Luxury Yacht Charter | Tailor Made Vacations
Turkey
Itinerary - Göcek - Bodrum
Private Gulet Charter Turkey
The Blue Voyage - Blue Cruise - Mavi Yolculuk - Gulet Charter - Authentic, Elegant & Luxurious
Discover the Turkish coast
Göcek, Yassica Island - Bedri Rahmi Bay | Sarsala Bay, Hamam (Manastir) Bay | Göbün Bay, Domuz Island, Tersane Island | Ekincik Bay - Dalyan | Ekincik - Dalyan | Bozukkale (Loryma) - Bozburun | Aktur Bay, Datca | Palamut Bükü, Knidos | Bodrum
Route: Göcek - Bodrum
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Start / End: Saturday / Saturday
Yacht: Luxury Gulet, High Deluxe Gulet & High Deluxe Yachts
Highlights: Göcek, Yassica Island - Bedri Rahmi Bay,
Sarsala Bay, Hamam (Manastir) Bay, Göbün Bay,
Domuz Island, Tersane Island, Ekincik Bay -
Dalyan, Bozukkale (Loryma) - Bozburun, Aktur
Bay, Datca, Palamut Bükü, Knidos, Bodrum
Discover the Turkish Coast
Sample Itinerary:
1. Day: Göcek
Göcek, a breathtaking natural harbor nestled between the ancient Lycian cities of Telmesos (Fethiye) and Kaunos (Dalyan), was once known as Daildala (Daydala). This enchanting spot is one of Turkey's premier yachting destinations, inviting you to embark on a memorable blue cruise adventure. Catering primarily to yachtsmen and women, Göcek embraces a serene atmosphere, with limited nightlife featuring just a few charming bars and a vibrant music/dance venue. Like most coastal gems, it offers a delightful esplanade, perfect for leisurely strolls and mingling. As you arrive, Göcek greets you with its tranquil harbor and modern Mediterranean elegance, revealing an oasis of peace surrounded by picturesque bays and dark pine forests. Protected by the majestic Taurus Mountains, its stunning views of numerous islands and sheltered bays captivate the soul. With untouched coves waiting to be explored and ancient ruins echoing the Lycian civilization, Göcek offers a unique holiday experience that inspires adventure and discovery.
Our first stop is Yassica Islands, a truly romantic paradise. Covered with pine and olive trees, these islands boast sheltered and shallow bays, perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Next, we sail to Bedri Rahmi Bay, named after the esteemed master of Turkish literature, art, and painting. In the summer of 1973, during a memorable cruise with friends, he created a striking fish design on a huge rock, now known as ‘Fish Rock,’ welcoming all who enter the beautiful bay. In honor of this great artist, the area is celebrated as ‘Fish Rock.’ We will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Bedri Rahmi Bay, embracing the magic of this extraordinary place.
2. Day: Sarsala Bay - Hamam Bay
Sarsala Bay is a cherished haven for sailors, offering a natural escape perfect for swimming and overnight stays. This enchanting bay features a long, stony beach and a lush valley that stretches inland, embraced by majestic pine-covered mountains. With a welcoming restaurant and a pontoon bustling with moored yachts, it sets the stage for adventure. After soaking in the beauty of Sarsala Bay, we will sail to Hamam Bay, ready for a delightful dinner and a peaceful night. To the south-east of Hamam Bay lies Cleopatra's Bath, or Sunken Bath Bay, where the remnants of a historic bathing area lie submerged, whispering tales of the past. The stunning geological formations, shaped by tectonic forces, create a breathtaking landscape filled with hidden inlets. From the shore, the hillside reveals a once-active crater lake and faint traces of ancient water channels. Dark pine trees and carob trees rise from the landscape, enriching the experience. Additionally, echoes of ancient Lycia remain, with a wall running parallel to the north-east coast, reminding us of the extraordinary history nearby.
3. Day: Göbün Bay, Domuz Island, Tersane Island
The entrance to Göbün Koyu (Karpi Creek) may be narrow, but once you venture inside, a long bay reveals itself, embraced by olive and pine trees. At the far end, you’ll discover rock-cut tombs and ancient ruins, whispering stories of the past. Next, we embark on a journey to Domuz Island, once known as Prince Island. This enchanting place derived its name from the wild pigs that roamed its shores. Today, it beckons yachts to find refuge in its sheltered coves. Our adventure continues to Tersane Island for an overnight stay. Known as Shipyard Island, it stands as the largest gem in the Gulf of Fethiye. A deep, 100-meter channel opens the way to these islands, where the east side offers calm, protected bays, perfect for summer’s embrace. The western side, while more exposed to the fierce winds, becomes a reliable haven for anchors. Historically referred to as Telandria, Tersane Islands boast about a hundred ruins of ancient homes, visible from both land and sea. Their sheltered waters have provided sanctuary to sailors in the Gulf of Fethiye since the Byzantine era, inviting us to connect with the timeless spirit of adventure.
After a refreshing swim, you’ll hop back onto the river boat for a visit to the ancient city of Kaunos. Founded in the 9th century BC, this historic site is rich with stories of the Carian culture that flourished here. As you explore, you’ll encounter the well-preserved theater and stunning views from the hilltop acropolis, as well as impressive ruins of a Roman bath and a 6th-century church. Next, you’ll find yourself in the charming town of Dalyan, where the iconic Carian rock tombs stand tall against the cliffs beside the river. If you take a leisurely walk south from town along Maraş Caddesi, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of these magnificent structures. To top off your day, you’ll have the chance to indulge in the famous mud baths. Known for their soothing properties, these natural treatments offer a delightful and fun experience. The mineral-rich mud can enhance relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and nourish your skin. Many participants find a noticeable improvement in their overall well-being, leaving stress behind and embracing a sense of rejuvenation. As the day winds down, your river boat will gently guide you back to your yacht, waiting for you in the tranquil embrace of Ekincik Bay. It’s a journey filled with beauty, history, and moments of connection with nature, all tailored to create lasting memories.
