Kaiki Boat Cruise from Mastichari

Wind in your hair, sun on your face, you can catch some rays on deck as you set sail from Mastihari. Aboard a traditional Kaiki boat, it's time to relax and unwind as your captain drops anchor at secluded bays and swim spots at the neighbouring islands of Nera and Kalymnos. Eleni, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Kaiki are the colourful wooden boats that Greece is so famous for. We are a nation of boatbuilders and fishermen, and even though many Kaiki boats are now used for tourism, look out for them still being used for fishing.'

Sun, sea and swimming – a trio of things that make being on holiday so special. Your journey will take you across to the tiny isle of Nera, home to a single house and a handful of deserted coves. Sailing onwards to Kalymnos island, you'll reach the shores around Vlyxadia where you'll be able to cool off in the Aegean and try your hand at snorkelling if you're in the mood. The waters here are calm and clear – and if you're lucky, you may be able to spot the dolphin and sea turtles that call the area home.

You'll have free time to make the most of the great swimming spots, top up your tan on deck, or see what you can spot underwater. By lunchtime, you'll be ready for a freshly prepared lunch made with locally sourced ingredients. After tucking into local specialities and Greek favourites on-deck, there's more opportunities for swimming, before it's time for the return trip complete with great views over the water to the Kos coastline.