Explore the Dodecanese islands sailing from Rhodes. Visit Symi with its colorful homes and clear waters, the serene beaches of Tilos, and the volcanic landscapes of Nisiros. Conclude in vibrant Kos, known for its ancient ruins and lively atmosphere.
Day 1Rhodes
Mandraki Marina in Rhodes is a historic and bustling harbor, offering a perfect starting point for sailing adventures in the Aegean. Once the site of the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, the marina is now filled with yachts and boats, providing modern facilities and easy access to the island’s old town. Its prime location makes it an ideal departure point for exploring the nearby Dodecanese islands.
Day 2Symi
25 nm5 hours
Symi is known for its charming harbor lined with colorful neoclassical houses and its tranquil, clear waters. A favorite stop for sailors, Symi offers a blend of natural beauty and traditional Greek charm. The island's peaceful beaches, historic monasteries, and scenic views make it a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.
Symi public port offers: water, electricity, fuel
Day 3Nisyros
35 nm7 hours
Nisyros, a unique gem in the Dodecanese, is famous for its active volcanic crater and dramatic landscapes. Sailors can explore the island's picturesque villages, like Mandraki, with its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, and venture into the volcanic caldera for a remarkable experience. Nisyros is perfect for those seeking adventure, nature, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a memorable stop on any Aegean sailing itinerary.
Nisyros port offers: water, electricity, fuel
Day 4Kos
23 nm5 hours
Kos, one of the most vibrant islands in the Dodecanese, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Famous for its ancient ruins, including the Asklepion and the Tree of Hippocrates, Kos is a dynamic island with lively towns, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Sailors will enjoy the island’s modern marina, excellent restaurants, and vibrant nightlife
Kos Harbour offers: water, electricity, fuel
Day 5Tilos
33 nm7 hours
Tilos, a peaceful and unspoiled island in the Dodecanese, is perfect for sailors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Known for its secluded beaches, hiking trails, and charming villages like Livadia and Megalo Chorio, Tilos offers a serene escape from busier islands. With its rich biodiversity and calm waters, it’s ideal for nature lovers and sailors looking to relax in a quiet, authentic Greek atmosphere.
Tilos Harbour offers: water, electricity, fuel
Day 6Halki
20 nm4 hours
Chalki is a hidden gem known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional charm. Just a short sail from Rhodes, Chalki offers crystal-clear waters, quiet beaches, and a laid-back vibe. Its main harbor is lined with colorful houses and cozy tavernas, creating a postcard-perfect setting.
Chalki marina offers: water and electricity
Day 7Rhodes
36 nm7 hours
Return to the base for the check-out procedure
Optional Stops Along the Route
Mandraki
Marina
This scenic bay is valued for its prime location close to Rhodes’ old town, with a picturesque setting among ancient walls and windmills. Sailors mention the pleasant city environment, easy walking access, and the beauty of the fortifications.
This scenic bay is valued for its prime location close to Rhodes’ old town, with a picturesque setting among ancient walls and windmills. Sailors mention the pleasant city environment, easy walking access, and the beauty of the fortifications.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Rhodes Marina offers organization, clean and modern facilities, the professionalism and friendliness of staff, and the variety of services available. Sailors appreciate experiences and highlight the welcoming team. Downsides include the marina being among the most expensive in the Mediterranean, the relatively long walk to the old town, and frequent windy conditions with some vulnerability to swell from the north.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Symi marina receives good feedback from sailors for its picturesque setting, central town location, and easy access to restaurants and shops. Experiences are mostly pleasant—especially for short stays—though Skippers note crowding, noise, ferry-generated swell, and sometimes high pricing. The mooring buoy system simplifies docking.
This anchorage is well regarded. Sailors consistently appreciate its picturesque qualities, the beauty and charm of the harbor, and the easy access to town amenities. Dinghy access to shore is straightforward and reliable.
