Why Depart from Bodrum?

Bodrum is often called Turkey’s yachting capital — excellent marinas, modern facilities and international flight connections make it a practical and attractive starting point.
Additionally, Bodrum’s proximity to Kos (Greece) means shorter crossing times into the Dodecanese, which maximizes cruising time between islands.

From Bodrum you can combine lively coastal culture (restaurants, nightlife and markets) with quiet Aegean anchoring within hours. For charter support and bespoke itineraries, see the Bodrum yacht charter pages at Bodrum Yacht Charter.

Which North Greek Islands Can You Visit from Bodrum?

The northern Dodecanese islands are compact, each with their own character. Typical stops on gulet charters out of Bodrum include:

Kos

Kos is the closest major Greek island to Bodrum and a natural first stop. Expect sandy beaches, lively harbors, archaeological sites (including the Asklepion) and a vibrant dining scene.
Kos works well as a provisioning stop and a first taste of Greek island life before heading to quieter isles.

Kalymnos

Kalymnos is famed for sponge diving and dramatic limestone landscapes — great for climbing, local seafood and traditional island villages.
The island’s sheltered coves are ideal for comfortable overnight anchorages and shore visits.

Lipsi

Lipsi is small, tranquil and characterful: perfect for calm anchorages, authentic tavernas and slow-paced island walks. It is a great spot to swap busy ports for gentle island life.

Patmos

Patmos is a cultural highlight: the Monastery and Cave of the Apocalypse are UNESCO-adjacent attractions that appeal to history-minded travelers.
The charming Chora and quiet coves make it a two-part stop: culture and swimming.

Leros

Leros combines sheltered bays with scenic harbors and Byzantine chapels. The island is appealing for mid-route stays where you can both explore and relax.

Samos (optional, longer crossing)

Samos is larger and lush — if you want to add variety (vineyards, archaeological sites like the Heraion, and long beaches), consider extending the itinerary to include Samos; note the extra sailing time.

These islands form a practical and scenic circuit that suits weekly gulet charters — daily sailing times are short and anchorages abundant, which is ideal for classic Blue Cruise rhythms: morning sail, midday swim, afternoon exploration and evening mooring.

Typical 7-Night Itinerary (Bodrum — Kos — Kalymnos — Leros — Patmos — Lipsi — Return)

Below is a commonly used sample route that balances sailing, swimming and onshore exploration. Captain and weather will inevitably adjust the order.

Day 1 — Bodrum to Kos

Embark in Bodrum marina early morning, clear Turkish exit formalities, set sail across the short channel to Kos. Afternoon: wander Kos Town, explore medieval Castle and enjoy island cuisine.
Overnight in Kos harbor.

Day 2 — Kos to Kalymnos

Short morning sail, anchor in Kalymnos for swimming and lunch. Late afternoon: shore visit to sponge shops or climb viewpoints. Dine ashore or on board.

Day 3 — Kalymnos to Leros

Sail to Leros; anchor in picturesque bays like Agia Marina. Afternoon ashore to stroll Panteli or Platanos villages; Leros has serene evenings and quality tavernas.

Day 4 — Leros to Patmos

Head to Patmos. Spend time at the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of St. John. Patmos is a cultural highlight and a great spot for sunset photos.

Day 5 — Patmos to Lipsi

Sail to Lipsi for secluded coves and relaxed island life. Perfect for a slow day of snorkeling, reading and local seafood.

Day 6 — Lipsi to Kos (or Samos if extended)

Return toward Kos, stopping at smaller coves on the way. Optionally, extend to Samos if you want more variety (longer cruise).

Day 7 — Kos to Bodrum

After a leisurely morning, clear Greek exit formalities and cross back to Bodrum. Arrive late afternoon or evening, disembark and enjoy Bodrum’s nightlife and fine dining.

This itinerary assumes calm weather and normal sea conditions. Captains will optimize routing for comfort and legal entry/exit procedures between Turkish and Greek waters.

Charter Types: Which Vessel Fits Your Trip?

Choosing the right boat is central to your comfort and cruising experience. The main choices are:

Traditional Gulet

Classic Turkish wooden yachts with spacious shaded decks and cozy cabins. Gulets are ideal for groups, families and travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic Blue Cruise vibe.
See more: Gulet Charter.

Motor Yacht

Faster, modern, and often with more sophisticated amenities. Choose a motor yacht if you value speed and shorter transit times between islands.
Explore motor yacht options at Motor Yacht Charter.

Trawler (Long-Range)

Comfortable for longer passages and extended cruising. If your itinerary includes more distant islands like Samos, a trawler gives extra autonomy and storage.
Details: Trawler Charter.

Each vessel type offers different cabin counts, crew levels, and on-board services (chef, hostess, water toys). Work with your charter broker to match the vessel to your priorities (privacy, speed, luxury, or local charm).

