Sailing in Kos
Welcome to the enchanting world of sailing in Kos, where azure waters, gentle breezes, and the promise of adventure await. If you're dreaming of a sun-soaked holiday with the freedom to explore hidden coves, idyllic beaches, and ancient ruins, then look no further. Kos, a Greek gem in the Dodecanese, is a sailor's paradise. And the best way to unlock its treasures? A boat rental in Kos. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a novice, the opportunities for discovery are boundless. Join us as we navigate the pristine waters around this captivating island and uncover the secrets of sailing in Kos.
Things to do and see when sailing in Kos
As your yacht gracefully navigates the crystal-clear waters surrounding Kos, get ready to uncover the island's hidden gems and delightful activities. Whether you're seeking a dose of history, adventures by the sea, or a taste of local culture, Kos has something special in store for every traveler. Let's dive into the must-see attractions and experiences that await you on this captivating island.
Activities in Kos
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Ancient Agora: Begin your journey with a visit to the ancient Agora of Kos, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the island's rich history. Explore the well-preserved ruins of temples, altars, and stoas dating back to the 4th century BC.
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Kos Town: Spend time in the charming Kos Town, where you can stroll along its narrow streets lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Don't miss the impressive Nerantzia Castle, a medieval fortress that provides panoramic views of the town and sea.
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Thermal Springs of Embros: For a unique experience, anchor near the volcanic island of Nisyros and take a day trip to the Thermal Springs of Embros. These natural hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties, allowing you to relax in warm, mineral-rich waters.
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Beautiful Beaches: Kos boasts numerous beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. Among the highlights are Agios Fokas Beach, and Marmari Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy various water sports.
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Asklepion: Explore the Asklepion, an ancient healing center dedicated to the god of health, Asklepios. The site features well-preserved ruins, including the famous Doric Temple and a sacred spring.
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Zia Village: Visit Zia, a picturesque mountain village known for its stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea. It's an ideal spot to savor traditional Greek cuisine at local tavernas.
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Island Hopping: Take advantage of your sailing adventure to explore nearby islands like Kalymnos, Leros, and Patmos, each offering its own unique charm, historical sites, and pristine beaches.
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Water Sports: Engage in various water activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. The crystal-clear waters make it an ideal playground for aquatic adventures.
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Local Cuisine: Indulge in the local culinary delights of Kos. Sample fresh seafood, Greek salads, souvlaki, and delicious desserts like baklava and loukoumades at waterfront restaurants.
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Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise aboard your sailboat in Kos, where you can witness breathtaking sunsets painting the skies in a vivid palette of colors.
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A yacht charter in Kos will make all your vacation dreams come true. Sail aboard a beautiful yacht and discover the stunning coastline while sunbathing on deck and splurging on fantastic Greek food
Beaches in Kos
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Agios Fokas Beach: Nestled along the southern coast of Kos in proximity to the town of Kos itself, boasts distinctive features that set it apart. Its shoreline, adorned with pebbles, leads to waters renowned for their remarkable clarity. In contrast to the island's bustling beaches, Agios Fokas offers a more serene and less crowded atmosphere. Snorkeling enthusiasts particularly favor this beach, thanks to the intriguing underwater landscapes formed by rocky structures and a vibrant array of marine creatures. Several tavernas are conveniently located nearby for those seeking sustenance or a revitalizing beverage, providing an opportunity to savor a delightful meal or quench your thirst amidst the beach's tranquil ambiance.
