Aegean Cycling Exploration
Bike through the pine forests and olive groves that cloak the Greek landscape
Revel in the neo-classical charm of Symi and the raw beauty of Nissyros
Navigate to the serene bay of Knidos, where history’s whispers fill the air
Encounter the legends of Poseidon and the Knights of St John at every turn
Dive into the culture with local crafts, cuisine, and the tales of sponge divers
Experience the comfort and intimacy of a traditional wooden motor yacht
Itinerary
Arrive individually at Bodrum harbour, with optional airport transfer available upon request. Check-in on the gulet starts at 2 pm. Spend the evening soaking up Bodrum’s vibrant atmosphere and unwind with traditional Turkish tea. Dinner is served on board, offering a chance to meet fellow travelers and guides.
Set sail after breakfast to Yaliciftlik to commence our cycling adventure. Pedal through pine forests to Camlik, pausing for a coffee break, then ride through olive groves to Etrim village, where we witness traditional handcrafts. After a local lunch, we return to Yaliciftlik and cruise to Kos, where ancient ruins await exploration.
38 km/23 mi
Cycle towards the Asclepion of Kos, Hippocrates’ ancient healing center, then along the coast back to Kos town. Board the boat to sail to the volcanic island of Nissyros.
30 km/19 mi
Our ride ascends to the village of Nikia, perched on the crater’s edge, offering breathtaking volcanic views. After cycling around the crater, we descend to Mandraki to embark for Tilos Island.
30-40 km/19-25 mi
From Livadia to Megalochorio, our route offers a chance to visit the pygmy elephant museum. Post-ride, enjoy lunch aboard and cruise to Chalki Island, with its quintessential Greek architecture.
22 km/14 mi
Morning sail to Panormitis Bay on Symi Island for a monastery visit, then cycle across the island, climbing switchbacks to Symi town, where the evening is free to explore and dine.
25 km/16 mi
From Symi to Datça Peninsula, today’s ride leads to the ancient city of Knidos. Post-archaeological tour, we cross back to Bodrum for a celebratory final evening on board.
41 km/26 mi
Disembark after breakfast, with collective transfers to Bodrum Airport arranged. For departures from Kos, a ferry departs at 9:30 am; ensure post-ferry flights are after 1 pm.
Pricing
Included in price
8-day trip on a premium gulet with crew
7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
7x half board
Bottled mineral water on board and for all activities ashore
Guided bike tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
Bed linen and towels
English-speaking tour guide
Journey to Bodrum
Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
Meals and beverages ashore
Entrance fee for sights not included in the tour price
Beach towel for use off the boat (if needed)
Tips for tour guides and crew
Important for the tour
Description
Venture on a journey that transcends the typical and immerses you in the heart of the Dodecanese Islands’ splendor. Paint memories across the towering volcano crater of Nissyros and the enchanting neo-classical backdrop of Symi.
Each pedal stroke leads you through a landscape steeped in history to the serene bay of Knidos, where ancient ruins whisper tales of bygone eras.
Discover a world where the legacies of mythic gods, medieval knights, and daring sponge divers have sculpted an archipelago rich in culture and legend. This adventure is a tapestry of experiences, weaving through time to reveal the enduring spirit of these islands. From the grandeur of volcanic vistas to the intricate details of historical structures.
Embrace the spirit of the Dodecanese as you navigate through the islands’ labyrinth of history and beauty. The islands offer more than just a backdrop for exploration; they reveal secrets and stories at the turn of every corner.
On this tour, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the soul of the Aegean. From the vibrant tapestries of local life to the tranquil embrace of secluded coves, your voyage is a personal odyssey that promises not only to show you the sights but to transform the way you see the world.
Join us, and be part of a narrative that continues to enchant travelers from across the globe.
Ships
The Boreas, a sumptuous Turkish gullet, offers a serene yacht cruise experience across the Aegean. With 15 well-appointed cabins featuring air conditioning and private bathrooms, comfort is assured. Savor meals in the salon or on the expansive deck, and enjoy a selection of beverages from the saloon’s bar. The ship’s dual-level decks invite relaxation in both sun and shade. For the adventurous, water sports gear is available. A dedicated 7-member crew prioritizes your safety and satisfaction, ensuring a dream vacation becomes a cherished journey.
Start planning today!
