One of the great advantages of starting a yacht charter in Bodrum is how close the Greek islands are. The island of Kos lies just a few miles across the water, and beyond it the Dodecanese chain – Pserimos, Kalymnos, Leros and more – offers a completely different atmosphere from the Turkish coast: whitewashed harbour villages, blue-domed chapels, tavernas on the quayside and a slower island rhythm. A Bodrum to the Greek islands yacht charter lets you enjoy two countries, two cultures and two cuisines in a single week, all from the comfort of your own private yacht.
Crossing between Turkey and Greece by private yacht is straightforward when it is properly organised. The yacht needs a transit log and must clear customs and passport control at official ports of entry on both sides, and guests need valid passports (and any required visas). We arrange all the paperwork in advance and build the formalities into the itinerary, so that they take as little of your holiday time as possible.
Yachts for a Bodrum–Greek islands charter
A Sample Week: Bodrum – Dodecanese – Bodrum
| Day | Stop | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bodrum | Embark, dinner with castle views |
| 2 | Bodrum – Kos | Clear into Greece, explore Kos Town and its ancient agora |
| 3 | Pserimos | A tiny island with a sandy beach and a handful of tavernas |
| 4 | Kalymnos | The sponge-diving island, famous for its colourful harbour and climbing |
| 5 | Leros | Quiet bays, Italian-era architecture and a hilltop castle |
| 6 | Kos (Kefalos) | Swim in the bays of southern Kos, clear out of Greece |
| 7 | Bodrum peninsula | Back in Turkey – Akyarlar or Gümüşlük for a farewell dinner |
| 8 | Bodrum | Disembarkation |
This is just one example. With a faster motor yacht, you could reach Patmos, Lipsi or Nisyros, or combine a few Greek islands with the Gulf of Gökova. On a gulet, we usually recommend focusing on two or three nearby islands to keep the pace relaxed.
Costs and Practicalities
Crossing to Greece involves some additional costs, including the transit log, port and customs fees and, in some cases, Greek cruising taxes. These vary by yacht size and season, and we always include an estimate in your quotation. Motor yachts pay fuel from the APA, so longer island-hopping routes cost more to run; gulets and motorsailers, with fuel usually included for normal itineraries, may apply a supplement for extended cruising. Your advisor will explain everything clearly in advance. See our Bodrum yacht charter guide and Bodrum motor yachts.
Island-hopping on board
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need a visa to visit the Greek islands?
UK passport holders currently do not need a visa for short stays, but check the latest rules and ensure your passport is valid.
How long is the crossing from Bodrum to Kos?
Usually under two hours, depending on the yacht.
Can a gulet go to Greece?
Yes, many gulets can, with the correct transit paperwork.
Planning your own week at sea? Discover our private yacht charters in Turkey – private gulets, motor yachts and superyachts from Bodrum, Göcek, Marmaris and Fethiye, arranged by our team since 2001.