On the doorstep of Asia Minor lies Kos, an island that harmoniously combines western and eastern cultural influences. The first settlers here were tribes from Asia Minor and since then, Kos has changed hands many times, being under the reigns of Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian rulers. During the Crusades, it also briefly served as a centre for the Knights of the Order of Saint John. Today, Kos serves as a base for exploring both Greek and Turkish waters and coasts, with seasoned skippers on hire as well as terrific deals on bareboat charters.
Why choose Kos, Greece?
Kos's geography and landscape has it all: mountains, hinterland, lowlands and coastline with pristine sandy beaches. Located not even 5 miles from the western coast of Turkey, Kos is the third largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago. In the centre of this beautiful island, thanks to deposited volcanic soil, some of the finest grapes in Greece grows here, producing the best white and red wines in western Greece. Plenty of archaeological sites also await all across the island, baring witness to ancient historic turmoils and conflicts.
What to do and see on your yacht charter in Kos?
Besides for being famous as the birthplace of Hippocrates -the father of medicine-, Kos is also home of the many interesting ancient sites, some of them still being used as living or entertainment quarters. Commanding the surroundings, the Nerantzia castle is a medieval castle, located at the entrance to the port. In the centre of Kos is the Eleftheria Square, considered to be the main thoroughfare of the town, with Lotzia Square also being popular with tourists in search of refreshment and souvenirs. Among thousands of Greek islands, very few can rival Kos in terms of beautiful beaches. On the north side of the island, the part most affected by winds, sailors can find the Blue Flag Tigkaki beach with white sand and shallow waters. Also to the north are the Tam-tam, Limnionas and Marmari beaches. On the south side of Kos, an organized beach by the name of Kardamena is a centre for water sports and beach activities. In the southwest, there is the Agios Stefanos beach with two Christian basilicas right at the edge of the water. To the west, numerous secluded coves and beaches of Agios Ioannis, Theologos and Cavo Paradiso await. Besides all these beaches, summer lovers can also swim in Ebros Thermes, located on the island's southeast coast. The termes are composed of underground hot water springs, bubbling to the surface of Ebros lake or along the shoreline. The nightlife in Kos is legendary: after sundown, entertainment can be found in many nightclubs and bars lining the main pedestrian areas of Kos, the two most popular being Nafklirou and Diakonou streets. There are also spontaneous, as well as organized, beach parties.
Sailing season - When to charter in Kos?
Visitors in Kos will be pleased by the Mediterranean climate encountered here. Hot summers and wet winters are the predominant climatological features that heavily influence the local flora and fauna. During the summer season, between June and August, temperatures can climb as high as 38 degrees Celsius, which will make a good excuse to procrastinate in the sea all day long. With the weather being the factor that will help any visitor to experience Kos to the fullest, it would be wise to plan a route that incorporates checking out the complex of roman spas, the temple of Aesculapius and the local gastronomical delicacies, including the numerous wineries scattered across the island, providing free wine tours.