BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide
Renting a boat in Rhodes and Kos: the Dodecanese and the meltemi
Rhodes, Kos, the closeness of Turkey, and the meltemi wind: the guide to renting a boat in the Greek Dodecanese in summer.
At the south-eastern edge of the Aegean, the Dodecanese forms a chain of islands far closer to the Turkish coast than to Athens — a geography that reshapes the sailing.
Rhodes, the island-monument
Rhodes' UNESCO-listed old town serves as a starting point toward Lindos and its coves, or toward Symi, a neighbouring islet known for clear water and amphitheatre-stacked coloured houses.
Kos, more family-friendly
Kos offers more sheltered waters and a flat island, easy to circle in a day — a good choice for a first catamaran or RIB outing with children.
The meltemi, the wind you cannot ignore
In July-August the meltemi blows from the north across the whole Aegean, often strongest around midday before easing in late afternoon. It shapes local habits: sailing starts early, anchorages sheltered from the north are chosen, and the day's plan keeps a margin. Our Mediterranean winds guide covers this phenomenon.
So close to Turkey
The Turkish coast (Bodrum, Marmaris) is visible from several Dodecanese islands, just a few miles away — an extra change of scenery, though international crossings involve specific formalities to check with the operator.
Budget
Count on €300-700/day for a sailboat, €800-1,500/day for a catamaran in high season. Compare offers in Rhodes and Kos, and check our Mediterranean winds guide before leaving.