Do I need a licence to charter a boat in Rhodes?

Yes, you need a valid sailing licence to bareboat charter in Rhodes. Greek authorities require an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent national licence, plus a VHF radio operator's certificate. If you lack qualifications, you can hire a skippered boat instead.

How much does it cost to rent a sailboat in Rhodes?

Sailboat charters in Rhodes range from €1,800–€3,500 per week in low season (May, October) to €3,500–€7,000 in high season (July, August). Catamarans start around €3,000 weekly off-season and reach €8,000+ in peak summer. Prices vary by boat size, age, and equipment included.

When is the best time to sail in Rhodes?

May to October offers ideal sailing conditions, with June and September being best for comfortable temperatures (24–28°C) and moderate Meltemi winds. July and August bring stronger Meltemi winds from the north and temperatures reaching 32°C, perfect for experienced sailors seeking lively conditions.

Can I cancel my boat charter booking?

Yes, select boats offer free cancellation up to a certain date before departure. Most charters require a 15% down payment with the balance split into three instalments. Cancellation terms vary by operator, so check your specific booking conditions when reserving your Rhodes charter.

What extra costs should I expect when chartering in Rhodes?

Budget for end-cleaning (€150–€300), refundable security deposit (€2,000–€5,000), marina fees outside your base (€30–€60 nightly), fuel, provisions, and local tourism tax. Optional extras include outboard fuel, bedding packs, and transfers from Rhodes International Airport to Mandraki or Kolona Marina.

Can I hire a boat without sailing experience in Rhodes?

Absolutely, skippered and fully crewed charters are available throughout Rhodes. A professional skipper handles navigation whilst you relax and learn. Beginners enjoy protected waters around Lindos Bay, Kallithea Springs, and the eastern coast, which offer calmer conditions than the windier western shores.

Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Rhodes

An island located in the Aegean Sea, part of Greece. Rhodes is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. A perfect destination for a summer getaway!

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Three Ways to Sail in Rhodes

Explore Rhodes with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover Rhodes's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Rhodes yacht rental experience.

•Complete control over sailing itinerary around Rhodes
•Privacy and intimacy for your group
•Opportunities to improve sailing skills in Rhodes's waters
•Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups

Show all bareboat rentals in Rhodes

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Rhodes.

•Professional navigation and safety with local Rhodes expertise
•Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in Rhodes
•Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of Rhodes
•No license required for your Rhodes yacht charter adventure

Show all skippered rentals in Rhodes

Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Rhodes with full professional service.

•Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your Rhodes boat journey
•Professional crew service tailored to your needs
•Gourmet dining experience featuring local Rhodes cuisine
•Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of Rhodes

Show all crewed charters in Rhodes

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Rhodes Boat Charter: Explore the Dodecanese by Sail

Rhodes offers superb sailing with steady Meltemi winds and crystal-clear Aegean waters. Charter from Mandraki Harbour to explore secluded anchorages like Anthony Quinn Bay, or set sail for nearby islands such as Symi and Chalki.

Ideal Sailing Conditions Year-Round
The Dodecanese enjoys reliable summer Meltemi winds of 15-25 knots, perfect for confident sailors. Popular routes include the sheltered eastern coast to Lindos Bay, or island hopping north to Kos and Kalymnos. Spring and autumn offer gentler breezes ideal for leisurely coastal cruising and exploring hidden coves.
Catamarans Excel in Rhodes
Choose from modern sailboats, spacious catamarans, and motor yachts based at Mandraki and Kolona marinas. Catamarans are particularly well-suited to these waters, offering stability in the Meltemi and shallow draft for anchoring in stunning bays like Kallithea Springs. Monohulls provide traditional sailing for those seeking authentic Aegean adventures.
Book with Complete Flexibility
Secure your Rhodes charter with just 15% down payment and spread the balance over three instalments. Many boats offer free cancellation up to 60 days before departure, giving you peace of mind when planning your Dodecanese sailing holiday. Book early for peak July and August availability.
Routes for Every Skill Level
Beginners appreciate the sheltered eastern coast between Rhodes Town and Lindos, with easy day anchorages at Tsambika and Stegna beaches. Experienced sailors can tackle open-water passages to Karpathos or join flotilla groups for supported island hopping. The western coast offers more challenging conditions for adventurous crews.
Complete Charter Support Services
Rhodes Diagoras Airport sits just 20 minutes from Mandraki marina, with transfers easily arranged. Hire an experienced local skipper who knows every anchorage and taverna from Symi to Tilos. Comprehensive charter insurance and provisioning services ensure you're fully prepared before casting off into the Dodecanese.

