8 days Rhodes to Bodrum

Embark in vibrant Rhodes, the largest and historically most important of the Dodecanese islands. The Old Town is a walk-through antiquity, amongst atmospheric cobbled streets flanked by Byzantine buildings. Delivering an ideal beach lifestyle, the 300+ days of sunshine a year benefit a multitude of beautiful bays, swathes of sandy beaches and lively coastal towns. With no shortage of places to visit from the whitewashed charm of Acropolis-topped Lindos to the cosmopolitan resort and watersports draw of Ialissos, Rhodes is packed with appeal. Spend the night in Rhodes harbour.

Cruise to idyllic Nanou Bay at nearby Symi (20nm – 1hr 25min) for a lunchtime stop with swimming and relaxation in total tranquillity. This secluded and often deserted pebble beach boasts crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and fringed by striking cliffs where amusing local goats roam. Symi is a perfect yachting location due to a wide range of wide bays and coves to explore. Head to spectacular Symi Port (6nm – 30mins) at Gialos, where pastel neoclassical mansions cluster on the hillside around the horseshoe bay. Here the variety of tavernas, bars and cafes strewn along the quayside give a truly cosmopolitan feel. Spend the night here.

Set off early from Symi Port to anchor at Arki Island (90nm – 6hr 30min), a small isle to the southwest. The Arki archipelago is a miniature group of uninhabited atolls and rocky reefs. This well-kept secret may be a tiny dot on the map, yet it makes a huge impression. As a hideaway escape Arki is a celebration of nature, with vast stretches of seashore lapped by pristine turquoise waters - Tiganakia beach is a standout spot with no nearby roads where shallow white rocks encircle an exotic sandy swimming area. With only 50 occupants, peace and quiet reign in the nirvana of Arki. Spend the night in Port Augusta, Arki (1nm – 5min) with a handful of lively local tavernas.

Head for secluded Lipsi (9nm – 40min) a small speck of land surrounded by 24 islets. This dreamy island, ancient home of goddess Kalypso, is an escape to nature in the company of hospitable locals. Famed for sweet local wine, this is celebrated by many festivities during the summer in the form of traditional songs and dances. Indeed, the feast of icon “Panagia” in August lasts 24 hours and is a fascinating experience. Radiating character and charm, Lipsi is ideal for wandering amongst quaint alleyways, enjoying local cuisine and climb to the highest point of the Aravis mill for spectacular views. The sandy beaches at Kampos, Lientou and Katsdia offer hours of tranquil relaxation and endless opportunities for diving and snorkelling in the transparent waters. Amongst the rich flora and fauna found in these islets, enjoy spotting Monachus seals, sea turtles and dolphins. Spend the night in Lipsi Port (3nm – 20min).

Make way to Patmos (9nm – 40min), a small seahorse shaped island, not far from the coast of Turkey. Famed as an apocalyptic place where St John was inspired to write the Book of Revelation, this is an island with intense spiritual presence. Walk the paths of the Chora, enjoying exquisite views over the Aegean with the fortress-style monastery perched atop the hill. For eating, drinking and socializing, Agia Levies is the village square to visit, where locals and visitors mix to enjoy lively evenings. Beaches abound on Patmos, a popular choice for families being Kambos due to warm, shallow waters and tamarisk trees for natural shade. This relatively out-of-the-way haven blessed with scenic landscapes and small islands is indeed a yachting paradise. Notably, 8nm (30 min) to the east, is the pinprick-sized island of Marathi, where Pantelis Restaurant serves some of the most delicious seafood in the Dodecanese. Spend the night in Patmos Port (3nm – 20min).

Nearby Leros (16nm – 1hr 20min) is a little piece of Italy in Greece. This unusual island is different to its neighbours, offering secret beaches, laid-back tavernas and fascinating modern history. Alinda Bay offers the longest beach, overlooked by an imposing Byzantine castle and nearby Agia Marina port is great for a leisurely coffee and offers a beautiful beach lined with restaurants. Neighbouring Pserimos, known as the island without streets, is small but striking. Superbly peaceful and dotted with countless inlets, sheltered and uninhabited Plathy has a great anchorage and divers can enjoy exploring two shipwrecks. This is an idyllic location to really kick back and relax, spend time in the sunshine and use all the facilities on board to the max. Make way to overnight in Kos (40nm – 3hrs), an island of many choices, featuring pretty beaches, laid-back villages, bustling shops and lively bars.

Fringed by spectacular beaches, some offering complete solitude, others populated by lively beach clubs, Kos is an island of untold treasure. Rich with ancient landmarks, specifically around Kos Town, historical ruins, temples, shrines and castles are worth discovering. Anchor at Bubble Beach and swim in to find the sparkling natural springs emerging from under the sand. Ideally admired from on board a yacht, the landscape of Kos is breath-taking with attractive villages, verdant hills and charming coastal towns. Watersports abound and there are many bays to anchor and take to the water for some relaxation and fun. Inland, Zia is a tiny mountainous village with incredible views over the sea and traditional tavernas specifically placed to make the most of the legendary sunset. Cruise to Bodrum (10nm – 1hr) for clearance after which find a good spot to enjoy some relaxed swimming. Spend the night in port

With its palm-lined streets, the elegant seaside resort of Bodrum is packed with chic boutiques and lively restaurants. From the top of the castle to the glittering marina, this popular town radiates a cool, cosmopolitan vibe. Soak up the atmosphere from your yacht, relaxing in the sunshine or exploring the town further before disembarkation at your leisure.