Dodecanese Islands Crewed Yacht Charter Guide

Key Takeaways

• FX Yachting offers luxury, fully crewed catamarans and yachts for tailor-made charters across the Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos, Nisyros, Tilos, Halki) from May through October.
• Charters are private and bespoke: guests choose between relaxed island-hopping, culture-focused itineraries, or activity-heavy weeks with water sports and onshore excursions.
• Professional captain, hostess/chef, daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, water toys, and concierge-style planning are all handled by FX Yachting’s dedicated crew.
• FX Yachting arranges both B2C luxury vacations and B2B corporate incentives or boutique small-group charters throughout the Dodecanese.
• Contact FX Yachting now to secure the best yachts and weeks (especially June through September) and receive a custom itinerary proposal for your dream yacht charter.

Why Choose a Crewed Yacht Charter in the Dodecanese

The Dodecanese archipelago—literally meaning “twelve islands”—actually encompasses over 160 islands and islets stretched along a crescent in the southeastern Aegean, running parallel to the Turkish coast. This positioning creates a sailing paradise with reliable Meltemi winds, sunshine from May to mid-October, and a cultural tapestry woven from ancient Greek, Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman influences. For anyone considering a Greek crewed yacht experience, the Dodecanese delivers an authentic Mediterranean journey far removed from overcrowded tourist circuits.

What makes this region exceptional for a charter vacation:

• Extraordinary contrasts within a single voyage: Medieval Rhodes with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, the volcanic moonscape of Nisyros, the spiritual weight of Patmos (where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation), the candy-colored neoclassical mansions of Symi, and the laid-back simplicity of Tilos and Halki—all easily linked in a seven to ten day cruise
• Privacy and flexibility: Unlike hotels or cruise ships with fixed schedules, your crewed yacht allows you to wake in a secluded bay, arrive at harbors after day-trippers depart, and set your own daily rhythm
• Exclusive anchorages: Many of the region’s most beautiful bays are only accessible by boat, with quiet spots even during peak season around Symi’s coves, Leros’ natural harbors, and hidden beaches near Kalymnos
• Expert guidance: FX Yachting specializes in Greece and can advise honestly on which islands to prioritize based on your group profile—families, couples, mixed-age groups, or corporate teams

Our Crewed Yacht Charter Experience in the Dodecanese

FX Yachting, part of Fyly Yachting, is a Greek-based charter brokerage and yacht management specialist focused on fully crewed luxury yachts and catamarans throughout the Dodecanese and wider Greek waters. Our approach centers on delivering an unforgettable experience where every detail is handled before you step aboard.

Crew composition on Dodecanese itineraries typically includes:

• Professional skipper/captain with deep local knowledge of anchorages, weather patterns, and island highlights
• Hostess/chef handling all meals, housekeeping, and guest services
• Additional deckhand or crew members on larger yachts for enhanced service

The personalized planning process:

• Pre-charter consultation to understand your preferences, interests, and any special occasions
• Preference sheets covering dietary requirements, drink selections, and activity priorities
• Custom arrangements for celebrations—birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons, and corporate retreats

FX Yachting coordinates all logistics from embarkation ports like Rhodes, Kos, or sometimes Samos, including airport transfers, early boarding where yacht schedules permit, and special arrival arrangements. For yacht owners and travel advisors, we also provide expertise in structuring Dodecanese itineraries for repeat charter programs and incentive groups.

Yacht Types for Dodecanese Crewed Charters

FX Yachting offers a curated fleet of crewed catamarans, monohulls, motor yachts, and select gulets—many homeported in the Dodecanese or nearby islands. Choosing the right yacht depends on your group size, sailing preferences, and how you want to spend your time on the water.

Sailing catamarans remain the most popular choice for Dodecanese charters—their stability makes them comfortable for guests new to sailing, while the shallow draft allows anchoring in bays that deeper vessels cannot access. Motor yachts appeal to those who prefer speed and want to maximize island coverage during their week aboard.

