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Sailing Itinerary
7-day Kos sailing itinerary | Greece
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Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Kos to Kalymnos
Depart Kos for Kalymnos and settle into the colorful port of Pothia or the fjord-like shelter of Vathi. Explore sponge-diving heritage, climb to monastery viewpoints, and unwind at waterfront coves.
Mooring Information
Pothia (Kalymnos Town) offers town-quay med-mooring with good holding; arrive early for space in summer.
Water and electricity are commonly available on the quay via local providers; pay the port office after mooring.
Vathi (east coast) is a narrow, well-sheltered inlet; stern-to on the small quay or anchor with long lines.
Vlychadia Bay (south) has sand patches for good holding and is convenient for a lunch stop in settled weather.
Expect ferry and fishing traffic in Pothia; rig fenders and spring lines to manage wake.
Monitor VHF 16 and call locally for berth guidance when close to the harbor entrance.
Top Restaurants
Waterfront tavernas along Pothia’s quay serving local seafood and mezze.
Family-run spots in Vathi with views over the inlet and citrus groves.
Casual beach tavernas at Vlychadia for simple grills after a swim.
Seaside eateries at Massouri with sunset views toward Telendos.
Traditional bakeries in Pothia for morning pastries before casting off.
Activities
Walk the promenade in Pothia and browse sponge workshops and craft stores.
Taxi or hike up to Agios Savvas for photos over the town and harbor.
Dinghy across to Telendos for a swim and a quiet beach hour.
Take a short coastal hike above Massouri to watch climbers on the limestone walls.
Enjoy a late-afternoon swim in Vlychadia’s clear water before dinner.
Water Sports
Snorkel along the rocky edges of Vlychadia Bay to spot small reef fish.
Paddleboard in the calm morning waters of Vathi’s sheltered inlet.
Try a guided scuba or intro-dive with local centers when conditions allow.
Practice dinghy handling inside Pothia harbor outside ferry times.
Swim across short, marked sections near Telendos in low-traffic periods.
Drone Spots
Launch near Agios Savvas for aerials over Pothia and the harbor curve.
Capture the narrow entrance and emerald waters of Vathi from a safe, legal takeoff site.
Film the cliffs between Massouri and Telendos at golden hour, avoiding people below.
Panoramic passes along Pothia’s waterfront at sunrise to minimize disturbance.
Observe Greek drone rules; avoid airport zones and maintain line-of-sight.
Must See
Pothia waterfront and the sponge sellers that reflect Kalymnos’ diving heritage.
Maritime exhibits at local museums documenting sponge diving and island life.
Agios Savvas Monastery above Pothia for sweeping harbor views at sunset.
Cliff-lined coastline near Massouri and the islet of Telendos across the channel.
The serene citrus groves and waters of Vathi’s fjord-like inlet.
Services
Pothia offers groceries, bakeries, pharmacies, and ATMs within a short walk.
Fuel is typically delivered by mini-tanker at the town quay; ask the port office.
Water and shore power available on parts of the quay via local agents.
Basic chandlery items, rope, and hardware can be found in Pothia.
Taxis connect Pothia with Massouri and Vathi for quick side trips.
Hazards
Meltemi accelerates between Kos and Kalymnos; expect gusts on the beam.
Strong ferry wash inside Pothia; secure lines and avoid the main fairway.
Vathi entrance is narrow with crosswinds; keep speed low and fenders ready.
Rocky shelves line many coves; avoid anchoring on seagrass (Posidonia).
Fishing nets and small-boat traffic near the Telendos channel.
Tips
Depart Kos early to avoid afternoon Meltemi gusts in the channel.
Rig lazy-springs and extra fenders on town quays to handle wake and crosswinds.
Use a tripping line if anchoring near rocky patches; favor sand for better holding.
Carry cash for modest port fees and quay-side services.
Book dinner times slightly earlier; popular waterfront spots fill up in high season.
Kalymnos to Leros
Sail north to Leros and choose between the protected harbor at Lakki and the bays around Panteli and Alinda. Explore the hilltop castle, wartime tunnels, and mellow village waterfronts.
Mooring Information
Lakki Bay provides excellent shelter; med-moor on the town quay or seek space at local berths.
Water, power, and fuel are available around Lakki; confirm delivery times ashore.
Panteli and Alinda offer anchoring in sand patches with lines ashore in fresh northerlies.
Agia Marina has limited space and more current; enter with care and anchor clear of the fairway.
Arrive by midday in peak season as bays can fill when the wind rises.
Top Restaurants
Quayside tavernas in Lakki with fresh catch and meze plates.
