Sailing in the Dodecanese

Sailing in the Dodecanese is idyllic. It’s an archipelago in the south-eastern Aegean Sea, near the Turkish coast. It consists of 12 main islands (hence the name) and numerous smaller islets – in fact, there are over 160 islands in the group, with 26 of them inhabited.

This island chain offers a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding sailing destination. Rhodes, the largest island, is famed for its medieval Old Town, while smaller gems like Symi, Patmos, and Kos boast colourful harbours and ancient ruins. The Dodecanese remains somewhat off the beaten path compared to the Cyclades, allowing sailors to experience authentic Greek hospitality and quieter anchorages amidst stunning scenery. Sailing here lets you hop between islands that are only a few hours apart, each with its own character – from volcanic Nisyros to tranquil Lipsi.

The combination of reliable summer winds and numerous safe harbours makes the sailing in the Dodecanese a delight. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: weather patterns, mooring tips, charter requirements, recommended skill levels, local etiquette, regional sailing nuances, and answers to common questions. Hoist your sails and get ready to explore Greece’s sunniest corner!

Dodecanese Winds and Climate

The Dodecanese enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer (June through August) is sunny and warm, with July–August daytime temperatures often 30–35°C. This is also when the Meltemi wind dominates.

The Meltemi is a northerly wind (blowing from the NW in this region) that kicks in around mid-June, peaks in strength in July and August, and tapers off by October. It typically blows at Force 4–6 on the Beaufort scale in fair weather, but can occasionally gust to Force 7 or 8 during a strong spell. When the Meltemi is at full strength (especially in July/August), it may blow for several days in a row, creating steep short waves and challenging conditions for sailing upwind.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer more moderate weather. During these shoulder seasons, temperatures are comfortable (mid 20s °C), and winds are gentler and more variable. You’ll still get plenty of breeze for sailing, but the Meltemi’s intensity drops to a more manageable Force 3–5 on average.

These months are ideal for those seeking a calmer experience or learning the ropes, and the islands are less crowded. In fact, many sailors consider May–June and September the best time to cruise the Dodecanese, with settled weather and fewer Meltemi gales.

In winter (November–March), conditions are less predictable. The weather can be mild but windy, with occasional storms. Many charter companies pause operations in the off-season, and some island harbours scale down services. Only very experienced crews usually sail during winter, as you must be prepared for sudden weather changes and limited facilities.

Whenever you sail, it’s important to check the marine forecast regularly and be ready to seek shelter if a gale warning is issued – especially during Meltemi season when winds can build quickly in the afternoons.

Dodecanese Harbours and Mooring Styles

Sailing the Dodecanese islands offers a mix of modern marinas, traditional town harbours, and secluded bays. Key bases like Rhodes (Mandraki Harbour and the New Marina) and Kos (Kos Marina) provide full-service facilities – you’ll find secure docks, water and electricity hookups, fuel stations, and other amenities. These harbours are ports of entry and popular charter bases, conveniently near international airports.

In contrast, smaller islands have simpler ports and quays managed by the local municipality. For example, Symi’s postcard-perfect harbour and Patmos (Skala) harbour have limited berths but lots of charm, while tiny islands like Tilos or Lipsi have small quays or jetties for visiting yachts.

Mooring Techniques

Mooring techniques in the Dodecanese are typically Mediterranean-style. In most town harbours, you will med-moor stern-to the quay: drop your anchor in the harbour and reverse toward the dock, securing your stern lines to bollards or rings on the quay. This technique maximises space and is a “fact of life” when sailing in Greece. Be prepared to pay out plenty of anchor chain and avoid crossing anchors with neighbouring boats. In places like Pali (Nisyros Island), for instance, yachts must drop anchor and med-moor, taking care not to foul each other’s anchors in the small harbour.

Harbour Assistance

Some busy ports have a harbourmaster who might assist: in Symi, a dockhand may guide you to a mooring point – there, instead of using your own anchor, you pass a line to a mooring buoy and then back down to the quay. A few harbours and marinas (e.g. Kos Marina) provide laid mooring lines or mooring buoys, sparing you from anchoring – typically an attendant will hand up a line attached to a permanent weight on the seabed to secure your bow.

