A complete yacht charter guide that has everything you need to know about sailing holidays in Kos. If you love the idea of having your next sailing holidays in Greece, and especially the island of Kos, this is what you need to get prepared before your boat trip. Ready to rent a boat? Check our Boat rentals in Kos
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Kos, another jewel of Greece’s Dodecanese, enjoys a typical Aegean sailing season from April to October. The optimal time to sail around Kos is during late spring to early autumn, similar to Rhodes. July and August are sun-drenched and hot (average highs about 32°C) with the persistent Meltemi wind blowing from the north. In the central Dodecanese (where Kos lies), Meltemi winds in mid-summer can reach Force 5-7, offering thrilling sailing for those confident in higher winds, though they rarely exceed 25 knots consistently. Many sailors appreciate June and September around Kos: in June, weather is warmly settled (upper 20s°C), sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming, and the Meltemi is steady but not at full force; in September, the sea is at its warmest, days are slightly cooler (mid to high 20s°C), and the summer crowds begin to thin out, all while winds remain favorable but more moderate. May and October can also be lovely – mild temperatures (around 22–26°C) and gentler breezes, though occasional spring or autumn showers could appear. These shoulder months see fewer tourists, making moorings at places like Kos Marina or small harbor towns more readily available. It’s worth noting that Kos is a bit further north than Rhodes and closer to the Cyclades channel, so late July and August can sometimes bring stronger gusts funneling between the islands – nothing a well-prepared crew can’t handle, but novices might prefer avoiding those peak Meltemi days. Overall, June through September is ideal for Kos: pick July–August for vibrant island nightlife and guaranteed wind, or June/September for splendid weather with slightly easier sailing conditions. Regardless of when you go in that window, you’ll be greeted by Kos’s reliable sunshine (the island boasts around 300 sunny days a year) and enchanting turquoise bays to drop anchor in.
Yes, for a bareboat charter in Kos, you will need to have a valid sailing license, following the standard Greek requirements. The skipper of the yacht must present an appropriate certificate of competence – commonly an ICC or a national qualification like RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104, etc. The co-skipper/first mate is also required (technically) to either have a lesser qualification or at least sign a declaration confirming their sailing ability. Charter companies in Kos (and nearby bases like Kalymnos or Leros) will certainly check these. Ensure that at least one of your crew’s licenses has a sailing endorsement for coastal waters; a powerboat-only license would not be acceptable for a sail yacht charter. Greece also usually expects one of the two qualified crew to understand basic VHF radio operation, so having a short-range radio certificate is recommended, though not always asked for at the port authority. If you do not possess the necessary qualifications, you can hire a skipper through the charter company. In Kos, many visitors take advantage of skippered charters not only for the license issue but also because local skippers know the best island-hopping routes (Kos is a great jump-off point to Nisyros, Kalymnos, Symi, etc.) and they can navigate the occasional gusty Meltemi days safely while you relax. Keep in mind, if you’re chartering out of Kos and plan to explore Turkey’s nearby coast (Bodrum is quite close), your qualifications should satisfy both Greek and Turkish authorities, but that generally means an ICC or equivalent is fine. Always double-check with your charter agency about your specific documentation – better to clarify beforehand than face any hiccups at the dock. In short, a license is mandatory to rent a boat in Kos bareboat, just as it is throughout Greece, and the beautiful Dodecanese awaits those ready with their certifications.
A Kos yacht charter immerses you in a blend of ancient history, lively culture, and delightful Greek gastronomy. Known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” Kos has a rich heritage. In Kos Town, you can moor in the modern marina or old harbor and step off the boat to explore a treasure trove of antiquity: the ruins of the Ancient Agora, a Greco-Roman marketplace; the iconic Plane Tree of Hippocrates, where legend says Hippocrates taught (the current tree is only a few centuries old but symbolically significant); and the impressive Castle of the Knights guarding the harbor, built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century. A short ride inland brings you to the Asklepion of Kos, an ancient medical temple complex on a hill with sweeping views – a must-visit for a sense of Kos’s historical importance as a healing center. Culturally, Kos Town offers a vibrant mix – from traditional Greek music in tavernas to beachside bars with international DJs.