Beachside grills in Panteli for seafood with castle views.
Family-run spots along Alinda’s promenade for sunset dining.
Cafés in Agia Marina serving coffees and pastries from early morning.
Traditional ouzeries in Platanos for small plates and local flavors.
Activities
Hike or taxi up to the Castle of Leros near sunset for cooler temperatures.
Swim off the beach at Alinda or Panteli before dinner.
Wander the Lakki esplanade and photograph its unique interwar buildings.
Browse small craft shops and bakeries in Agia Marina.
Hire a scooter to explore coves on the island’s east side.
Water Sports
Paddleboard along the leeward edge of Alinda Bay in the morning calm.
Snorkel near rocky points at Panteli for clear water and fish life.
Kayak the shoreline between Agia Marina and Panteli when swell is low.
Practice anchoring drills in sand patches with good visibility.
Short coastal swims along buoyed areas at organized beaches.
Drone Spots
Orbit the Castle of Leros from a legal distance for sweeping bay vistas.
Capture Lakki’s horseshoe bay and geometric waterfront from above.
Film the windmills near Agia Marina at sunrise to avoid crowds.
Aerials over Panteli’s amphitheater-style village and beach.
Observe no-fly perimeters near airport areas and respect privacy rules.
Must See
The medieval Castle of Leros above Panteli for panoramic island views.
The Leros War Museum in the Merikia tunnel complex.
Art-deco era architecture around Lakki’s waterfront.
Charming windmills between Agia Marina and Panteli.
Alinda Bay’s long sandy shoreline and relaxed promenade.
Services
Fuel delivery and water/power points in Lakki; arrange ashore.
Well-stocked supermarkets and bakeries within walking distance of the quay.
ATMs, pharmacies, and basic medical services available around Lakki.
Laundry services can be arranged via local agents or hotels.
Taxi and scooter rentals for easy access to bays and sights.
Hazards
Watch for crosswinds on approach to Agia Marina and narrow fairways.
Unmarked fishing gear and pot floats close to shorelines.
Gusts off ridgelines in Meltemi; avoid anchoring too close to lee cliffs.
Limited swinging room when multiple yachts use lines ashore.
Night approaches require care due to scattered lights and reef edges.
Tips
Gusts funnel into Alinda and Panteli under the Meltemi; lay extra scope.
Favor sand and avoid Posidonia meadows visible as darker patches.
Lakki is the best stop for top-ups: water, fuel, and larger supermarkets.
Keep VHF watch on 16 and monitor local traffic in the narrow bays.
Evening katabatics can swing the boat; set a chafe guard on snubbers.
Leros to Lipsi
A short hop brings you to low-key Lipsi, with sandy coves and clear water. Pick the town quay or anchor off Katsadia or Platis Gialos, then explore whitewashed lanes and easy swimming beaches.
Mooring Information
Lipsi town quay offers med-mooring; space is limited in peak season.
Anchor in Katsadia Bay with sand patches and good protection from northerlies.
Platis Gialos provides clear water and sand; avoid dark seagrass areas.
Expect limited shore power and water; plan to be self-sufficient.
Arrive before mid-afternoon to secure a spot close to town.
Top Restaurants
Casual tavernas lining the harbor for grilled fish and salads.
Beachside eateries at Katsadia for a feet-in-the-sand lunch.
Small cafés around the main square serving meze and local wine.
Simple seafood spots near the town beach for early dinners.
Bakery-cafés offering fresh pies and breakfast staples.
Activities
Swim and sun along Katsadia’s beach before a late lunch.
Hike a short ridge above town for sunset panoramas.
Sample local thyme honey and cheeses at small shops.
Shallow-water snorkeling along rocky margins of Platis Gialos.
Evening gelato and a harborfront stroll.
Water Sports
Paddleboard across Katsadia’s bay in the morning calm.
Practice anchor-setting on sand patches visible from the bow.
Snorkel around small boulders and ledges off Papandria.
Kayak the short coastline between town beach and Katsadia.
Freedive practice in clear, sheltered water near the stern.
Drone Spots
Aerials over the bright shallows of Platis Gialos at midday.
Top-down shots of anchored yachts in Katsadia’s blue pools.
Harbor panoramas from a legal launch point outside crowds.
South-facing bays dotted with islets in calm conditions.
Observe no-fly rules near settlements and keep clear of people.
Must See
Stroll the lanes around Lipsi’s harbor and central square.
Katsadia and Papandria beaches for relaxed swims and soft sand.
Platis Gialos for luminous turquoise water and open views.