The cove is beautiful and tranquil, with little boat traffic and a peaceful atmosphere. Sailors appreciate its natural beauty and the easy access to the nearby town by dinghy or bicycle. However, anchoring is prohibited within 200 meters of the beach, effectively allowing only large yachts to anchor safely due to the depth.
Pedi Marina receives extremely good impressions from sailors for its peaceful setting, cleanliness, and consistently high service standards. Sailors appreciate it as a tranquil alternative to busy Symi town, with easy access via bus or taxi. The marina is considered safe, well-maintained, and reliable, even during adverse weather.
Pedi Bay receives a general assessment: it's known as a quiet, pleasant anchorage on Symi island with a picturesque village, colorful houses, and several appreciated tavernas. The atmosphere is calm and the location offers good opportunities to swim and walk ashore, with easy access for provisioning. Some skippers note the water can be murky and not ideal for snorkeling, and that passing cargo ships or water taxis may sometimes be a source of noise, but the setting is serene and attractive.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
This anchorage is consistently valued as beautiful, with clear turquoise water and a peaceful environment. Sailors value the quiet beach, the attractive taverna ashore, and the excellent swimming. Access to shore via dinghy or swimming is easy, making this a memorable and inviting spot for anchoring, whether for a daytime stop or an overnight stay.
Sailors value Agios Georgios for its breathtaking natural beauty: towering cliffs, crystal clear water, and a wild, unspoiled atmosphere. Favored for swimming, snorkeling, and tranquil moments outside peak times, it lacks facilities except for a small church and resident goats. Littering has been noted as an issue, with Sailors encouraged to keep the bay clean.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Paloi marina is valued for its warm reception, friendly locals, and authentic ambiance. Sailors appreciate its value for money, excellent shelter from winds, and the pleasant, quiet atmosphere. While some caution about the shallow entrance and urge boats to stay close to the breakwater, the general sense is of safety, comfort, and outstanding hospitality.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
Sailors appreciate its welcoming atmosphere, proximity to the charming town center, and the ease of organizing excursions and rentals. The port is considered safe for mooring, with the nearby town offering restaurants, shops, and beautiful sights to visit. Some criticisms concern swell caused by ferries or strong wind, but these do not prevent Sailors generally from well recommending the stop.
The distinctive environment includes floating pumice, volcanic gas bubbles, and unusual rock formations that make beach walks memorable. While the atmosphere is tranquil and enjoyable, a few Sailors mention occasional floating debris.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
This anchorage is a beautiful, wild spot with a very nice beach and crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The setting offers natural pristine beauty, tranquility, and great scenic views from the anchorage. Sailors also note a experience both with the landscape and the accessible shore.
Sailors generally regard the anchorage as safe and reliable, although the industrial setting and nearby quarrying divide opinion. The environment is suitable for a stopover, but on working days, dust from quarry activity can be noticeable, though it usually quiets down after late afternoon. Some find the industrial landscape fascinating; others find it unattractive, favoring more natural anchorages.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The marina is considered efficient and pleasant for both short and long stays. While busy with charter fleets, particularly on weekends, visitor experiences are good and most visitors suggest it.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
This anchorage works well as a convenient base for exploring Kos, offering scenic city views and quick access ashore, either via the pier or beach. The urban setting is noticeable, with several sailors mentioning city noises and occasionally dirty water. Anchoring here is considered a practical, budget-friendly alternative to the marina, with easy access to shops, repairs, and sightseeing opportunities.
Sailors value this marina for its central location and easy access to shops and restaurants. Despite discomfort from ferry wakes and wind, many suggest it as a good stopover. The ambiance and city views make up for the downsides and contribute to its popularity.
Kos marina offers central location, vibrant city atmosphere, and easy access to shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions. The staff are generally friendly and helpful. Despite its shortcomings, Sailors generally suggest the marina as a worthwhile city stop.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
This anchorage is valued for crystal-clear water, natural scenery, and tranquil atmosphere. Sailors note unique features like natural thermal springs that create alternating warm and cold water, making it an attractive place for swimming and relaxing. There is a small beach with umbrellas and occasional music, adding to the ambiance.
