Greece - Dodecanese - Cafes and restaurants by the sea on the Nisyros island. Tiny white houses and hotels with balconies. View to Giali island in Aegean sea, Greece. - Istock

Yacht Charter
The Dodecanese

The Dodecanese is an enchanting group of islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea and a truly special place for a yacht charter.

The archipelago also offers a wealth of cultural experiences from charming villages with whitewashed houses to vibrant local markets, and traditional local tavernas.

For those seeking tranquillity and relaxation, the Dodecanese offer an abundance of idyllic anchorages and secluded bays where you can unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Immerse yourself in nature as you swim in the deep blue waters, or simply relax on the deck of your yacht and enjoy the breathtaking views.

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Bavaria C45 (2020)
Bavaria Yachtbau
Elba 45 (2024)
Fountaine Pajot
Lagoon 42 (2019)
Lagoon
Dufour 41 (2024)
Dufour Yachts

What Makes Dodecanese Special?

Off The Beaten Track

The Dodecanese are less widely visited than many other Greek islands, making them unspoilt, uncrowded and perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle.

Stunning Natural Beauty

Known for their breathtaking landscapes, the Dodecanese offer myriad picturesque beaches, stunning azure waters and rugged coastlines.

Authentic Greek Culture

The islands have retained their traditional charm and authenticity, allowing visitors to experience genuine Greek culture, local customs, and traditional cuisine.

Island-Hopping Options

The Dodecanese archipelago consists of 12 major islands and numerous smaller ones, which means you can explore multiple destinations on a yacht, each with their own unique character and attractions.

Delicious Local Cuisine

Enjoy a gastronomic adventure on a Dodecanese yacht charter, savouring traditional Greek dishes made with the freshest ingredients, including locally caught seafood and regional produce.

Impressive Medieval Castles

Several islands in the Dodecanese are home to well-preserved medieval castles, such as the Castle of the Knights in Rhodes, offering a glimpse into the region's historical defensive architecture.

Greece - Doecanese - Ruins of Acropolis of Lindos view, Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands, Greek Islands, Greece. Acropolis of Lindos, ancient architecture of Rhodes, Greece. - Rhodes  - AdobeStock_657134254

Historical Significance

The Dodecanese islands have a rich history, with ruins and ancient sites dating back through the Ottoman, Roman, and Byzantine periods, providing ample opportunities for exploration.

Not To Be Missed

Symi Island

Symi's main harbour is seriously picturesque, with grand neoclassical buildings that belie its small size. Wander through colourful streets, cruise to hidden coves and enjoy the elegance of Symi's architecture and culture.

Patmos Island

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Patmos is famous for the dramatically-named Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John. Unwind on peaceful beaches, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of this beautiful island.

Kos Island

With beautiful sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and a lively nightlife, Kos is a versatile charter destination for to visit. Explore ancient ruins, relax on pristine shores, and savour Mediterranean cuisine, to name but a few activities.

Kalymnos Island

Renowned for its sponge diving heritage, Kalymnos boasts spectacular beaches, traditional villages, and excellent climbing spots.

Leros Island

A tranquil and uncrowded island, Leros offers peaceful anchorages, charming landscapes, and a rich history. Visit the imposing medieval castle of the Knights of St John or simply relax on the quiet sandy beaches.

Rhodes Island

Rhodes is the largest and most visited island in the Dodecanese. From its ancient wonders, including the Colossus, to its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Rhodes offers a diverse and unforgettable Greek island experience.

Tilos Island

With its unspoiled nature and quiet beaches, Tilos is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Delight in rare bird species, stroll through historic ruins and enjoy untouched nature on this eco-friendly island.

Astypalea Island

A stunning island combining traditional Greek charm with beautiful beaches and picturesque villages. Explore charming architecture, unwind on tranquil beaches, and relish the unhurried pace of life on this lesser-known Greek island.

Kastellorizo Island

This unspoilt island's picturesque port, historical sites and serene atmosphere have earned its reputation as Greece's eastern gem. With only one village on the island, this small but pretty spot is a seriously tranquil getaway.

Greece - Dodecanese - Nisyros Island - Beautiful sunset sunrise coast view to old ancient monastery church on a cliff of mediterranean greek village Mandraki, Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, Nisyros Island, Kos, Dodecanese, Greece - AS

Nisyros Island

Known for its active volcano, Nisyros offers unique landscapes, natural hot springs, and traditional Greek architecture.

Best Times To Visit

When embarking on a yacht charter from The Dodecanese, 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.

