Sailing from Rhodes town

Is from Rhodes town good for sailing? Discover everything you need to know about sailing from Rhodes Town, including itineraries, ports, yacht rental options, and more. As the capital of the island, Rhodes is not only a hub of history and culture but also the top departure point for sailing enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Dodecanese, this vibrant city offers sailors a unique gateway to explore the hidden treasures of the Aegean Sea. Embarking on a journey to nearby islands guarantees stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, steady winds, and unforgettable cultural experiences. We’re here to guide you!
Here’s what the article will cover:

• When is the best time for sailing from Rhodes?
• Why is from Rhodes town good for sailing?
• Departure and arrival information
• Where can you sail to from Rhodes? – ports and islands
• Sailing from Rhodes town – itineraries

When is the best time for sailing from Rhodes?

Rhodes boasts ideal weather conditions for sailing, with calm, sheltered waters, low waves, minimal tidal changes, and weak currents that make route planning and safe anchoring easy. The prime sailing season runs from late April to October, when warm weather and steady winds create perfect conditions for navigating the seas. July and August are the peak months, offering the hottest temperatures and the most consistent winds, attracting the largest number of sailors.
During the summer, the prevailing wind in Rhodes is the Meltemi, a steady northwesterly wind that blows continuously from June to September. Wind speeds typically range from 15 to 25 knots, creating moderate waves, particularly in open waters. However, during July and August, winds can occasionally reach higher speeds. In addition to the Meltemi, local sea breezes often develop along the coast. These lighter winds are common in the mornings and evenings, providing milder sailing conditions. During the summer months, temperatures in Rhodes range from 25°C to 35°C, while the sea temperature stays between 23°C and 27°C, offering a comfortable climate for sailing.

Summer is the dry season in Rhodes, with little or no rainfall, ensuring clear skies and undisturbed sailing. Most of the precipitation on the island falls in the winter months. Visibility on the water is typically excellent, with clear skies and low humidity. This allows for easy navigation and beautiful views of the coast.

Why is from Rhodes town good for sailing?

• The city of Rhodes is the capital of the largest island of the Dodecanese, making it an ideal starting point for exploring this fascinating archipelago.
• Located near the Turkish coast, it allows you to easily include the Turkish Riviera in your sailing itinerary. You can explore the island’s rich historical heritage influenced by Greek, Ottoman and Italian culture.
• From May to October, the wind is generally steady and fairly strong, providing excellent sailing conditions.
• The city of Rhodes has a number of well-equipped ports that provide all necessary facilities and services for sailors.
• The nearby islands, including Symi, Kos, and Tilos, are easily accessible, making them ideal for both short and extended sailing trips. From Rhodes, the Aegean Sea, as well as the eastern Mediterranean, are within reach, offering endless exploration opportunities.
• The main season for sailing is from May to October, but the mild Mediterranean climate allows for sailing almost all year round.
• Rhodes hosts numerous cultural festivals and events year-round, enriching your experience with vibrant local traditions. The city’s taverns and restaurants serve authentic Mediterranean cuisine, adding a delightful culinary touch to your sailing adventure.

Departure and arrival information to Rhodes

The easiest way to reach Rhodes is by flying into Rhodes International Airport, which is serviced by numerous major cities in Greece and direct flights from various European destinations. For international travelers, Athens International Airport (ATH) offers a convenient entry point, with frequent domestic flights connecting to Rhodes. The city is located about 14 kilometers from the airport, ensuring a quick and easy transfer upon arrival.

Where can you sail to from Rhodes? – ports and islands

Mandraki Port, Rhodes

Mandraki is the historic port of Rhodes, once home to the legendary Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only the pedestal remains today, the port still carries a rich sense of history. At the end of the pier stands Fort Nicholas, built by the Knights Templar, and along the shore, you’ll find three 16th-century windmills. Mandraki’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by its array of shops, taverns, and bars, making it a vibrant hub. Since it’s a busy port with shallow waters, it primarily accommodates smaller yachts, so it’s recommended to book in advance and verify depth requirements. For those seeking to anchor, the nearby new port is more suitable, though Mandraki’s historical significance is well worth a visit.

