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Sailing Southwest Turkey

Gocek - 1

Boarding starts at 15:30 from Gocek Harbour. Gocek is a natural harbour lying at the head of the Gulf of Fethiye on the Turquoise coast of Turkey, just 22km from Dalaman International Airport. Protected by the wooded foothills of the Taurus Mountains, it looks out over the numerous islands and sheltered bays of this beautiful gulf. It is priceless to be away from the crowd, alone with one’s thoughts, communing with nature spending some time with friends, waves, and wind when you are sailing in Gocek Bays.
Gocek mostly caters for yachtsmen and women; consequently there is very little nightlife in the town, apart from one or two very pleasant bars and a music/dance bar. As sailors generally wake early, sail during the day, and sleep early, the most active time in Gocek is between 19:00 and 22:00 hrs, during which time the many bars and restaurants are buzzing with clients. As is usual in most seaside towns there is a delightful esplanade along which you can see and be seen.

Tersane Island, Aga Limani - 2

You will be informed about the cruise itinerary and the gulet. Then we will cruise to Tersane Island.
Also known as Shipyard Island, these are the largest in the Gulf of Fethiye. A deep, 100m long channel provides entry into these islands. There are covered and sheltered bays on the east side, which is also known as summer harbor. The western part is closed due to fierce winds, it is best to anchor here. According to historical sourcesTersaneIslandswere called Telandria. There are about a hundred ruins of ancient houses that can e seen from the land and the sea. These islands proved to be most secure for sailors in the entireGulfofFethiyeduring the Byzantine period. Post the Treaty of Lausanne in 1922, many residents migrated to Mediterranean and other regions. Then out gulet will cruise to Aga Limani for dinner and overnight stay.

Ekincik Bay, Dalyan - 3

Ekincik is an unspoiled natural wonder, blessed with breathtaking beauty. It is uncrowded, pretty and tranquil with a nice little beach nearby. The coastal road there is gorgeous too and is a good base for boat trips and walking tours.
The 2 km long stretch of the unspoilt gravel beach meets a small harbor from which the boats departs to Dalyan, located approximately 45 minutes away. The scenery is stunning and there are many opportunities to observe the local wildlife. On the beach there is a small range of water sports facilities available including banana-boat and water-ski.
You may join our optional Dalyan Tour from here. You will be taken from your yacht by a small boat called "piyade". Firstly arrive at Caretta-Caretta (turtle) beach and a take a swim stop here. You will enjoy the natural beauty of the delta as you sail along in the river boat. You will see the ancient Rock Tombs and finally arrive at mud baths to relax and be rejuvenated. A fishing village called Dalyan will be our final destinations after we return to our yacht by piyade boat. Dinner and overnight stay will be in the Gulf of Ekincik.

Bozukkale (Loryma), Bozburun - 4

Bozukale used to serve as a bay cruise stretch for British naval ships and is now considered as a shipyard on the shore. It was used as a place to watch all the yachts in theAegean. Its strategic geographical location and narrow port was also used by the ships sailing from theportofAthens. In 395 BC, the Athenian commander, Karori, is known to have come here. Before the Cnidus War of 305 BC, Demetrios, son of Antigonos chose this port for preparations before attackingRhodes.
Loryma is located near the Marmaris Peninsula and to the south of the Broken Bay. The name Loryma is believed to originate from the Luwian and Hellenic languages. Little is known about the history and culture of this city. As it sees to pass like a collar around the face, the writers hailing to the Thoukydides Age, gave it the name of ‘Rhodes’. Interestingly, there is also a port by the same name. In 412 BC, theAthensnavy sailing fromislandofSyme(Sombeki) stayed here for a while on its way back. Antigonos’ navy also recuperated here after suffering a defeat in the battle. The ancient ruins scattered all over the city so not provide sufficient historical evidences. Only some parts of the bay at the entrance of the castle remain intact. The walls measure approximately 120m in length, 3m in width and almost 10m in height. Some walls still standing on the hill that overlooks the gulf are noteworthy as the last remains of a castle.
Bozburun is renowned for the thriving sponge business and gullet yacht construction industry. Some of the best wood and craftsmen for building strong and beautiful gullet boats are to be found in this region, which is why leading names in the business employ Bozburun’s boat makers. Owing to its gullet and yacht manufacturing industries, Bozburun has become a central attraction, visited by tourists from all across the World. Dinner and overnight stay will be in the Bozburun.

Datca - 5

Datca was founded by the Dorians settled in the Aegean islands and the southern coast of Ionia. This peninsula is located between the Aegean Sea and theMediterranean Sea. At the end of the peninsula, at a distance of about 38 kms is the ancient Carian city ofKnidos, which was described by Strabo as the ‘city built for the most beautiful goddess, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful peninsula". It is also believed that around 500 years ago, the Spanish pirates sailing left leprosy patients to die here but the fair weather of the peninsula recovered the lepers! Dinner and overnight stay at Datca.

