The Dodecanese Islands lie off the eastern edge of the Aegean Sea adjacent to the coast of Turkey. A major yachting center, the isle of Kos is one of the largest in the group. Sailing in Kos waters is absolutely splendid, entailing open-water passages long or short between the 14 large islands and more than 40 islets, or longer forays into Turkey or west to the Cyclades Islands to further explore this fascinating cruising ground known for its superlative beaches and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. A Kos yacht charter delivers an inspiring blend of the historic and the modern. Lively tavernas and nightclubs are pleasingly juxtaposed against the traditional fishing ports and quiet waterfront restaurants, all of which come together to make a Kos sailing vacation both memorable and rejuvenating.
A Kos sailing vacation presents the Dodecanese Islands at the eastern edge of the Aegean Sea. The majority of these islands are the summits of a submerged mountain chain, and they rise majestically from the sea to create a fabulously beautiful cruising ground. Winds blow at 10 to 15 knots from the northwest, north, or northeast May through September, the season of the meltemi, which reaches its maximum in July and August (25 knots is possible). The tidal range is just one to two feet and therefore tidal currents are not a concern. A Kos yacht charter is well within the reach of sailors who have basic skills in coastal navigation. Average temperatures during the cruising season range between 76°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
The Dodecanese Islands are among the most beautiful in Greece. Rugged and mostly arid, they cradle towns with ancient roots in snug coves and harbors. The history of the region is reflected in the architecture of the modest whitewashed homes with colorfully painted doors and trim as well as in the more grand edifices in the cities. Castles, fortresses, monasteries, and churches perch on hilltops. In the narrow cobblestone streets tavernas, restaurants, bars, and discos hum with activity. The swimming and snorkeling is superb in many locations, and, most of all, a Kos yacht charter promises some of the best sailing in the Aegean Sea.
The undersea waters off Kos and Kalymnos are laced with caverns, walls, tunnels, and reefs of extraordinary beauty. Colorful sponges, soft corals, and myriad fish including wrasse, pickerel, black damsel, and many others create a rainbow pleasing to the eye amid the crystal clear Aegean. Wall dives are quite common, with easy descents and ascents. Scuba diving is also popular off the isle of Rhodes, the largest island in the Dodecanese group. While diving is still regulated in Greece, the restrictions of the past have been reduced to include a far wider range of dive locations. Dive centers operate out of Kos, taking divers to the south coast of the island as well as to Kalymnos. One of the most popular sites is called the Archway, a magnificent rock formation that frames the brilliant sunlit waters in an embrace of sapphire blue.
About 24,000 years ago, an enormous volcanic blast shook Nisyros. As the eruptions continued, a layer of pumice more than 200 feet thick covered the island, making its jagged heights appear almost like a moonscape. Today, there are three craters on Nisyros, with villages perched improbably at the rims. A trail leads down inside the center crater, where the soil is hot enough to melt flip-flops, and sulfurous gases and steam shoot from holes in the black rock. It’s a remarkable sight, one that reminds viewers of the awesome power of Nature. Medicinal hot springs are scattered throughout the island, many of which were used in ancient times. It is said that no less a personage than Hippocrates, Father of Medicine, operated a therapeutic center at Thermiani Spring, near the picturesque port village of Palon.
Apart from historic and bustling Rhodes Town, one of the largest municipalities in the Greek isles, sailors will find a multitude of other attractions on Rhodes Island. In fact, it would be easy to spend an entire Kos yacht charter sailing to the many harbors, such as the coastal city of Lindos and its magnificent ancient acropolis, and exploring inland to see the lush green Valley of the Butterflies and the Seven Springs. On the way to Rhodes Town, on the west coast at the north end of the island, is a picturesque day stop at the sandy beaches of Kalithéa, where the swimming and snorkeling is excellent. Ashore are the beautiful Medicinal Baths and the Spas of Kalithéa. The spas were built in 1929. Although they are no longer operational, they remain impressive, with paths and colorful flower gardens fronting the shimmering blue Aegean.
A Kos yacht charter is an adventure of many kinds. Exploring ancient ruins, swimming on pristine secluded beaches, anchoring in scenic coves, it’s all part of the experience of sailing in the Dodecanese Islands. A visit to Symi (also spelled Simi) presents the opportunity to fully experience the delights of this cosmopolitan and mountainous isle just off the coast of Turkey. In the main harbor town of Gialos, the nightlife is lively, the food in the many waterfront restaurants excellent. Symi is a jewel not to be missed, with its stately 19th century mansions, intimate cafés, eclectic boutiques, and fascinating museums.
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