Local churches and chapels dotting the hills above the port.
Islet-dotted seascapes south of the main island.
Services
Mini-markets, bakeries, and a pharmacy near the quay.
Limited water and power; confirm availability with the harbor office.
Waste bins near the port; sort recyclables where signed.
ATM availability can vary; withdraw cash in advance if possible.
Basic hardware and ice often available at small shops.
Hazards
Rocks and shoals between islets south of Lipsi; keep a sharp lookout.
Gusts can roll through open bays under strong northerlies.
Anchors may skate on weed; re-set on sand patches.
Swim zones near beaches are buoyed; keep dinghy speed low.
Night approaches require care due to scattered lights and off-lying rocks.
Tips
Space is tight on the town quay; have stern lines and a passerelle ready.
Use shorelines in Katsadia if Meltemi gusts increase.
Shops close midday; provision early if needed.
Card payments are common, but carry cash for smaller venues.
Respect quiet hours; Lipsi is peaceful after dark.
Lipsi to Arki
Slip into tiny Arki for turquoise shallows and a quiet evening under the stars. Anchor off Tiganakia’s blue pools or moor on the small quay by the hamlet.
Mooring Information
Arki harbor has a small quay with limited berths; med-moor with your own lines.
Tiganakia offers sand patches in clear water; set ample scope and snorkel-check the anchor.
Shelter is best in light to moderate winds; avoid exposed spots in strong northerlies.
No formal services on the quay; plan to be self-sufficient.
Arrive late morning to beat day-trip boats that visit in the afternoon.
Top Restaurants
Simple tavernas by the Arki quay with home-style dishes.
Seaside spots offering grilled fish and island salads.
Family courtyards serving slow-cooked mains and local wine.
Daytime cafés for coffees and cold drinks by the pier.
Occasional pop-up seafood grills in high season.
Activities
Swim and snorkel over white-sand patches at Tiganakia.
Dinghy around the nearby islets in settled weather.
Take a quiet hike above the hamlet for sunset photos.
Enjoy a slow alfresco dinner near the waterfront.
Stargaze from the foredeck in the dark-sky anchorage.
Water Sports
Paddleboard circuit around the anchorage over bright sand.
Snorkel along rocky margins for excellent visibility and sea life.
Practice free-anchoring techniques with visual sand targets.
Gentle kayaking between the islets when swell is minimal.
Short open-water swims along the boat’s safety line.
Drone Spots
Top-down color gradients over Tiganakia’s turquoise pools.
Slow reveals of anchored boats and islet chains at golden hour.
Hamlet and quay aerials from a discrete, legal launch site.
Ridge-line panoramas sweeping north toward Lipsi.
Fly only in low-traffic windows and well clear of swimmers.
Must See
The brilliant blue shallows of Tiganakia Bay.
Simple island hamlet with low-key authenticity.
Short ridge walks for panoramic sea-and-islet views.
Traditional chapels scattered around the hilltops.
Goat-dotted slopes and dry-stone terraces typical of the isles.
Services
Very limited services; small mini-market hours may be irregular.
Rubbish bins near the quay; take recyclables back to larger ports.
No ATM; settle bills in cash.
Basic mobile coverage; data speeds vary by bay.
Local boatmen may assist with lines during busy times.
Hazards
Submerged rocks and reefs around Tiganakia; post a bow lookout.
Open-bay anchorages can be rolly under northerly swell.
Weed patches reduce holding; ensure anchor is well set in sand.
Day-trip boat wash in early afternoon near popular coves.
Limited night lighting; use a bright anchor light and AIS if fitted.
Tips
No fuel, water, or power; stock up in Lipsi or Leros beforehand.
Use a stern line or kellet if the breeze freshens in open bays.
Respect quiet island life; keep music volumes low.
Mind swimmer safety; idle speed in dinghy lanes near the beach.
Carry cash for simple tavernas; card acceptance is limited.
Arki to Patmos
Cruise to Patmos and moor at Skala or anchor in nearby bays. Visit the Cave of the Apocalypse and the hilltop Monastery above Chora, then unwind on the beaches around Grikos and Petra.
Mooring Information
Skala (main port) has town-quay berths; stern-to with your own lines and fenders.
Water and power are available in parts of Skala; ask locally for supply points.
Grikos Bay offers good shelter from northerlies; anchor in sand with ample scope.
Petra provides a scenic anchorage; avoid weed patches and keep clear of swim zones.
Arrive early in high season, as Skala fills with visiting yachts and ferries.
Top Restaurants
Harborfront tavernas in Skala for fresh seafood and salads.
