Why go there?
Sail to Patmos to explore the majestic, fortress-like Monastery of Saint John and the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse overlooking the whitewashed lanes of Chora. Anchor in the turquoise lagoons of Lipsi and the pristine, uninhabited islets of Arkoi and Marathi, where clear waters invite world-class snorkeling and swim stops. Experience the deep natural harbor of Lakki on Leros with its striking Italian Art Deco architecture, or drop anchor at Agathonisi for an authentic taste of traditional, unhurried island life.
Your Charter may coincide with these events:
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Feast of Saint John the Theologian (Patmos - May 8th & September 26th): Major religious festivals held in Chora, bringing liturgical processions, traditional music, and island gatherings.
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Lipsi Wine Festival (Late August): An annual summer celebration featuring local wine tastings, traditional Aegean folk music, and dancing in the village square.
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Patmos International Film & Sacred Music Festivals (July/August): High-profile cultural events bringing open-air recitals and cinema screenings to historic courtyards across Chora.
How to get there?
The North Dodecanese islands do not have international airports, preserving their quiet charm:
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Via Leros Airport (LRS): Connects via domestic flights from Athens National Airport (ATH).
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Via Kos International Airport (KGS): Fly into Kos, then board a high-speed catamaran or hydrofoil northbound to Leros, Patmos, or Lipsi (1 to 2 hours).
Approaching by yacht
Approaching these northern islands offers forgiving coastal navigation with abundant natural shelter. While the Meltemi blows strong through open passages, the cluster of islets around Lipsi, Arkoi, and the deep bays of Leros provide exceptional lee options and calm anchorages. Tying stern-lines to rocks or trees in narrow coves is common practice.
Marina facilities
The region provides a mix of full-service marina quays and traditional harbor moorings:
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Lakki Marina & Artemis Marina (Leros):
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Services: Full-service marina facilities offering fuel, electricity pedestals, fresh water, repairs, and excellent provisioning.
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Capacity: Deep, highly sheltered natural harbor accommodating yachts of all sizes year-round.
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Skala Port (Patmos):
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Services: Quayside berths with water, electricity, fuel delivery, and busy waterfront tavernas.
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Capacity: Extremely popular in high season; arriving early in the afternoon is recommended to secure a quay spot.
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Lipsi Town Harbor:
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Services: Charming town quay with water and power pedestals, excellent seafood tavernas, and basic provisioning.
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Capacity: Compact port; boats anchor off or raft up when the quay fills.
What food to expect?
Cuisine in the North Dodecanese relies heavily on fresh local catch, goat cheeses, and small-batch baked delicacies:
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Pouangia: Patmos's signature fried pastry filled with crushed almonds, walnuts, and honey.
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Kalathaki Cheese & Fresh Seafood: Fresh local goat cheese alongside grilled octopus and sun-dried mackerel (Gouna).
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Lipsi Red Wine: Local sweet and dry wines made from the rare Fokiano grape variety.
Provisioning advice:
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Primary Bases: Leros (Lakki and Partheni) and Patmos (Skala) feature well-stocked supermarkets, fresh bakeries, and butcher shops.
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Islet Strategy: Stock up on essential groceries and fresh water in Leros or Patmos before heading to small islets like Arkoi, Marathi, or Agathonisi, where onshore shops are extremely limited.
Language and currency
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Main Language: Greek. English is widely spoken in ports, restaurants, and charter offices.
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Widely Accepted Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in main ports, but cash is essential for small islets and family-run tavernas.
Visa requirements
As part of Greece and the Schengen Area, standard European entry rules apply:
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US, Canadian, UK Passport Holders: Visa-free entry for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
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EU Passport Holders: Freedom of movement with a valid national ID card or passport.