This anchorage is viewed as a serviceable, functional stop rather than a true destination. Sailors note clear water and decent swimming opportunities, though the surrounding land offers little for extended visits. The anchorage is suitable for brief stopovers, not worth considering for longer stays or those seeking amenities ashore.
Sailors describe this anchorage as peaceful and relatively isolated, chosen for shelter in strong north-westerly winds, such as the meltemi. The surroundings are pleasant, featuring a pebble beach and a chapel as notable landmarks. The natural environment and tranquility are valued, though the absence of onshore amenities could be limiting for some.
Tilos marina generally provides a experience. The harbor offers solid wind protection and is conveniently close to beaches, shops, and restaurants. Berth availability is limited, so anchoring outside is sometimes necessary.
This anchorage is well regarded. Sailors appreciate the charm of the village, the beautiful setting, and the presence of good restaurants and small shops. The area offers peaceful atmosphere, especially off-season, clear water, and the traditional character that remains despite some tourism.
This anchorage is pleasant and peaceful, with crystal-clear water suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The surroundings have a rugged, natural charm, and there is an attractive village nearby that adds some lively atmosphere while remaining calm. The anchorage is favored for offering a relaxing setting, clean water, and generally peaceful stays.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Sailors speak very positively about this anchorage. Tranquility and the opportunity to enjoy the bay alone are appreciated, despite limited space and some rubbish found on the beach. The anchorage offers beauty, good swimming and snorkeling conditions, and encounters with local marine life such as lionfish.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors regard this anchorage as one of the best in the South Dodecanese, with stunning scenery, a wide sandy beach, and a peaceful atmosphere framed by mountains. Clear water makes it appealing for swimming and marine life spotting. Easy access to a nearby village adds practicality.
Sailors find this marina charming and welcoming, especially for the village’s authenticity and friendly locals. Although the marina is small, its tranquility and colorful houses stand out. Some note docking challenges, but the overall experience is positive.
Sailors highlight its picturesque setting, serenity, and charm, often calling it one of the most beautiful ports they’ve visited. The marina is small but welcoming, with ongoing improvements noted in infrastructure and utilities. While there can be some issues with swell and limited berthing spaces, the experience is relaxing and enjoyable—a memorable stop on any itinerary.
This anchorage is pleasant, with a beautiful and unspoilt bay. The water is crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. The atmosphere is peaceful, with no loud music on the beach, promoting relaxation.
Chalki receives widespread valued for its relaxed atmosphere, charming village, and accessible services. Sailors appreciate the beautiful setting, easy walk to a sandy beach, and quality restaurants and tavernas. The clear water highlight the natural beauty, and the town offers good infrastructure for Sailors.
This anchorage offers natural beauty, notably clear water and easy access to the picturesque village of Chalki, which is within walking distance or a short dinghy ride. Sailors consistently appreciate the pleasant village, available markets, and variety of tavernas. However, nighttime comfort is sometimes compromised by swell-induced rolling, making longer stays less appealing.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Across Sailors from all periods, Sailors consistently appreciate the anchorage as beautiful, peaceful, and a perfect spot for resting, swimming, snorkeling, and SUP, thanks to its exceptionally clear water and tranquil, natural surroundings. The remoteness and lack of conveniences are seen as both a drawback and a unique charm; Sailors are advised to arrive well-supplied. Sailors note very limited or non-existent cell coverage—preparation for disconnection is thus necessary.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
This anchorage is a peaceful, beautiful, and well-preserved bay, well suited for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled nature. The area offers natural surroundings, clear beach, and historical attractions like the lovingly restored old monastery and castle ruins. Sailors mention a sense of remoteness and calm, ideal for relaxation and exploration, with modest amenities such as a beach bar and sun loungers present at times.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
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