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Paralia Marmari: Particularly popular with water sport enthusiasts and surfers due to its favourable wind conditions, this part of the island of Kos is a great spot to seize the day and surf some fun waves
Restaurants in Kos
Casual dining in Kos:
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Smiley's: Excellent food at an affordable price. Enjoy very tasty traditional Greek chicken dishes and savour an espresso as dessert
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Alibaba Beach Bar: Healthy, tasty, friendly - these are the exact words you can use to describe this wonderful casual eatery
Best restaurants with a view in Kos:
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Lofaki Bar Restaurant: You get to enjoy a delicious meal for lunch or dinner, but the best time to come here is when the sun is setting
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Agkyra Fish Restaurant in Kos Town: You literally can’t get closer to the water than this. Enjoy a delicious dinner with a view in Kos
Fine dining in Kos:
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Cuvee Restaurant: The luxury interior combined with the amazing view and delicious food make for a wonderful fine dining experience in Kos
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Ouzo: Another fantastic spot to enjoy an exquisite dinner with a view is this wonderful restaurant. The BBQ lunch is also very popular amongst guests
Bars and Clubs in Kos
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Memories Bar: Located in the Northern part of the island this fabulous bar is a great spot to relax and enjoy the night
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Atheneon Bar: Located in the Southern part of Kos in the beautiful town of Kardamena, this spot is the perfect place to relax after a long day out on a boat
Explore historical Kos
Discovering the historical riches of Kos is like stepping back in time. This Greek island boasts a captivating blend of ancient and medieval history, where past and present coexist harmoniously. As you stroll through the charming streets of Kos Town, you'll encounter well-preserved ancient ruins like the Roman Odeon and the imposing Nerantzia Castle. The captivating Agora, once a bustling marketplace in antiquity, still echoes with whispers of ancient trade. From archaeological wonders to medieval marvels, the historical tapestry of Kos awaits your exploration, making it an unforgettable part of your sailing adventure in Greece.
Sailing conditions in Kos
Sailing around Kos offers an enticing combination of ideal weather conditions and picturesque coastlines. The island benefits from a classic Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. During the prime sailing months, which extend from late spring to early autumn, Kos welcomes the consistent Meltemi winds. These reliable northwesterly winds typically range from 15 to 25 knots, ensuring excellent sailing opportunities for both intermediate and more seasoned sailors. The sea remains relatively tranquil, with waves averaging around 1 to 2 meters, ensuring a comfortable and pleasurable sailing experience. Nonetheless, it's prudent to stay informed about weather forecasts and local conditions, particularly during the transitional periods of May and October. The wind speeds tend to pick up during these periods. For an optimal sailing adventure amidst the stunning waters surrounding Kos, late spring or early autumn is the preferred timeframe to embark on your voyage.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Kos?
A speedboat rental in Kos for a day is available for 300-400 EUR, but any boats that are available for a week or more require a bigger budget. You can rent a catamaran in Kos starting at 10.000 EUR per week while other catamarans and motorboats are more expensive. A gulet rental in Kos might cost you as much as 55.000 EUR per week.
What type of boat is best for sailing in Kos?
It all depends on the type of boat vacation you would like to experience in Kos and what kind of experiences you would like to have. Rent a sailboat in Kos for a real adventure or a boat with two hulls for a more relaxed vacation in the Greek islands.
Motorboat charter in Kos
Pros of renting a motorboat in Kos
A motorboat charter in Kos is ideal for those travelling in comfort and style. You have plenty of room on board and on deck, and don’t have to worry about taking up too much space when travelling with others.
Another great thing about a motorboat rental in Kos is the fact that motorboats are a lot faster than other types of boats, making them the perfect water vehicles to explore stunning coastlines and race across the turquoise waters to see everything you want to see.
Cons of renting a motorboat in Kos
If you want to rent a motorboat in Kos to explore the islands and its surroundings, you should also be aware of some cons coming with that. Motorboats are not the cheapest boats to charter in Greece and you will have to pay extra for the fuel you’re using on your trip, making them not particularly budget-friendly.
Rent a motorboat in Kos
Catamaran rental in Kos
Pros of renting a catamaran in Kos
A catamaran charter in Kos is a great choice for anyone wanting to explore the Greek Islands in style. You have plenty of space on deck, the bedrooms feel like lovely hotel rooms on water, and due to the two hulls a catamaran stands on, there is plenty of room to host a nice-sized group of people. The two hulls support the catamaran so much that it feels less shaky on board - even when the wind and waves pick up a little.
Another great thing about a catamaran rental in Kos is the fact that catamarans come equipped with both a sail and an engine. This makes them very versatile and you can easily react to the changing weather conditions. When the winds are not blowing strong enough, you can always revert to using the engine.
Cons of renting a catamaran in Kos
Something important to keep in mind when chartering a catamaran in Kos is the fact that they are relatively big and with the two hulls, not the easiest to navigate - especially in narrow spaces. You might want to practice your skills before hopping on a catamaran in Greece.
