10 Days Yacht Charter Itinerary in the Dodecanese

sample yacht itinerary of 10 days in the dodecanese

In the middle of the Aegean Sea are located the 12 islands of the Dodecanese archipelago, between the island of Crete, the Cyclades archipelago, and the coast of Asia Minor (Turkey). It is an ideal destination to reach by yacht or catamaran to discover its ancient culture, rustic landscapes, crystal-clear expanses of water, enchanting ports, and a mosaic of Mediterranean scrub, with rare plant and fauna species.

The Dodecanese literally means “twelve islands”. The main one is Rhodes, where the capital also takes place. Located in a region of passage between east and west, the islands bear evident signs of their past, from the classical era to the Knights of Rhodes, until the Turkish and Italian occupation. Different denominations have left traces in the culture and architectural testimonies.

DODECANESE ISLANDS CHARTER ENQUIRY

How to Reach these Islands?

Depending on your preferences, there are several ways to get there and then set sail. It is truly convenient to arrive by air, landing at one of the main airports on the Dodecanese islands, and then arranging the boat tour departure from the nearest tourist port.

In this regard, Rhodes, one of the southernmost islands of the archipelago, hosts an international airport with daily flights arriving from all over Europe. It is located 14 miles (about 25 minutes by car) from the Rhodes marina. Alternatively, it is possible to land on the island of Kos. However, it is further north than Rhodes and its international airport is about a 30-minute drive from the nearest marina.

What is the Best Time to Visit the Dodecanese?

The Dodecanese is characterized by a hot, dry climate, and winds blow mainly from the northwest. They are located at the southern end of the Greek territory and are considered the hottest destination in the country to sail to, or “the sunniest corner of Greece,” as someone calls them.

For this reason, it could be a good choice to visit them in April to June, at the beginning of the summer season, or in October and early November. During these periods, the winds are much quieter than during the middle summer months, and there is less mass tourism.

Let’s Start our 10-day Yacht Itinerary in the Dodecanese

Day 1 -> Rhodes

Begin your journey from the port of Rhodes, Mandraki, where your crew will accompany you on your luxury charter yacht. Indulge in a gourmet lunch after walking through the labyrinth of alleys of the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also indulge in some shopping at some of the best typical shops that abound the streets.

Day 2 -> Rhodes – Symi

Set sail for the rocky and picturesque Symi, stop in Nanou Bay to cool off, then moor in the colorful port of Gialos. Swim and explore the island’s coves or practice water sports. At sunset, stroll through the narrow streets of the center, visit the monastery of the Archangel Michael, and enjoy Greek specialties in one of the local taverns.

Day 3 -> Symi – Kos

Cruise slowly and admire the view aboard your catamaran to the fascinating green island of Kos, famous for its many ancient fortresses. This island is also a heavenly place for those who love water sports, while Agios Fokas has warm waters because it is close to the so-called “Thermes”, pools fed by hot springs, where you can relax while enjoying the sunset.

Day 4 -> Kos – Kalymnos

Set sail for barren Kalymnos, dotted with golden beaches and small green valleys. Moor among its coves to swim in the shades of blue and green or go diving in search of sponges and other natural fauna. Night anchorage in Palionisous bay, known for its spectacular cliffs.

Day 5 -> Kalymnos – Leros

Lift anchor towards mountainous Leros aboard your yacht to visit its deep bays amidst colorful valleys. Rest in the suggestive beach of Alinda Bay or in the bay of Xerokambos, which offers intense moments of snorkeling. Alternatively, practice kayaking between hidden coves and islets. End the day in a typical fish tavern on the beach.

Day 6 -> Leros – Patmos

Disembark at the port of Skála in Patmos, an enchanting port with the imposing structure of the monastery of St. John and the ancient whitewashed village of Hora that surrounds it, a UNESCO World Heritage site, together with three 15th-century mills. In the afternoon, reach Psili Ammos beach with the tender.

Day 7 -> Patmos – Astypalea

Admire the Venetian fortress as you land in Astypalea with its bizarre butterfly shape built on the sand spit of Steno beach. Take a dip in the crystal clear sea of Plakes Beach for extraordinary snorkeling then enjoy dinner under the stars.

Day 8 -> Astypalea – Nisyros – Mandraki

The scenography is unique when you approach Nisyros with a still active volcano and a lunar landscape surrounded by typical white houses. Explore black sand beaches with bays surrounded by seagull islands before docking for the night.

Day 9 -> Nikos – Tilos

Reach Tilos aboard your catamaran while savoring a tasty breakfast. It is an intact island rich in history with its delightful beaches, coves, and covered with walnut and almond trees. Snorkel around the marina and then visit the small green water lakes, perfect for cooling off in the hot sun.

Day 10 -> Tilos – Lindos – Rhodes

Enjoy a final breakfast aboard your sumptuous yacht as you return to Rhodes. Admire the Acropolis of Lindos from the sea before docking in Mandraki and say goodbye to your crew. Spend a few hours in the port of Rhodes with its old windmills and brightly painted houses before reaching the airport.

Contact now YBH Charter Brokers:

You can contact us by sending an email at ask@yourboatholiday.com or by phone, calling +39 33436 00997, available also on WhatsApp for both calls and texting.

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