Focus on: Dodecanese Flotilla
As we approach the summer season, we’ve been trying to keep you abreast of what’s new and exciting across our flotillas.
We have previously visited the Dalmatian Islands, The Lefkas Flotilla, The Sporades & The French Riviera.
So this week, we take a virtual trip to Kos and the Dodecanese Islands.
What we've kept
The Dodecanese has been a favourite sailing area of ours for quite a few years now as it allows us to run a flotilla with a bit more “real sailing” as well as all the usual Greek favourites.
We very much see this flotilla as the one to which you graduate after cutting your teeth in The Ionian. We fly to Kos, which is a great holiday destination in itself before you even consider it as a gorgeous sailing spot.
What we've improved
We get it, family or group holidays are a bit of a compromise operation and not everyone is a sailor… So, we’ve really raised our game when it comes to on-land excursions, trips and activities that don’t involve sailing!
Without wishing to sound too Brexit-y on today of all days, but these land-based activities should help you build a consensus around your European adventure!
A proper Sail & Stay: Kefalos Beach Club
We’ve teamed up with Kefalos Beach Club to give you a proper option to extend your stay in the Dodecanese after a week on flotilla. Kefalos Beach Club offers state of the art windsurfing in idyllic conditions as well as SUP’s kayaks and a small selection of dinghies.
Nysiros:
The Volcanic Island & Stefanos Crater
Take a trip to Stefanos Crater and the Volcanological museum in the village of Nikia on the volcanic island of Nysiros. While there hasn’t been an eruption since the 1880s. You can see the steam puffs and hear a crackle as you walk across the surface. Best leave the flip-flops on the boat!
Symi:
A hike to the Kali Strata
Known as the island of colours, we suggest taking the 500-step meandering walk to the top where you will get a spectacular view of the island and the harbour. We recommend heading to the chapel of The Virgin Mary of the Castle, the highest point with the best views.
Leros:
Castles & Scuba Diving
A visit to the Byzantine castle of Panteli will reward you with spectacular views of the Aegean.
For the divers amongst you, Leros is noted for its numerous wrecks, ships and aircraft from the 1943 battle for Leros. We can organise a wreck dive with our excellent local scuba diving partner.
In addition to all those options, we can point you in the right direction for your ‘free sailing’ days. In particular, we suggest you venture to the stunning island of Patmos and the monastery of St John the divine where he is reputed to have lived and written the book of revelation.
For anyone looking for an active day trip, we recommend a rock climbing trip on the island of Kalymnos which is very exciting. For those not looking to work up a sweat, why not take a trip to the local museum which looks into the island’s history of sponge divers.
Kos:
The Island of Hippocrates & Ruins of Asclepieion
Our start and finish point of Kos is of course famous as the island of Hippocrates the ancient Greek father of modern medicine. The extensive ruins of the Asklepieion are fascinating for all, but especially those from the medical profession. There is also an interesting museum on the site and our lead crew will organise a visit for all those interested.
With great sailing winds, an excellent fleet and so much to see and do, we think we’ve got a great balance here for keen sailors as well as culture vultures.
To find out about all this and much more, just give us a ring.
See you there!