Weather

Monthly weather for the area *

Avg. High Temp Avg. Low Temp Avg. Wind
JAN 16.3°C (61°F) 13.7°C (57°F) wind direction 214degSW
FEB 14.1°C (57°F) 10.7°C (51°F) wind direction 153degSSE
MAR 17.2°C (63°F) 13.5°C (56°F) wind direction 256degWSW
APR 19.0°C (66°F) 15.0°C (59°F) wind direction 248degWSW
MAY 22.7°C (73°F) 17.7°C (64°F) wind direction 274degW
JUN 26.8°C (80°F) 22.0°C (72°F) wind direction 308degNW
JUL 32.4°C (90°F) 26.5°C (80°F) wind direction 326degNW
AUG 30.0°C (86°F) 25.2°C (77°F) wind direction 284degWNW
SEP 29.3°C (85°F) 24.6°C (76°F) wind direction 310degNW
OCT 25.3°C (77°F) 21.2°C (70°F) wind direction 296degWNW
NOV 22.1°C (72°F) 18.4°C (65°F) wind direction 239degWSW
DEC 18.5°C (65°F) 15.9°C (61°F) wind direction 204degSSW
* Weather information is based on the previous year's records at local weather stations.

Local Essentials

Languages

The official language of Greece is Greek with English being widely understood in the tourist areas.

Currency

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Greece and very much appreciated for good service, typically you leave 10%.

Boat Types In Dodecanese

Is A Yacht Charter Right For For You

Unique Perspectives

See coastlines and islands from vantage points inaccessible to land-based travellers.

Freedom to Explore

On a yacht charter, you have the freedom to plan your own itinerary and visit multiple destinations, with the journeys between them being part of the fun.

Connection with Nature

A yacht charter allows you to experience the sea, wind, and sky up close, not to mention the chance to spot dolphins or other marine life native to your cruising area.

Water Sports

Enjoy activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding with equipment readily available and often supplied with your charter boat.

Wellbeing

If you're looking for a total break from your everyday routine, a sailing holiday provides a truly different experience. Being rocked gently by the waves while surrounded by stunning nature is guaranteed to lower your stress levels.

Access to Secluded Spots

On a yacht charter, you can reach tucked away coves, quiet beaches, and small islands which are inaccessible to land-based tourists.

Customisable Itinerary

The weather doesn’t always do what you want, but with a boat you can easily adjust your plans based on weather, preferences, or unexpected discoveries.

Cultural Immersion

On a yacht charter you tend to visit multiple ports and interact with locals, which is great for experiencing the cultural life of your destination country in more depth.

Value for Groups

When comparing costs for accommodations, meals, and activities for larger groups, yacht charters often provide better value than a land based holiday.

Foxtrot, Hanse 458

Relax

The rhythmic motion of waves and the peaceful marine environment are the perfect tonic for getting away from it all.

Charter Types In Dodecanese

Bareboat Yacht Charters

A bareboat charter with Pure Yachting gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore The Dodecanese and beyond at your own pace. Tailor your trip to match your preferences, and if you need advice or inspiration our charter experts will always be on hand to suggest areas to explore.

We select our fleet of yachts from trusted operators, chosen by us for the quality of their boats and the fact they offer a high level of service. To charter a yacht you'll typically need a qualification such as the RYA Day Skipper, the AS104 Bareboat Cruising, ICC certification or be able to demonstrate relevant experience.

Skippered Yacht Charters

With a professional skipper at the helm to confidently navigate around The Dodecanese and beyond, you’re free to relax and enjoy every moment. The skipper's expertise ensures smooth sailing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.

However, if you fancy getting more involved, our fully qualified skippers will be more than happy to show you the basics, or help you brush up your sailing skills.

On skippered charters, there's also the opportunity to add a host or hostess who can prepare meals and help with tasks such as childcare, concierge services and housekeeping.

Crewed Yacht Charters

Crewed yacht charters from The Dodecanese come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from sleek superyachts to luxury catamarans, contemporary motor yachts to classic yachts and more, 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.

How To Book

How To Book Your Yacht Charter From The Dodecanese.

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 yacht 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.

Pure Thoughts

The Dodecanese have a rich history, and the islands are scattered with ancient ruins, medieval fortresses, and archaeological sites which allow a deep dive into the region's past.

The archipelago offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This chain of 12 main islands and numerous smaller provides diverse sailing experiences. From the medieval charm of Rhodes to the picturesque harbour of Symi, each island has a unique character.

Rhodes is home to the well-preserved medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets and explore the imposing Palace of the Grand Master, showcasing architectural marvels from the Knights of St John era.

Other gems include the Asklepieion on Kos, an ancient healing centre associated with Hippocrates, or the Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos. Leros boasts the imposing Kastro fortress, while Kalymnos has the well-preserved Castle of Chrysocheria to explore. These islands also house numerous museums showcasing artefacts from various periods, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the region's rich past, from ancient Greece through the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.

Embarking on a yacht charter in the Dodecanese promises scenic vistas, cultural immersion and relaxation, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking a unique and memorable sailing experience.

Also Discover

FAQ's

How Do I Choose The Right Yacht?

When chartering a yacht from The Dodecanese, 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.

What Are The Main Things To Consider Before I Charter A Yacht?

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.

What Happens If There Is A Problem With My Yacht Yacht?

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.

When Are The Best Times To Charter A Yacht From The Dodecanese?

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.

What Type Of Yacht Can I Charter From The Dodecanese?

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)

How Do Charter Fees Work When Chartering A Yacht?

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.

How Long Does A Yacht Charter Typically Last?

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.