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 Shelter is effective in northerlies, with good holding in sand. Visitors noted strong winds outside the bay but found calm conditions inside. It's a short walk to Lipsi Town, with taxis available for returning after dinner.
	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 Anchoring outside Mandraki bay is popular, offering good holding and crystal clear water. Visitors can enjoy easy access to the town with delightful walking routes. The area has lively restaurants and opportunities for snorkeling nearby.
	Livadia ★ 4.7 Astypalaia Anchorage offers reliable shelter from the meltemi and good holding, with depths of 5 to 10 meters on sandy bottoms. Numerous boats can be accommodated, and basic provisions are available from nearby supermarkets. Visitors can enjoy local tavernas and scenic walks to the Chora.
	Vrachonisida ★ 4.7 Patmos Anchoring conditions are favorable with good holding in sand, and no swell reported. Visitors appreciate beautiful swimming and local dining options. The approach should be made cautiously, avoiding shallow areas.
	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.
	Marathouda ★ 4.5 A sand bottom allows for good holding in depths of 8 to 8.5 meters. The bay features clear water, a tavern, and occasional goats on the beach. Expect limited space and some challenges with wildlife, like food theft by goats.
	Thessalona (St George Bay) ★ 4.5 Anchoring conditions vary, with some finding good holding and clear waters, while others report dragging issues. Day traffic increases during the daytime, but nights can be quite peaceful with only a few boats. Ensure to anchor away from the ferry dock for safety.
	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.

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Marinas

	Pedi Marina ★ 4.8 Pedi Marina offers clean facilities with attentive staff who assist guests with mooring. The marina provides reliable power and water, though prices for water may be considered high. Approaching the marina can involve crosswinds, impacting the docking experience.
	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 ★ 4.2 Leros Safety is noted at this marina, with positive experiences regarding shelter from winds. Staff interactions receive largely favorable remarks, reflecting helpfulness and professionalism. However, the location of facilities and a lack of community engagement during winter are mentioned as drawbacks.
	Kos Marina ★ 4.0 Kos Clean and well-maintained, the marina is conveniently near the city center with various nearby restaurants and shops. Advance reservations are recommended due to limited availability during busy periods. Wind protection from NNE is inadequate in some conditions.
	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 ★ 4.2 Mooring buoys are in excellent condition, offering good holding. Availability can be limited as it is popular, especially in summer months. A taverna is accessible, providing basic food and amenities.
	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 The harbor presents a picturesque setting with colorful buildings and vibrant surroundings. Multiple reviews highlight positive interactions with local services, including check-in support and excellent restaurants. Caution is advised regarding anchoring, as holding can be unreliable in storms.
	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) ★ 4.6 Nisyros Well sheltered and equipped, Pali Harbour provides basic amenities such as water and electricity. Visitors recommend contacting local services for reservations, as the harbour can get crowded. Car and scooter rentals are available, enhancing the exploration of the surrounding area.
	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 Service includes a variety of stainless steel fasteners, tools, lines, and fishing gear. Staff are noted for being helpful in finding specific items. Visitors regularly rely on this chandler for their boating needs.
	Nautilus Yacht Equiment ★ 5.0 Rhodes Nautilus Yacht Equipment facilitates the sourcing of expensive yacht parts with a rapid turnaround from Athens, typically within 3 to 4 days at no freight cost. The team is noted for prompt email responses and provides an English-language website.
	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: