7-Day Dodecanese Islands Sailing Itinerary: Rhodes to Kos
A practical, day‑by‑day 7‑day sailing itinerary from Rhodes to Kos that gives distances, estimated sailing times (based on 6–7 kt), mooring options, and shore highlights.
7-Day Dodecanese Sailing Itinerary: Rhodes to Kos
Seven days lets you sail from Rhodes to Kos through the Dodecanese on daily legs of mostly under 35 nautical miles, with one shore day built in. This itinerary breaks down each segment with real operational detail: distances, typical times at 6–7 knots, anchoring and quay depths, holding types, mooring and VHF procedures, provisioning, fuel, medical access, and weather or regulatory considerations. Adjust for your yacht’s draft, crew experience, and the Meltemi forecast.
Day 1: Rhodes to Symi
Sailing Details
- Distance: 22–23 nm (Rhodes Mandraki/Akropolis to Symi Gialos)
- Estimated time: 3–4 hours at 6–7 knots
- Departure: Leave early for better harbour options and to avoid afternoon congestion.
Mooring & Anchoring
- Symi (Gialos): Main harbour offers stern-to quay (depths 2.5–4.5 m), some laid lines, and a small marina area. Approach on VHF Ch. 12 or 77. Berthing is managed by port police—expect a visit for paperwork and fees.
- Anchoring: In the outer part of Gialos, depths range 6–10 m with mud and sand holding, but swinging room is limited due to ferry movements. Swell and wash are common.
- Pedi Bay: Well-sheltered anchorage, depths 6–10 m, sand/mud bottom with generally good holding. Quieter than Gialos, but exposed to strong easterlies.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Symi has minimarkets and bakeries in Gialos; selection is basic, especially on Sundays or holidays—stock up in Rhodes for specialty or dietary items.
- Fuel: No reliable fuel dock in Symi. Occasionally, local vendors may arrange jerrycan delivery, but this is not guaranteed—take on full tanks in Rhodes.
- Medical/Emergency: Symi’s clinic in Gialos handles minor issues. For serious emergencies, evacuation to Rhodes is standard.
Day 2: Symi to Tilos
Sailing Details
- Distance: 27–30 nm
- Estimated time: 4–5 hours at 6–7 knots
- Navigation: Open water with regular ferry and commercial traffic—give wide berth in the channel, especially if Meltemi is up.
Mooring & Anchoring
- Livadia Harbour: Main quay, stern-to or bows-to, with depths 3–5 m. Some mooring buoys in the bay. Holding is sand with some weed—check your set carefully.
- Anchoring: Good holding in sand, depths 5–8 m outside the quay. The bay is exposed to northerlies but generally calm in summer.
- Hazards: Watch for underwater rocks near shore and ferry wash.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Small minimarkets and bakeries in Livadia. Basic selection—fresh produce is often limited, especially late in the day or on Sundays.
- Fuel: No regular fuel dock or reliable jerrycan delivery in Tilos. Plan to refuel at Rhodes, Kos, or Kalymnos.
- Medical/Emergency: Tilos has a small clinic in Livadia for minor issues; serious cases are transferred to Rhodes by ferry or helicopter.
Day 3: Tilos to Nisyros
Sailing Details
- Distance: 16–20 nm (commonly cited as ~18 nm)
- Estimated time: 2.5–4 hours at 6–7 knots
Mooring & Anchoring
- Mandraki: Main port with stern-to or alongside quay berthing, depths 2.5–4 m. Limited laid lines, mostly anchor/chain to the quay. Water and electricity sometimes available.
- Pali: Small harbour, stern-to or bows-to with depths 2.5–3.5 m. Space is limited for larger yachts.
- Anchoring: Outside the ports, depths 5–7 m, sand/mud bottom, but be cautious of swell and ferry wash.
- Hazards: Underwater rocks near Mandraki’s entrance—approach with care.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Good minimarket and bakery in Mandraki. Fresh produce is available most days except Sunday.
