When departing from Bodrum its best to start with something sensational to kick off the vacation, that why sailing to the Gulf of Hisonaru and onwards to Kos, which is due east and clos by will be a wonderful way to whet your appetite for all the wonderful mysteries that lie ahead. Imagine the Odysseus and look down into the clear blue sea as your yacht sails over horizons that have served mankind for millennia. What was once the garden of Neptune is now your grazing ground.
Kos is one of the most prominent Dodecanese islands, most probably only second to Rhodes. This is where Hippocrates taught in the Asklepion, the ancient Greek college that was set under a Plane tree that still stands in its place. Kos is steeped in history, and there are many archeological treats to find here, including Corinthian columns that line the roads, the Castle of the Knights of Saint John, and the famous Kos harbor. With all this magnificent history, it is not surprising to see how modern tourism fits in perfectly, with an international marina, lost of shops, tavernas and leading restaurants that offer local cuisine as well as international dishes.
Pserimos is a small island with a population of 35 residents. This is a tourist island, and its closeness to Kos and Kalymnos attract visitors for its remoteness and the wonderful local cuisine and hospitality. Many a visitor falls in love with this wonderful isolated island.
The large port town of Lakki on Leros islands beckons you with its white washed houses and neo-classical architecture. The streets are wide and lined with palm trees, and the local restaurant, cafes and tavernas provide you with a plethora of cuisine, including famous local delicacies and international dishes.
From here, sail to Patmos and dock in the main port of Skala. Patmos’ breathtaking scenery and special atmosphere have made it an ideal getaway for those seeking inspiration or a quiet retreat. The island is built around the important Monastery of St. John and its medieval fortress, which is visible from nearly everywhere on the island, and stands to overlook Chora as a reminder of Patmos’ historical and spiritual significance. St. John is said to have penned the Book of Revelations and the Apocalypse here on Patmos. The monastery houses some spectacular frescoes and a museum well worth visiting. The smaller monastery of the Apocalypse halfway down the hill from Chora grew up around the grotto where the Evangelist is said to have heard the voice of God.Although Patmos is traditionally a place of spiritual pilgrimage, it is has diversified somewhat, and you’ll also find there great designer boutiques, Greek-style local cuisine, cafes with spectacular views, and what’s more after dinner the island certainly doesn’t just sleep and there is a lively buzz into the early hours.The International Film Festival of Patmos takes place this year from July 21– 27 and the Patmos Festival of Religious Music happen late August - early September.
One of the lesser visited sites in the Dodecanese chain is Lipsi. This small island is next to the more popular Leros, but don’t overlook it. Lipsi has beautiful beaches and an even more inviting town, with wonderful taverna and shops to enjoy. If you want a quieter atmosphere, then this is the place to visit.
Klymnos is a beautiful island and its main town, aptly named Klymnos town provides that amazing Aegean skyline of whitewashed walls, red roofs and clear blue skies. Add to this amazing vista the wonderful inhabitants and the many-colored shutters, and you have a photo shoot part excellence. The island is famous for its rock climbing and sponge diving activities.
Turgutreis, the second largest city on the Bodrum peninsula, and a fantastic coastline town offers a lot of attractions. Due to its westerly facing location, Turgutreis has some spectacular sunsets, combine that with its amazing bay feature, sit on the waterfront and just enjoy the most exotic and relaxing sunsets in the Aegean. There is a lot to find in this exceptional city, including a plethora of restaurants, shops, boutiques and hidden cafes all waiting to provide you with every smell and taste of local cuisine.
Turgutreis is about an hour drive from Bodrum international airport and is the second largest city on the peninsula. Just south of the city center lies the pristine beach Karaincir. This lovely spot offers action and excitement while enjoying the long sandy beach. There are many sea sport options, ranging from banana boats to pedaloes, as well as a lazy time lying on the beach enjoying a cool drink.
After an exceptional yacht charter, you come sail back to Bodrum and prepare for your flight home. This is a perfect time to visit this wonderful city and enjoy your last (but not final) taste of Turkey. Bodrum is a jewel surrounded golden sunsets and azure waters. You really should partake in all the local cuisine, cultural attractions and visit the waterfront outside the famous Bodrum Castle, built from the stones of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. It houses an amazing underwater archeology museum and is a must see when in Bodrum.
12 Guests
4 Crew
