Dodecanese Islands: Sailing from Rhodes to Kos and Beyond

The Dodecanese doesn't get the attention of the Cyclades or Ionian, but it should. These islands — strung along Turkey's coast — offer a different Greece: warmer, less crowded, with a mix of Greek and Ottoman heritage. After 15 years of sailing here, it's one of our favorite regions.

Why the Dodecanese is Greece's Hidden Gem

Fewer charter boats, so anchorages aren't packed. The season runs longer — you can sail into October when the Cyclades have shut down. The Meltemi is weaker here; the winds are more variable. And the islands have a distinct character — medieval castles, spice-trade history, thermal springs.

Rhodes: Start Here

Rhodes has a major airport and marina. The Old Town is a UNESCO site — medieval walls, cobbled streets, knights' castles. Allow a day to explore before or after your charter. Mandraki marina is the main base. Stock up here — provisioning is easy.

Symi: Jaw-Dropping Harbor

Symi is 25 nm from Rhodes. The harbor is a crescent of pastel neoclassical buildings climbing the hillside — it's the most photogenic harbor in all of Greece. I've sailed everywhere; Symi wins. Anchor in the bay or take a town quay. The town has tavernas, shops, and a relaxed vibe. Don't miss the Panormitis Monastery on the south coast — a beautiful day sail.

Tilos: Nature Paradise

Tilos is small and wild. A nature reserve, few tourists, pristine beaches. Livadia is the main port — a sleepy village with a few tavernas. Eristos Beach is a long stretch of sand. Tilos feels like Greece 30 years ago. We love it for a quiet night.

Nisyros: Volcanic Island

Nisyros has an active volcano. You can walk into the crater — steam vents, sulfur smell, lunar landscape. Unique. Mandraki is the main port. The island is small; you can explore by scooter in an afternoon. A must-see for geology fans.

Kos: Buzzing and Historic

Kos is the party island of the Dodecanese — lots of bars, beaches, and nightlife. Also the birthplace of Hippocrates. The main town has a castle, ancient ruins, and a busy marina. Good for a final night before flying home — Kos has an airport.

7-Day Route Suggestion

Rhodes → Symi → Tilos → Nisyros → Kos → Kalymnos (optional) → back to Rhodes. Or one-way Rhodes to Kos if you're flying from different airports. The legs are 15–30 nm — manageable day sails.

Wind Patterns and Best Time

The Meltemi reaches the Dodecanese but weaker than the Cyclades. Afternoon thermals are common. Best months: May, June, September, October. July–August are hot but sailable. We've had perfect days in late October — the sea is still warm, the crowds are gone.

Less crowded than the Cyclades. Warmer longer. And Symi alone is worth the trip. Ready to explore? We have yachts in Rhodes. Let's go.