On Nisyros we visited Mandrakia the capital of the island. More Cats. Volcanic rocks everywhere. Quaint little streets and shops. The best message through a window.

On the way out we stopped at Yiali a limestone and sand quarry for a long swim before heading to Kos. The island of Hippocrates to welcome George and Lucy onboard.

A windy afternoon in Kos, chilly waters – what we call payakia ! Ice cubes. Another boat tried to dock near us and crashed into us – A Russian captain who clearly was not in control of his vessel. Our captain let rip with his comments – Are you even a sailor he shouted !

The wind pushed us along and our sails were out and proud. From Kos to Tilos small and quiet. Dwarf Elephants lived here some 45,000 years ago. It is popular for its herbs. The island was poor. We walked to Mikro Chorio which was uphill. Great cardio but a forlorn place. Abandoned after the Second world war as all the villagers emigrated to America and Australia looking for a better life. The terracing falling into disrepair. Nothing much grows here except olive and terebinth trees.

Our dip for the day was the amazing cove of St Zacharias.

From Tilos a short trip to the island of Chalki nearby. We arrived in the circular port. No road between the port and the sea which was lovely and quiet. Restaurants and Churches abounded. We ate Fish, Squid and Octopus before heading for a walk. More pebble mosaic floors in many of the church courtyards.

The biggest sea urchins we have ever seen – this one was carefully returned to its home.

We woke up to the sound of thunder and rain -all of a sudden the weather had taken a turn for the worst.