- Fuel: No confirmed fuel dock in Pali or Mandraki—occasional jerrycan delivery may be arranged through local contacts but is not reliable. Refuel in larger ports.
- Medical/Emergency: Medical center in Mandraki covers minor cases; more serious emergencies are transferred to Kos or Rhodes.
Day 4: Nisyros to Kalymnos
Sailing Details
- Distance: 15–18 nm (to Pothia, Kalymnos)
- Estimated time: 3–3.5 hours at 6–7 knots
Mooring & Anchoring
- Pothia: Large and busy harbour, stern-to quay (depths 3–6 m), visitor berths, and a small marina area on the north side. Approach on VHF Ch. 12 or 77.
- Anchoring: Limited space in the outer harbour; depths 6–10 m, mud/sand. Holding is fair but watch for chain fouling.
- Hazards: Heavy ferry and fishing traffic; avoid anchoring in ferry turning basins.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Full supermarkets and markets in Pothia—stock up on all essentials here.
- Fuel: Fuel dock in Pothia is usually open during the day; call ahead, especially outside peak season.
- Medical/Emergency: Full hospital in Pothia; emergency services are accessible and reliable.
Day 5: Kalymnos to Leros
Sailing Details
- Distance: 14–22 nm (typical planning 16–20 nm)
- Estimated time: 3–4 hours at 6–7 knots
Mooring & Anchoring
- Lakki (Leros): Main deepwater harbour, stern-to berths and marina, depths 3–7 m. Approach on VHF Ch. 71 or 12. Technical and repair services available.
- Agia Marina: Smaller quay, depths 2–4 m, limited services.
- Anchoring: Lakki Bay offers good holding in mud/sand, depths 5–8 m, well sheltered except in strong S/SE winds.
- Hazards: Some laid moorings in the bay—keep clear of local lines.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Large supermarkets and bakeries in Lakki; Agia Marina has smaller shops.
- Fuel: Fuel dock in Lakki; call ahead if arriving late to confirm opening hours.
- Medical/Emergency: Hospital in Lakki; emergency care and pharmacy access are good for the region.
Day 6: Leros to Patmos
Sailing Details
- Distance: 20–25 nm (Lakki or Agia Marina to Skala, Patmos)
- Estimated time: 3.5–5 hours at 6–7 knots; upwind in northerly Meltemi.
Mooring & Anchoring
- Skala (Patmos): Main port with stern-to or alongside quay, depths 2.5–4.5 m, and a small marina area. Approach on VHF Ch. 12 or 77.
- Anchoring: Ample space in Skala bay, depths 6–12 m, sand/mud bottom, good holding. Avoid the ferry turning area.
- Hazards: Occasional surge from ferry traffic; swell can enter in strong winds.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Several supermarkets and bakeries in Skala; best selection before Kos.
- Fuel: No dedicated fuel dock. Occasionally, fuel can be delivered by truck to the quay, but availability is variable—arrange in advance with the harbourmaster if possible.
- Medical/Emergency: Health center in Skala handles routine issues; for serious emergencies, transfer is to Kos or Leros.
Day 7: Patmos to Kos
Sailing Details
- Distance: 30–38 nm (Skala/Patmos to Kos Marina)
- Estimated time: 5–7 hours at 6–7 knots; allow margin for weather and daylight.
Mooring & Anchoring
- Kos Island Marina: Modern, full-service marina with ~265 berths, depths 2.5–5 m, high-amp electricity, water, fuel dock, chandlery, waste reception, and full amenities. Approach on VHF Ch. 77.
- Anchoring: Small anchorage areas outside the marina, depths 5–10 m, sand/mud, but exposed to ferry wash and less secure than the marina.
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical
- Provisioning: Large supermarkets and specialty shops next to Kos Marina—widest selection along the route.
- Fuel: Full-service fuel dock on-site, open extended hours in high season.