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Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in Rhodes with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your Rhodes adventure today.

Secure online payments: Book your Rhodes boat rental with confidence through our protected payment system, ensuring your transaction is safe and worry-free.
Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in Rhodes, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your Rhodes yacht charter instantly, with immediate confirmation and all details at your fingertips.
Best offers on 1000s of boats: Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in Rhodes, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

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Rhodes Yacht Charter Guide

Medieval harbour town gateway to the Dodecanese islands with year-round sunshine and Meltemi winds.

Perfect for:

Island Hopping

Ancient History

Family Sailing

Experienced Sailors

Information type
When to Charter
Description
Peak season runs July to August with highest prices and strong Meltemi winds reaching Force 6-7. Shoulder months of May, June and September offer ideal conditions with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. April and October provide budget-friendly options though weather becomes less predictable.
Best Months:
May, June, September
Information type
Marinas & Mooring
Description
Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes Town serves as the main charter base with excellent facilities beneath the medieval walls. Kolona Port offers additional berths whilst Lindos Bay provides stunning anchorage beneath the ancient acropolis. Smaller harbours at Kamiros Skala and Lardos cater to overnight stops with tavernas and basic provisions.

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Which Boat to Charter in Rhodes?

When embarking on a yacht charter in Rhodes, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a concise overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Rhodes:

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

•Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
•Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
•More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts

View 87 available sailboats to rent in Rhodes

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

•Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
•Features ample living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

View 36 available catamarans to rent in Rhodes

Motorboat

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

•Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
•Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
•Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence

View 6 available motorboats to rent in Rhodes

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

•Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
•Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
•Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experienc

View 3 available gulets to rent in Rhodes

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

•Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
•Perfect for quick coastal exploration
•Easy to handle with great maneuverability

View 3 available speedboats to rent in Rhodes

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

•Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
•Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
•Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising

No power catamarans available in Rhodes, view other locations

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

•Excellent for day trips and water sports
•Superior stability and safety in various conditions
•Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers

No RIBs available in Rhodes, view other locations

Houseboat

Floating holiday homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

•Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
•Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
•Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities

No houseboats available in Rhodes, view other locations

When planning your Rhodes yacht charter, choose from our premium fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts, and luxury catamarans. Whether you prefer a crewed or bareboat charter experience, our professionally maintained vessels offer ideal options for every group size and sailing expertise. Discover competitive charter rates and top-quality amenities for your perfect sailing holiday in Rhodes.

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Rhodes Yacht Charter FAQ

Do I need a licence to charter a boat in Rhodes?
Yes, you need a valid sailing licence to bareboat charter in Rhodes. Greek authorities require an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent national licence, plus a VHF radio operator's certificate. If you lack qualifications, you can hire a skippered boat instead.
How much does it cost to rent a sailboat in Rhodes?
Sailboat charters in Rhodes range from €1,800–€3,500 per week in low season (May, October) to €3,500–€7,000 in high season (July, August). Catamarans start around €3,000 weekly off-season and reach €8,000+ in peak summer. Prices vary by boat size, age, and equipment included.
When is the best time to sail in Rhodes?
May to October offers ideal sailing conditions, with June and September being best for comfortable temperatures (24–28°C) and moderate Meltemi winds. July and August bring stronger Meltemi winds from the north and temperatures reaching 32°C, perfect for experienced sailors seeking lively conditions.

More Yacht Charters: Rhodes

Rhodes Sailing Conditions: Wind, Weather and Navigation Guide

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, offers diverse sailing between the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean. The island's strategic position creates distinct conditions on its windward eastern coast versus the sheltered western shores, ideal for varied sailing experiences.

Wind Conditions

•The Meltemi dominates July and August, blowing from the north-northwest at Force 4-7, creating challenging conditions along Rhodes' eastern coast and open passages.
•Spring and autumn months see lighter variable winds of Force 2-4, with occasional southerly winds bringing warmer conditions and reduced visibility from Africa.
•Winter brings stronger southwesterly winds of Force 5-8, particularly affecting the western coast between November and March, whilst the eastern shore gains some shelter.

Sea State

•The Karpathian Strait between Rhodes and Karpathos experiences rough seas during Meltemi periods, with waves regularly reaching 2-3 metres in summer months.
•Rhodes' eastern coast from Cape Prasonisi to Lindos sees choppy conditions with short, steep waves when northerly winds oppose southward currents through the strait.
•Trianda Bay and Kalithea Bay on the northwestern coast provide calmer waters with wave heights typically below 1 metre, offering excellent shelter from prevailing winds.

