Sail Turkey: Fethiye to Bodrum - (Turkish Gulet)

Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in the bustling town of Fethiye, where you’ll board your beautiful Turkish gullet (a classic wooden yacht from the southwest coast of Turkey) at 3 pm. It’s recommended that you arrive a couple of days early to explore everything Fethiye has to offer and to make sure you’re ready to board on time, as your sailing journey will start right away! After a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travellers, you’ll have a briefing on what to expect over the next eight days of living on the boat. Then, sail for Tarzan Bay. When you arrive, why not jump into the crystal-clear waters of the bay for your first swim. Have dinner as a group and spend your first night aboard, falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the waves.

Have breakfast on the boat this morning as you cruise to Cleopatra's Bath (also known as Sunken Bath, due to the submerged remains). Your leader will share the stories that surround this place, where Cleopatra was said to have spent time with Marc Antony. Stop for a swim, then set sail to Bedri Rahmi Bay – this place pays homage to Bedri Rahmi Eyuboglu, an esteemed Turkish master of literature and art. During a summer cruise in 1973, Bedri Rahmi left his mark by drawing a fish on a rock at the bay's entrance and the iconic Fish Rock still welcomes passengers to the bay today. Swim around the clear waters of the Tersane Islands (also known as the Shipyard Islands) among colourful fish, then head on to Gocek. Disembark and maybe go in search of some delicious traditional cuisine for dinner – your leader will always have the best recommendations!

Sail towards Ekincik this morning – naturally beautiful, this village boasts a 2 km stretch of gravel beach surrounded by local wildlife. If you like, you can opt for an excursion to Dalyan today – this small village sits within pine-covered hills, cotton fields and unspoiled coastline. Take a piyade (a small riverboat) to Turtle Beach, soaking in the natural beauty of the delta along the way. Stop for a swim at the beach – this is where the endangered Loggerhead Turtles lay their eggs during nesting season (May to October)! After a dip in the ocean, make your way to the ancient city of Kaunos – this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient Rock Tombs, which were carved into the cliffs 2500 years ago. End the day at the nearby mud baths, where the warm, sulfur-rich water will work wonders on your skin, leaving you soft and rejuvenated.

Today, cruise to Kumlubuku Bay for some snorkelling and swimming. Your next destination is Paradise Island, covered in pine forests and the perfect spot for a dip in the sea. Refuel with some afternoon tea, then carry on to the vibrant city of Marmaris. Sitting along the Turkish Riviera, this city has evolved into a hotspot for travellers. You’ll have a free evening here, so you can explore the town’s winding narrow streets, shops, cafes and restaurants. Maybe grab a few of your fellow travellers and explore the nightlife, as Marmaris is also home to many clubs and bars.

Say goodbye to Marmaris this morning and set sail for Kadirga, leaving the lively harbour for its secluded beachfront. When you arrive, recharge with a refreshing swim, relax in the sun, then continue to Bozukkale, where you’ll spend the night. You have free time here to chill out on the boat and watch the sunset, or explore the quiet, secluded town at your own pace. Have dinner on board tonight and watch the stars as the light fades into night.

After breakfast on the boat this morning, sail to Palamatbuku – renowned for its turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. When you arrive, jump in the bay’s crystal-clear waters in search of marine life and colourful fish. Have some lunch onboard, then continue sailing to Datca marina. Here, a shuttle is available to the main town, where you can choose to spend your afternoon exploring the Old Town, the scattered ancient temples, local cafes and some of the various historic sites. Spend the night in Datca marina, maybe heading out for a local dinner with your group.

Sail to Kindos for a morning swim and some free time, where you can head to Knidos Ancient City. If you take the optional excursion, you’ll hop off the boat and explore the impressive ruins that are still undergoing excavation. Climb to the top of the hill for views over the city's two harbors and when you return, maybe take another dip in the clear water. Next Sail to Black Island where you will have lunch onboard and you can enjoy one last swim before sailing onto Bodrum. Home to white-washed Mediterranean houses, cobblestone streets and high-end shopping, Bodrum is one of Turkey's best retail destinations. The twin bays boast views of the iconic Bodrum Castle – a medieval fortress that was partly built with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Head out on the town with your group for a final night together, exploring what Bodrum has to offer. Maybe head to a local bar before dinner on the boat and toast to an amazing sailing adventure!