Anchoring in Quiet Bays and Remote Coves

In quiet coves and remote anchorages, free anchoring is the norm. You’ll find countless bays with good holding in sand or mud, often at comfortable depths (5–15 m). For instance, Ormos Panormitis in Symi or Xirokampos in Leros offer well-sheltered anchorage spots. In some bays, local tavernas have placed private mooring buoys for visiting yachts – typically these are free if you patronise the taverna (always inquire about their usage). When anchoring off, you can often anchor bow-to the wind and, if space is tight or a swell rolls in, take a long line ashore from the stern to prevent swinging. Always respect other boats’ swinging circles and keep clear of ferry quays (marked by yellow/black paint) as inter-island ferries need room to dock.

Dodecanese Mooring Fees

Mooring fees in the Dodecanese are pleasantly low. Outside of marinas, many municipal quays charge little or nothing for an overnight stay. It’s common to pay at most a token fee (on the order of €5–10) for a night on a town quay – and often, no official will come to collect anything (One Week Sailing the Dodecanese from Rhodes | Sailing Holidays). For example, if you’re lucky enough to find a spot on the quay in Lakki, Leros or Yialos, Symi, you might berth for free or a nominal charge. In contrast, private marinas like Rhodes New Marina or Kos Marina will have higher fees (depending on boat size, roughly €50+ per night in high season for a 40ft yacht (Berthing / mooring fees in Croatia and Greece – PlainSailing.com Blog)), but these come with full facilities, 24-hour security, etc. Overall, the variety of harbours means you can mix rustic evenings on the town quay with occasional marina stopovers to recharge water, fuel, and provisions.

Chartering in the Dodecanese

Chartering a yacht in the Dodecanese is straightforward, with several companies offering fleets based in Rhodes and Kos. Bareboat charters (where you are the skipper) are popular for experienced sailors, while skippered charters are available if you prefer to hire a professional captain.

Bareboat Chartering

To bareboat charter in Greece, you must have certain certifications. The skipper is required to hold an appropriate sailing license – typically an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or a similar qualification such as RYA Day Skipper or ASA Bareboat Charter certification, in English or Greek translation.

Greek law also officially requires a second crew member to be experienced; ideally the first mate should have a sailing certificate as well, but if not, they can sign a self-declaration attesting to their competence.

In addition, at least one of the crew (usually the skipper) needs a VHF radio operator’s certificate to legally operate the marine radio. It’s wise to bring the original copies of all certifications, as the charter company or port authorities may ask to see them during the check-in.

Charter Briefing

All reputable charter companies provide a thorough briefing and check-out at the start of your trip. The charter base staff will go over the boat’s systems, equipment, and safety gear, and you’ll complete some paperwork like a crew list and a transit log (a cruising document for Greek waters). They can also advise on routes and weather.

Charter Hubs in the Dodecanese

The main charter hubs in the Dodecanese are Kos Marina and Rhodes (Mandraki), which are well-connected by direct flights from Europe and by ferry from Athens. One-way charters between Kos and Rhodes are sometimes possible (allowing you to sail the distance one-way without backtracking) – check with your charter company if this is available, as it’s a great way to see more islands on a week-long trip.

Choosing a Charter Provider

When choosing a charter provider, look for companies with well-maintained fleets and local support. Some well-regarded operators in the Dodecanese include Istion Yachting (bases in Kos and Rhodes), Kiriacoulis (a large Mediterranean charter company with yachts in Kos and Rhodes), and international brands like Moorings/Sunsail. 

Nautilus Yachting and Sailing Holidays (UK-based companies) also offer flotillas and bareboat charters in this region.

It’s a good idea to book well in advance for the peak summer weeks. Charters usually run Saturday to Saturday. Remember to budget for extras like fuel, end-cleaning fees, and any optional gear (e.g. outboard for the dinghy).

Dodecanese Skill Level Recommendations

How experienced do you need to be to sail the Dodecanese? 

This region is generally considered suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors, especially during the summer Meltemi season. The consistent winds make for exhilarating sailing, but they can challenge those with limited experience. In peak summer (July–Aug), winds average Force 4–6 and often blow all day, so handling a yacht in these conditions requires confident boat-handling and navigation skills.

Many charter companies rate the Dodecanese as a Level 3 (out of 3) sailing area due to the stronger winds and longer passages between islands. Therefore, experienced sailors (advanced level) will relish the conditions in mid-summer, enjoying fast reaches between islands and the ability to manage heavier weather if it arises. More expert crews might also venture to the far-flung islands like Karpathos and Kasos, which have fierce winds and few safe harbours – these are generally only recommended for seasoned sailors due to the lack of shelter.

