7 Day Eastern Turkey Cruise
This itinerary is completely flexible and can accommodate the wishes of guests. This route visits incredibly beautiful locations and a short stay at the Internationally famous sailing town of Gocek. Recent visitors to Gocek include Jeff Bezos and Prince Charles etc. This itinerary will appeal to those guests who want an exciting and adventurous holiday - but perhaps also the opportunity to loiter and relax in one of the very most exclusive and fashionable locations on Earth!
Day 1
Marmaris to Ekincik
Activity: Sailing, Moored, Swimming, Paddle Boarding, Dinner
Set sail from Albatros Marina, Marmaris. Exit Marmaris lagoon into the Med Sea. Steer a course to port (East) to the wonderful small fishing village of Yikincik.
We will drop anchor in the bay and enjoy the limpid turquoise blue, crystal clear sea and can use 'On Y Va's inflatable dinghy to explore this pristine bay, where sea turtles are a frequent sight.
We will use the dinghy to get to the beach, when we will visit the village itself for dinner at one of the splendid authentically Turkish restaurants.
We will spend our first night 'at anchor' in the bay.
From Yikincik it is possible to hire a small boat to take you to Kaunos (a very ancient, very famous Turkish village). This trip also includes a visit to 'Turtle Beach' Yachts are not allowed into this area.
However, 'On Y Va' will await your return. In the event this option is taken then that would take most of the second day.
Day 2/3
Ekincik to Goben
Activity: Sailing, Moored, Swimming, Paddle Boarding, Dinner
We set sail with the rising sun to travel to what is known Internationally as the '12 Islands' This is a perfect sailing area. There are indeed 12 Islands whose pristine beauty are legendary, with many locations only accessible from the sea.
We will moor at an absolutely amazing paradise location called Goben (or Capi Creek). We will try to arrive there before the evening so that a walk from the anchorage, up a hill can be undertaken. The view from the top of this hill puts life into perspective.
The great ocean is presented before you in all it's majesty! There is a very small Mosque at the top of the hill and the very friendly Imam permits visitors to sit on his bench overlooking the ocean. It is even possible to carry a rucksack containing cans of chilled beer, which can be enjoyed along with this most spectacular experience!
Day 3/4
Goben to Tomb Bay
Activity: Sailing, Moored, Swimming, Paddle Boarding, Dinner
After an early morning swim in the amazing, warm, clear water we will sail to 'Tomb Bay' Another must!
It is possible to moor here and to enjoy the incredible scenery. This was the site of an ancient Lycean village 2500 years ago.
If you are in the mood for a scramble you can go to the astonishing Lycean tombs that are located there. You can actually go inside the tomb of the Kings and Queens! Some people are just happy to relax by the sea and perhaps to swim and enjoy the paradise setting!
Day 4/5
Tomb Bay to Gocek
Activity: Sailing, Moored, Swimming, Paddle Boarding, Dinner
From Tomb bay we will sail into the bay at Gocek.
We will drop anchor in the bay and motor into the town. This really is millionaire's row. Internationally famous cuisine, fashion, bars etc.
Behind Gocek is a thousand ft sheer limestone cliff. It looks awesome and impenetrable. I looked at this cliff for several years. It came to my notice that there were rumours about a hidden path? So one day I took a rucksack with a packed lunch and plenty of water and set off to where an old guy suggested the hidden path might begin.
I found what I thought might be the path behind an ancient, gnarled olive tree. This path is not for the faint hearted. The ascent is a steep scramble (but not a rock climb) and you are invading a space where there are no humans. Goats rule! As you ascend the view becomes unbelievable!
Gocek, the 12 islands and the ocean are laid out before you. At the top there is a plateau. This place is like the lost World. There are wild tortoises here and a most delightful walk amongst the greenery of the plateau. The excursion up the cliff will take a day.
It is also possible to visit Gocek Island. There is an exclusive beach and a restaurant here.
There is also a busy and interesting market two times a week at Gocek.
Day 6
Gocek to Cleopatra's Bay
Activity: Sailing, Moored, Swimming, Paddle Boarding, Dinner
Cleopatra's bay and Wall Bay are wonderful locations contained within the 12 islands area. There are many places to sail to and swim and enjoy water sports etc.
Day 7
Cleopatra's Bay to Gocek
Activity: Sailing, Disembark
There is so much to do and see here that many guests want to stay in Gocek until it is time to depart for their return flight home.
Gocek is closer to the airport at Dalaman than Marmaris. The airport is 25 minutes away from Gocek by taxi. This means your time on 'On Y Va' is enjoyed to the full until the very last minute.
What's Included?
We offer the best value for money on the Mediterranean.
Learn to Sail
Guests will be invited to participate in the formulation of a 'passage plan'. This plan is based on sea conditions, the weather forecast and destination objectives. It is a written plan and specifies what needs to be taken into account in order to arrive safely at our destination. Progress along our planned route is checked regularly and carefully by manual observations, using the charts and a compass. These observations are then confirmed by observing the vessels chart and plotter/GPS system.
Guests, should they wish to, can participate in the actual sailing procedures. Each team member is given a specific task, for instance, the management of the Genoa (Front sail), management of the main sail, or overseeing navigational checks. Guests can also have a go on controlling of the helm or managing of tacking precedures. Managing of tea and coffee making is an essential position too! The positions can be rotated based on instructions from the skipper - so the tea maker becomes the helmsman etc. Everyone gets to have a go at all tasks, should they wish.
In 7 days it is not possible to become an experienced, qualified sailor. However, I would expect that guests with this kind of enthusiam, would learn to understand the basics regarding navigation and the opeeration of a yacht, and might want to come back for more.
Please note: While we do our best to adhere to our published itineraries, they may be changed at the discretion of the captain due to weather advisories, port traffic, and any other unforeseeable circumstances.
Contact us for more information.
Cancellation / Prepayment
A non-refundable deposit of 10% is required to reserve this cruise, with the remaining 90% required upon arrival at Albatros Marina. In the event of a cancellation due to weather or other natural causes, we will refund all monies paid.