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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.

By Clément Lacaille, editor of Boat-Comparator · updated 7 Aug 2026

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.

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