The Dodecanese

The Dodecanese is a chain of islands in the southeastern Aegean, running from Patmos in the north to Rhodes in the south, with the Turkish coast lying close to the east. The islands range in character from the busy infrastructure of Rhodes and Kos to the quieter, smaller islands of Chalki, Tilos, and Astypalea.

Byzantine, Crusader, Ottoman, and Italian periods have all left historic marks across the chain. Key attractions in this area include:

Patmos is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, a fortified 11th-century complex housing a significant collection of manuscripts and liturgical art, and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where Saint John is said to have written the Book of Revelation.

Leros has a well-preserved WW2 Barracks decorated by Italian soldiers with painted copies of Flemish masters and comic scenes, surviving on a remote headland at the island's southern end.

Kalymnos built its wealth on sponge diving, an industry that defined the island for centuries. The Sponge Diving Museum in Pothia documents the trade from its earliest techniques through to the introduction of the deep-diving skafandro suit.

Nisyros is a volcanic island with an active caldera. The Stefanos Crater is the largest and most accessible vent, with fumaroles across the crater floor, while the village of Nikia sits on the rim above, with views down into the caldera from the church above the square.

Tilos offers a coastal path from Livadia to Lethra Bay, around an hour along cliff tops, with an optional extension through Potami Gorge and the ruins of Mikro Horio.

Chalki's medieval Kastro is reached by a marked path of around three kilometres from the harbour, passing through the ruins of the old village before climbing to the castle walls, with views across to Rhodes.

Rhodes holds two major historical sites. The Palace of the Grand Master anchors the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, built by the Knights of Saint John. To the south, the Acropolis of Lindos stands on a 116-metre cliff above the village, combining a 4th-century BC Doric temple, a Hellenistic stoa, and a Knights' castle. Sailors anchoring at Lindos can reach the Lindos Sea Caves by dinghy, with the larger cave extending around 60 metres into the cliff.

Astypalea's Castle sits above the chora, its derelict two-storey buildings enclosing three churches still in active use, with views across both bays of the island's distinctive double-lobed outline.

Karpathos's village of Olympos was built on a northern ridge to avoid pirate raids and remained largely isolated until a paved road arrived in 2013, accessible from Diafani by hike or local transport.

The Meltemi blows strongly through the Dodecanese from June to September, and can be further accelerated between islands.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Port Vathi ★ 5.0 Astypalaia Anchoring is reliable with excellent holding in various wind conditions. The location is mostly quiet, with few boat movements reported. Visitors may find a lack of phone signal and varied water temperatures.
	Kounoupi ★ 5.0 Astypalaia The anchorage provides a nostalgic 1970s atmosphere with beautiful scenery. Reviewers note clear water and reliable holding in 5 meters of sand. The beach bar offers friendly staff and a limited selection, ideal for those seeking a relaxing spot after daytime traffic.
	Papandria/Lyra (South Lipsi Anchorage) ★ 4.9 Lipsi The anchorage offers excellent holding in sand, with depths varying from 3 to 8 meters. Visitors report strong protection from north winds, and a sandy bottom is noted for anchoring. There are also dining options within a short walk to the town.
	Ormos Palos (East Agathonisi) ★ 4.8 Agathonisi Anchoring is reported to be effective with good holding in sand across depths of 6 to 8 meters. Visitors enjoy solitude and tranquility, though internet access is noted as limited. Protection from strong winds such as meltemi is affirmed.
	Kastellorizo, Mandraki bay ★ 4.8 Megisti Mandraki Bay provides an active anchorage experience, with several boats typically present. Visitors appreciate the ease of dinghy access and scenic walks into town, though the bay can be busy with transport activities. Clear water and nearby hiking opportunities enhance the appeal.
	Livadia ★ 4.7 Astypalaia Excellent anchorage with great holding in sand, accommodating multiple boats. Easy access to supermarkets, tavernas, and scenic walks towards Chora and the castle. Conditions may vary, as protection from meltemi is favorable, though south winds pose potential challenges.
	Emborio anchorage alternative ★ 4.6 Kalymnos Anchoring conditions vary, with reports of strong katabatic winds and good holding. Visitors appreciate the attractive scenery and nearby amenities. The anchorage accommodates a few boats, but caution is advised regarding anchor security.
	Thessalona (St George Bay) ★ 4.5 Anchoring in this bay is straightforward, with good holding reported by visitors despite gusty winds at times. The setting features dramatic cliffs and a pebbly beach that may be crowded with day boats. Expect a quiet evening as day visitors leave.
	Panormitis ★ 4.5 Calm conditions and excellent protection characterise this anchorage, making it a tranquil stop for boats. Holding is reported as good with manageable swell, while nearby amenities include a bakery and a café. Visitors frequently appreciate the scenic walks around the area.
	Zefyros ★ 4.4 Rhodes This anchorage offers calm conditions, particularly when protected from winds. Visitors have reported good holding in sand and easy access to amenities such as supermarkets and chandleries. The proximity to Rhodes Old Town is convenient for those needing check-in services.

