Nestled in the sparkling Aegean Sea, the Greek island of Kos is a breathtaking location to start your gulet charter.
The island has an impressive history and is home to several ancient monuments including the famous Asklepion, an ancient healing centre built by Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Not to be missed also is the charming Old Town of Kos with its narrow winding streets and centuries-old buildings
There are eleven other main islands in the Dodecanese archipelago and a yacht charter allows you to explore them all. Kos is also located just off the coast of Turkey, which means that you can visit several destinations along the Turkish coast as well.
This is an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable sailing experience and a truly a special place for a gulet charter.
Steeped in ancient history, the island of Kos has ruins like the famous Asklepion and the tree of Hippocrates, as well as Ottoman and Byzantine sites of interest. Exploring these historical sites adds an extra facet to any gulet charter.
Kos and The Dodecanese islands are known for their breathtaking landscapes, including picturesque beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rugged coastlines.
The Dodecanese are not as well-known as some other Greek islands, meaning that they're often quieter too; perfect for those looking a bit of solitude.
The islands have retained their traditional charm and authenticity, allowing visitors to experience genuine Greek culture, local customs and traditional cuisine. Revel in the relaxed pace of life on these islands and enjoy the famous Greek hospitality.
The short distances make this a perfect area for exploring various different islands with manageable passages between each. Easily sail to Rhodes, Symi or Kalymnos to explore the diversity of the wider Dodecanese islands.
Start your journey in Kos Town, renowned for its enchanting mix of ancient ruins, bustling harbour, vibrant nightlife, and traditional Greek atmosphere; the town offers numerous dining options and a charming marina.
Nisyros is a volcanic island known for its unique landscape, charming traditional villages and arty vibe. Visit the volcano's crater and explore the picturesque streets of Mandraki, the island's main town. Or continue to Tilos island with it's medieval castle or Halki for lovely beaches and a truly unhurried pace of life.
Located northwest of Kos, Pserimos is a small, idyllic island with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Swim or snorkel from your gulet and enjoy the tranquillity of this uncrowded destination.
North of Kos lies Kalymnos, known for its stunning rock formations and excellent rock climbing opportunities. Explore the beautiful coastline, visit traditional fishing villages and sample fresh seafood.
Known for its picturesque harbour and neoclassical buildings, wander through colourful villages, cruise to hidden coves, and enjoy the elegance of Symi's architecture.
Located Northeast of Kos, Leros is a picturesque island with charming villages, scenic bays, and sandy beaches. Explore the island's historical sites and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere.
Between Leros and Patmos lies Lipsi, a tranquil and unspoiled island perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Discover its small villages, beautiful beaches, and authentic Greek hospitality.
Heading south from Kos, Rhodes is a larger island with a wealth of history, beautiful sandy beaches, and medieval architecture. Discover the famous Rhodes Town, its ancient ruins, and the charming village of Lindos.
When embarking on a gulet charter from Kos, timing is everything.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden moments. During these periods, Greece unveils its charm without the peak season crowds.
The Greek islands also come alive during the summer with a vibrant atmosphere that bustles with life and is hard to beat.
Monthly weather for the area *
| Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Daily Rain (mm) | Avg. Wind Direction | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 15.1°C (59°F) | 10.8°C (51°F) | 2.9mm |  WSW |
| FEB | 13.3°C (56°F) | 7.9°C (46°F) | 0.9mm | WSW |
| MAR | 16.5°C (62°F) | 11.2°C (52°F) | 1.3mm | WSW |
| APR | 18.6°C (66°F) | 12.8°C (55°F) | 1.0mm | WSW |
| MAY | 22.4°C (72°F) | 15.8°C (60°F) | 1.9mm | W |
| JUN | 26.9°C (80°F) | 20.1°C (68°F) | 1.3mm | WNW |
| JUL | 32.5°C (90°F) | 24.1°C (75°F) | 0mm | NW |
| AUG | 31.0°C (88°F) | 23.4°C (74°F) | 0mm | WNW |
| SEP | 29.2°C (85°F) | 22.8°C (73°F) | 0.5mm | WNW |
| OCT | 25.1°C (77°F) | 19.1°C (66°F) | 0.1mm | WNW |
| NOV | 21.2°C (70°F) | 15.7°C (60°F) | 3.4mm | SW |
| DEC | 17.4°C (63°F) | 13.4°C (56°F) | 2.6mm | SW |
The official language of Greece is Greek with English being widely understood in the tourist areas.