That said, the Dodecanese is not off-limits to less experienced sailors; it just requires choosing the timing and route wisely. Beginners or those with limited experience can still sail here in the milder months of May, June, September, or early October. During these periods the Meltemi is less intense, seas are calmer, and the conditions are more forgiving.

Novice skippers are advised to plan shorter hops (10–15 NM) and stick to leeward sides of islands on windy days. It’s also common for newer sailors to hire a local skipper for the first day or two as a confidence booster, or join a flotilla for more support. For example, Nautilus and Sailing Holidays run flotilla groups in the Dodecanese, which can be a great option for families and less experienced crews – you get the independence of your own boat with the safety net of a lead crew and other boats nearby.

Intermediate sailors (with some Aegean or Mediterranean experience) will find much of the Dodecanese very enjoyable. The central Dodecanese – e.g. routes around Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, Patmos – offers a good mix of moderate winds and safe harbours within a few hours’ sail of each other. Intermediate crews should still be cautious in July/August and plan around the Meltemi: for instance, schedule longer northward legs for early morning when winds are lighter, or prefer a downwind itinerary (e.g. start in Patmos and sail southward through the islands, since the Meltemi blows from the north).

Always have a plan B harbour in case conditions worsen. By matching your sailing area to your skill level – easy routes and seasons for beginners, challenging open-water legs for experts – the Dodecanese can be enjoyed by virtually everyone.

Dodecanese Codes of Conduct and Local Etiquette

When sailing in the Dodecanese (and Greece in general), there are certain codes of conduct and etiquette that help ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone:

• Respect Right of Way and Space: Follow the “rules of the road” at sea – generally sailing vessels have right of way over power vessels, but be pragmatic and avoid close-quarters situations. Keep a safe distance when overtaking or anchoring near another boat. In crowded harbours, patience and courtesy go a long way. If you’re coming in to moor next to another yacht, approach slowly and try not to prop-wash their anchor. It’s customary to offer assistance to boats docking nearby – for example, take their lines on the quay or help guide them in. This camaraderie is appreciated (and often returned).
• Mooring Etiquette: When Med-mooring, aim to lay your anchor roughly perpendicular to the quay and give ample scope (at least 3:1 or 4:1 chain to depth). This helps your anchor set well so you don’t drift or bump others. Do not pull up so tightly that your stern hits the quay in swell, but also avoid leaving big gaps. If the harbour is busy, expect that another boat might drop anchor over your chain – that’s common in Greece. The unwritten rule is the last boat to leave in the morning helps untangle any crossed anchors (so plan a bit of extra time). If you use a mooring buoy, still secure stern lines if instructed. And always respect local instructions – if a harbourmaster assigns you a spot, moor where directed even if you prefer a different one.
• Radio Communications: A VHF radio is an essential tool. Channel 16 is the international hailing and emergency channel – keep a watch on 16 whenever you’re underway. For routine communications, hail other vessels or port authorities on 16, then switch to a working channel (like 09, 72, or 77, as directed) to converse. Keep chatter on 16 to a minimum and always be brief and professional on the air (Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese Islands – viravira.co Blog). In the Dodecanese, most larger ports (like Rhodes, Kos) have port control or coast guard monitoring channel 12 or 16 – you can call “[Port Name] Port Control” if you need to announce arrival or request permission to enter (though this is usually only for larger ships; yachts can typically enter and dock without formal radio clearance). In an emergency, use Channel 16 to call the Hellenic Coast Guard. It’s also good practice to have portable handheld VHF when going ashore, in case you need to communicate with your boat or other crew.
• Behaviour in Harbours: Greek island communities are friendly and welcoming to sailors – we are essentially guests in their harbours. Keep noise (music, loud conversation) down, especially after around 2300h in port and overnight (Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese Islands – viravira.co Blog). Partying on deck until late is frowned upon in quiet fishing ports. If you’re rafted alongside another boat or in close quarters, be mindful of privacy and noise. Conversely, don’t be surprised if locals or other sailors strike up a conversation – a smile and a “yasas” (hello) go a long way. Dress casually but respectfully if walking through villages (wear a shirt or cover-up, not just swimwear, when off the boat).
• Environmental Respect: The Dodecanese waters are clear and beautiful – help keep them that way. Use holding tanks in harbours and sensitive bays (it’s illegal to discharge black water within 3 nautical miles of land). Never throw garbage overboard; dispose of trash in bins when available or keep it on board until you find proper disposal. Many islands have recycling bins – use them if you can. When anchoring, avoid dropping your anchor on obvious posidonia seagrass beds (the brown/green patches of underwater grass), as these are protected habitats. Some areas or small islets may be designated marine protected zones – heed any signage or warnings about restricted anchoring or fishing. Essentially, leave no trace: what you bring to an island or bay, take back with you.
• Local Customs and Formalities: Since the Dodecanese are Greek islands, the courtesy flag of Greece should be flown (usually under your starboard spreader) if you’re on a foreign-flagged vessel. If you start your charter in Greece, all entry formalities are typically handled by the charter company. However, if you sail to a non-EU country (like nearby Turkey), you must clear out of Greece and then clear back in upon return – this involves visiting customs/immigration offices and can be time-consuming (Dodecanese | JimB Sail) (see FAQs for more on Turkey). For most casual charter trips sticking to the Greek islands, you won’t need to deal with officials beyond possibly showing papers during the charter check-in. When visiting monasteries or churches (of which there are many historical ones in the Dodecanese), remember to dress modestly (e.g., cover shoulders and knees). Finally, embrace the Greek way of relaxed pace: things might not always run on strict schedule, so relax and enjoy the laid-back island life, and always greet locals with a friendly “Kalimera” (good morning) or “Kalispera” (good evening).