FX Yachting pre-vets every yacht on our fleet pages for safety standards, maintenance quality, and service reliability. This means you can book with confidence, knowing the vessel meets our rigorous criteria.

Suggested Dodecanese Itineraries

Every itinerary is fully customized based on your preferences, weather conditions, and group interests. The following sample routes demonstrate what’s possible during a seven day charter starting from Rhodes or Kos—consider these starting points for your own perfectly tailored journey.

7-Day Rhodes Round-Trip

Day 1: Rhodes Old Town & Anthony Quinn Bay Embark in Rhodes Marina and settle into your floating home. After a brief captain’s introduction and safety overview, cruise to nearby Anthony Quinn Bay for your first swim in the Aegean’s famous crystal-clear waters. Return to explore the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town—cobblestone streets, the Palace of the Grand Master, and fine dining in hidden courtyard restaurants.

Day 2: Sail to Symi A morning sail brings you to Symi, arguably Greece’s most photogenic harbor. The neoclassical houses in sherbet colors cascade down the hillside to Gialos harbor. Explore the town, then motor to the peaceful bay at Pedi for sunset cocktails and a dinner prepared by your chef.

Day 3: Symi’s Hidden Coves to Tilos Spend the morning exploring Symi’s hidden coves—perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding in secluded waters. In the afternoon, set course for Tilos, a quiet island known for hiking trails, medieval castles, and authentic Greek hospitality.

Day 4: Volcanic Nisyros Navigate to Nisyros and hike into the volcano’s caldera—a lunar landscape of sulfur vents and steaming craters. The village of Nikia perches on the crater’s rim with sweeping views. This is so much fun for geology enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Day 5: Quiet Halki Arrive at tiny Halki, where the clock seems to stop. Swim from the yacht, explore the pastel waterfront, and enjoy delicious meals at traditional tavernas. The absence of cars and crowds makes this an ideal spot for complete relaxation.

Day 6: Southern Rhodes Bays Sail back toward Rhodes via secluded bays along the island’s southern coast. Anchor for swimming and water sports in spots that land-based tourists never reach.

Day 7: Disembark in Rhodes Final breakfast aboard before disembarking at Rhodes Marina, concluding an amazing week exploring the southern Dodecanese.

7-Day Kos Loop

Day 1: Kos Marina Board your yacht at Kos Marina, located within walking distance of the charming old town. Enjoy lunch aboard as your crew presents the week ahead, then take an afternoon dip before exploring Kos Town’s ancient ruins and waterfront cafés.

Day 2: Kalymnos A short sail brings you to Kalymnos, famous for world-class rock climbing and sponge-diving heritage. Visit the Sponge Diving Museum, swim in pristine bays, and watch climbers scale the dramatic limestone cliffs that have made this island a global adventure destination.

Day 3: Leros Cruise to Leros and anchor at Agia Marina. The island’s Art Deco architecture in Lakki is unique in Greece—a legacy of Italian occupation. Hike up to Platanos castle for panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding islands.

Day 4: Patmos Arrive at the sacred island of Patmos, where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation. Explore the whitewashed Chora, crowned by the fortified Monastery of St. John. This spiritual atmosphere creates a wonderful time for reflection and cultural immersion.

Day 5: Lipsi Sail to tiny Lipsi and swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. This laid-back island is perfect for families and those seeking tranquility. The local tavernas serve simply amazing fresh seafood caught that morning.

Day 6: Pserimos & Small Islets Spend the day exploring Pserimos and other smaller islets—genuine hidden gems with virtually no tourism infrastructure. Your yacht becomes your base for a true sailing adventure among islands few visitors ever see.

Day 7: Return to Kos Morning sail back to Kos Marina for disembarkation. The entire process is handled smoothly by your crew, leaving you with memories of an unforgettable experience.

Extended 10-14 Day Itineraries

For guests with longer holidays—especially in June, July, and September—FX Yachting recommends combining the northern and southern Dodecanese in one comprehensive voyage. A typical route might flow from Rhodes to Symi, Tilos, Nisyros, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, and finally Patmos, covering the full breadth of the archipelago’s diversity.