The official currency of Greece is the Euro.
Tipping is a common practice in Greece and very much appreciated for good service, typically you leave 10%.
These two or three-masted boats are the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, and make a fantastic platform for exploring Kos and beyond.
Gulets will typically have a professional chef on board who can accommodate dietary preferences while providing exceptional dining.
Sailing on a Gulet is a unique and memorable experience in itself. The feeling of connection with the sea and exploring exciting new locations, all while being superbly looked after by your crew makes for a very special holiday indeed.
With recent advances in the luxury Gulet charter market, this is an excellent choice for a truly magical charter. From the moment you step aboard, every detail is testament to the skills of master craftsmen and designers, with stylish staterooms and cabins sitting alongside fantastically spacious decks for basking in the Mediterranean sun.
On a luxury Gulet charter your crew will include a professional chef to create the perfect menu, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements. This bespoke treatment extends to your itinerary and activities; whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fuelled watersports, deserted coves for private swimming or sundowners on deck before dinner, the expert crew will ensure you have a truly luxurious charter experience.
While Gulets do have sails, they're often motor-sailed or purely motored. Even when under sail, the experience is generally more relaxed and less hands-on than on a typical sailing yacht.
Gulets are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. They usually feature a large aft deck for dining and lounging, and a spacious foredeck for sunbathing.
Gulets can accommodate larger groups, typically ranging from 6 to 12 guests, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.
Gulets usually come with a full crew, including a captain, chef, and hostess, providing a more hotel-like experience.
Gulet charters tend to travel at a slower pace than large motor yachts, emphasizing relaxation and coastal exploration rather than covering long distances.
Many Gulets feature a full-sized galley, allowing for elaborate meal preparation and are typically known for their excellent onboard cuisine.
Gulet charters often focus on coastal cruising, with frequent stops for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring small ports and bays.
A Gulet is a traditional wooden sailing boat, originating from Turkey. It typically has two or three masts and a wide beam (width), which provides lots of deck space for socialising, eating and relaxing on board.
A crewed Gulet charter from Kos offers a unique way to explore the stunning Mediterranean coastline. These traditional wooden sailing boats combine the charm of old-world craftsmanship with modern world amenities, and all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.
Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.
Greece is one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, it is best to book your dream boat in advance, typically six months ahead, to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.
You can search for your dream gulet via the the link, or if you want one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the build your trip link to get them working on creating the perfect trip.
With 12 inhabited islands in the Dodecanese there's enough for several charters, so we've condensed some information on each island below to help you plan your itinerary.
Rhodes: The largest of the Dodecanese, Rhodes boasts medieval architecture, pristine beaches, and the famous Colossus site. Don't miss the UNESCO-listed Old Town and the Palace of the Grand Master.
Kos: Known for its rich archaeological sites, including the Asklepieion, Kos also offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife. and the island's bicycle-friendly roads make exploration a delight.
Patmos: Patmos is home to the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John; its serene atmosphere and picturesque villages provide a peaceful retreat.
Kalymnos: Famous for its sponge-diving history, it now attracts rock climbing enthusiasts from around the world. The island's rugged landscape and charming ports make it a unique stop.
Leros: With its neoclassical architecture and laid-back vibe, Leros offers a glimpse into authentic Greek island life; don't miss the imposing Kastro (castle) for panoramic views.
Symi: Symi's laid back atmosphere and colourful neoclassical houses create a particularly stunning harbour view.
Karpathos: Karpathos is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience and is also a windsurfing favourite.
Astypalaia: This butterfly-shaped island features a picturesque Chora (main town) crowned by a Venetian castle and has a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.
Halki: One of the smallest inhabited Dodecanese islands, Halki charms visitors with its peaceful ambience, and is another island with colourful houses and stunning views.
Nisyros: This volcanic island is home to an impressive caldera and therapeutic hot springs. Its traditional villages and unique landscape offer a distinctive experience.
Kos is also located just off the Turkish coast a short distance from Bodrum on the Turkish Riviera making it very accessible, though there is typically an additional cost when moving between the two countries.
A gulet charter from Kos allows you to explore these diverse islands at your own pace while immersing yourself in the richness of Greek island culture.
There are typically five main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Greece, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, Gulets and Luxury Yachts (including Superyachts)
If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden months, but the summer months are also popular, though the anchorages are busier.
The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.
The typical times for a yacht charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.
Once you've found your perfect yacht, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.
When chartering a yacht from Kos, consider factors such as budget, yacht size and type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.