Seasonal· Kalymnos· Greece — Dodecanese, Sporades & North Aegean
Northern Dodecanese meltemi (high exposure)
37° 5.3′ N · 26° 53.3′ E · approximate
In summer (roughly June to September) the NW meltemi dominates, often strong and sometimes gale force. The Kalymnos–Leros–Pserimos group is among its most exposed waters, and the steep islands make violent downdraught gusts.
Practical
Expect strong gusts off Kalymnos and in the approach to Pothia, violent gusts entering Lakki and Alinda bays, and very violent gusts around Pserimos, Levitha and Kinaros. August is the worst month, with several meltemi gales and crowded harbours. Plan north-to-south legs with the wind and start early before it fills in. Best meltemi shelter: Vathi (Kalymnos), Partheni and Lakki (Leros), Xerokampos and Vromolithos (Leros), and the Levitha coves. May–June and September–October are the best cruising months. Coordinate is approximate (Kalymnos–Leros strait).
Best for
Planning legs and bolt-holes
Season
Jun–Sep, peaking Jul–Aug
Nearby
- Xerokampos Bay (Leros)1.4 NM away
- Aloni Taverna (Xirokampos)1.5 NM away
- Paleokastro & Panagia Kavouradena (Xerokampos)1.8 NM away
- Leros sea cave dive1.9 NM away
- Lakki floating metal buoy (WWII mooring buoy)2.6 NM away
- Vasilissa Olga destroyer wreck (Lakki Bay)2.6 NM away
- Lakki landing craft wreck (Lakki Bay)2.7 NM away
- Autumn southerlies & thunderstorms (Dodecanese)2.8 NM away