Sailing around Kos, you can visit the smaller islands that each have unique cultural notes: Nisyros (a short sail south) has a still-active volcano you can tour and charming Mandraki town with its white houses and pebble mosaics; Kalymnos (to the north) is famous for sponge diving heritage – visit the sponge workshops and nautical museums; Symi (a bit further but reachable) dazzles with neo-classical mansions and a rich ship-building past. Each island celebrates festivals – if you’re there in summer, you might catch a local panigiri (festival) in a village with music, dancing the syrtos, and communal feasting.
Culinary treats in Kos and the Dodecanese are plentiful and sometimes surprising. Kos’s food draws from both Aegean Greek and minor Asia Minor influences. One standout is the “to katikì tou pote,” a creamy local goat cheese often served with a sprinkle of thyme or in a simple village salad. Kos is known for its wine since antiquity – the red Krasí Liatiko and a sweet Muscat are local specialties, and you can visit some wineries inland. Typical dishes to enjoy: Posa (or “wine cheese”) – cheese aged in red wine sediment, giving it a rosy hue and distinct taste; Pitaridia, local lasagna-like pasta sheets often cooked in a rich broth; and of course fresh seafood – from octopus grilled by the seaside in Kefalos to Symi’s famed tiny shrimp fried to a crisp. Don’t miss trying mouchtenia, a uniquely Kos pickled caper leaves and shoots salad, which pairs wonderfully with grilled fish. For meat lovers, Kalymnos has mermizeli (a barley rusk salad) and goat stew. Sweets include xerotigana (honey-drenched fritters) and baklava variants influenced by neighboring Turkey. A fun culinary excursion on Kos is to head to the village of Zia in the mountains, known for its tavernas with sunset views and dishes like lamb kleftiko (slow cooked lamb) or katimeria pancakes with honey.
On your yacht, you might enjoy breakfasts of local fruit and yoghurt on deck, a lunch stop in a quiet bay for Greek salad and ouzo, and dinners rotating between charming port tavernas and your own chef’s creations if you have crew. A Kos charter truly satisfies both the mind – with historical sites and cultural experiences – and the stomach, with authentic flavors of the Dodecanese. From learning about Hippocratic medicine under the starlight in Kos to savoring a glass of local wine as your yacht swings at anchor, the culture and cuisine of Kos will undoubtedly be highlights of your voyage.
When sailing around Kos and the Dodecanese, you’ll operate under the same Greek maritime regulations discussed for Rhodes and other areas. To reiterate a few key points specific to the area: ensure your transit log is in order and always accessible. The port authorities in Kos Town (and other ports like Kalymnos or Leros if you stop there) may check your papers. Kos Marina is a full-service facility; if you dock there, you’ll follow their berthing instructions and pay harbor fees (which cover amenities). If you anchor off Kos Town, be mindful of the restricted areas – the approach to the ferry harbor is strictly off-limits for anchoring or loitering, and be cautious of the shallow reef (marked on charts) east of the entrance.
One local regulatory consideration is the proximity to Turkey. Kos is a stone’s throw from the Turkish coast – the distance to Bodrum is only a dozen nautical miles. If your sailing itinerary includes crossing into Turkey (for instance, some sailors do a loop from Kos to Bodrum or Datça and back), you must formally clear out of Greece (usually at Kos port) and clear into Turkey (Bodrum customs). This entails having your crew passports stamped and paying any applicable dues (transit log in Turkey, etc.). On return, you’d clear out of Turkey and back into Greece (Kos). If you choose to stick to Greek waters, just be careful not to inadvertently drift into Turkish territorial waters near the coast without clearance. However, there’s no physical border, so normal cruising along the south of Kos or around Pserimos etc., is fine – just avoid anchoring off the Turkish mainland unless cleared in.
Anchoring and protected areas: Kos and nearby islands have certain marine protected areas, particularly around islets that are bird sanctuaries. For example, some parts of Nisyros and the small island of Gyali are environmentally protected; follow any signage or guidance about where not to anchor or go ashore. Generally, anchoring is allowed in most bays unless signage indicates otherwise. One should, of course, avoid anchoring on Posidonia seagrass beds when possible, both for conservation and because the holding is poor.
Mooring fees in smaller municipal harbors (like Kalymnos or Symi if you venture there) are minor but should be paid to the local harbor office or coast guard – typically someone will come by to collect a few Euros and have you sign a receipt; have your boat’s registration details at hand. The coast guard (Limeniko) can also do random safety inspections, checking lifejackets, flares, etc., though this is not very common for charter yachts during a short holiday.
