Fethiye to Rodos by boat

Pilotage Plan: Fethiye, TR to Rodos, GR

Route Overview
Embarking from Fethiye, nestled on the stunning southwestern coast of Turkey, your journey to Rodos (Rhodes) promises both picturesque views and interesting landscapes. This route traverses the Aegean Sea's warm waters and takes you past some hidden gems and safe havens perfect for shelter.

Departure from Fethiye
Starting Point: Fethiye, Mugla, Turkey
Coordinates: 28.9251° E, 36.7477° N

Before departing, ensure you are briefed on local weather conditions and check your vessel’s equipment. Fethiye marina is a great place to start, providing services such as fuel, provisions, and harbour facilities.

Noteworthy Waypoints and Shelters
As you set sail, keep a keen eye on several sheltered bays along the way:

1. Göcek Bay: Roughly 10 nautical miles from Fethiye, this sheltered bay offers multiple anchor spots. With crystal clear waters and stunning scenery, you can take a break, enjoy swimming, and explore the quaint village of Göcek. Make sure to respect the mooring regulations in this busy area.
2. Last Bay (Son Koy): Before heading out towards the open sea, this lesser-known bay provides secure anchorage away from tourist spots. It makes for a perfect lunch stop, offering a peaceful environment.
3. Kekova Island: About halfway through your journey to Rodos. Easily recognized by its rugged cliffs and sunken ruins, Kekova is an excellent anchoring spot. Take a moment to dive in and explore the crystal waters or paddle a kayak near the ruins.
4. Kas: A charming town with a rich history where you can refuel your supplies, enjoy local cuisine, or even go for a dive in its clear waters. The harbor can be busy, so it's wise to arrive early if you plan to spend the night here.
5. Olympos Bay: Strategically located and less touristy, Olympos offers another alternate anchoring point if weather conditions change dramatically. It allows access to surrounding ancient ruins.

Navigational Considerations
As you venture towards Rodos, maintain a vigilant watch for rocky outcrops and shallows, especially on the approach towards Kekova and surrounding islands. Remember to keep the following navigational aids in mind:

Navigational Marks: Pay attention to the navigation buoys and markers, often highlighting popular passages and critical hazards.
Weather Forecast: Utilize reliable weather apps and resources for real-time updates. Wind shifts can occur; sudden storms are not uncommon in this region.
VHF Communication: Keep your VHF radio operational. Monitor Channel 16 for emergency communications and relay your passage to local waters.

Arriving in Rodos
Destination: Rodos, Dodecanese, Greece
Coordinates: 28.2379° E, 36.4322° N

As you approach the island, you'll be greeted by the ancient walls of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rodos’ marina boasts superior facilities, so docking will be smooth once you arrive. Ensure that you are mindful of local regulations and customs before disembarking.

Final Recommendations
This itinerary is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who appreciate the balance between safety and exploration. The route allows for ample opportunities to shelter in beautiful, scenic bays if needed. The combination of history, culture, and natural beauty makes this trip unforgettable.

Essential Apps
For enhanced safety and navigation, I recommend using the following apps:

Savvy Navvy: An invaluable tool for planning routes and navigating the waters with accurate charts and necessary waypoints.
Navionics: Provides detailed marine charts, weather updates, and community-generated content about ports and anchorages.
Windy: Excellent for real-time weather updates and forecasting, which is crucial during the unpredictable conditions of Aegean sailing.

Stay informed, sail safe, and enjoy the beautiful journey from Fethiye to Rodos!