Sail beyond the usual Greek island escape and discover two countries in one unforgettable gulet journey. Departing from Kos, this 8-day cruise combines the turquoise bays and ancient ruins of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast with the distinctive character of the Dodecanese islands. From Kos to Bodrum, then Knidos to Datça, Selimiye and Bozburun, the route follows some of the most beautiful stretches of the Turkish coastline before crossing back to Greece to discover Rhodes, Panormitis, Symi, Tilos and Nisyros. Each day brings a different landscape, from secluded coves and pine-covered hills to atmospheric harbours, traditional villages and fascinating ancient sites.
With a private gulet as your floating home, you can enjoy the freedom to swim in secluded bays, dine beneath the stars and explore ashore at your own pace - while your crew takes care of navigation, meals and the details of your journey.
Day 1: Kos – Bodrum | Your Aegean adventure begins in Kos, before crossing to Turkey and arriving in Bodrum, one of the Aegean's most iconic seaside destinations. Known for its whitewashed waterfront, lively marina, elegant restaurants and impressive castle, Bodrum offers an exciting introduction to the Turkish coast. Depending on your arrival time and the sailing conditions, enjoy time ashore before returning to your gulet for your first evening on board.
Overnight: Bodrum
Day 2: Knidos – Datça | Cruise towards the spectacular meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean at Knidos. Surrounded by dramatic scenery and clear blue waters, Knidos is famous for its ancient ruins and remarkable location at the tip of the Datça Peninsula. After time to explore and swim, continue towards Datça, a charming coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere, traditional character and beautiful surroundings.
Overnight: Datça
Day 3: Gulf of Hisarönü – Selimiye | Today takes you into the beautiful Gulf of Hisarönü, an area of pine-covered hills, turquoise waters and peaceful bays. There will be plenty of opportunities to swim, relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the Turkish coast before arriving in Selimiye, one of the region's most picturesque seaside villages. Spend the evening enjoying the waterfront atmosphere and local restaurants.
Overnight: Selimiye
Day 4: Bozburun | Continue towards Bozburun, a small and authentic coastal settlement with a strong connection to traditional gulet building and seafaring. This is a day to slow down and enjoy the essence of the Turkish coast - secluded bays, crystal-clear water, a relaxed village atmosphere and time on board your gulet.
Overnight: Bozburun
Day 5: Rhodes | Today marks the transition from Turkey to Greece as you cruise towards Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Rhodes offers a wonderful contrast to the quieter Turkish coast, combining beautiful beaches with centuries of history. Explore the atmospheric Medieval City of Rhodes, wander through its narrow streets or enjoy an evening dinner by the sea. International arrival and customs formalities will apply.
Overnight: Rhodes
Day 6: Panormitis – Symi | Cruise to Panormitis, a spectacular sheltered bay on the southern coast of Symi and home to the island's famous monastery. After visiting Panormitis, continue to Symi Town, one of the most visually striking harbours in the Dodecanese. Its colourful neoclassical houses rising dramatically from the hills create one of the most memorable arrivals of the voyage. Spend the evening exploring the harbour, enjoying local cuisine or simply watching the lights come on across the hillside.
Overnight: Symi
Day 7: Tilos or Nisyros | Leave the bustle of the more famous islands behind and sail towards Tilos, one of the quieter and more authentic destinations in the Dodecanese. With beautiful landscapes, peaceful beaches and a distinctly unhurried atmosphere, Tilos is perfect for enjoying the slower side of island life. Take time for swimming, exploring or simply relaxing on deck before your final evening on board. Nisyros is an alternative island to include in this itinerary. It is a fascinating volcanic land known for its dramatic landscape and volcanic crater.
Overnight: Tilos or Nisyros
Day 8: Tilos or Nisyros – Kos | Your final day begins with a cruise towards Kos. Depending on the sailing schedule and port formalities, there may be time to explore the island before continuing to Kos, where your gulet charter comes to an end. After eight days and two countries, you return to Kos with a collection of memories spanning the Turkish Turquoise Coast and the Greek Dodecanese.
This itinerary is ideal for travellers who want more than a traditional island-hopping holiday. It combines Turkey and Greece in a single sailing adventure, offering an exceptional mix of nature, history, culture, gastronomy and relaxed Mediterranean living.
You will experience:
This route is particularly well suited to travellers who want to see both Turkey and Greece during the same holiday and appreciate having a balance of cruising, swimming, sightseeing and time ashore.
It is a wonderful choice for:
The best period for this Kos–Turkey–Dodecanese route is generally from late May through September, with the shoulder months of June and September particularly appealing for guests who prefer warm weather, pleasant sea temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere. July and August are ideal for those seeking the quintessential high-summer Mediterranean experience, with long sunny days and excellent conditions for swimming and water activities. These months are also the busiest period, so early booking is recommended. The exact sailing experience can vary with seasonal wind and sea conditions. Your captain will always adapt the route and daily schedule when necessary to ensure the most comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Because this itinerary includes two countries, Türkiye and Greece, additional cruising, customs and port formalities apply. The route involves an international sea crossing, meaning that the yacht and guests must complete the relevant immigration, customs and port-clearance procedures when leaving Turkey and entering Greece, and the applicable procedures on return to Turkey/Kos depending on the itinerary and current regulations. These formalities can affect the timing of your day, particularly around international border crossings. Your gulet crew and charter broker will coordinate the required procedures and advise you in advance about the documents and information needed from all guests.
Guests should also be aware that some of the Greek-island sections of this itinerary involve longer cruising hours than the shorter coastal passages in Turkey. This is particularly relevant when travelling between the Turkish coast and the Dodecanese islands and when continuing between islands such as Rhodes, Symi, Tilos and Nisyros.
The longer passages are an important part of the experience: you will have the opportunity to relax on deck, swim from the gulet when conditions allow, enjoy meals prepared by your crew and take in the changing scenery of the Aegean. Your captain will determine the final daily sailing schedule according to weather, sea conditions, port formalities and operational requirements.
As this is an international itinerary, cruising taxes, port dues, customs/clearance fees and other local charges will apply in addition to the charter price. The exact costs depend on the yacht, itinerary, ports visited and the regulations in force at the time of sailing. Some charges may also be subject to change by the relevant authorities. Our gulet charter team will provide a clear breakdown of applicable cruising taxes and additional charges before your booking is confirmed, so you can plan your holiday with confidence.
Ready to discover the Aegean from a different perspective? Contact our gulet charter team to discuss your preferred dates, group size and yacht requirements. We will be happy to recommend the most suitable gulet and create a seamless Kos–Turkey–Greece sailing experience for you.