New Marina of Rhodes

The ‘new’ port of Rhodes was built with modern tourism in mind, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology. It includes a yacht repair garage, a dry dock, and is the only port in Greece capable of accommodating yachts up to 120 meters in length. With around 400 berths, the port offers electricity, fresh water, and wastewater disposal at every mooring point. Additionally, the complex is equipped with conveniences such as car rental services, hotels, restaurants, bars, as well as laundry services and medical facilities.

The commercial port of Rhodes (Kolona port)

It is close to the port of Mandraki, close to the medieval old town. As the main commercial and passenger port of Rhodes, it serves large ferries, cargo ships and some cruise ships. .

Port of Akandia

It is located a little further east of the Commercial Port. Akandia is the newest and largest port facility in Rhodes. It mainly serves larger cruise ships and ferries when the main commercial port is full. It is also used as an emergency docking station.

Chalki island

The Island can be found 10 kilometres from the southern shore of Rhodes. Chalki, the island’s only town, has a port. The natural bay can welcome yachts up to 25 meters. Besides, the beaches of the island are fairly cosy. Its main sight is the old village, Chorio, which has been unpopulated since the 16th century. You can take a pleasant stroll among the houses on the mountainside.

Sailing from Rhodes town- itineraries

Day 1. Rhodes – Ano Symi 45.66 km (28.37 nm), Day 2. Ano Symi – Mandraki 72.02 km (44.75 nm), Day 3. Mandraki – Livadia (Tilos Island)36.33 km (22.57 nm) , Day 4. Livadia – Chalki (Chalki island) 34.47 km (21.42 nm) Day 5. Chalki – Lindos 83.93 km (52.15 nm), Day 6. Lindos – Antony Quinn Beach 28.24 km (17.55 nm) Day 7. Antony Quinn Beach – Faliraki – Rhodes 17.14 km (10.65 nm).

Sailing from Rhodes to Kos itinerary

1. day: Rhodes – Symi

43 km (27 nm), sailing time: 3-4 hours
Head to Symi, a picturesque island known for its colorful harbor and neoclassical architecture. Explore the charming town of Symi, visit the Panormitis Monastery, relax on the beaches of Emporios Bay, enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna.

2. day: Symi – Aries

77 km (48 nm), sailing time: 6-7 hours
The city of Kos offers many historical attractions and programs. Here are a few: Visit Kos Castle (Neratzia Castle), a well-preserved medieval fortress with a stunning view of the harbor. Walk to the Ancient Agora, or the Tree of Hippocrates, where, according to legend, Hippocrates taught his students. You should see the ancient healing temple dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine, the Roman Odeon, the ancient Roman theater, and the Casa Romana, a restored Roman villa with beautiful mosaics.

3. day: Aries – Nisyros (Mandraki)

42 km (26 nm), sailing time: 4-5 hours
Your next destination is the volcanic island of Nisyros, which has a unique landscape and impressive geological features. Visit the crater of the active volcano Stefanos, discover the village of Mandraki, relax in the thermal springs of Pali, enjoy the local cuisine.

4. day: Nisyros (Mandraki) – Tilos (Livadia)

35 km (22 nm), sailing time: 3-4 hours
Sail to the peaceful island of Tilos, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, historic sites and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the medieval castle and the Museum of Paleontology, relax on the beaches of Eristos and Plaka, hike along the scenic trails.

5. day: Tilos (Livadia) – Chalki (Nimborio)

34 km (21 nm), sailing time: 3-3.5 hours
Sail to Chalki, a small and charming island. Explore the port town of Nimborio, hike to the deserted village of Chorio, swim and sunbathe on the beaches of Pontamos and Ftenagia.

6. day: Chalki (Nimborio) – Panormitis (Symi)

43 km (27 nm), sailing time: 4-5 hours
Head to the island of Symi again, but now stop in Panormitis. Panormitis Archangel Michael Monastery is the main attraction in Panormitis. The monastery dedicated to the Archangel Michael is an important religious place in Greece. There are many trails around Panormitis that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. You can hike through olive groves, pine forests and along the coast.

7. day: Panormitis – Rhodes city

42 km (26 nm), sailing time: 4-5 hours
Sail back to Rhodes town and explore the city.

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