LUXURY TURKISH GULET CRUISE
BOAT: SALAMANDER
Gocek is surrounded by a host of fascinating small towns to the east of the Gulf of Fethiye. Choose from two routes and sail between ancient sites, all along the Turkish coast. These routes allow for exploration in the gorgeous Gulf itself, at the end of the voyage.
This route passes the ruins of Ancient Patara and the beautiful Patara beach, which is an 11-mile stretch of unspoiled beach. This voyage is also well off all established migrant routes.
Gocek
Gocek is a small town on the Southern coast of Turkey, however, don’t let its size fool you. This vibrant town is full of personality and becomes a hotspot for visitors in season. Despite this, Gocek’s quaint charm remains as sailors and tourists tend to relax on their boats.
Gocek is surrounded by green forestry and mountains and there are plenty of authentic restaurants to choose from, spread across 6 impressive marinas. Celebrities such as Tom Hanks, Beyonce and Eric Clapton have visited Gocek, and it’s not hard to see why.
Gocekada
This is a small, secluded island just off the coast of Gocek. We often sail to Gocekada to provide some privacy away from Gocek. It is possible to relax and swim here in peace.
Tomb Bay
This is a great spot for swimming and dining. This bay gets its name from a number of ancient Lycian rock tombs, which are carved into the rocks here. There is more history to be seen here, including the ancient history of Crya, which is hidden within olive trees and forestry.
Once stopping for some traditional food by the water, exploring Tomb Bay you’ll discover ancient archaeological ruins.
Hamam Bay
The first location in this itinerary is located within the shelter of the Gulf of Fethiye. This usually means for calmer waters, which are great for swimming and relaxing. Hamam bay is also known as Cleopatra’s bath as it is said the Queen of Egypt visited this beautiful bay twice a week to bathe.
There are ruins beneath the clear water here, as well as a restored Turkish bath which water is heated due to the volcanic landscape. This is a popular hotspot for yachties and sailors for good reason.
Fethiye
Fethiye is a must-see, as the largest town in the area. This vibrant town surrounds a natural, sheltered bay, which is a sight in itself. One of the more touristy areas in the itinerary, the Fethiye harbour has several restaurants, cafes and bars to relax at.
Don’t let the popularity of this bustling city stop you exploring. The vibrant, atmospheric nature of this town is part of its charm, enabling you to experience the lively, authentic Turkish culture.
There are also plenty of smaller, secluded islands scattered around Fethiye, and explore the surrounding local villages. Fethiye beach is also a great place for tourists and locals to relax.
Kayakoy
This ancient, deserted town has a rich history to it. Kayakoy was once home to Christians, Muslims and Armenians. However, once the Christians were forcibly removed to Greece in 1923, the Muslims and Armenians soon followed as they felt the heart of the town had gone.
After anchoring in Cold Water Bay, there is a steep path to get to Kayakov, however, the sight of 500 deserted houses and 2 Orthodox Greek churches is astounding.
Gemiler Island
For more ancient history, look no further than Gemiler Island. St Nicholas was born further East from Gemiler Island in Demre, however, he is thought to have been originally buried on Gemiler Island, before being moved back to Demre, previously known as Myra.
There are also 5 Byzantine churches located here and archaeological ruins spread across hilly landscapes.
Oludeniz
Oludeniz is one of the most impressive sights in Turkey. It simply has to be seen to appreciate it’s magnificence.
Oludeniz features a deep blue, secluded cove, surrounded by green hills and broad peninsula. Relax in the water, on the beach, or take a trek up to the tall hills. This bay is mesmeric form up close and afar. Seeing endless parasailors gliding towards the beach is also a sight to behold.
Butterfly Valley
A short walk or sail away from Oludeniz is Butterfly Valley. More parasailers can be found here, descending over the valley. It is also a hotspot for hikers and backpackers setting up camp on the shore.
Ancient Patara
We can arrange for a minibus to escort you from Kalkan to Ancient Patara. These ancient remains of the large city from the Lycia period have been partly restored. It is also possible to visit Ancient Xanthos on this trip.
Kalkan
Kalkan, Turkey, is one of the more vibrant locations on the itineraries. It is popular with brits and bustling with atmosphere, so much so the harbour is usually full, so full we usually need to pull you in with dinghies. Despite Kalkan’s lively atmosphere, it retains it’s traditional, old-town charm.
Kalkan Town is a great place to relax on the port, visit restaurants or go shopping.
Kas
Kas, Turkey, is another pleasant, seaside town with a wide selection of restaurants and bars. The seafront has a vibrant atmosphere, similar to that of Kalkan. However, if you’d prefer some peace and quiet, then venturing further into the town you’ll find stalls and shops.
There is also a small Greek Island situated to the South of Kas where you can set sail with a hired boat.
Kekova
The final destination in our itinerary is the furthest we travel East. Kekova, Turkey, is a small island which shelters the waters in front of Kale, making it an ideal place for relaxing in the water or on the beach.
As well as being a place to relax in the sun, Kekova has a rich history to it. The Northern side of the island was once home to the ancient town Dolchiste. The town was destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd Century, of which there are still partly sunken ruins in the water. The Kekova sunken City is a popular tourist location in the Mediterranean.
As well as the sunken City in Turkey, other landmarks include an ancient dockyard opposite Kale, the Lycian site on the Turkish coast. The only way to visit this secluded village is by sea. The lack of tourists here only adds to the authenticity of the village. In Kale, there are local goods to purchase as well as fantastic views from the castle.
