compelling but less-known secret beneath its waves. With a rich history steeped in the tradition of sponge diving, the underwater world here offers a unique glimpse into this heritage. The diving is characterized by dramatic rock formations, intriguing caverns, and swim-throughs that mirror the island's rugged terrestrial landscape. Divers can explore sites that feel untouched, offering a serene and personal experience away from the bustling crowds of more famous Greek diving destinations, making it a true hidden gem in the Aegean Sea.
The diving conditions in Kalymnos are typical of the Aegean, featuring excellent visibility and generally calm, warm waters throughout the main season. With a handful of quality dive sites, the experience is intimate and rewarding, suitable for both novice and experienced divers. Divers should visit Kalymnos not just for the clear water and interesting topography, but to connect with an authentic piece of Greek maritime history. It’s an ideal destination for those who wish to combine their passion for diving with climbing, culture, and the tranquil charm of a classic Dodecanese island.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Kalymnos, Greece?
While Kalymnos has a select number of sites, a popular type of dive involves exploring the impressive underwater caves and caverns near the island of Telendos. These sites are popular because they showcase the island's dramatic geology below the surface, with spectacular light effects and swim-throughs. The historical significance of these waters, once harvested by the island's famous sponge divers, adds a unique element to the experience, making it a must-do for visiting divers.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Kalymnos, Greece?
With a focused collection of four dive sites, all are generally considered high-quality. Well-known sites often feature dramatic walls and caverns reflecting the island's climbing fame. For a potentially quieter experience, seek out the shallower reef dives. These sites, while less dramatic, are teeming with typical Mediterranean marine life like octopus, moray eels, and vibrant nudibranchs. They are perfect for photographers, new divers, or a relaxed second dive of the day, offering a different but equally rewarding perspective of diving in Kalymnos, Greece.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Kalymnos, Greece?
Water temperatures in Kalymnos, Greece vary seasonally. In the winter (December-February), expect cool temperatures around 15-16°C (59-61°F). The water warms through spring, reaching 17-19°C (63-66°F) by May. The peak summer months of July and August offer the warmest conditions, typically between 23-26°C (73-79°F). The temperature remains pleasant into autumn, hovering around 20-22°C (68-72°F) through October, before cooling down again for winter.
When is the best time to visit Kalymnos, Greece?
The best time for diving in Kalymnos, Greece is from May to October. This period offers the best weather, calmest seas, and warmest water temperatures. For the warmest water, visit in July and August. However, for fewer crowds and still excellent conditions, the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October are ideal. The air temperature is pleasant, and visibility underwater remains superb. The main dive season aligns perfectly with the island's general tourist season.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Kalymnos, Greece?
Underwater visibility when diving in Kalymnos, Greece is typically excellent, which is characteristic of the Aegean Sea. During the main dive season from May to October, you can regularly expect visibility of 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet) and often even more. Conditions are generally very stable, with reductions in visibility being rare and usually only occurring after a major storm, which is uncommon during the summer months. This crystal-clear water makes it ideal for underwater photography and appreciating the dramatic rock formations.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Kalymnos, Greece?
There are no major seasonal migrations of large pelagics like manta rays or whale sharks in Kalymnos, Greece. The Mediterranean marine ecosystem does not support these types of events. Diving here is focused on the resident marine life, stunning underwater topography, and clear waters. While you may see schools of tuna passing through in the summer, divers should not expect to encounter large migratory species. The main attraction is the consistent presence of typical Mediterranean fauna and impressive geological formations.
What marine life can I expect to see in Kalymnos, Greece?
In Kalymnos, Greece, you can expect to see a variety of typical Mediterranean marine life. Common encounters include octopus, moray eels, groupers, scorpionfish, cuttlefish, and large schools of damselfish and sea bream. The rocky reefs and cavern walls are home to smaller creatures like colorful nudibranchs, sea stars, and sponges, a nod to the island's history. While large pelagic sightings are rare, the consistency and diversity of the resident marine life in the clear Aegean waters make for rewarding dives.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Kalymnos, Greece?
Wetsuit choice for Kalymnos, Greece depends on the season. In the peak summer months of July and August, a 3mm shorty or full suit is usually sufficient. For the shoulder months (May-June and September-October), a 5mm full wetsuit is recommended as the water is cooler. If you are diving in the early or late season, or are prone to getting cold, a 7mm semi-dry suit would be more comfortable. For winter diving, a dry suit is strongly advised due to the colder water temperatures.
How do I get to Kalymnos, Greece?
The most common way to get to Kalymnos, Greece is to fly into Kos Island International Airport (KGS), which receives many international and domestic flights. From the port of Mastichari in Kos, it's a short and frequent 30-45 minute ferry ride to Pothia, the main port of Kalymnos. Alternatively, Kalymnos has its own small domestic airport (JKE) with regular flights from Athens (ATH), offering another convenient option for travel.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Kalymnos, Greece?
You should plan to stay on shore in Kalymnos, Greece. The destination is not served by liveaboards, as the dive sites are all located close to the island. Diving operations are land-based, with local dive centers taking divers out for daily trips on small to medium-sized boats (day boats). This setup allows you to enjoy the island's culture, cuisine, and famous rock-climbing scene in addition to your dives, offering a more well-rounded travel experience.