Dodecanese Regional Differences in Sailing Conditions

While the Dodecanese islands are relatively close together, there are notable differences in sailing conditions across the region. Understanding these can help you plan an itinerary that matches your comfort level:

• Northern Dodecanese (Patmos, Lipsi, Arki, Samos area): The northernmost islands, including Patmos and the islets around Lipsi/Arki, are more exposed to the open Aegean to the northwest. Here the Meltemi funnels down from the Ikaria Sea, often blowing quite strongly. In July and August, this area can see near-gale Meltemi days where winds whip through straits and between islands. The “Samos Sea” (between Ikaria, Samos, and Patmos) is known for being rough in Meltemi conditions. Sailors in this zone should be prepared for gusts accelerating around headlands and funnelling between islands. Harbours like Patmos (Skala) and Leros (Lakki), however, offer good shelter when it’s blowing hard. If you plan to explore the north, an itinerary in spring or early summer might be easier, before the Meltemi peaks. The upside of this area is that the distances are fairly short and there are many anchorage options to duck into if conditions worsen.
• Central Dodecanese (Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, Symi, etc.): The middle part of the Dodecanese, from Kos up through Kalymnos and Leros, and east to Symi, offers a balance. The Turkish mainland to the east provides some shelter from large swells, and you can often choose a leeward route (sailing on the eastern, more protected side of islands). For example, if a strong NW wind is blowing, you might sail up the east coast of Kalymnos or Kos in relatively calm waters, whereas the west sides of those islands will be windier and choppier. Wind funnel effects are still present – for instance, the channel between Kos and Nisyros or between Leros and Kalymnos can see accelerated winds. The leeward side of each island might have very gusty winds near the mountains (as the wind spills over) even if the sea state is flat. Central islands like Kos and Rhodes also create their own wind shadows; you may experience periods of lighter wind when tucked behind a big island landmass, only to find strong breeze again once you round a cape. Overall, central Dodecanese sailing in summer is lively but manageable for competent crews, and you can adjust your route day by day (hug the coast or venture out) depending on conditions.
• Southern Dodecanese (Rhodes, Tilos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo): The southernmost part of the Dodecanese includes some widely spaced islands and different influences. Rhodes, being a large island, has interesting microclimates – the northwest coast of Rhodes is windy (a windsurfing haven), but the east coast and the channel between Rhodes and Turkey are often calmer. In some strong Meltemi cases, Rhodes can be largely spared the full blast because the low-pressure trough driving the Meltemi might extend beyond Rhodes, resulting in lighter winds there. So, if you’re sailing around Rhodes and Symi, you might find the Meltemi is a steady Force 4 while areas further north are getting Force 7. Tilos and Chalki (west of Rhodes) are small and can be windy, but they have decent anchorages. Further south, Karpathos and Kasos (between Rhodes and Crete) are known for some of the strongest winds in the Aegean – the Karpathos Strait acts like a wind tunnel. These islands are less visited by casual sailors; only experienced crews usually venture there, and often only in settled weather. The tiny outpost of Kastellorizo (far to the east near Turkey) has its own local winds and is a long way from the other islands, usually reached via Rhodes.