Crossing & Border Formalities — Practical Tips

International charters require careful attention to passport, visa and customs procedures when moving between Turkey and Greece. General practical tips:

• Passports & Visas: Ensure all passengers have valid passports (check expiry rules) and, where required, Schengen or Greek entry visas.
• Customs Clearance: Your captain/agent will typically handle exit formalities in Turkey and entry in Greece (and vice versa). Allow time for formalities at the first port of call.
• Crewed Charters: On private, crewed charters the captain and agent commonly handle paperwork; still confirm who is responsible before departure.
• Insurance & Health: Travel insurance covering medical evacuation and water activities is recommended. Familiarize yourself with Greek and Turkish emergency numbers.

Regulations can change—always confirm visa and entry requirements for your nationality with official sources or your charter agent prior to travel.

Onboard Life: Food, Activities and Rhythm

Gulet charters are as much about the onboard lifestyle as the destinations. Expect freshly prepared local cuisine, leisurely breakfasts, and flexible dining with seafood and Mediterranean flavors.

Food & Dining

Most charters include a local chef: breakfasts are casual, lunches emphasize salads, seafood and light dishes, while dinner is often a multi-course affair. If you have dietary restrictions, inform the crew in advance.

Water Sports & Activities

Typical gulet equipment includes snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayaks and sometimes small inflatables or towable toys. Some crews can arrange diving trips with local centers for certified divers.

Daily Rhythm

The Blue Cruise culture favors a relaxed schedule: morning sail after breakfast, swim stop and lunch in a secluded bay, short shore excursions mid-afternoon, and mooring in a charming harbor for the evening.

Safety & Seamanship — What to Expect

Captains on international charters are professional seafarers accustomed to Aegean conditions. Safety briefings, lifejackets, and basic first aid kits are standard. Ensure your charter includes:

• Qualified captain and crew
• Routine safety equipment and clear emergency protocol
• Communication equipment (VHF, mobile access)

If you or members of your group are inexperienced swimmers, notify the crew — they can recommend suitable anchorages and activities to maximize safety and fun.

Costs, Booking & Seasonal Pricing

Weekly gulet charters are priced according to season (high summer is peak), boat size, onboard services and itinerary complexity (international crossings may add costs).

• What’s included: typically vessel hire, crew, fuel for standard cruising, linens, and meals (but confirm exact inclusions).
• Extra costs: port fees, customs/immigration charges, VAT where applicable, provisioning, special excursions and some water-sports equipment may be extra.
• Low vs high season: May–June and September–October offer milder weather and better value than July–August.

For quotes, vessel galleries and tailored offers consult the gulet charter pages at Gulet Charter or contact a broker via Contact.

Who Should Choose a Bodrum → North Greek Islands Gulet Charter?

These charters suit travelers who want to combine cultural island-hopping with laid-back cruising. Ideal groups include:

• Friends seeking a shared adventure with privacy and flexibility
• Families who need safe swimming areas and tailored onboard services
• Couples looking for romantic anchorages and island tavernas
• Cultural travelers who want to visit archaeological sites, monasteries and traditional villages

If you want active island days (hiking, diving, climbing), choose islands like Kalymnos for outdoor activity; if you prefer cultural sites, plan longer stops at Patmos.

Practical Packing & Preparation Checklist

• Passport + any required visa documents (always pack photocopies)
• Lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef shoes and a windproof layer
• Strong sunscreen (reef-safe where possible) and a sun hat
• Medication, sea-sickness remedies and basic first-aid supplies
• Adapters and chargers (some yachts have European plugs)
• Cash in Euros for Greek ports and Turkish Lira for Turkey; some remote tavernas accept cash only

Confirm laundry, wifi and power arrangements with your charter operator prior to departure if these matter to you.

Sample FAQ (Quick Answers)

Do I need a visa to cross from Turkey to Greece?

Visa requirements depend on nationality—check official consular guidance. Your charter broker can advise and often helps coordinate port clearance.

How much sailing time each day?

Average daily sailing legs are 1–4 hours between most Dodecanese islands when starting from Bodrum, but exact times vary by route and weather.

Are gulets comfortable for older travelers?

Yes — many gulets have comfortable cabins and shaded areas. Discuss mobility needs when booking so the operator can select a suitable boat and itinerary.

How to Book — Next Steps

To plan a Bodrum departure gulet charter to the North Greek Islands, connect with professional agents who manage international clearances and tailor-made itineraries.
For vessel options and bespoke itineraries, start at Gulet Charter, explore yacht and motor yacht choices at Turkey Yacht Charter and request a personalized plan through Contact.

A local broker will help with permits, provisioning, visas (if needed) and captain-led routing to ensure smooth cross-border sailing.

Why This Journey Is Special

A gulet voyage from Bodrum to the northern Greek islands blends two brilliant maritime cultures: Turkish hospitality and Greek island charm.
It’s a route of short sea passages, unforgettable anchorages, ancient sites and exceptional cuisine. Whether you seek active adventure, family relaxation or cultural exploration, this itinerary promises a perfectly paced Aegean escape.

Ready to plan? Explore vessel types, sample routes and book your charter starting from Bodrum at Gulet Charter — or contact a charter specialist directly via Contact.