7 to 10-Day Yacht Charter in the Dodecanese Islands

Guide to the Dodecanese Islands Yacht Charters – Greek “Island-Hopping” Cruise

The Dodecanese Islands are one of the most remote Greek island groups, ideal to plan and book a private yacht charter. Situated in the southeastern Aegean Sea in an elegant arch that runs very close and parallel to the Turkish coast in the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese Islands archipelago, despite its name suggesting a dozen “dodeca” islands “nisia”, is composed of 14 primary islands (Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Astypalaia, Leros, Nisyros, Symi, Tilos, Halki, Lipsi, Kasos, Kastelorizo) and a multitude of smaller islets.

Boasting a total of 163 islands and islets, is a genuine cruising haven and an outstanding yachting destination throughout the year due to its mild climate. In fact, it is hailed as the sunniest corner of Greece, offering what is commonly considered the finest Mediterranean climate.

The Dodecanese islands officially became part of modern Greece only in 1948. However, the local population has held on to a robust Greek identity and is renowned for their warm hospitality and laid-back lifestyle. Each island within the group possesses a distinctive character, shaped by its history, which is reflected in important archaeological sites, impressive Byzantine churches, and medieval castles.

Rich in history, the Dodecanese boast a tapestry of cultures that can trace their roots back from ancient Greeks and Romans to Byzantine and Ottoman potentates. Cruise to the ever-popular Rhodes and Kos, or explore lesser-known islands that serve as a time capsule of Greece’s traditional way of life.

With an abundance of breathtaking sceneries, the Dodecanese Islands boast an eclectic mix of architectural heritage and local traditions. From bustling cosmopolitan cities to picturesque fishing villages these islands are awash with opportunities for guests to remain as busy or as relaxed as desired. A beautiful cluster of islands, they make for idyllic island hopping opportunities as each is packed with diversity and adventure. With over half of the islands uninhabited there are many mountains, meadows and beaches to explore on a Mediterranean yacht charter here.

Saturated in hot Aegean sun all year round, the Dodecanese Islands are a serene, yet chic collection of island’s that are rapidly growing in popularity. One of the main advantages of a yacht charter in the Dodecanese is that you can visit smaller islets which are off the main tourist routes.

This proposed Dodecanese Yacht Charter itinerary includes departure/return base Rhodes.

1^st Day – RHODES (Embarkation Point)

Rhodes:

• By far the favourite within in this superb archipelago, Rhodes is the largest and most developed of the Dodecanese Islands. Home to an indulgent way of life and increasingly popular amongst glamorous vacationers, Rhodes is laced with ancient towns and glittering stretches of beautiful shorelines. Anthony Quinn Bay is a hotspot for yachting enthusiasts where the turquoise water shimmers in a cove of crimson rock. The quaint village of Lindos makes for an idyllic hideaway, meander alongside the Rhodian style Tudor mansions and gaze in awe at ancient ruins and picture perfect views of the sea.

2^nd Day – SYMI (23 NM)

Symi:

• Anchor at: Gialos harbour
• Highlights: Neoclassical facades | Panormitis Monastery | Hidden beaches
• Sail into the colourful wonder of Symi, where 19th-century mansions climb up from the sea in a dramatic cascade. Visit the revered Panormitis Monastery, known for its beautiful iconography, or discover quiet coves like Nanou Bay, ideal for a dip and a dose of sun-soaked serenity. The island’s elegance and spirit are timeless.
• Stretching over 84 kilometres, the coastline of Symi is sublime. Perfect for sailing, this tranquil island is brimmed with secluded coves and rocky bays, some of which are only accessible by boat. Neoclassical houses decorated in superb pastel shades pack the towns of this miniature island, and its enigmatic red roof tiles add to the lovely ambience. There are many opportunities to secure some unique crafts or handmade furniture with many of the locals skilled in wood carving. With a handful of chic restaurants and elegant bars Simi makes for an exciting nightlife.

3^rd Day – PALON (NYSIROS) (32 NM)

Nysiros:

• Anchor at: Mandraki harbour
• Highlights: Volcano hiking | Crater walk | Cliffside monastery dinner
• Nysiros is one of the Aegean’s youngest and most fascinating volcanic formations. Disembark and descend into the Stefanos crater, where a surreal, lunar landscape awaits, alive with steam vents and the scent of sulfur. Afterwards, visit Panagia Spiliani, a serene monastery perched above Mandraki. Evening finds you sipping ouzo at a tavern overlooking the caldera, where volcanic power meets island stillness.
• If you seek adventure during a Dodecanese yacht charter, consider a stop on Nysiros, between Kos and Tilos. One of the most beautiful of the Dodecanese isles, the island is punctuated by its active volcano and walkable crater. If you work up an appetite while traversing the crater and exploring, many local tavernas offer fresh-caught, delicious seafood, a true delicacy of the region.