Knidos (Cnidus), Orak Island - 6

Knidos is one of the most magnificent ancient cities in Anatolia that you should visit. As the first settlement in the east of the Datca peninsula, Knidos has splendid ruins and a unique beauty. There is a theater is located right next to the harbor of the ancient city of Knidos. A short walk towards the harbor will take you to the remains of two churches built during the Byzantine period. Knidos century has been a site of archaeological excavations since 1960. The Statue of Demeter discovered here and the lion statues that protected the harbor in ancient times now adorn the halls of the BritishMuseum. The sacred temple of the goddess Aphrodite is a major center of attraction. The city with a huge necropolis, a double harbor and the magnificent acropolis with the temple of Aphrodite truly impresses all visitors. Then our gulet will cruise to Orak Island.
Orak island, located10 milesto the east of Bodrum, is famous for its rich marine life and crystal blue waters. It is a popular point where yachts and boats on Gokova tours do not pass without stopping. The island stretches opposite of the Kargicik Inlet and has indented shores covered with olive trees in the lower slopes of the hills. There is no settlement on the island but there are sheltered coves that you can anchor at in the north. To its east, the sea looks like an aquarium! Here you will have the opportunity of swimming in the crystal-blue waters of Orak Island. Dinner and overnight stay at Orak Island.

Bodrum - 7

Bodrum is the ideal starting point for sailing the Aegean coast of Turkey. The Gokova Gulf is acknowledged to be one of the best cruising areas in Europe. With abundant sunshine, crystal clear waters, continuous blue skies, good anchorages and friendly people, this coast offers many diversities. There are many unspoiled areas rich in natural beauty and in costal settlements and villages.
Bodrum is a port city in Mugla Province, in the southwestern Aegean Region of Turkey. It is located on the southern coast of Bodrum Peninsula, at a point that checks the entry into the Gulf of Gokova. The city was called Halicarnassus of Caria in ancient times and was famous for housing the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Bodrum Castle, built by the Crusaders in the 15th century, overlooks the harbour and the marina. The castle grounds include a Museum of Underwater Archeology and hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year.

Mersincik Bay, Palamut Buku - 8

After a swimming break in Mersincik Bay, we will cruise to Palamutbuku. Palamutbuku is reputed for having the best beaches in the Datca peninsula. The beaches are small but very beautiful. Surrounded by mountains and spotted with gardens, these beaches are known for their tranquility and fresh sea air that together present the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway. The waters here are crystal clear, so much so that it is believed that if you take a needle at the very bottom of the sea, you can still see it!
The people are warm and friendly. Palamutbuku epitomizes peace, tranquility and happiness. With its warm people with their smiling faces and immense natural beauty, Palamutbuku is indeed a little paradise in its own right. Dinner and overnight stay at Palamutbuku.

Aktur Bay, Bencik Bay - 9

After breakfast will cruise to Aktur Bay. Witness the world’s oxygen tank at Aktur! Spotted with pine trees, it definitely is a slice of paradise. In fact, it won the title of the ‘most beautiful bay inTurkey’ and proved to be a hot tourist destination. Aktur consists of two units, namely Datca and Kurucabuk, located at a distance of 4 km from each other. Then we will cruise to Bencik Bay for dinner and overnight stay.
The bays of theGulfofHisaronucan be reached by a yacht from Bencik. The Borbudet Cove can be accessed by a 20 minute walk from the harbor entrance at Bencik. Bencik Bay which has a very narrow entrance but a unique view once you get inside. Bencik is located at the narrowest part of the peninsula that divides Hisaronu Gulf from the Gokova Gulf but it is located at Hisaronu side. Dinner and an overnight stay will be in Bencik Bay.

Emel Sayin Bay, Orhaniye Bay, Selimiye Bay - 10

After breakfast, we will anchor in Emel Sayin Bay and you can enjoy a swimming stop in this lovely bay. Named after the "queen and ambassador of Turkish classical music", Emel Sayin, this place is indeed a great economic holiday destination with its mesmerizing smell of the pine trees, clear sea coast, awe-inspiring views of the bays and warm and welcoming people.
For lunch we will dock in Orhaniye Bay. Featuring its deep blue sea and the legendary Kizkumu beach, Orhaniye is well admired by all holidaymakers. Take a journey down its quaint village roads to discover the historic castle of the black knight. Floating in this bay, the yachts present a picturesque scene. The village of Orhaniye has lots to offer to a hungry tourist. Enjoy walking down the village or witness the beauty of the busy docks accessed by local and foreign yachtsmen alike, stay indoors or explore the local culture and cuisine of the place Orhaniye is full of surprises! Final destination will be Selimiye Bay for dinner and an overnight stay.
The ancient name of Selimiye village was Hydas, which got changed to Losta. At sunset, the sun disappearing behind the mountains surrounding the village seems to dye the scenery in a rich red hue. The ancient site of Bybossos Hydas (Selimiye) has ruins dating back to the archaic period. One of the highest hills of the region is in Selimiye, the other one at the top of Sarikaya and the last one has three castle ruins, including the Kizilkoy Asarkale Quarter. The sheep-shaped southeastern hills are visited by foreign tourists looking to explore the castle ruins dating back to the Hellenistic era. The tomb in the southern part of the square is located 100 meters offshore from the coast and shows ships the way to the Selimiye. Other areas of interest include a monitoring tower, a lighthouse, a monastery and a theater.
American underwater archeologists and scientists are engaged in researching sunken wrecks in the region and have produced valuable findings that are now exhibited in the Bodrum Underwater Museum. Selimiye is frequented by the Blue Cruise boats. Selimiye - Hisaronu - Orhaniye are like an indispensable trio. Selmiye is also renowned for its clean sea water, a great bounty of fish, vegetables, fruits, almond and olive trees, the smell of fresh thyme and oregano enveloping the mountains, clean, pollution-free air, peaceful environment and warm people.