Temperature

•Summer air temperatures reach 28-35°C from June to September, with sea temperatures peaking at 24-26°C, providing ideal swimming conditions throughout these months.
•Spring and autumn offer comfortable sailing temperatures of 18-25°C air and 18-22°C water, with May and October being particularly pleasant for extended passages.
•Winter months see air temperatures of 12-16°C and water temperatures dropping to 16-18°C, requiring wetsuits for water activities between December and March.

Tides and Currents

•Rhodes experiences microtidal conditions with tidal ranges rarely exceeding 30 centimetres, making tidal planning largely unnecessary for most anchorages and harbour approaches.
•Southward currents flow through the strait between Rhodes and Turkey at 0.5-1.5 knots, strengthening during Meltemi periods and requiring attention when navigating eastward.
•Local currents around Cape Prasonisi at the southern tip can reach 2 knots during strong winds, creating challenging conditions where Aegean and Mediterranean waters meet.

Best Sailing Areas by Skill Level

•Beginners should explore Mandraki Harbour to Kalithea Bay along the sheltered northwestern coast, with numerous anchorages and short passages in predictable conditions.
•Intermediate sailors can navigate the eastern coast from Lindos to Cape Prasonisi, managing moderate Meltemi winds whilst enjoying historic anchorages and clear waters.
•Advanced sailors can tackle passages through the Karpathian Strait to Symi and Chalki, navigating strong winds, currents and open water in exposed conditions.

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Best Time to Rent a Boat in Rhodes

Rhodes offers exceptional sailing in the southeastern Aegean, with routes to nearby Symi, Chalki, and the Turkish coast. The island's strategic position provides sheltered anchorages at Lindos Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay, whilst Mandraki Harbour serves as the primary departure point.

High Season (July to August)

Pros & advantages: •Reliable Meltemi winds blow Force 4-6 from the northwest, providing excellent sailing conditions for experienced crews seeking consistent breeze.; •Sea temperatures reach 25-27°C with guaranteed sunshine, making it ideal for combining sailing with swimming, snorkeling, and water sports activities.; •All marinas, tavernas, and marine services operate at full capacity with extended hours, ensuring comprehensive support and vibrant nightlife at every port.
Cons & disadvantages: •Charter prices peak at premium rates with moorings at popular anchorages like Lindos and Symi Harbour becoming extremely crowded and difficult to secure.; •Meltemi winds occasionally strengthen to Force 7, creating challenging conditions for inexperienced sailors and making some exposed anchorages on eastern coasts untenable.; •Air temperatures exceed 35°C with intense midday heat making deck work exhausting, whilst popular bays lose their tranquil atmosphere due to flotilla congestion.

Shoulder Season (May to June, September to October)

Pros & advantages: •Moderate winds of Force 3-5 provide comfortable sailing conditions, whilst temperatures of 22-28°C remain pleasant without the oppressive summer heat affecting crew comfort.; •Charter rates drop by 30-40% compared to peak season, and anchorages at Chalki, Tilos, and Kastellorizo offer peaceful settings with ample space.; •Sea temperatures stay warm at 20-24°C through October, perfect for extended cruising to the Dodecanese islands with excellent visibility for snorkeling at secluded coves.
Cons & disadvantages

Low Season (November to April)

Pros & advantages: •Charter rates reach their lowest levels with negotiable terms, whilst marinas like Rhodes Marina offer substantial discounts for long-term berths and winter storage.; •Experienced sailors find empty anchorages and authentic local atmosphere at working harbours, with genuine cultural immersion away from the tourism-focused summer environment.; •Mild winter temperatures of 12-18°C allow for comfortable coastal cruising during settled weather windows, particularly exploring Rhodes' western coastline and nearby Karpathos.
Cons & disadvantages

High season suits confident sailors seeking reliable winds and full facilities despite crowds. Shoulder months offer the best balance of conditions, value, and tranquillity for most cruisers. Low season appeals only to experienced sailors prioritising solitude and prepared for challenging weather.

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Experience The Joy Of Boat Holidays

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Fully Crewed

Earn award miles with Miles & More

Ideal Sailing Conditions Year-Round

Catamarans Excel in Rhodes

Book with Complete Flexibility

Routes for Every Skill Level

Complete Charter Support Services

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