Leros by Sea: A Hidden Gem in the Dodecanese for Yacht Owners
- Editor
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 9
Update: October 20252
Leros, nestled in the heart of the Dodecanese, is a serene island offering calm waters, traditional charm, and yacht-friendly infrastructure. Leros Marina in Lakki Bay is a trusted stop for many cruisers—offering safe mooring, technical support, and even a Blue Flag award for environmental quality. The town nearby has lovely tavernas, bakeries, and shaded waterfront cafés, making provisioning and relaxation equally easy.
Whether you’re cruising the Aegean or chartering from a nearby port, Leros deserves a spot on your route. Want to explore more stops like this? Check out our other guides to marinas and destinations across the Mediterranean.
For general travel info and seasonal highlights, visit Visit Greece — they have great resources on Leros and nearby islands.
For sailors and charter guests, Leros offers more than scenic beauty — it offers peace of mind. The anchorages are protected, especially Panteli, Vromolithos, and the wide bay of Alinda, where you can drop anchor in calm waters and enjoy a restful night. If you prefer to dock, Lakki Marina is a reliable, well-run facility with technical support, provisioning, and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place for mid-trip maintenance or simply enjoying a couple of days on land.
Lakki town itself is unique. Built in the 1930s by the Italians, it has a rare Art Deco flair — long avenues, palm trees, and curved facades that feel like a Mediterranean time capsule. It’s different from the whitewashed Cycladic villages you may know, and that’s what makes it special. In the evenings, you can stroll the promenade, grab a drink at a waterfront bar, and chat with local sailors or friendly liveaboards who’ve made Leros their second home.
A short ride away, Agia Marina and Platanos are full of life — narrow stone streets, lively squares, and traditional tavernas where meals stretch for hours. Order a mezze spread, ask for the house wine, and try the local cheeses and octopus — the kind of simple food that tastes better because of where you are.
If you’re up for a walk or scooter ride, climb to the Castle of Panagia above Platanos. From there, you’ll see the whole island — coves, olive trees, sailboats on the move. It’s one of those views you’ll carry with you long after you’ve sailed on.
Why Leros Belongs on Your Sailing Itinerary:
Panteli Bay & Alinda: Great anchorage options with calm seas and local charm.
Lakki Marina: Safe berthing, service, and supplies — with fewer crowds than bigger islands.
Food & Culture: From ouzo by the water to hidden tavernas with grilled seafood.
Exploration: Scenic hikes, hidden beaches, and even a few WWII shipwreck dives for the adventurous.
People: It’s the kind of island where locals wave from their doorstep and remember your name the next day.
Leros may not have the spotlight like Santorini or Mykonos, but maybe that’s the point. It’s a place that feels undiscovered, even if you’re not the first to find it. For those of us who travel by sea, that feeling — of docking somewhere simple, beautiful, and real — is what makes sailing worth it.
If you’re charting a course through the Dodecanese, add Leros to the list. Drop anchor, linger a little longer, and let the island work its quiet magic.
Update: October 2025
In 2025, Leros has become even more yacht-friendly. New Jet2 flights now help people reach the island directly, making it easier to bring crew or guests in by air. The Artemis Leros Boatyard remains active, highlighted recently during a Volvo Penta dealer conference, which signals good repair support in the area. Also worth noting: local port authorities have flagged restrictions north of the Leros municipal airport—something yacht owners should watch if cruising close to that shoreline. Plus, for those arriving from outside Greece, Leros is often mentioned among the easier ports of entry under the latest Greek pre-arrival procedures (transit log, E-TEPAI, customs)
Leros is not just beautiful — it’s evolving. With better access, active repair facilities, and continued anchorage appeal, it stands strong for yacht owners in 2025. Whether you’re planning a visit next summer or considering winter shelter, keep an eye on new procedures, local restrictions, and seasonal events like the Schildt Regatta.
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