Cafés in Chora offering light lunches with views.
Grikos waterfront eateries for a leisurely dinner after a swim.
Traditional bakeries near Skala square for breakfast pies.
Ice-cream and dessert cafés along the promenade.
Activities
Taxi or bus up to Chora for a guided visit of the Monastery and museums.
Walk to the Cave of the Apocalypse; dress modestly and observe quiet inside.
Swim from the boat in Grikos’ calm waters before lunch.
Short coastal hike around Petra’s beaches and rock formations.
Evening gelato and a relaxed stroll along Skala’s waterfront.
Water Sports
Paddleboard in the lee of Grikos with the hills blocking the breeze.
Snorkel around Petra’s rocky headlands in clear afternoon light.
Kayak the shoreline between Skala and Meloi Beach in settled weather.
Practice mooring drills at anchor: stern lines and stern-kedging if needed.
Easy swim sets from the stern when ferry traffic is quiet.
Drone Spots
Chora ridgeline and the Monastery from a legal distance outside restricted areas.
Grikos Bay aerials with yachts at anchor and the surrounding hills.
Petra’s Kalikatsou rock at sunrise for soft shadows and color.
Harbor panoramas of Skala before ferry arrivals.
Check local rules; drones may be restricted near religious sites.
Must See
The Monastery of Saint John above Chora with sweeping sea views.
The Cave of the Apocalypse on the hillside between Skala and Chora.
UNESCO-listed religious heritage and traditional alleyways of Chora.
Grikos Bay and the rock of Kalikatsou near Petra.
Harborfront promenade and shops in Skala.
Services
Fuel delivery by mini-tanker can be arranged at Skala quay.
Water and power points in Skala; check availability on arrival.
Multiple small supermarkets, bakeries, and a pharmacy near the port.
ATMs and basic medical services within walking distance.
Laundry options available via local agents or hotels.
Hazards
Ferry traffic and surge at Skala; keep lines tight and springs set.
Weed and patchy sand in some anchorages; verify set by snorkel.
Religious areas with drone restrictions and etiquette expectations.
Gusts descending from Chora ridges in strong northerlies.
Swimmer zones off beaches; keep dinghy speeds to idle.
Tips
Respect dress codes at religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).
Time your visits early or late to avoid tour crowds and heat.
Confirm bus or taxi times for returns from Chora.
Allow for ferry wash when docking stern-to in Skala.
In Meltemi, favor south-facing bays like Grikos for a quieter night.
Patmos to Kalymnos
Set a longer course back to Kalymnos. Choose Vathi’s all-round shelter or return to Pothia, then walk up to Kastelli’s ruins for sea views and a low-key evening ashore.
Mooring Information
Plan an early departure for the 35 nm leg; aim to arrive before afternoon gusts.
Vathi’s fjord offers excellent shelter; stern-to on the quay or anchor with long lines.
Pothia town quay accommodates visitors; confirm space and avoid ferry berths.
Good lunch-stop options en route only in settled weather; otherwise sail direct.
Check lines and chafe gear after a longer day under load.
Top Restaurants
Quayside tavernas in Vathi for simple seafood dinners.
Harborfront eateries in Pothia with local specialties.
Seaside grills around Massouri with sunset views.
Small ouzeries serving meze plates off the main square.
Cafés for breakfast and strong coffee before departure.
Activities
Stretch legs on a short hike to Kastelli for sunset photos.
Post-passage swim in a sheltered cove near Vathi.
Harborfront coffee and sponge-shopping in Pothia.
Casual shoreline walk along the Massouri promenade.
Plan provisions and water top-ups for the return to Kos.
Water Sports
Gentle paddle in Vathi’s flat water to unwind after the passage.
Snorkel checks of the anchor and hull in clear sections near the quay.
Practice stern-line techniques in tight harbors.
Short swims off the bathing ladder in low-traffic windows.
Light kayaking along the protected shoreline at dusk.
Drone Spots
Aerials inside Vathi’s narrow inlet for dramatic perspective.
Coastal passes over Kastelli’s ruins and the bays below.
Golden-hour shots of Pothia’s pastel buildings and harbor.
Wide sweeps across the Telendos channel from safe distances.
Mind wind shear along cliffs; fly conservatively in gusts.
Must See
Kastelli ruins above the coast with views toward Telendos.
Waterfront strolls along Pothia’s colorful houses.
Quiet coves on the east coast near Vathi.
Local sponge and maritime exhibits for a cultural recap.
Sunset light on the limestone cliffs near Massouri.