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Marinas

	Pedi Marina ★ 4.9 Guests appreciate the excellent service, particularly from Capt. Sakis and George, which ensures secure mooring. Facilities are well maintained despite limited toilets and showers. The marina offers a peaceful environment with easy access to Symi town for dining and provisions.
	Lakki Marina ★ 4.7 Leros Well-protected from northern winds, Lakki Marina features helpful and friendly staff. Mooring for larger vessels is comfortable, with reliable assistance available. Some facilities, like showers, are disabled during winter, but the town remains serviceable year-round.
	Leros Marina ★ 4.3 Leros Many reviewers highlight the marina's shelter from various winds and commend the helpful staff. However, issues regarding high costs for extended stays and limited community atmosphere are noted. Access to facilities like toilets and showers can also be inconvenient.
	Kos Marina ★ 4.0 Kos Well-maintained and clean, the marina has many nearby restaurants and shops. Reservations are advisable due to variable availability. The marina faces challenges from NNE winds and has additional costs for yacht care when owners are absent.
	Kos Marina Mandraki ★ 3.5 Kos Mooring options include lazy lines near the castle and anchoring stern-to in other areas. Facilities like water and electricity are available, and some reviews indicate reasonable prices for winter stays. Several shops remain open, although many restaurants may close during off-peak times.

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Moorings

	Ormos Vlychadia ★ 4.5 Kalymnos This bay features a selection of mooring buoys managed by Paradisio restaurant, offering good dining options. Conditions can be challenging with strong gusts reported, and few amenities exist. Visitors have noted that anchoring deeper may pose difficulties due to wind.
	East Bay, Levitha ★ 4.3 Mooring buoys are well-maintained and provide good shelter, though early arrival is recommended due to high demand and limited availability. The depth in the bay reaches about 8 meters, with effective holding noted despite wind conditions.
	Palionisou ★ 4.1 Kalymnos Visitors describe a protected bay with approximately 15 mooring buoys available for use. Some concerns were raised regarding the condition of certain buoys and the obligation to use the taverna when they are reserved. Checking the lines for fraying is advisable before relying on the moorings.
	Xirokampos ★ 4.1 Leros Mooring options include concrete blocks and ropes, as the buoys have been removed. Holding is reliable in sandy patches, although some sea grass complicates anchoring. The area has good shelter from the Meltemi wind, making it a favorable stopping point.

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Harbours

	Ormos Vathy ★ 4.8 Kalymnos Access to the harbour can be challenging for boats with deeper drafts, yet it is free to tie up. Visitors report good amenities including fresh water and nearby services, while caution is advised during peak tourist hours due to high traffic from tripper boats.
	Kastellorizo ★ 4.8 Megisti Calm anchorage with adequate depth offers a magical setting. Visitors appreciate the helpfulness of port authorities during check-in. They enjoyed local dining options while noting potential anchor holding issues and aggressive behavior from nearby tavern owners.
	Chalki ★ 4.7 Rhodes Mooring at Chalki presents challenges due to exposure to winds and wake from ferries. Visitors should use fenders and be vigilant against strong gusts. The area offers a quaint village atmosphere and is suitable for anchoring, but caution is advised.
	Pali Harbour (Nysiros) ★ 4.7 Nisyros Stavros provides excellent support for mooring and car rentals. The harbor has good protection and depth, though it may become crowded by late afternoon. Visiting the island is encouraged for exploring its attractions and dining options.
	Port Augusto ★ 4.5 Arki Depths of 4m within the harbour and 3m near the quay were reported. Shelter from winds is excellent, maintaining calm conditions. Limited services include a taverna and non-perishable goods, with no drinking water available.

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Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Artemis Leros Boatyard ★ 5.0 Leros Service includes thorough haul-outs with extensive care for boat positioning. Visitors report friendly and responsive staff, and positive experiences during maintenance and winter storage. Efficiency in addressing issues, such as leaks and electronic problems, has been noted.
	Moor and Dock ex Agmar Marine ★ 3.5 Leros The boatyard provides haul-out services, including standing rigging replacement. The technical team is described as competent and friendly, although prices are noted as high for additional work. Visitors find Leros island enjoyable but recommend arranging transportation from the yard.

Chandlers

No image	Chandler ★ 5.0 Leros The chandler has a friendly owner and a selection of products available. The positive interaction with staff is noted by visitors. Further details should be gathered from recent Reviews for any updates.
No image	ΓΑΡΟΥΦΑΛΗΣ (GAROUFALIS) ★ 5.0 Rhodes Service at the chandler includes stainless steel parts fabrication and windlass repairs. Several visitors noted friendly and professional assistance. The business reportedly has a solid selection of products and can order supplies quickly.
	Loupis Store ★ 5.0 This store offers a variety of fasteners, tools, line, and fishing gear. Visitors report excellent service and helpful staff who assist with finding specific items. The positive attitude towards boat needs has been highlighted in the Reviews.
	Nautilus Yacht Equiment ★ 5.0 Rhodes This chandler specializes in expensive yacht parts like branded blocks and pulleys. Parts can be sourced within 3 to 4 days at no freight charge. Prompt email responses are reported, and the website is available in English.
	Chandler in Kalymnos ★ 5.0 Kalymnos Staff assist with product orders despite limited stock. English-speaking interaction is available primarily through one staff member. Commonly serving fishermen, this chandler does not appear on Google Maps.

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Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Greece: