Bodrum & Greek Islands Blue Cruise: 7-Night Private Gulet Itinerary in the South Dodecanese
Blue Voyage
7 Nights / 8 Days · Round trip from Bodrum · Private gulet charter
Cruise route · numbered pins mark each night's anchorage
This seven-night private gulet cruise starts and ends in Bodrum and combines the quieter Greek islands of the South Dodecanese with the Datça Peninsula on the way back.
You visit Kos, the volcanic island of Nisyros, peaceful Tilos and the elegant harbour of Symi, then return to Turkey for Datça, Palamutbükü and ancient Knidos.
Every Aren Yachting charter is private, so the route below is a guide rather than a fixed schedule. Your captain adapts it to the wind, the sea and the customs formalities.
At a Glance
Why Sail to the South Dodecanese
These islands are smaller and quieter than the big holiday islands, with traditional villages, volcanic landscapes and colourful harbours.
- Nisyros: A volcanic island where you can walk down into the crater.
- Symi: One of the most beautiful harbours in Greece, lined with pastel-coloured neo-Classical houses.
- Two coasts: Greek islands in the first half of the week, the Datça Peninsula and Knidos in the second.
The Route Day by Day
Day 1 – Bodrum
Your charter begins at Bodrum Harbour, where your captain and crew welcome you on board.
The passport and crew list formalities for the crossing to Greece are prepared. Dinner and the first night are on board in Bodrum.
Day 2 – Kos
After Turkish exit formalities, the gulet crosses to Kos, where Greek entry is completed.
Explore Kos town, with its harbour, castle and ancient ruins, before dinner on board.
Day 3 – Nisyros
The gulet sails south to Nisyros, a round volcanic island.
From the harbour of Mandraki you can visit the crater of the volcano and the hilltop villages with views over the sea.
Day 4 – Tilos
Today you sail to Tilos, a peaceful island with few visitors, walking paths and small beaches.
Anchor near the harbour of Livadia and enjoy a quiet evening in Greek tavernas or on board.
Day 5 – Symi
The gulet crosses to Symi, once rich from sponge diving and boat building.
Its harbour of pastel-coloured neo-Classical houses, churches and seafood restaurants is one of the most beautiful in Greece. Greek exit formalities are completed here.
Day 6 – Datça
A short crossing brings you back to Turkey at Datça, where Turkish entry formalities are completed.
Walk around this small resort town with its shops and cafés before dinner in the harbour or a nearby bay.
Day 7 – Palamutbükü & Knidos
Swim in the clear water of Palamutbükü, then continue to Knidos, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, and walk among the ruins.
The gulet then crosses the Gulf of Gökova towards Bodrum for your farewell dinner and last night on board.
Day 8 – Bodrum
After breakfast you disembark in Bodrum.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Bodrum and South Dodecanese blue cruise?
It is a 7-night, 8-day round trip from Bodrum, combining the Turkish coast with the Greek islands.
Do I need a passport or visa?
Yes. The yacht clears customs when leaving Turkey and entering Greece, so every guest needs a valid passport. Some nationalities also need a Schengen visa; please check the requirements for your passport before you book.
Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes. Every Aren Yachting charter is private, so the route is a guide rather than a fixed programme. Your captain adapts it to the weather, the sea and the customs formalities.
When is the best time for this blue cruise?
The season runs from May to October. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, while late spring and early autumn offer warm sea temperatures and quieter harbours.
What is included in the charter price?
Inclusions vary by yacht and are confirmed in your written offer and charter contract before you book, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
Plan Your Greek Islands Cruise
Share your dates, group size and preferences, and our team will match you with the right gulet and tailor this route around you.