Things to know
Helmets are mandatory for all cyclists in Turkey, and Croatia, and for minors in several other European countries. While not obligatory elsewhere, we recommend bringing your own for safety. Helmets are available for rent on our tours.
You’re welcome to bring your own bicycle on most tours. Please confirm space availability on your chosen vessel in advance. Note that we are not liable for any loss or damage to personal bicycles. If you don’t have your bicycle, you can rent it on our tours.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to enjoy the tours, which typically involve 40-60 kilometers of cycling daily, averaging around 5 hours of riding.
Our tours are designed to immerse you in the experience, hence a support vehicle is not part of the journey. Participants are encouraged to complete the daily cycling stages with their fellow cyclists.
To ensure the integrity of our rental bikes and your safety, we do not allow personal pedals to be attached to them.
While our routes are planned for full-day adventures, certain tours may offer the flexibility to return to the ship earlier, subject to the ship’s docking capabilities.
The adventure each day can span from 30 to 60 kilometers, with the time spent cycling influenced by your pace and the number of stops to soak in the scenery.
Our guides converse fluently in Dutch, English, and German, with some also proficient in French or Italian. Briefings are conducted in English and sometimes in German.
The number of companions on your journey will vary, with smaller ships often at full capacity and larger vessels typically filled to 80-90%.
Accommodations range from cozy standard cabins to luxurious superior suites, with each ship offering its unique array of options.
Stay connected with Wi-Fi available across all our vessels, with specifics outlined in our Travel Preparation guide.
To maintain the serene ambiance of our ships, laundry services are not offered on board.
Some ships equip cabins with hairdryers, while others can provide them upon request.
Our ships maintain a smoke-free environment in cabins and indoor public areas, with designated smoking zones available on deck on most vessels.
To ensure the comfort of all our guests, pets are not permitted on board, with the exception of crew members’ dogs that are familiar with life at sea.
Seasickness is uncommon due to the stability of our vessels and the typically calm waters on our routes.
Parking solutions are tailored to each departure point, with options like P+R facilities and valet services detailed in your pre-travel boarding information.
You will receive comprehensive travel details to your ship’s location upon booking, including information on parking and available transfer services.
Our guests are generally between the ages of 45 and 65, bringing a wealth of life experiences to share.
Our tours attract a global audience, from the far reaches of Scandinavia to the southern tips of Africa, and from the Americas to Asia.
Packing light is key, as cabin space is optimized for comfort and not for large luggage.
Our tour leaders are equipped to assist with minor issues, and in case of emergencies, the local emergency number 112 should be contacted.
For your safety, helmets are available for rent on most tours, and are included with our Premium tour packages.
You are welcome to enjoy the amenities on board instead of cycling. Please inform the tour leader or crew of your plans.
Our tours proceed rain or shine, with your safety as our top priority. You have the freedom to cycle or remain on board, based on your comfort with the weather conditions.
Weather conditions can vary from country to country and from season to season, so we suggest preparing for everything from rain to bright sunshine. For a detailed forecast, AccuWeather is a reliable source.
Not always. We suggest you bring your own equipment if you plan to snorkel.
Life-saving boats and life jackets are available on all ships and can be found in marked wardrobes on the deck, in the salon, or under the beds in cabins. In case you cannot swim, it is important to inform the crew and the captain. While on the ship, it is essential to pay attention to the following safety measures:
The stairs on the vessels can be steep and narrow, so it’s important to be careful while going up or down. The decks can also be very slippery, especially in wet conditions, so passengers should use caution and hold onto the railings when walking around the vessel.
Climbing the foremast, jumping off the deck during the cruise, or going too far from the vessel during swim pauses are strictly prohibited.
In the busy high season, harbors can become congested, and vessels may have to dock beside each other, so it is essential to exercise caution when moving between them. Crew members are available to assist passengers who require help. However, the cruise is not recommended for those with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.
The length of the cycling routes planned for each day is an estimate and takes into account local conditions and possible detours or shortcuts. The sailing and cycling routes may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and the abilities of the cyclists on board. Typically, departures are in the morning, usually after breakfast.
Bringing and consuming your own beverages on the vessel is prohibited. Instead, you can order drinks from the vessel’s salon, which serves as a restaurant, living room, and bar. The bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you would like a drink that is unavailable at the time, please inform the crew, and they will do their best to arrange it for you at the next port of call.