Dodecanese Islands

Located in the southeast Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese Islands are dramatic and exciting; drastic cliffs slope down into the sea with protected anchorages scattered throughout the rural and rustic itinerary. Fifteen picturesque islands with a mix of glamour and rustic vibes make up the archipelago, and there’s good reason they became popular with ambitious sailors setting out for solitude and excitement. Planning a voyage here is thrilling -- the changing scenery from north to south provides tremendous juxtaposition from the busy ports of Kos and Rhodes to the smaller island communities that lie in comparative obscurity

Join us for a one of a kind adventure through the lesser explored islands of the Greek archipelago and enjoy a week of wild and rugged paradise. Home to a perfect display of both culture and wild adventure.

Location

Dodecanese Islands
Greece

Season

Early to Late Summer

Itinerary Options

Kos - The island of Kos has a protected marina where many of the boats in the archipelago reside year round. It also happens to be one of the busiest spots in the Dodecanese. A once sleepy, bohemian town that’s had a touristy overhaul throughout the past 30 years, Kos bears the brunt for the majority of tourism in the northern parts of the Dodecanese.

Pserimos - Sailing north from Kos is the island of Pserimos, a lovely and sparsely inhabited island that’s home to a few little villages and scattered homesteads where people can be found living a relatively self-subsistent existence not so dissimilar to their ancestors way of life before tourism swept through the islands.

Patmos - Sailing northwest you’ll find the island of Patmos. Perhaps the most prestigious in the group, it’s still easy to see that Patmos had a day when times were simple and traditional. Pulling into the island feels wildly impressive and eerie.

Lipsi - Lipsi is an island that is known for its simple charm and humble appearance. Its lack of roads and old-world Greek appearance make Lipsi a blissfully serene spot. When arriving to the island by sea, numerous blue-domed churches cover the horizon.

Leros - The island has a charm all its own that comes from its dramatic landscapes, brown-hued highland interior and fertile valleys. Much of this island’s income is from their practice of sending ships to North Africa every year to fish for sponges. Leros has rounded hills on high and lush countryside along the shore that’s full of green forests with hibiscus, jasmine, bougainvillea, and oleander growing wild.

Kalymnos - The island of Kalymnos is north from Pserimos and home to many extraordinary coves that are protected from the prevailing wind. One of the best coves to drop anchor is Palionisos located along the northeast side of the island; a non-touristic cove serving locals and sailors. This emerald blue inlet is captivating and inviting, with its surrounding dramatic cliffs that provide protection from the wind.

Crew

Professional Captain

Your professional crew are talented explorers who combine their love of sailing with personalized hospitality. Each captain is professionally certified and able to lead your one of a kind experience at sea.

Meet the captains

Private Chef

A Sailing Collective chef embodies our philosophy of travel, storytelling, learning, and sharing. We use local ingredients to create a unique culinary experience for each voyage. This is unlike any food adventure you've ever been on.

Meet the chefs

Trip Details

MARINA AND STARTING LOCATION

Marina: Marina Kos - located in downtown Kos
Charter Company: watch this space

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Embarking: Meeting time is at 7:00 pm at the front desk, lounge area. If you arrive after 6:00 pm, ask the front desk for the names of the Sailing Collective boats. Look for the Sailing Collective logo on our captain, crew and boat flag - we will be waiting for you. If you arrive early, you can keep your luggage at the front desk and explore the town of Kos. After everyone settles in aboard, we dine ashore for our first outing of the journey and stay at the marina overnight, departing the following morning..

Disembarking: We arrive back at the marina on Friday evening by 6pm and spend the final night aboard at the marina exploring the Kos Town during the evening. Guests will disembark by 9:00 am on Day 8.

TRAVEL

Airport: Kos Island International Airport (KGS). The Kos Airport is a 30 minute taxi ride from downtown Kos and Marina Kos.

Ferry: There are 3 ferry companies that run daily ferry routes connecting Bodrum, Turkey to Kos, Greece.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return. The name on your passport must match the name on the flight ticket, otherwise, you may not be able to travel.

It is the responsibility of each individual to ensure relevant visas are obtained where necessary. The Sailing Collective cannot be held responsible for refusal of entry or travel due to lack of visas. If you are in any doubt please contact your embassy for full details.

WEATHER

The Southern Aegean Sea offers beautifully long sailing seasons, with conditions being great from May to October. Expect warm water in the summer that is comfortable for swimming. In Kos from May to November the seawater temperature does not drop below 68°F (20°C). In the hot summer months the average temperature rises to 77°F (25°C), and in autumn it is 74°F (23°C). Enjoy average mid-80s air temperatures from the months of June to September, with pleasant 70s in May and October.

CURRENCIES / MONEY EXCHANGE

The currency is the Euro, Mastercard and Visa chip cards are accepted widely in larger stores and restaurants but you may need cash for independent, small businesses. You can find ATMs at the marinas and banks. Banking hours are Monday to Friday (8:00am to 2:00pm).