Bodrum Express Lines operates ferry services connecting Bodrum, Turkey, with the Greek island of Kos. This service is a primary means for tourists to experience a day trip to a different country, offering a change of scenery and culture from the Turkish coast. The company is known for providing a relatively affordable and straightforward way to cross the Aegean Sea, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore beyond Bodrum.
Visitors consistently praise the affordability of the tickets and the comfort of the ferries themselves. Many describe the boats as clean, with comfortable seating, and some even note the availability of duty-free shopping on board. The staff are frequently mentioned as polite, helpful, and supportive, particularly with customs and passport operations. The journey across the sea is generally smooth and quick, often taking around an hour, which is a significant positive for those looking to maximize their time on Kos.
However, the most common and significant complaint revolves around the extensive delays at passport control on both the Turkish and Greek sides. Reviewers frequently report waiting 1.5 hours or more in queues, often in the sun, without adequate seating or facilities. These delays significantly cut into the time available for exploring Kos, leading to frustration. Some visitors also mention issues with punctuality, with ferries occasionally departing late, further reducing their day trip duration. There are also reports of last-minute cancellations or changes to schedules, sometimes without clear communication.
To make the most of your trip, it's advisable to book tickets online in advance and collect them the day before departure to avoid queues on the morning of travel. Arrive at the port well before the scheduled departure time, as boarding and initial passport checks can take a while. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if traveling during peak season, as you may face long waits in exposed areas. Consider visiting Kos on weekdays rather than Sundays during summer, as Sundays are often reported to have the longest passport control lines. While the ferry journey itself is short, allocate a full day for the excursion due to potential border delays. Be aware that the return journey might also involve significant waiting times at Bodrum's immigration.
The Bodrum Express Lines office is located at Kale Caddesi No 18, near the Bodrum Castle customs port. This location is generally convenient for access, often more so than the Bodrum Cruise port used by other ferry services. Public transport options within Bodrum can take you close to the castle, and it's typically a short walk from there. Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging, so walking or taking a taxi is often recommended. If driving, plan to park further away and walk.
The primary complaint is the unpredictable and lengthy passport control process. To mitigate this, manage your expectations regarding the actual time you'll spend on Kos. Be prepared for queues and potential disorganization, especially at the Greek port, where facilities are sometimes described as basic. Having all your travel documents readily accessible will help speed up your individual process, but the overall queue length is beyond individual control. If a day trip feels too rushed due to these delays, consider an overnight stay on Kos if your itinerary allows.
