Bodrum & Greek Islands Blue Cruise: 7-Night Private Gulet Itinerary in the North Dodecanese
Blue Voyage
7 Nights / 8 Days Β· Round trip from Bodrum Β· Private gulet charter
Cruise route Β· numbered pins mark each night's anchorage
This seven-night private gulet cruise starts and ends in Bodrum and crosses to the Greek islands of the North Dodecanese, only a short sail from the Turkish coast.
Each island has its own character: lively Kos, tiny Pserimos, the sponge-diving island of Kalymnos, quiet Leros, Patmos with its famous monastery, and the small harbour of Lipsi.
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 North Dodecanese
The Dodecanese islands lie just off the Turkish coast, so short crossings take you to a different country, with whitewashed villages, Greek tavernas and small harbours.
- Island hopping: Six different islands in one week, most only a few hours apart.
- Patmos: A UNESCO World Heritage island, with the Monastery of St John and the Cave of the Apocalypse above the harbour.
- Kalymnos: An island famous for its sponge-diving tradition and dramatic cliffs.
The Route Day by Day
Day 1 β 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 β Kos
After Turkish exit formalities, the gulet crosses to Kos, where Greek entry is completed.
Explore Kos town, with its harbour, castle and the plane tree said to be linked to Hippocrates, before dinner on board.
Day 3 β Pserimos & Kalymnos
A short sail brings you to the small island of Pserimos, with a sandy beach and a handful of tavernas.
In the afternoon you continue to Pothia, the colourful harbour town of Kalymnos, an island known for its sponge-diving tradition.
Day 4 β Leros
The gulet sails north to Leros, a quiet island with deep, sheltered bays.
Anchor in Lakki bay, known for its unusual Italian-era architecture, and visit the castle above the village of Platanos.
Day 5 β Patmos
Today you sail to Patmos, a UNESCO World Heritage island.
From the harbour of Skala, walk or drive up to the Monastery of St John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, with wide views over the islands.
Day 6 β Lipsi
A short crossing brings you to Lipsi, a small island with a peaceful harbour and clear bays.
Swim, walk through the village and enjoy dinner on board in one of its quiet anchorages.
Day 7 β Kos
The gulet sails back south to Kos, where Greek exit formalities are completed.
Your farewell dinner is on board, with a last evening near Kos town.
Day 8 β Bodrum
After a short crossing and Turkish entry formalities, you disembark in Bodrum after breakfast.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Bodrum and North 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.