Dodekanisos Seaways to Astypalea

There will be no other ferries besides those already scheduled from Kos to Astypalea.

It's up to you to choose what you want to do. We can't predict the sea conditions three months in advance, or even three days in advance. The Kos-Astypalea journey takes barely two hours. In my opinion, it's not worth stressing out so much over a decision just because of a small, possible risk of seasickness, which is impossible to predict anyway.

Regarding the flights, I hope you're not too worried, since the Kalymnos runway is quite short and ends right at a cliff's edge.

https://youtu.be/Kgd_AfmUblU

I've already taken flights and ferries to/from Kalymnos (with Sky Express and Dodekanisos Seaways) without worrying about these potential issues, so staying positive and looking on the bright side is basically the only advice I can give, although I'm not sure if that was what you were looking for.

That said, I suppose you have other constraints that lead you to put Astypalea in the middle of this itinerary, since the most straightforward route would typically be Kos-Kalymnos-Astypalea.

Thanks. I realize that you can't predict the weather. Basically I am wondering if three nights on Astypalea would be worth it or if perhaps I should look into Leros as an alternative before heading to Kalymnos. Also, was looking for a little reassurance from those who have traveled on the Pride regarding the comfort of the ride. As mentioned, I always try to take the Blue Star if available, however it won't work in this situation. Thank you.

@JoLui, a little correction. There MIGHT be another ferry from Kos to Astypalea. IF ANE Kalymnou gets the subsidised route Kalymnos-Pserimos-Kos-Astypalea then the Nisos Kalymnos might be there on that specific day. And it's possible that also SAOS Ferries have made a bid. The conversion of their new ferry "Lady" seems to be nearly finished.
Still waiting for the outcome of the tender for the subsidised routes. The result was supposed to be there already but several courtcases and appeals by a couple of companies have delayed the process. It is now expected early or mid April.

@kernk: I have been travelling on the Dodek Pride regularly over the last few years. Allthough I might not be well qualified to assess the possibility of you getting seasick because I have never in my live been seasick. And I have been travelling a lot on ferries of all shapes and sizes and in all kinds of weather.
However, my other half has been quite sick a couple of times on the Dodek Pride despite the fact she has had only small or no problems on other ferries in Greece.
She was very prone to seasickness in the past untill an airline pilot told her to try a nosespray and it has worked. She has far less problems when flying or using a ferry when using that nosespray. The name is Dexa-rhinospray and you can get it over the counter in pharmacies in Greece.

Thank goodness Nicksy is here to give the latest information on the ferries! And for seasickness tips!

We've never been to Astypalea, but since we never stay less than 4 full days (5 nights) on any island, it doesn't matter which one, all I can say subjectively is that 3 nights would be a minimum.

2 nights would only be one full day. All those ferry trips just to stay for a few hours?

Thank you Nicksy for your always kind and helpful reply. Let's hope that some of the other ferries you mentioned are added to the route to make scheduling easier. Thanks for the nose spray recommendation as well. Like you, my husband never gets seasick, but I have some issues with it at times. Looking forward to finally seeing Astypalea!! Thanks again.

I can highly recommend Astypalea as it's a lovely island with one of the most beautiful Chora's in Greece.

I was there early October a number of years ago and it was very quiet but more than enough services open in and near Chora to keep me happy.

I was there for three days but would have stayed longer but due to ferry schedule to Amorgos had to leave after three days.

Not sure how June will be as it's near the start of high season but from my experience Astypalea isn't a major tourist magnet but Greece has gotten very popular and the tourist season has been extended but I still feel it should be pleasantly busy at worse.

If you can make it to the island I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Check out my Astypalea photos:

https://tinyurl.com/y7mdg7rv

Thank you, Tommy! Happy to hear you enjoyed a brief stay on Astypalea. Seems we will only have 3 nights as well unless one of the ferries Nicksy mentioned are added to the schedule. Great photos!

Last September I was there for 10 days and will be back this September for a week. These are my pictures from last year: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCvksR

NIcksy:

When I was there early October it was very quiet, hardly any other tourists about, mostly locals which was great.

I saw only a couple from Sweden as tourists. We got along great as they spoke English and remarked how lovely Astypalea is.

However, that was way back in 2015 when Greece while still popular has now become even more popular after COVID.

How were the crowds for last September?

Quite some tourists but certainly not too much. It was very enjoyable. When we left 25 September it was the last trip of the Dodek Pride to/from Astypalea and she was 50% full to Kos.

Beautiful photos, Nicksy! Thank you for sharing.

I had a fairly heavy crossing from Kalymnos to Astypalea on the Pride last September but unlike many people wasn’t sick! High winds meant my 3 day stay was extended to 5, a replacement sailing was scheduled. I enjoyed it so much that I’m returning for 10 days on 31st August. With more time, a new hip and improved mobility I hope to see more of this lovely island.

Before that I’ve just booked a weeks package on Lesvos in May to enjoy the spring flowers at a ridiculously inexpensive rate!

Sueevie,
Glad you enjoyed Astypalea so much that you're planning a return this year. Looking forward to our first time on the island, even if it is for a brief three days. Hopefully the seas will be calm on our June travel days. We were on Naxos in September of 2019 when all ferries were halted due to winds. You never know... Anyway, thanks for the information. I have seen your name on Leros posts and hope to get there one day.

Hi kernk
Leros is lovely and definitely worth a few days, my trip there was cut short due to my extended stay on Astyalea. I’m heading there for my 4th trip in September after Kos (1 night), Astypalea (10 nights), Kalymnos (4 nights), Leros (5 nights) and returning to Kos (1 night) for my flight home.

Hi Sueevie,
Sounds like a fabulous itinerary! Hope you'll post a trip report. Thank you.

Will do, hope to hear how you find Astypalea in June. It looks glorious today in the sun on the webcam.