Finally, always check the weather forecast and any gale warnings when sailing the Dodecanese; while not a “regulation,” it’s prudent to heed Meltemi wind advisories. If the coast guard issues a warning, they might recommend boats stay in port. It’s not usually mandatory, but it’s wise to follow such guidance for safety. If you decide to wait out strong winds, Kos’s marinas and harbors are safe havens, whereas some open anchorages could become uncomfortable.
In essence, Kos doesn’t impose special local permits beyond standard Greek procedures. Stay courteous and clear in busy ports, respect boundaries (especially international ones), and utilize official channels for any customs if needed, and you’ll find sailing Kos and its neighboring islands to be smooth and straightforward amid the Aegean’s beautiful complexity.
Kos is one of Greece's Dodecanese islands, and her name derives from the daughter of the mythical King Meropas, called Koos. Kos is also the birthplace of Hippocrates, who is considered "the father of medicine". With a yacht charter in Kos, you can explore the Southeast Aegean, just off the coast of Turkey.
Some of the highlights include the islands of Symi, Tilos, and Rhodes, and the islands' sandy beaches, turquoise waters, ancient and medieval monuments as well as Venetian architecture are sure to impress even the most demanding of travelers.
Kos is a must-see Greek island thanks to its rich culture and history, and the itinerary when starting from Kos is equally rewarding. It is ideal for charterers looking for consistent, strong winds and long passages between unspoiled islands and islets. Other than the famous Kos and Rhodes, you can also visit picturesque Symi, Niseros and her volcano, as well as Tilos.
North of Kos, you will find small fishing villages and quiet harbors; the Dodecanese are undoubtedly the Greek destination which has escaped tourism the most, and is home to some lesser-known Greek islands!
Kos is ideal for:
Want to visit Turkey, too? Check our listings for boat rentals in Turkey
When sailing from Kos you can expect consistent NE winds averaging 4-6 Beaufort, which will allow you to enjoy exhilarating sailing from midday and until late afternoon. If you are sailing in the Dodecanese in July and August, be aware that the prevailing "Meltemi" can bring stronger winds Force 5-7.
You will need to fly in and out of the International airport of Kos, towards which you should be able to find Saturday Easyjet flights from the UK. We can, of course, organise and book your airport transfers for you in advance, and the transfer time from Kos airport to the marina is approximately 25 minutes.
7-day Kos sailing itinerary
Day 1: Kos Marina – Check-in
Arrive at Kos Marina and step aboard your yacht in one of the Dodecanese’s most vibrant islands. After check-in, explore the historic town centre, with its ancient ruins, medieval castle, and lively harbour promenade.
Day 2: Kos – Nisyros (Palos, 24 NM)
Begin your journey with a sail south to Nisyros, an island formed by volcanic forces and rich in natural beauty. Anchor in the peaceful port of Palos and take a trip to the island’s active volcanic crater or the hilltop village of Nikia.
Day 3: Nisyros – Symi (Ayia Marina, 36 NM)
Cruise east to the picturesque island of Symi, known for its neoclassical architecture and tranquil charm. Anchor at Ayia Marina for a swim stop before mooring in Gialos or nearby for a scenic waterfront dinner.
Day 4: Symi – Chalki (Emborios, 30 NM)
Sail south to Chalki, a lesser-known island with colourful harbour houses and unspoilt surroundings. Dock in Emborios and enjoy an evening of authentic Greek hospitality and slow island living.
Day 5: Chalki – Karpathos (Pigadia, 48 NM)
Make a longer sail to Karpathos, one of the most traditional islands in the Dodecanese. Anchor in Pigadia, the main port, and explore the dramatic inland villages, hiking paths, or crystal-clear beaches.
Day 6: Karpathos – Tilos (Livadi, 60 NM)
Sail northwest to peaceful Tilos, a quiet gem known for its wild beauty and eco-conscious vibe. Anchor near Livadia and enjoy swimming, nature walks, or a visit to the ancient ruins of Megalo Chorio.
Day 7: Tilos – Kos (36 NM)
Return to Kos for your final sail, enjoying views of the island-dotted Aegean Sea along the way. Spend your last evening ashore indulging in one more Greek feast or shopping for local products before disembarking the next morning.
