The Dodecanese are part of Greece, but most of these islands are just a short distance from the southwestern coast of Turkey, notably Kos and Rhodes, being only two of them. The west coast of Asia is a hundred miles from these scattered islands, where the lands fought by the Crusaders and Ottomans for centuries you will see.
You can easily find traces of travelers in the region, from Romans and ancient Greeks to medieval knights, and the rich heritage also hints at Byzantine and more recent Italian occupation. It is as if the Dodecanese Islands have not changed since the times of Odysseus and you feel yourself in the history of ancient Greece.
The Dodecanese is the name given to the group of 12 islands from Patmos down to Rhodes. The largest of these islands is Rhodes, also a focal point historically. It was first combined as an archipelago in the Middle Ages when the Hospitallers had their headquarters on Rhodes. But also many testimonies from antiquity can be found on these islands. The extremely favorable climate and the infrastructure, which was promoted by the Italians early on, have contributed to the fact that some of these islands were able to develop into tourist centers early on.
You can explore some of the most beautiful and unspoilt archipelagos and smaller ones from your luxury yacht. With limestone cliffs you can climb, beautiful mansions, and Symi an awe-inspiring picturesque harbor and countless beaches and historical sites, Kalymnos truly has something for every taste. Nisyros is something a little different - it's built on an active volcano with aptly dramatic views best seen from the sea. Leros and Tilos are small and charming, and historic Patmos, St. This is where John wrote the Book of Revelation.
Choose from many route options
It is an ideal place for gulet cruise guests to have a good time and see touristic places. There are many things to do in and around Dodecaneses.
When you decide to rent a boat in Dodecanese you have many alternatives. Cos and Rhodes are the most popular departure destinations. You can either cruise the North or South Dodecanese islands. North cruise with visiting the islands Kos – Kalymnos - Leros – Patmos or the South islands with Rhodes – Symi – Nisyros – Tilos – Halki.
Rhodes
- 30 minutes from Rhodes airport ( RHO )
Cos
- 30 minutes from Cos airport ( KGS )
Note:
The easiest and most frequent way to travel between Greece and Turkey is on a ferry from a Greek island to the Turkish coasts. Some Eastern Aegean and Dodecanese islands are less than an hour ferry ride from the Turkish coasts, which results very convenient for a daily excursion or quick transfer between the two countries.