Serce Bay, Kadirga Bay - 11

Serce Bay is where the Blue Cruise boats moor. The place offers a brilliant image of the bottom of the harbor ands is well protected from the harshest weather conditions. Underwater surveys and excavations have led to many discoveries including many centuries old glassware, which is now kept in the Bodrum Underwater Museum. Sparrow Harbor is the place for such archaeological findings. About one kilometer ahead of Sparrow, on the right are the villages of Kirkkuyular and Sindilli, where many abandoned stone houses can be found. In Krkkuyular, the region’s oldest residence, there are 40 cisterns. The water in this region is saline and unfit for animal husbandry and agriculture. The residents use the wells for household use. However, Kirkkuyular and Sindilli are emerging as hot trekking destinations.
Then we will cruise to Kadirga Bay for lunch. With the white lighthouse and the guard house on the headland just before Kadirga, Kadirga Bay is another stopping point. Boats coming from Marmaris carry lots of tourists who wish to swim in this bay. Dinner and overnight stay at Kadirga Bay.

Kocabuk, Gobun Bay, Hamam (Manastir) Bay - 12

Early morning we will set sail to Kocabuk. After breakfast and swimming break in this beautiful bay we will cruise to Gobun Bay . The entrance of the Gobun Bay is very narrow but once inside you will find a long bay surrounded by olive and pine trees. At the far end of the bay you will find some rock cut tombs and ruins. Then we will cruise to Hamam Bay for dinner and overnight stay.
South east of the Hamam Bay, in the ruins of a bath in the water because of the region known as Cleopatra’s Bath, or Sunken Bath Bay coastal tectonics, such as the formation of the bay in the Gulf with many bays. A careful examination of the hill slope behind the bay, which is active in the past, this hill is a crater lake of tectonic structure and reducing water channels, clearly visible from the shore. The monastery dark, pine trees and up the hill from the shore in some places covered with carob trees. Structure of an ancient wall running parallel to the direction of the north-east coast and other small remnants of ancient Lycia reminds me that you are not far from the city. Lydia Network Port can be reached by a hiking trail approximately 1.5 hours.

Sarsala Bay, Bedri Rahmi Bay - 13

Sarsala Bay is another preferred bay by sailors with a natural bay ideal for swimming or spending the night in. It is an attractive bay with a long stony beach, a wooded valley that runs inland, surrounded by pine Forestry Mountain. There is a restaurant and pontoon at the small Sarsala Bay where many yachts moor.
Bedri Rahmi Bay, the shipyard in the Gulf of Fethiye is located just across the island. It is also known by the Lycian name of Tasyaka or ‘dark bay’, due to its natural beauty and historical significance. Bedri Rahmi Eyuboglu was an esteemed master of Turkish literature, art and painting. In the summer of 1973, during a cruise with close friends, he drew a fish on a huge rock. This ‘Fish Rock’ located at the entrance of the blue bay still greets passengers. In fact, the region itself is known as ‘Fish Rock’ in honor of the great master. Dinner and overnight stay at Bedri Rahmi Bay.

Zeytin Island, Yassica Island - 14

Zeytin ( Olive) island located south of Yassica Island. As you will understand from the island name the island covered with olive trees. This is the only island that has a private owner. There is an olive oil workshop on the island remaining from Ottoman times. Then we will cruise to Yassica Island.
Some of these islands appear as the Yassica Islands group on several maritime maps. Anchorage is available at the nearest port of Gocek. Yassica Islands in the Gulf of Fethiye is one of the most romantic places, ideal for spending quality time with your partner and photographing gorgeous sunsets. The islands are covered with pine and olive trees, have many sheltered and shallow bays and are ideal for water sports enthusiasts.
Then our gullet will cruise to Gocek Port for the last day’s dinner and an overnight stay.

Gocek - 15

Upon agreement, the guests will leave the gullet with precious memories by 10:30.