Aegean Adventure: Turkey Shores and Greek Islands by Gulet
Guest Profile
Gulets are our traditional vessels known for their woodwork, experienced crew, and much larger living spaces compared to standard sailboats. This story is about a group of 10 - two brothers, their wives, and three friend couples - who wanted to explore both Turkey's unique bays and the Greek Islands in comfort aboard a gulet.
Holiday Expectations
- Timing: Sunday departure to accommodate annual leave schedules
- Comfort: Spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms for five couples
- Service: A fully-equipped crew of captain, hostess, and chef
- Content: A balanced mix of cultural excursions, quiet coves, and lively harbor nights
- Activity: Water sports options on board
Route and Planning
Since this blue voyage was part of the group's larger vacation plan, the dates couldn't be flexible: the tour had to run Sunday to Sunday in late July. As they wanted to see both Turkish shores and the Greek Islands, Bodrum or Gocek were on the table as starting points. We recommended Bodrum for its strategic position on the Dodecanese route, and our guests approved.
Day by Day Blue Voyage Story
Day 1 - Hello Bodrum and Shopping
After landing at Bodrum Airport, our VIP transfer took us directly to the center to drop our luggage at the boat and explore the bustling bazaar. The team completed their holiday shopping with handmade leather bags and souvenirs. Returning to the gulet at sunset for cocktails, our chef welcomed us with a magnificent feast of the finest Turkish kebabs.
Day 2 - Journey to Kos Island
The week's first sail took us to Greece's Kos (Istankoy) island. We spent the afternoon discovering the magnificent ruins of the Knights' Castle. Renting bicycles to explore the historic city comfortably was a great idea. As the sun set, we gathered again with our cocktails on the white sands of Mylos beach.
Day 3 - Volcanic Nisyros Discovery
Today we sailed toward Nisyros, passing by Yali (Gyali) Island with its striking pumice stone layers. At lunchtime, we stopped at a pristine beach on Aghios Antonios islet. After swimming and water sports fun, we continued to Nisyros. After mooring at Pali harbor, we rented scooters to see the island's interior. On Nisyros - Greece's youngest volcanic island - we had the chance to walk inside the still-active crater. Before returning for dinner, we strolled through Mandraki's enchanting white streets.
Day 4 - Aegean's Jewel: Colorful Symi
Today's longer sail to Symi gave us plenty of time to sunbathe on deck and drink in the Aegean blue. Our captain took us to a hidden cove on the island's east, away from prying eyes, where we plunged into turquoise waters. Then we entered the main harbor, greeted by that fairy-tale view of pastel-colored houses with tile roofs climbing up the hill, and charming restaurants inviting us in.
Day 5 - History-Scented Rhodes
Day five took us to sheltered St. Paul's Bay on Rhodes island. We spent several hours snorkeling, chasing the colorful marine life. After lunch aboard, we sailed to Rhodes center and spent the afternoon getting lost in the labyrinthine medieval streets of Old Town. Come evening, we settled into one of the bars at Mandraki Harbor, sipping cocktails and dancing past midnight.
Day 6 - Knidos Ancient City and Datca
Our time in the Greek Islands was up, and this morning we set course back to Turkey. Our first stop was the tip of the Datca peninsula, home to the ancient Carian city of Knidos. After spending the morning exploring the ancient theater and ruins, we sailed toward Palamutbuku, known for having the peninsula's clearest waters. We anchored, plunged into the sparkling waters, and spent a peaceful afternoon in this paradise setting.
Day 7 - Farewell Day
On our return to Bodrum, we made one last swimming stop at Poyraz Harbor. The rich marine life and rock formations starting just five meters deep were suitable for everyone in our group with varying experience levels. Once everyone was back aboard, we made our final sail to Bodrum. Eating our last dinner on the gulet's deck as the sun slowly set, we raised our glasses to this magnificent vacation.
Estimated Cost Breakdown
- Yacht, fuel, and crew: £10,000
- Full board (three meals, snacks, beverages, local alcohol): £2,500
- Premium wines: £300
- Customs and port taxes: £400
- Airport transfers: £160
- Crew gratuity (optional): £1,000
- Total: £14,360 (entire group)
Per Person Total: £2,500 - £3,000