FX Yachting tailors every route to weather conditions (Meltemi strength varies throughout summer), group interests (history, gastronomy, hiking, water sports), and embarkation/disembarkation ports according to yacht schedule.

What’s Included on a FX Yachting Crewed Charter

Each yacht has its own specific inclusion list, but FX Yachting focuses on clear, transparent packages for inclusive crewed yacht charters in the Dodecanese. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Standard Onboard Inclusions:

• Professional crew (captain, hostess/chef, additional crew on larger vessels)
• Private cabins with ensuite bathrooms
• Daily housekeeping and turndown service
• Bed linen, towels, and beach towels
• Basic amenities and toiletries
• Air conditioning on most modern yachts
• Wi-Fi where available

Food & Beverage Approach:

• Customized menus based on your preference sheets submitted before boarding
• Breakfast and lunch served onboard daily (dinner arrangements vary by agreement)
• Emphasis on fresh Greek produce, locally caught seafood, regional wines and spirits
• Special dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice
• Your chef creates delicious meals tailored to your tastes

Water Toys & Equipment: Water sports and exploration are central to the crewed charter experience. Most Dodecanese yachts are well equipped with:

• Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs)
• Kayaks
• Snorkeling gear
• Inflatable towables
• Fishing gear where permitted
• Some larger yachts include seabobs, wakeboards, or small RIBs for towing—perfect for scuba diving excursions or exploring coastlines independently

Typical Additional Costs:

• Fuel (especially significant for motor yachts)
• Marina and port fees (Rhodes Mandraki, Kos, Patmos marinas average around €40/night for 40-foot vessels)
• Provisioning charges for food and beverages
• VAT according to Greek law
• Crew gratuity at guest discretion (typically 10-15% of charter fee)

Best Time to Charter & Practical Information

The Dodecanese enjoys some of the longest sunshine hours in Greece, with a sailing season stretching from late April through late October. However, choosing your dates strategically can enhance your entire experience.

Seasonal Considerations:

Embarkation Logistics:

• Primary starting ports: Rhodes Marina and Kos Marina (occasionally Patmos or nearby facilities depending on yacht positioning)
• Flight connections: Rhodes International Airport (RHO) and Kos Airport (KGS) receive direct European flights; connections via Athens are available for other origins
• Ferry links: Regular services from Piraeus (Athens) and connections between islands

Charter Duration: Standard charters run seven nights, typically Saturday-to-Saturday. Shoulder season dates (May and October) often offer flexibility for different start days or extended trips, subject to yacht availability.

Legal & Safety Considerations:

• Maximum passenger numbers are legally defined per yacht
• Passport and visa requirements apply for non-EU guests
• FX Yachting assists with all paperwork and Greek charter regulations, ensuring compliance for both clients and yacht owners

Why Book Your Dodecanese Crewed Yacht with FX Yachting

FX Yachting stands apart as a Greek-centered, owner-connected brokerage with deep operational experience across the Dodecanese and wider Greek islands. When you work with us, you gain a partner who understands these waters intimately.

Local Expertise:

• Team based in Greece with strong relationships with local captains, marinas, and suppliers
• Up-to-date knowledge on regulations, fuel stations, and less-known anchorages
• Ability to provide expertise on weather patterns, seasonal variations, and island-specific insights that only come from years of experience sailing these waters

Personalized Service:

• One-to-one support from initial inquiry through yacht selection and contract signing
• Pre-arrival concierge services including transfers, restaurant reservations in Rhodes, Kos, Symi, and beyond
• 24/7 assistance during your charter for complete peace of mind
• An excellent skipper matched to your group’s preferences and sailing style

B2B Services:

• Support for yacht owners needing Greek yacht management, fiscal representation, and compliance
• Tailor-made programs for travel advisors and event organizers
• Expertise in structuring repeat charter programs and corporate incentive trips

Finding the Perfect Yacht: With access to a diverse fleet of charter yachts, FX Yachting helps you find the perfect yacht for your chosen destination. Whether you prefer an own yacht experience aboard a luxury catamaran or the classic elegance of a sailing vessel, we match you with the ideal platform for your Dodecanese adventure.