Catamaran charter in Kos
Rent a sailboat in Kos
Pros of renting a sailboat in Kos
A sailboat charter in Kos is a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the islands while enjoying a journey filled with freedom and adventure. You solely sail with the power of the wind and have to fully immerse yourself in Mother Nature.
This makes a sailboat rental in Kos a lot more environmentally friendly than other types of boat holidays. As you harness the power of the wind, you don’t produce any additional CO2-emissions. As you don’t have to worry about leaving the marinas with a full tank, you’re saving on fuel and therefore also a lot of money. Perfect for those travelling on a budget!
Cons of renting a sailboat in Kos
One of the downsides of a sailboat hire in Kos is the fact that you need some skills to sail a sailboat in the Greek Islands. It is not the easiest terrain to get around and sailing a sailboat means that simply pressing a button is not enough to get around.
Sailboat rental in Kos
What kind of boat licence do you need when renting a boat in Kos?
Anyone who wants to charter a yacht in Kos needs to be in possession of a valid boat licence. There are plenty of licences accepted, including the ICC, ASA and RYA. However, you don’t need to carry a VHF radio licence.
Sailing routes in Kos
Day 1 - Sail from Kos Town to Kardamena: Begin your sailing adventure in the charming port of Kos Town, where you can spend the morning exploring historical sites like the Castle of the Knights and the Ancient Agora. After a leisurely lunch in one of the town's many eateries, set sail to the south towards Kardamena. This lively seaside village is known for its vibrant nightlife, making it a great place to unwind after your first day at sea. Kardamena also boasts a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation.
Day 2 - Sail from Kardamena to Nisyros: On the second day, embark on a journey to the volcanic island of Nisyros. As you approach, you'll be greeted by the picturesque town of Mandraki, which beckons exploration. Here, you can stroll through narrow streets, visit charming shops, and experience local culture. Don't miss a trip to Nikia Village, located on the volcanic caldera rim, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the active volcano. In the afternoon, unwind on Lies Beach, a unique volcanic black sand beach that's ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Day 3 - Sail from Nisyros to Tilos: Sail further south to the tranquil island of Tilos, known for its unspoiled beauty. Discover the charming village of Megalo Chorio, where you can wander through narrow alleys, visit traditional tavernas, and explore the monastery of Agios Panteleimonas. For a relaxing afternoon, drop anchor at Eristos Beach, a serene and beautiful spot that invites you to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings.
Day 4 - Sail from Tilos to Symi: Today, your journey takes you to the picturesque island of Symi. As you approach Gialos, the island's main harbor, you'll be captivated by its colorful neoclassical architecture, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop. Spend your day exploring the charming town, shopping for local crafts, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Don't forget to visit the Panormitis Monastery, a significant religious site on the island. When it's time for some beach relaxation, Nimborio Beach offers a pristine pebble beach with incredibly clear waters.
Day 5 - Sail from Symi to Rhodes: Set sail for Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Rhodes is famous for its medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination. Spend your day exploring the labyrinthine streets, visiting historic sites like the Palace of the Grand Master, and discovering hidden gems within the city walls. In the afternoon, unwind on Elli Beach, a popular sandy beach located near Rhodes Town, where you can soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the sea.
Day 6 - Sail from Rhodes to Pserimos: Today's destination is the small and remote island of Pserimos. Known for its tranquility and simplicity, Pserimos offers an ideal escape from the busier tourist spots. Enjoy a leisurely day on this peaceful island, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring its pristine landscapes. The main beach is a charming spot to drop anchor and savor the unspoiled beauty of Pserimos.
Day 7 - Sail from Pserimos to Kos Town: As your sailing journey comes full circle, sail back to the starting point, Kos Town. Use this final day to revisit any sights or attractions you may have missed during your initial exploration of the town. Consider a visit to Lambi Beach, a lovely stretch of coastline not far from the town center, to relax, swim, and soak in the Mediterranean sun. Wrap up your memorable sailing adventure with a delightful meal at one of the seaside restaurants in Kos Town, savoring the flavors of Greek cuisine while reflecting on your week of exploration and relaxation at sea.