4. Day: Ekincik Bay - Dalyan
Ekincik is a truly unspoiled natural wonder, offering breathtaking beauty and a peaceful little beach where you can unwind and connect with nature. Imagine being taken from your yacht on a small fisher boat as you embark on a journey to explore the stunning delta of Dalyan.
The scenery is simply awe-inspiring, and you’ll have the chance to observe lovely local wildlife along the way. Your adventure will start with a visit to Iztuzu Beach, a gem known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. This narrow spit of land creates a natural barrier between the fresh waters of the Dalyan River and the Mediterranean, and it serves as a vital breeding ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), endearingly known as Turtle Beach.
5. Day: Bozukkale (Loryma) - Bozburun
Bozukkale is a breathtaking and tranquil bay, accessible only by yacht, situated 12 miles from Rhodos harbor Mandraki. Its crystal-clear waters invite you to observe fish dancing over the pebble-stoned bottom. The remnants of ancient castle walls stand majestically at the entrance, overlooking both the Street of Rhodos and the stunning bay. Climbing up rewards you with panoramic views, as the walls—approximately 120 m long, 3 m wide, and nearly 10 m high—whisper tales of the past. Some walls still proudly rise on the hill overlooking the gulf, marking the last vestiges of a castle. Here, three local taverns with charming wooden jetties beckon with fresh seafood and traditional meze. Historically known as Loryma, Bozukkale has served as a pivotal point for monitoring yachts in the Aegean. Its narrow port has been a sanctuary for ships journeying to Rhodes. In 395 BC, the Athenian commander Karori found solace here, and before the Cnidus War in 305 BC, Demetrios, son of Antigonos, used this port as a launchpad for his bold ambitions against Rhodes. The name Loryma, rooted in both Luwian and Hellenic languages, carries echoes of its rich heritage. Though the history and culture of this place remain shrouded in mystery, it is thought to resemble a collar around the face, which inspired the name ‘Rhodes’. Additionally, a port shares this name, and in 412 BC, the Athenian navy, returning from Symi (Sombeki), found refuge in these serene waters.
6. Day: Aktur Bay, Datca
After a delightful breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to Aktur Bay, a mesmerizing haven embraced by lush pine trees, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful bays. As we glide over the crystal-clear waters, peace envelops us in this picturesque paradise. Just a short distance away lies Datça, a charming harbor town with a rich history, founded by the Dorians who thrived in the Aegean.
The scenic Datca peninsula, uniquely situated between the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, offers breathtaking vistas and a serene ambiance. As night falls, we will anchor in Datça, where a dinner awaits, featuring local delicacies that honor the region's culinary heritage. After a day filled with beauty and exploration, we’ll settle in for a restorative night.
7. Day: Palamut Bükü - Knidos
After lunch, we set sail to Knidos, anchoring at the historical harbor for the night. The captivating bay beckons us to explore. The crystal-clear waters are so vivid that a needle on the seabed is easily visible. Knidos, one of Anatolia’s most magnificent ancient cities, invites all to experience its splendid ruins and breathtaking beauty. As the first settlement on the eastern side of the Datça peninsula, Knidos boasts a theater overlooking the ancient harbor and the remnants of two nearby Byzantine churches. Since 1960, this remarkable site has revealed its rich heritage for all to appreciate. The Statue of Demeter discovered here and the striking lion statues that once guarded the harbor now grace the halls of the British Museum. The sacred temple of the goddess Aphrodite stands as a major attraction. This city, with its vast necropolis, double harbor, and magnificent acropolis housing the temple of Aphrodite, leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
Bodrum
Bodrum, once known as Halicarnassus of Caria in ancient times, is the perfect destination for an unforgettable "Blue Voyage" along Turkey's enchanting turquoise coast.
This picturesque coastal town shines as a gem on Turkey's Turquoise Coast, positioned at the entrance to the Gulf of Gökova, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean.
Bodrum occupies a stunning peninsula, adorned with charming villages nestled in serene bays. Renowned for its vibrant, friendly, and bohemian spirit, Bodrum is celebrated as the St. Tropez of Turkey. An air of enigmatic elegance fills the town, from its majestic castle to its sparkling marina and captivating old town.
Just behind the Castle of St. Peter, narrow pedestrian alleys beckon with vine-draped, whitewashed cottages that seem to have emerged from a postcard. Once famous for housing the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Bodrum's town center revolves around its scenic harbor. Here, whitewashed houses and narrow streets are lined with cosmopolitan bars, exclusive restaurants, and traditional shops, all framed by the commanding presence of St. Peter's Castle. The shopping experience in Bodrum is a joy, offering an incredible variety of choices. For nightlife enthusiasts, the city’s vibrant scene pulses with captivating music and an energetic atmosphere.
The impressive Castle of St. Peter overlooks Bodrum's international port. Built using stones from the Mausoleum during the Crusades in the 15th century, this fortress stands as a testament to history, hosting numerous cultural festivals throughout the year. Notable sites include the Castle, the ancient theater, the ruins of King Mausolus's tomb, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology within the castle. The ancient theater, beautifully restored, accommodates over 13,000 spectators, and performances continue to grace its stage, particularly in summer, offering stunning views of the city and its scenic landscape. Bodrum is not just rich in history; it is a beacon of luxury gulet building in Turkey, merging maritime traditions with modern elegance.