Where it all begins...
Kos
The Dodecanese Islands
Our catamaran, Thoe, is docked on the picturesque island of Kos, nestled in the heart of the Dodecanese archipelago—meaning "twelve islands" in Greek. This enchanting cluster consists of 15 larger islands and over 150 smaller ones, stretching along the sun-soaked southeastern coast of Greece. Positioned at the center of this stunning archipelago, Kos provides easy access to extraordinary destinations in every direction, ensuring flexibility and adventure regardless of the weather.
The islands are located near the southwestern coast of Turkey, forming a bridge between Europe and Asia. The largest and most famous island is Rhodes, followed by Kos, Karpathos, and Kalymnos, among others. The smaller, lesser-known islands like Symi, Patmos, and Leros offer their own unique charm.
Rhodes: Known as the "Island of the Knights," Rhodes boasts a UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, stunning beaches, and the Valley of the Butterflies. It's a historical and cultural hub of the Dodecanese.
Patmos: Revered as the "Island of the Apocalypse," Patmos is where Saint John is said to have written the Book of Revelation. Its sacred Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse attract pilgrims from around the world.
Symi: Known for its colorful neoclassical harbor and traditional sponge diving industry, Symi is a jewel of the Aegean.
Kos: Famous for its ancient ruins, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Kos is also the birthplace of Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine."
Kalymnos: A mecca for rock climbers, Kalymnos also has a deep history in sponge diving and offers pristine coves and rugged landscapes.
History and Culture
The Dodecanese Islands have a rich and varied history, having been ruled by many civilisations, including the Ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Ottomans, and Italians. This blend of influences is reflected in the islands’ architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
The islands are dotted with ancient ruins, medieval castles, and Byzantine monasteries. Highlights include the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes and the Asklepion healing temple in Kos.
The food is a delicious mix of Greek and Eastern Mediterranean flavors, featuring fresh seafood, herbs, honey, and unique local dishes like pitaroudia (chickpea fritters) and kopanisti (spicy cheese spread).
Weather
Weather Forecast Kos
Live Webcam Kos
Summer Averages
Average Temp
Average Wind Speed
Average Sea Temp
Marina
Travel to Kos...
By Air
The fastest and often most cost-effective way to reach Kos is by air. To secure the best prices, we recommend booking your tickets well in advance.
Aegean Airlines and Sky Express offer multiple daily flights from Athens and other Greek cities. During the holiday season over 50 international airports provide direct flights to Kos.
Use the search links below to explore options.
If suitable direct flights to Kos aren't available, you may fly to nearby airports like Kalymnos, Leros, Rhodes, Samos, or Bodrum (Turkey) and travel to Kos via ferry. See ferry info further down.
Airport Transfer
Airport bus
There is a cheap public bus connecting to & from the airport a few times per day. See the schedule here.
Book your taxi / van
Kos Radio Taxi offers a reliable quality service for groups of 1-50 passengers at the best rates.
By Sea
During the high season, there are 1–2 daily ferry crossings on the Athens (Piraeus)–Kos route, primarily operated by Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways.
Kos is also well-connected by ferry to other nearby islands, including Rhodes, Bodrum, Kalymnos, Leros, and Samos, among others.
Explore the links below for a complete list of ferry options and schedules.
About Kos
Kos is the third largest island in the Dodecanese group and has much to offer if you have time to spare on either end of your sailing trip.
Kos has been inhabited since ancient times, even during the Neolithic Period (5th - 4th millennium B.C) and has been influenced by many foreign cultures over the centuries.
There are plenty of beaches, restaurants, and ancient and mediaeval monuments, as well as numerous archaeological sites.