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How to get from Kalymnos to Kos
Kalymnos and Kos are very close. Small car ferries from Pothia to Mastichari on Kos take about 30–40 minutes and run several times a day; catamarans and larger ferries also link Pothia with Kos town in about 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Best option: Ferry. Frequent short ferries make the crossing quick and easy.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Car ferries Pothia (Kalymnos) – Mastichari (Kos), or catamarans and ferries Pothia – Kos town (Dodekanisos Seaways, Blue Star Ferries and others) | about 30 min–1 h | several a day, fewer in winter | about €5–15 per person, cars extra | Mastichari is about 10 minutes from Kos airport. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Mastichari ferries are the closest option to Kos airport.
- Catamarans to Kos town are faster but cost more.
- In strong winds smaller boats may be cancelled.
- Kos town is the main hub for buses and car rental.
Common questions
How long is the ferry?
About 30 to 40 minutes from Pothia to Mastichari, and about 40 minutes to 1 hour from Pothia to Kos town, depending on the boat. Several sailings run each day. Catamarans are faster; car ferries carry vehicles. Check current timetables, especially in winter.
Can I do it as a day trip?
Yes. With frequent short crossings, a day trip in either direction is easy. You can visit Kos town and the Asklepieion, or spend a day climbing on Kalymnos. Check the last boat back before you set off, as evening departures are fewer outside summer.
Which port should I use on Kos?
Mastichari is closest to Kos airport and has frequent car ferries. Kos town is better if you are staying in the town or want to explore its sights. Choose based on where you are going. Taxis wait at both ports.
Do I need to book?
Usually not for foot passengers on the Mastichari ferries. For cars in summer, or for catamarans on busy days, booking ahead is wise. Tickets for the short crossing are sold at the port booths. In August, queues for car space can be long, so arrive early.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.