In summary, western and northern exposures mean more wind and waves, while eastern/leeward sides mean flatter seas but gusty winds near high land.

Nearly every island has a lee side anchorage to hide in if needed. The region’s diversity means you can tailor your sailing – e.g. on a breezy day, you might choose a short hop downwind to a nearby island, whereas on a calmer day you could do a longer open-water passage. Always consult local sailing directions or cruising guides for island-specific tips (like which bays are safe in a Meltemi). By understanding these regional quirks, you can safely enjoy all corners of the Dodecanese, from the gentle bays to the thrill of windward passages.

FAQs

Q: When is the best time of year to sail in the Dodecanese?
A: The prime times are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–early October). During these months, the weather is warm but not scorching, and the Meltemi winds are milder and less consistent than in high summer. You’ll enjoy plenty of sailing breeze without the frequent gale-force bursts that can occur in July and August. The sea is warm for swimming by June and still pleasant into October. Another advantage of shoulder seasons is fewer crowds – harbours and popular bays are less busy. July and August are the peak season with guaranteed sun and strong winds (great for experienced sailors who want challenging sailing), but expect busy marinas and the need to reef sails in the afternoons. If you’re a beginner or prefer relaxed cruising, aim for mid-May to June or September. Winter sailing (Nov–Mar) is only for experts or those on crewed yachts, as weather can be unsettled and many tourist services shut down.

Q: What qualifications or licenses do I need to charter a yacht in Greece?
A: For a bareboat charter in Greece, the skipper must have a valid sailing license. The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent national certificate (e.g. RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104) is required by law. You should carry the original license (with an English translation if it’s issued in another language). Additionally, Greece requires one crew member to act as co-skipper – ideally they should also have a sailing certificate, but if not, they can sign a self-declaration of sailing experience that the charter company will provide (FAQ | South Aegean Yachting). A VHF Radio Operator’s certificate is also expected for the person operating the radio (often the skipper). Essentially, you need: a skipper’s license + a competent crewmate. If you lack qualifications or confidence, you can hire a professional skipper from the charter company (for an extra daily fee) or join a flotilla where a lead crew offers guidance. Always check with your charter company ahead of time about their specific requirements, as they won’t let you sail away without proper credentials on file.

Q: I’m new to sailing – is the Dodecanese suitable for beginners?
A: It can be, with some caution. The Dodecanese isn’t the very easiest area (the Ionian Sea in western Greece is known for gentler conditions), but a novice skipper can still have a great trip by choosing a calm period and easy route. If you’re a beginner, consider going in June or September when the winds are lighter and more predictable. Plan short daily journeys (perhaps 10–15 nautical miles between islands) so you’re not pressured by time if you need to wait out a windy afternoon. Sticking to routes in the lee of larger islands (for example, pottering around the Gulf of Kos and nearby smaller islands) can keep conditions manageable. Another option is to join a flotilla, where you have the support of a lead boat and other flotilla sailors – this gives you an added safety net and local knowledge. Companies like Sailing Holidays run a flotilla from Rhodes that is friendly to less experienced crews. If you have zero experience, you should hire a skipper. But if you have a competent crew and some basic training, the Dodecanese in fair weather can be a wonderful learning ground. Just be honest about your skills, reef early when in doubt, and don’t push your limits with long open-water sails. With prudent planning, even relatively new sailors can enjoy an island-hopping holiday here.

Q: Are there fees for mooring at the islands?
A: In most small island harbours, mooring fees are minimal or non-existent. Greece is famous for its low-cost town quays. In the Dodecanese, you will often find that tying up on a municipal quay or ferry dock doesn’t cost anything, especially in quieter islands. If the port police or harbourmaster does come to collect a fee, it’s usually just a token amount – often under €10 per night for a medium-sized yacht. For example, you might pay a few Euros for water or electricity hookup if you use them, but the base mooring fee itself is negligible. Of course, if you stay in a private marina (like Kos Marina or Rhodes New Marina), you’ll pay marina rates which vary by yacht size and season. Also, if you use a private mooring buoy (say provided by a taverna or a hotel), sometimes there’s a charge (or an expectation you’ll dine at the establishment). In general, budget some pocket money for occasional harbour fees, but it won’t be a big portion of your expenses. Always ask locally if any fee is due – sometimes an agent will come in the evening or morning to issue a receipt. And keep in mind that services like water, electricity, and showers (if available) might incur separate small fees even when the berth itself is free.

