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6. Rhodes and Dodecanese Itinerary

10 Days around Rhodes and the Dodecanese on a Luxurious Superyacht

For lazy days at sea, charming fishing villages or seeing uninhabited islands, the Greek Islands are a must-visit destination.

Starting off on the beautiful island of Kos, nicknamed the Green Island, brings back memories of days gone by. With its many ancient ruins and forts, Kos was an important trade route that started in the Black Sea. It spreads along the shores of Asia Minor and the islands in the Aegean before reaching North Africa.

As you sail north, you will see smaller islands with quite different scenery. The islands of Marathi and Patmos are en route to the largest of the Dodecanese, Rhodes. Enjoy the many cultural sites, do some shopping or party all night here.

Day 1 – The ancient Old Town, ruins and beaches

Beginning in the marina on the lovely island of Kos you can explore on land discovering interesting facts about the Old Town. Do a little shopping here or relax on one of the many beaches. Agios Stefanos for instance is very close to the remains of two 5th century Basilicas.

Day 2 – Green Island, perfect for rock climbers

Cruising north towards Kalymnos, a bare limestone island, is quite different to Kos which is lush and green. Having several anchorages and inlets, it’s easy to moor while you enjoy snorkelling or swimming. See if you can find natural sponges under the water. Sponges were once very important for the local economy.

There are farms in the valleys, however with tourism becoming more and more popular in the area, the valleys are now used for rock climbing enthusiasts. Kalymnos has many sports routes for the more agile climbers who are quite fascinating to watch.

Day 3 – have the island all to yourself

The tiny island of Marathi, east of Patmos has only about 12 people living here and that is in the high season. One of the many advantages of chartering a yacht is that you can visit out of the way places that other modes of transport cannot.

Day trip boats often bring tourists to Marathi, however during late afternoon, they have all gone so you will have the island to yourself. Emilianos family restaurant serves the catch of the day and is a wonderful place to eat. Enjoy this spectacular island in peace and quiet, there’s nothing quite like it!

Day 4 – from a deserted island to a place of pilgrimage

From the deserted island of Marathi to the port of Skala on Patmos. For hundreds of years this island was where Christians made their pilgrimages to.

It has been said that St John wrote the Book of Revelations here after being inspired by visions he saw. Try to visit the monastery of St John the Theologian and see the gorgeous whitewashed village of Hora that goes around it.

Day 5 – countryside, snorkelling and wonderful beaches

The pretty island of Leros has sloping hills with small farms dotted all around. They surround deep bays and provide a picture-postcard setting. There are quaint villages, a castle at Platanos and Alinda Bay which has a long, shaded beach and two holiday resorts. Snorkel in Xirokambos Bay and when you’ve finished, cool off at one of the resorts on a beautiful sandy beach.

Day 6 – the volcanic island of Nisyros

The beautiful volcanic island of Nisyros is next on the agenda. It has a volcanic moonscape with luscious vegetation growing all over. The volcano is dormant and is at the centre of the island. From here you can see fantastic views of the towns of Nikea and Emboreios which overlook the caldera.

In the port of Mandraki are brightly painted houses in front of a cliff-top monastery. Take a dip in the sea at Lies or Pali then head back to Kos for the night.

Day 7 - an unspoiled island rich in history

Yet to be explored by tourists, Tilos is an unspoiled island. With its delightful sandy beaches, springs, streams and rocky inlets it’s covered in walnut and almond trees, an absolute haven. Only 300 people live here making their living from bee keeping, fishing, agriculture and some tourism.

There’s also a small museum that has dwarf elephant’s bones. These creatures lived here up to three or four thousand years ago. With lots of churches on the island, one which should be visited to see the frescoes is the monastery at St Panteleimon.

Day 8 – shopping and history on the largest and most famous island

Rhodes is the biggest and most famous of the Dodecanese islands. It has a long and interesting history being the site of the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Its Old Town is now a World Heritage site. Rhodes has been inhabited since Neolithic times with immigrants and invaders changing its history somewhat. These people have left castles, churches and monuments that are still around to explore.

The stunning island of Rhodes has some of the best shopping, restaurants and nightlife in the Dodecanese.

Day 9 – amazing beaches and spectacular mountain views

A picturesque island, Simi (sometimes spelt Symi) is mountainous and was allegedly the birth place of the Three Graces. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to amazing beaches, lots to see and plenty of sunshine. Take a dip in the azure blue sea or visit the monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis to admire the fabulous carvings and frescoes.

Day 10 – from Simi back to Kos

Why not round off your Greek charter when you return to the marina at Kos from Simi by buying souvenirs? There’s also the option to enjoy the beaches that are just three miles from the delightful Turkish coast.