The Dodecanese by Boat: Rhodes, Symi and the Quiet East

Strung along the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese are the history-rich, quieter side of Greek sailing — knights' castles, painted harbours, a live volcano, and some of the easiest cross-border crossings in the country. The islands are further apart than the Cyclades but the wind is often kinder, and the sense of the East is unmistakable.

Rhodes — the medieval start

Most charters begin at Rhodes, whose walled medieval old town — built by the Knights of St John — is one of the best-preserved in the world. A day inside the walls before you sail is essential.

Symi — the painted harbour

A short hop north, Symi's harbour is an amphitheatre of pastel neoclassical mansions rising from the water — arguably the prettiest arrival in the Aegean. Anchor off, and don't miss the tiny local shrimp.

Nisyros — the volcano

Nisyros holds a live volcanic caldera you can walk into, its floor hissing with steam and sulphur. A genuinely strange and memorable shore excursion.

Tilos, Chalki and the quiet islands

Between the highlights lie the quiet ones — Tilos with its rare wildlife, sleepy Chalki, and empty anchorages where you may be the only boat. This is the Dodecanese at its most peaceful.

Kos and the crossings

Livelier Kos, with its own castle and Hippocrates connections, and easy formalities for a day across to the Turkish coast — bring passports; the crew handles the paperwork.

Practical notes

• Winds. The meltemi reaches here in high summer but is often less relentless than in the Cyclades; June and September are gentlest. See the best time to sail Greece.
• Ready to plan? Browse Dodecanese charters, or see what a Greece charter costs.