- Medical/Emergency: Kos General Hospital is a short drive from the marina; clinics and pharmacies are within walking distance.
Route Summary Table
| Day | Leg | Approx. distance (nm) | Est. sailing time (hrs, at 6–7 kt) | Typical mooring/anchoring | Typical depths (m) | Holding type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rhodes → Symi (Gialos/Pedi) | 22–23 | 3–4 | Symi quay/marina or Pedi anchorage | 2.5–10 | Sand/mud (Pedi: good) |
| 2 | Symi → Tilos (Livadia) | 27–30 | 4–5 | Livadia harbour, buoys/quay | 3–8 | Sand, some weed |
| 3 | Tilos → Nisyros (Mandraki/Pali) | 16–20 | 2.5–4 | Mandraki/Pali quay, anchor | 2.5–7 | Sand/mud (variable) |
| 4 | Nisyros → Kalymnos (Pothia) | 15–18 | 3–3.5 | Pothia quay/marina area | 3–10 | Mud/sand |
| 5 | Kalymnos → Leros (Lakki/Agia Marina) | 14–22 (16–20 typical) | 3–4 | Lakki/Agia Marina; anchor in Lakki Bay | 2–8 | Mud/sand |
| 6 | Leros → Patmos (Skala) | 20–25 | 3.5–5 | Skala quay, anchor in bay | 2.5–12 | Sand/mud (good) |
| 7 | Patmos → Kos (Kos Marina) | 30–38 | 5–7 | Kos Island Marina, anchor outside | 2.5–10 | Sand/mud |
Provisioning, Fuel, and Medical Access: Port-by-Port
| Island/Port | Full Supermarket | Minimarket/Bakery | Fuel Dock | Medical/Emergency Facility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhodes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Major hospital, clinics |
| Symi | Limited | Yes | No reliable dock | Basic clinic |
| Tilos | No (limited) | Yes | No reliable dock | Basic clinic |
| Nisyros | No (Mandraki: good minimarket) | Yes | No reliable dock | Medical center |
| Kalymnos | Yes | Yes | Yes | Full hospital |
| Leros | Yes (Lakki) | Yes | Yes | Hospital (Lakki) |
| Patmos | Yes (Skala) | Yes | No regular dock; delivery possible | Health center |
| Kos | Yes | Yes | Yes | Major hospital, clinics |
Practical Considerations for Your Sailing Trip
Mooring Fees and APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)
- Typical costs: Municipal quays and basic buoys usually cost €10–€20 per night. Marinas typically charge €30–€60 per night for a 40–45 foot yacht in high season, with premium berths or high-demand periods running higher. Fees vary by length, season, and local demand.
- Charter contract: Most operators include the first and last night’s marina fees; intermediate nights, fuel, port dues, and APA are extra. For crewed charters, APA is often 20–30% of the charter fee; for bareboat, you pay fuel, water, and marina nights as you go.
- Administration: Greek ports are overseen by Port Authorities. Follow posted rules for waste, black/grey water, and customs if you plan to visit Turkey (see FAQ below).
Anchoring, VHF, and Local Port Procedures
- Anchoring: Always check holding (mud, sand, weed) and depth before setting. In busy harbours, stern-to with your own anchor is standard. Use plenty of chain—at least 4:1 scope for overnight.
- VHF: Most marinas/ports monitor Ch. 12, 71, or 77—call on approach to request a berth and await instructions. Port police may visit on arrival for paperwork and fees.
- Hazards: Watch for ferry wash, chain fouling (especially in Mandraki, Pothia), and underwater rocks in some harbours.
Weather Patterns and Passage Planning
- Charter season: May–October is the main window. May–June and September–early October are less crowded and have milder weather.
- Meltemi: Northerly winds (Etesians) peak July–August. Plan early departures and opt for sheltered anchorages if strong winds are forecast. Upwind legs can be challenging—adjust your route or lay days accordingly.