Q: Can I sail to Turkey during my Dodecanese trip?
A: Geographically, Turkey is very close – in some places only a few miles away – and it’s tempting to hop across. While it’s possible to include Turkey (for instance, sailing from Kos to Bodrum, or from Rhodes to Marmaris), you must follow proper clearance procedures. Greece and Turkey have different customs jurisdictions, so you’ll need to officially check out of Greece before entering Turkey, and vice versa. This means visiting a port of entry (Rhodes, Kos, etc.) to get passports stamped and obtain clearance papers, which can take several hours and incur fees. One report notes that each Greek, Turkey border crossing can cost around €80 and a chunk of a day in paperwork. If you have a one-week charter, losing possibly a day on formalities may not be worth it. Additionally, charter companies often disallow or require special permission for taking their boats to Turkey (due to insurance and logistics). The recommended approach, if you want to experience both, is to plan them as separate trips – enjoy the Dodecanese on one holiday and the Turkish coast on another, rather than trying to split a single short charter between the two countries. If you do decide to cross, make sure your charter company knows and the boat’s paperwork (transit log, insurance, crew list) is in order for international clearance. And allow plenty of time for the bureaucratic process in both countries. In summary: yes, you can sail to Turkey, but it requires additional effort. Most sailors stick to either side to maximise leisure time.

References

1. CruisersWiki – Dodecanese: Overview of the islands and sailing seasons (Dodecanese – a Cruising Guide on the World Cruising and Sailing Wiki) (Dodecanese – a Cruising Guide on the World Cruising and Sailing Wiki).
2. Easy Sailing Greece – Dodecanese Islands: Descriptions of winds (Meltemi NW 4–6 Bft) and seasonal pattern (Dodecanese Islands – Easy Sailing Greece :: Bareboat Sailing Greece, Yacht charter in the Greek islands).
3. Sailing Holidays (UK) – One Week Sailing the Dodecanese: Notes on weather (Meltemi F4–6 in Jul/Aug, F3–5 in shoulder months) and mooring fees info (One Week Sailing the Dodecanese from Rhodes | Sailing Holidays) (One Week Sailing the Dodecanese from Rhodes | Sailing Holidays).
4. NauticEd Blog – Rhodes and Dodecanese Itinerary: First-hand notes on mooring in Symi (mooring buoy then med-moor) and Nisyros (anchor and stern-to) (Rhodes and Dodecanese Sailing Itinerary – NauticEd Sailing Blog) (Rhodes and Dodecanese Sailing Itinerary – NauticEd Sailing Blog).
5. Sail Connections – Sail the Dodecanese: Highlights Kos as main charter base and notes on wind protection by Turkish coast ( Dodecanese Islands Bareboat & Crewed Yacht Charters – Sail Connections) ( Dodecanese Islands Bareboat & Crewed Yacht Charters – Sail Connections).
6. viravira.co – Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese: Climate details and licensing requirements (ICC, VHF needed) (Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese Islands – viravira.co Blog) (Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese Islands – viravira.co Blog).
7. South Aegean Yachting – FAQ: Greek bareboat charter rules (two competent crew, skipper’s license & co-skipper declaration) (FAQ | South Aegean Yachting) (FAQ | South Aegean Yachting).
8. Kiriacoulis Charters – Dodecanese Bases: Confirms charter bases in Rhodes and Kos, available itineraries (Dodecanese | Kiriacoulis Mediterranean) (Dodecanese | Kiriacoulis Mediterranean).
9. SailingChoices – Dodecanese Charter Bases: General info on Kos and Rhodes as charter hubs, one-way charters ( Dodecanese: Yacht charter bases | Sailing Choices).
10. SailingIssues – Meltemi Winds: Technical explanation of Meltemi pattern, noting Rhodes can sometimes have lighter winds in strong Meltemi scenarios (Meltemi storms in the Aegean sea of Turkey and Greece.).
11. JimB Sail – Dodecanese Cruising Notes: Advice on Greece-Turkey border formalities (time and cost involved for each crossing) (Dodecanese | JimB Sail).
12. Nautilus Yachting – Dodecanese Charter: Experience level rating (Level 3) and flotilla availability for Dodecanese charters (Yacht Charter Dodecanese & Sailing Holidays Greece 2025 | Nautilus Yachting) (Yacht Charter Dodecanese & Sailing Holidays Greece 2025 | Nautilus Yachting).