Services
Water, power, and provisions available in Pothia; limited in Vathi.
Fuel by mini-tanker can be arranged on the town quay.
Pharmacies, ATMs, and basic medical services in Pothia.
Hardware, rope, and small chandlery items in town.
Taxi services for quick transfers between bays and port.
Hazards
Meltemi acceleration zones off headlands; anticipate gusts.
Confused seas around capes when wind opposes current.
Fishing gear and longlines set nearshore; keep a good watch.
Ferry routes between Patmos and Kalymnos; monitor AIS if equipped.
Harbor surge from fast ferries; rig springs and fender boards.
Tips
Reef early if the Meltemi builds; comfort beats speed on this leg.
Plot a course clear of headlands where gusts accelerate.
Keep a wide berth from ferry approaches to Skala and Pothia.
Hydrate and rotate helm time on the longest passage of the week.
Confirm your chosen berth by phone or on arrival to avoid repositioning.
Kalymnos to Kos
A final short sail returns you to Kos. Secure a berth, explore the Old Town and Asklepion, and toast the week along the palm-lined waterfront.
Mooring Information
Kos Marina offers full-service berths; call ahead during peak season.
Kos Town quay may have limited space; expect more wake from traffic.
Refuel on arrival while the berth is accessible and crew are fresh.
Arrange water, power, and final pump-out with the marina office.
Confirm check-in times and paperwork to avoid delays on departure day.
Top Restaurants
Harborfront seafood spots with views to the castle.
Traditional tavernas tucked into Old Town lanes.
Beach cafés along Lambi for casual lunches.
Waterfront dining on the promenade at sunset.
Dessert and gelato shops around the main square.
Activities
Morning bike ride along the dedicated coastal path.
Guided visit to the Asklepion followed by Old Town sightseeing.
Final swim at Lambi Beach or Psalidi before returning gear.
Souvenir shopping around the ancient Agora area.
Sunset photos along the harbor walls and castle.
Water Sports
Casual paddle near the beach moorings in light winds.
Short snorkel sessions over sandy bottoms off Lambi.
Beginner wind sports rentals at Psalidi when breeze permits.
Practice docking drills with marina staff guidance if offered.
Family swim in sheltered sections of the town beach.
Drone Spots
Harbor and Neratzia Castle from a compliant launch point outside port control zones.
Coastal panoramas over palm-lined avenues at sunrise.
Beach aerials near Psalidi when crowd levels are low.
Old Town rooftops from legal distances avoiding sensitive sites.
Observe local restrictions near ports and built-up areas.
Must See
The Asklepion archaeological site above Kos Town.
Neratzia (Kos) Castle near the harbor entrance.
Kos Old Town’s agoras, mosaics, and shady squares.
Seafront promenades fringed with palms and bike paths.
Nearby beaches such as Lambi and Psalidi for a last swim.
Services
Kos Marina: fuel, water, shore power, showers, laundry, and Wi‑Fi.
Large supermarkets, bakeries, and a pharmacy within walking distance.
ATMs and banking services near the marina entrance.
Chandlery and dive shops for gear and spares.
Medical clinic and taxis available close to the marina.
Hazards
Heavy ferry traffic near the harbor entrance; maintain a sharp lookout.
Crosswinds inside the marina when Meltemi spills over the breakwater.
Swim buoys and shallow areas close to town beaches; stay outside markers.
Fishing gear and small craft around the approaches at dawn and dusk.
Drone restrictions near port areas; follow posted notices.
Tips
Refuel early to avoid queues; keep lines ready for a quick turn.
Inspect ground tackle and rinse gear with fresh water before stowage.
Confirm taxi or transfer times if you are disembarking next morning.
Respect swim zones and speed limits near town beaches.
Keep documents and crew lists handy for port formalities.
7-day Kos sailing itinerary | Greece
Plan a relaxed week of island-hopping in the northern Dodecanese with daily passages of 8–35 nm and generous time ashore. Start and finish in Kos, calling at Kalymnos (sponge-diving heritage and dramatic cliffs), Leros (castle views and bayside villages), Lipsi (low-key beaches and tranquil anchorages), Arki (tiny, turquoise coves), and Patmos (the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse). Anchorages range from town quays with services to quiet sand-bottom bays. In July–August, the Meltemi can blow strong from the north; depart early, favor south-facing coves, and keep flexible plans for the smaller isles. Provision well in Kos and larger ports, respect seagrass no-anchor zones, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites on Patmos. This itinerary balances culture, clear-water swimming, and easy sailing, ideal for crews seeking Greek island variety without long offshore legs.