- Passage planning: Avoid long open-water crossings late in the day. Always check updated forecasts and be prepared to adjust for wind strength and direction.
Safety, Preparation, and Required Documents
- Navigation: Use updated electronic and paper charts. Brief your crew on MOB, fire, and emergency procedures. Monitor VHF for ferry and port traffic.
- Fuel & Spares: Only Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, and Leros offer reliable fuel. Nisyros and Patmos may arrange fuel via truck or jerrycan, but do not count on it—carry extra if needed.
- Medical: Major hospitals are on Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, and Leros. Smaller islands have clinics for minor issues. For emergencies, dial 112 or contact port police.
- Communications: Know local VHF channels for marinas and port authorities. Keep Greek weather (NAVTEX, Ch. 16) on watch.
- Documents: Skipper’s license (ICC or RYA Day Skipper widely accepted), VHF/SRC certificate (often required), passports for all crew, yacht insurance, and charter contract. Non-EU crews should check visa requirements and allow time for Schengen formalities.
- Packing: Bring soft bags, deck shoes, sun protection, refillable water bottles, Europlug adapters, and a basic first-aid kit.
Provisioning on Sundays and Holidays
Supermarkets in Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, and Leros are usually closed on Sundays and public holidays. Minimarkets and bakeries may open for limited hours in the morning. Plan provisioning ahead for these days—stock up the day before if possible.
Adjusting Your Plan and Handling Contingencies
- Meltemi: If strong northerlies are forecast, consider reversing the route (Kos→Patmos→Leros→Kalymnos→Nisyros→Tilos→Symi→Rhodes) to benefit from downwind sailing, or skip intermediate stops to allow for lay days.
- Flexibility: Many charter operators recommend pre-booking only your first and last nights; remain flexible with intermediate stops to adapt to weather and harbour crowding.
- Delays: Always leave margin for weather delays, especially for longer legs (Patmos–Kos).
Ready to Sail the Dodecanese?
If you want this plan tailored to your group, need help picking the right yacht, or want a real-world check on berths, provisioning, or weather contingencies, talk to a Sailnboat charter specialist. We know which bases run smoothly, which contracts are fair, and what to watch for in the fine print. Let us help you secure your yacht, reserve berths, and make your week on the Aegean as reliable as it is memorable.
Start your Dodecanese sailing adventure with Sailnboat—and set out with the confidence that comes from real support, not just a booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
The charter season runs roughly May–October; May–June and September–early October offer calmer winds and fewer crowds while July–August brings the strongest Meltemi and busier ports.
Charter companies commonly require skipper qualifications (e.g. ICC or national equivalent) and ID; port authorities follow Greek regulations — many practical rules (berthing, waste disposal, VHF channels) vary by port and operator.
Rates vary widely: simple quays/buoys can be nominal or free, municipal ports and marinas typically charge per metre or night; a useful planning range for a 12–14 m yacht is roughly €10–€50 per night depending on location and season.
This 7‑day Rhodes→Kos route totals roughly 160–200 nautical miles with about 20–28 hours of actual sailing time spread over 7 legs, depending on exact start/finish points and boat speed.
On this route prioritise: Panormitis Monastery (Symi), the volcanic caldera and Nikia village (Nisyros), Kalymnos’ sponge workshops and climbing crags, the Monastery of St John and the Cave of the Apocalypse (Patmos), and the Asklepion (Kos).
Written by
Sailnboat Editorial
The Sailnboat editorial desk covers yacht and boat chartering worldwide — routes, bases, seasons, boat types, paperwork and the practical costs that decide a trip. We are a charter marketplace, not a boat owner or a local agency: what we sell is judgement and support, so our guides are written to help you make a decision, not to sell you a specific boat. Every guide is checked against live operator and marina data before it goes out.
Fact-checked against live operator and marina data, and published under our editorial standards. Last reviewed: .
