Kos, a gem in the Dodecanese archipelago, is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ideal sailing conditions. Nestled in the southeastern Aegean Sea, Kos offers an unmatched yacht charter experience with access to tranquil bays, ancient ruins, and vibrant towns. Whether you’re an avid sailor or a first-time explorer, Kos combines stunning landscapes with rich historical treasures, making it a top destination for yacht charters.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Prime Sailing Destination: Kos is a top yacht charter destination with access to the Dodecanese islands and nearby Turkish coastlines, making it perfect for exploring the Aegean Sea.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: The island is home to historical landmarks like the Asklepion and Kos Castle, offering charterers a mix of history, nature, and vibrant coastal towns.
- Ideal Sailing Conditions: Best visited between June and September, Kos provides warm Mediterranean weather, with calm seas and plenty of beautiful beaches to explore.
Why Kos is Perfect for Yacht Charters
1. Strategic Location in the Dodecanese
- Kos is situated at the center of the Dodecanese islands, making it an ideal starting point to explore nearby islands such as Kalymnos, Nisyros, and Symi.
- Its proximity to Turkey allows for short sailing trips to Bodrum, adding another layer of cultural discovery.
2. Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
- Kos is home to significant historical landmarks such as the Asklepion, an ancient healing temple dedicated to the god Asclepius.
- The island’s capital, Kos Town, boasts a Medieval Castle, Roman mosaics, and Hippocrates’ Plane Tree, a tribute to the famous father of medicine who was born on the island.
3. Diverse Natural Landscapes
- From sandy beaches to volcanic mountains, Kos offers a varied landscape perfect for exploring by yacht.
- Sailors can enjoy pristine bays with crystal-clear waters such as Paradise Beach, Tigaki Beach, and the remote coves of Kefalos.
| Category | Details |
| Location | Kos, second-largest island in the Dodecanese, southeastern Aegean Sea, close to Turkey. |
| Capital | Kos Town, known for the Kos Castle (Neratzia) and the Asklepion. |
| Main Attractions | Asklepion, Kos Castle, Hippocrates’ Plane Tree, Roman Odeon, and numerous ancient ruins. |
| Best Beaches | Paradise Beach, Tigaki Beach, Mastichari Beach, Therma Beach (with hot springs). |
| Climate | Mediterranean, hot summers (June-Sept); temperatures range from 28°C to 35°C. Mild winters. |
| Yacht Routes | Popular routes to Kalymnos, Nisyros, and the Turkish coast (Bodrum). |
| Yacht Charter Types | Bareboat, skippered, and crewed yachts available, with prices starting from €1,200 per week. |
| Best Time to Sail | June to September offers warm, calm sailing conditions with little rain. |
| Cultural Sites | Asklepion, Kos Castle, Roman Mosaics, and Hippocrates’ Plane Tree. |
Best Yacht Charter Routes from Kos
1. Kos to Kalymnos
- Distance: Approximately 12 nautical miles.
- Highlights: Kalymnos, known for its sponge diving history, offers picturesque harbors and excellent rock climbing opportunities.
- Sailing Conditions: Moderate winds make this a perfect day trip for all levels of sailors.
2. Kos to Nisyros
- Distance: 21 nautical miles.
- Highlights: Nisyros is home to an active volcano, where visitors can walk inside the crater. The volcanic landscape combined with quaint villages makes it a unique stop.
- Sailing Conditions: Calm seas and gentle winds during summer months make this route ideal for a relaxing sail.
3. Kos Coastal Route
- Explore Kos’ east coast, stopping at Mastichari Beach, Kardamena, and Therma Beach, famous for its hot springs.
- Enjoy watersports, dining at seaside tavernas, and swimming in the clear blue waters.
Alternatively you can read our yacht charter Rhodes guide.
Best Time to Charter a Yacht in Kos
1. Peak Season: June to September
- Kos enjoys warm Mediterranean weather with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F) during the summer months, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sailing.
2. Shoulder Season: May and October
- Temperatures during the shoulder season range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), offering milder weather and fewer crowds, making it perfect for those looking for a quieter sailing experience.
3. Off-Season: November to April
- Kos experiences cooler weather and higher chances of rain, but it’s a great time to explore the island’s cultural attractions and enjoy its natural beauty away from the crowds.
Types of Yacht Charters in Kos
1. Bareboat Charters
- For experienced sailors, bareboat charters provide the freedom to navigate at your own pace. Explore nearby islands like Kalymnos, Leros, and even the Turkish coastline.
2. Skippered Charters
- A skippered yacht charter is ideal for those with little sailing experience but who want to enjoy the adventure of yachting. A professional skipper will guide you to the best spots around Kos.
3. Crewed Yacht Charters
- For a luxurious experience, crewed charters offer a full team on board, taking care of navigation, meals, and all aspects of your journey. It’s perfect for families and groups seeking a stress-free holiday.
Top Attractions to Visit During Your Yacht Charter in Kos
1. Asklepion
- One of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the Asklepion is an ancient medical center where Hippocrates once taught. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.
2. Kos Castle (Neratzia Castle)
- Built by the Knights of St. John, this medieval castle offers stunning views of Kos Town and the surrounding coastline. It’s a perfect stop during your sailing adventure.
3. Paradise Beach
- Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Paradise Beach is one of the most popular spots on the island. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the shallow waters make it great for families.
4. Therma Beach
- Therma Beach offers a unique experience with its natural hot springs. After a day of sailing, relax in these therapeutic waters surrounded by rugged landscapes.
Discover the Beauty of Kos by Yacht
Kos offers an unparalleled blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a top destination for yacht charters in Greece. From its ancient ruins and vibrant towns to its pristine beaches and calm seas, Kos promises an unforgettable experience for sailors of all levels. Whether you’re exploring the nearby islands of the Dodecanese or sailing along the Turkish coast, a yacht charter in Kos provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Start planning your yacht charter in Kos today and embark on a journey that combines the best of Greek culture, sun, and sea.
FAQs: Yacht Charter in Kos
The best time to charter a yacht in Kos is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the seas are calm.
Prices for bareboat charters start around €1,200 to €1,800 per week, depending on the season and the type of boat. Crewed yachts are priced higher, depending on the luxury level.
Yes, a valid sailing license is required for bareboat charters. If you don’t have one, you can opt for a skippered or crewed charter.
Yes, many yacht charters offer routes to Bodrum and other Turkish destinations, making it an ideal cross-border sailing trip. Ensure you check visa requirements beforehand.
Paradise Beach, Tigaki Beach, and Mastichari Beach are among the top beaches to visit by yacht, offering pristine waters and great facilities.
Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and visiting historical landmarks like the Asklepion and Kos Castle.
