The Dodecanese is the southernmost and least-known archipelago of sailing Greece. Twelve major islands, and many more small ones, strung along the Turkish coast from Rhodes in the south to Patmos in the north. Here you will find the warmest water in Greece, a Meltemi gentler than in the Cyclades, and a rare density of history: the Knights of Rhodes, Italian architecture, Byzantine monasteries.
Why the Dodecanese
This is the ideal area for anyone who wants the Aegean light without the brutality of the Cycladic Meltemi. The islands sit close together, the water stays warm late into the season, and the extension towards neighbouring Turkey (Bodrum, Marmaris) opens up two-week itineraries. Two major charter bases, Rhodes and Kos, are served by direct flights in season.
The islands to know
| Island | Character | Worth seeing |
|---|---|---|
| Rhodes | Capital, southern charter base | Medieval town (UNESCO), Lindos |
| Symi | The most beautiful arrival by sea | Neoclassical harbour, Panormitis monastery |
| Kos | Major base, direct flights | Ancient town, Asklepieion |
| Nisyros | Active volcano | Walk down into the crater |
| Tilos | Unspoilt nature | Reserve, hiking |
| Kalymnos | Sponge divers, climbing | Pothia, cliffs |
| Leros | Italian architecture | Very sheltered bays |
| Patmos | The spiritual island | Cave of the Apocalypse, Monastery of St John |
| Astypalea | The discreet one | Butterfly-shaped island |
Winds and weather
The Meltemi blows from the north to north-west, but more gently than in the Cyclades: usually 12 to 22 knots, with stronger episodes in July and August. The southern latitude gives the warmest water in Greece (26 to 28 degrees in summer) and the longest sailing season in the country, from May to October.
When to go
May, June, September and October are the best months: warmth, a manageable Meltemi, moderate crowds. July and August remain sailable but windier and busier. See the detailed calendar in the article When to sail in Greece.
Itineraries (see the Dodecanese sector page)
All our detailed routes are gathered on the Dodecanese sector page.
- Weekend: Rhodes and Symi, or Kos and Nisyros.
- One week: the Dodecanese arc from Rhodes to Kos, via Symi, Tilos, Nisyros, Kalymnos and Leros.
- Two weeks: the full Dodecanese with an extension along the Turkish Aegean coast (Bodrum, Marmaris).
Departure bases
Rhodes for the south of the archipelago, Kos for the centre and north. Both offer a large fleet and direct flights in season.
Level and practicalities
Intermediate level. As everywhere in Greece, plan on a coastal licence, an ICC and a VHF certificate (see the article on licences in Greece). Compare the yachts available from Rhodes or Kos for your dates.
Sources: Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS), Dodecanese charter operator feedback, Aegean water temperature data.