The Dodecanese offers amazing destinations that rival the British Virgin Islands or Caribbean for natural beauty, while delivering a cultural richness those regions cannot match. From the Virgin Islands of the Caribbean to the Bahamas, experienced travelers often describe their Dodecanese voyage as their most memorable sailing experience—a journey of a lifetime through history, culture, and stunning seascapes.

Your Dodecanese luxury vacation begins with a simple conversation. Contact FX Yachting with your preferred dates, group size, and desired route. We’ll provide a tailored proposal with available yacht options, detailed itinerary suggestions, and transparent pricing. The best yachts for peak season book nine to twelve months ahead—start planning today to secure your unforgettable trip through these extraordinary Greek islands.

FAQ – Dodecanese Islands Crewed Yacht Charter

Can we combine the Dodecanese with the Cyclades or Turkey on one charter?

Yes, extended itineraries can incorporate multiple regions, though practical considerations apply. The Dodecanese lie between the Cyclades and the Turkish coast, making combination voyages feasible for charters of ten days or longer. Crossing to Turkey requires specific yacht licensing and customs formalities—vessels must be registered for international waters, and paperwork must be arranged in advance. FX Yachting regularly assists with multi-region planning, advising on distances, border procedures, and which yachts are permitted to cruise Greek and Turkish waters. Allow at least two weeks for a comfortable Greece-Turkey combination that doesn’t feel rushed.

Is a crewed yacht charter in the Dodecanese suitable for children and multi-generation families?

Absolutely. The Dodecanese offers ideal conditions for family charters with calm, sheltered bays, short sailing legs between islands like Kos, Kalymnos, and Leros, and activities suitable for all ages. A great crew adapts daily schedules around children’s needs—flexible meal times, early anchoring for swim breaks, and gentle pacing. Safety measures include child-sized life jackets, netted railings on catamarans, and experienced crew members skilled at supervising water activities. Families consistently report a wonderful time discovering islands together at their own pace, free from the logistics of hotel-hopping with luggage.

How far in advance should we book a crewed yacht in the Dodecanese?

For peak July and August weeks, booking nine to twelve months ahead is essential to secure the best yachts and preferred embarkation ports. Premium catamarans and motor yachts are particularly popular with families during European school holidays and can be fully reserved by early winter. Shoulder season dates—May, June, September, and October—offer more flexibility, with quality options sometimes available just four to six weeks out. Last-minute opportunities do arise when bookings cancel, but selection is limited. Early booking ensures you get the class service and specific yacht that matches your vision.

Can FX Yachting organize special events onboard, such as honeymoons or small corporate retreats?

Certainly. Beyond standard charters, FX Yachting specializes in bespoke event planning that transforms your voyage into a celebration or productive getaway. For honeymoons, we arrange romantic touches—cabin decorations, champagne, private beach picnics, and sunset dinner locations. Corporate retreats benefit from curated onshore experiences like winery visits on Rhodes, private museum tours on Patmos, or team-building unique activities such as cooking classes with local chefs. We coordinate photographers, special provisioning, and shore excursions that make your charter a dream yacht experience tailored precisely to the occasion.

What’s the difference between a bareboat and a crewed charter in the Dodecanese?

A bareboat charter means you captain and manage the boat yourself—suitable only for experienced sailors with proper certifications. A crewed charter includes a professional captain and crew who handle all navigation, sailing, meal preparation, and yacht maintenance, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the journey. Most guests seeking a luxury yacht charter in the Dodecanese choose fully crewed options for the top notch service, local expertise, and complete freedom from responsibilities. FX Yachting focuses primarily on crewed charters, ensuring every aspect of your week delivers the luxury and fun you deserve.