Day 1: Kos – Kalymnos (18 NM)
Begin your adventure with a short sail to Kalymnos, the historic sponge-diving island. Anchor in Pothia and enjoy a lively waterfront, neoclassical mansions, and stunning views of steep cliffs and colourful villages.
Day 2: Kalymnos – Gaidaros (45 NM)
Sail northeast to Gaidaros, a remote and wild islet near Agathonisi, ideal for those who seek off-grid tranquillity. This is a day for pure nature: turquoise swimming, total silence, and a night under the stars.
Day 3: Gaidaros – Samos (27 NM)
Continue to Samos, a lush and mountainous island famed for its wine and ancient heritage. Anchor in Pythagoreio and stroll the UNESCO-listed Heraion or enjoy dinner along the charming old harbour.
Day 4: Samos – Fournoi (29 NM)
Head south to Fournoi, a quiet archipelago with some of the Aegean’s most secluded anchorages. This stop is all about hidden coves, wild beaches, and a slow rhythm of life far from the tourist trail.
Day 5: Fournoi – Patmos (19 NM)
Sail to the spiritual island of Patmos, home to the Cave of the Apocalypse and the 11th-century Monastery of Saint John. Dock in Skala and enjoy a walk through the hillside Chora with panoramic sunset views.
Day 6: Patmos – Leros (18 NM)
Cruise to Leros, a mix of Italian-influenced architecture and untouched Greek island charm. Choose between Lakki’s Art Deco-style marina or anchor in Agia Marina for a more traditional feel.
Day 7: Leros – Nisyros (37 NM)
Make your way south to Nisyros, the volcanic island with a lunar-like caldera and whitewashed villages perched on its rim. Anchor in Palos and take a taxi to the volcano’s crater floor for an unforgettable inland experience.
Day 8: Nisyros – Chalki (34 NM)
Sail to Chalki, a peaceful island with neoclassical harbour homes and a sense of timelessness. Dock in Emborios and enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by soft colours and gentle sea breezes.
Day 9: Chalki – Lindos (32 NM)
Cruise to the eastern coast of Rhodes and anchor beneath Lindos' iconic acropolis. Spend the afternoon exploring the archaeological site and swimming in Saint Paul’s Bay.
Day 10: Lindos – Rhodes Town (19 NM)
Continue north to Rhodes Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with medieval architecture and lively atmosphere. Dock at Mandraki Marina and explore the Old Town, Knights’ Quarter, and vibrant local markets.
Day 11: Rhodes Town – Symi (18 NM)
Sail to Symi, one of the most elegant islands in the Dodecanese, known for its pastel-coloured harbour and neoclassical charm. Anchor in Gialos and take in the picture-perfect surroundings with a glass of local wine.
Day 12: Symi – Tilos (28 NM)
Cruise to Tilos, an eco-conscious island with wild beauty, hidden beaches, and walking trails. Relax in Livadia or explore the abandoned village of Mikro Chorio for a quiet and authentic experience.
Day 13: Tilos – Kos (42 NM)
Complete your voyage with a final scenic sail back to Kos, where your journey began. Celebrate your last evening with a farewell dinner in the lively marina district or a visit to the ancient Asklepion ruins.
Day 14: Kos – Check-out
Disembark in Kos after two unforgettable weeks of exploring the Aegean’s most authentic, spiritual, and beautiful islands. Depart with lasting memories of both iconic sights and remote discoveries.
Keep on reading: The Ultimate First-Time Sailing Guide: Tips for New Sailors
Kos, a vibrant island in the Dodecanese chain, is another excellent spot to launch a yacht charter adventure – whether bareboat, skippered, or fully crewed. Bareboat charters from Kos are great for experienced sailors eager to explore; you can steer your own course through the Dodecanese, hopping north to the sacred island of Patmos or south toward Rhodes, and dropping anchor at gems like Kalymnos or Leros along the way for a swim in sapphire waters. For a hassle-free holiday, many choose skippered charters in Kos; with a skilled captain at the helm, you can simply relax as they guide you to Kos’s ancient ruins, nearby fishing villages, and even secret beaches on surrounding isles – all while handling the Aegean breezes and navigation. And if luxury is on your agenda, Kos offers fully crewed yacht charters that turn your trip into a floating resort experience: your crew will manage everything, allowing you to savor a private yacht cruise across the Dodecanese where each day brings new islands, cultural discoveries, and total comfort onboard.
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