This 8-day North Dodecanese sailing experience combines swimming in crystal-clear waters, authentic island life and cultural highlights, starting and ending in Kos. The route explores secluded gems such as Pserimos, Lipsi, and the remote island of Levitha, alongside iconic destinations like Kalymnos, Leros, and Patmos.
Guests enjoy a balanced mix of relaxed sailing, swimming in pristine bays, charming harbours, and historic landmarks, including the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. Ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and genuine Aegean character, this itinerary offers a refined yet unhurried sailing adventure through one of Greece’s most captivating island groups.
Highlights
Patmos and the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse Swimming most days Fresh Greek food and hospitality Lesser visited islands
Kos to Kalymnos (Vathi/Pothia) - Known for sponge diving and steep cliffs.
A short first cruise north to Kalymnos Island where we will moor atVathi - set in a stunning fjord-like inlet and with a very sheltered anchorage and authentic village feel.
Kalymnos is famous for sponge diving and rock climbing.
Kalymnos to Leros (Panteli/Lakki) - Visit the Italian-influenced town and, castle.
After a longer sail to Leros we will moor in Agia Marina (picturesque and lively). We will visit the Castle of Panteli and swim at Pandeli Beach. Enjoy lovely sunset views.
The Atmosphere is relaxed and less touristy than Kos.
We will explore, quiet beaches and the charming village of Lipsi where we will anchor in Lipsi Harbour. We will explore whitewashed village streets and swim at Platis Gialos or Katsadia Bay. There are some excellent local seafood tavernas.
Lipsi is one of the prettiest small islands in the Dodecanese.
We sail to spiritual and historic Patmos and moor in Skala Harbour. Skala is a pretty port town lined with small yachts and fishing boats. Waterfront cafes and restaurants provide some lovely places to relax, and we can walk up the hill behind to visit the Monastery of Saint John (a UNESCO site) and the the Cave of the Apocalypse where St John wrote the book of Revelations. The Monastery is set on top of the hill amongst a classic whitewashed village where we can find a spot to watch the sun go down..
We will enjoy a longer sailing day back southwest hoping to spot some dolphins and stopping for a swim at a remote cove. We will spend the night moored in quiet Emborios (north Kalymnos) a peaceful anchorage with traditional tavernas.
We have a morning sail back toward Kos with a swim stop along the north coast of Kalymnos. Optional lunch stop at Mastichari before we return to Kos Marina. Evening in Kos Town
Gulet Atlantis is a spacious 26-meter gulet that navigates the azure waters of Greek Aegean. Featuring ten thoughtfully appointed cabins, including nine doubles and one twin, Atlantis welcomes up to 20 guests.
Originally constructed in 1994 and undergoing a complete refit in 2021, this maritime gem seamlessly blends the charm of the past with modern facilities. Gulet Atlantis aims to make sure that every guest has a truly exceptional time, creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of the Greek Islands.
All the cabins are en-suite and have air conditioning.
Atlantis is equipped with solar panels that provide much of the electricity for the ship.
Featuring the latest small ship cruises to a number of destinations, our Small Ship Cruising brochure is carefully curated to include small ship cruises from expeditions to luxury cruises to the world's most fascinating destinations including Alaska, Croatia, the Galapagos and the Antarctic and Arctic.