4^th Day – KOS (21 NM)

Kos:

• Swim Stop: Pserimos bay
• Return: Kos Marina
• Highlights: Turquoise-water swim | Kos Old Town stroll | Aegean sunset
• Sail back toward Kos, pausing for one last swim at Pserimos. Celebrate the end of your voyage with lunch at a seaside tavern and optional stroll through Kos Old Town, where ancient ruins and harbour lights mark her historical character.
• From volcanic heartlands and monastic strongholds to medieval ports and pastel-painted harbours, the Dodecanese islands offer a sailing experience like no other. Adventure, serenity, and discovery converge across every nautical mile.
• With dramatic shorelines and sugar-white sandy beaches, Kos is an island of intense natural beauty and utmost serenity. Kos has remained its original charm despite being popular amongst tourists and boasts a tropical ambiance. This picture-perfect island grows an abundance of produce from grapes, almonds, figs and olives and is an idyllic island for those looking to taste the cosmopolitan lifestyle and experience the vibrant nightlife.

5^th Day – LEROS (27 NM) / PATMOS (20 NM)

Leros (morning):

• A generally mountainous island with deep bays often full of green vegetation. Also picturesque valleys and dented coasts. Lipsi A small charming island with magnificent beaches. You will also find picturesque charming taverns generously serving fresh fish and local wine.

Patmos (afternoon):

• The glorious island of Patmos is as picturesque as can be. The bustling capital city of Chora boasts stunning architecture, magnificent beaches and remarkable landscape views making for a tangible serenity. This spiritual island exudes an astounding sense of harmony for that ‘get away from it all’ feel.

6^th Day – KALYMNOS (27 NM)

Kalymnos:

• Anchor at: Pothia harbour
• Highlights: Climbing capital | Gyali swim | Sponge diving history
• A longer sail includes a volcanic swim stop at Gyali before arriving in Kalymnos, famed for both sponge diving heritage and its global reputation as a climber’s paradise. From the limestone cliffs of Masouri to the island’s labyrinth of walking trails, adventure awaits on land and sea alike. Evenings in Pothia are filled with local color, culture, and delicious meze. Kalymnos is an island of barren rock, golden beaches and tiny green valleys. It owes its fame to its celebrated sponge fishers and diving.

7^th Day – TILOS (53 NM)

Tilos:

• Anchor at: Livadia bay
• Highlights: Monastery hike | Mikro Chorio ruins | Quiet harbours
• A tranquil morning sail leads you to Tilos, an island where nature and heritage blend harmoniously. Explore the abandoned village of Mikro Chorio, where crumbling stone homes echo with stories of the past. Or hike up to the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, surrounded by pine trees and peace. The pace is unhurried, the harbours uncrowded, and the night skies brilliantly clear.
• An island with iconic sandy beaches, full of springs and streams and Genoan towers. It is uncrowded and there are few tourists.

8^th Day – CHALKI (HALKI) (17 NM) or KARPATHOS (30 NM)

Chalki (Halki):

• Anchor at: Nimborio harbour
• Highlights: Ftenagia Beach | Seaside dining | Neoclassical charm
• Short in distance but rich in beauty, the sail to Chalki is a feast for the eyes. The island’s neoclassical harbour glows in soft pastels, welcoming you to its slow rhythms. Spend your day swimming at Ftenagia Beach, followed by a lobster dinner beneath the medieval clocktower, with music from the tavernas drifting on the breeze.

Alternatively Karpathos:

• Karpathos is an oblong island and the third largest in the Dodecanese. Boasts incomparable natural beauties and traditions jealously guarded by its inhabitants.

9^th Day – ALIMIA (swim stop) (27 NM) / RHODES (22 NM)

• Anchor at: Rhodes Old Town Marina
• Highlights: Ghost island swim | UNESCO heritage | Medieval discovery
• Begin with a swim stop at Alimia, a deserted island perfect for snorkelling. Then cruise onward to Rhodes, where past and present collide beautifully. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master, medieval alleyways, and Ottoman minarets inside the UNESCO-listed Old Town. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world and it feels like stepping into a living history book.

10^th Day – RHODES Mandraki Marina (23 NM)

Disembarkation.

When to Charter in the Dodecanese Islands ?

The Dodecanese islands enjoy one of the longest yachting seasons in the Mediterranean, with warm weather from April to November. The peak season in July and August sees the islands at its most vibrant, with sun-drenched days, lively nightlife, and glamorous beachside dining. This is the time to experience luxury resorts, exclusive beach clubs, and high-energy summer events, all from the comfort of your yacht.

How do I Get to the Dodecanese Islands ?

With direct flights daily from most European capitals, Rhodes International Airport “Diagoras”, or Diagoras International Airport, is located on the West side of the island of Rhodes in Greece. The facility is located just north of the village Paradeisi, about 14 km southwest of the capital city, Rhodes.

Alternatively, the Kos International Airport “Ippokratis” (on the island of Kos), is located near Antimachia Village, and mainly serves charter airlines, who bring customers on holiday to the island.

Where can I Find the Finest Dining ?

The finest dining choices sit on the main charter islands. In Rhodes Old Town, Marco Polo is a charming mansion restaurant for a romantic evening after berthing. In Lindos, Mavrikos is a landmark choice with deep local history and a prime village-square setting. On Patmos, Benetos feels made for yacht guests, with a quiet Sapsila inlet, Aegean views, and a small veranda by the sea. Symi and Kos are best for fresh fish tavernas near the harbour.

What Kind of Yacht can I Charter in the Dodecanese Islands ?

ALLIED YACHTING can propose a selection of:

• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Superyachts
• Catamarans
• Traditional Turkish Gulets

Feel free to contact our charter brokers for any additional information on Dodecanese Yacht Charters.