Turkey, Istanbul tour
Turkey
Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast

Enjoy the diversity of this unique country - cruising on a gorgeous teak yacht, exploring beautiful coves and hidden villages, visiting dramatic ruins and volcanic landscape, and indulge in delightful cuisine.

Turkey and Turquoise Coast Cruising Tour Overview

Set astride the boundary of Europe and Asia, Turkey boasts the rich and varied history to be expected of a country at such an important cultural crossroads. Over the course of its long history the city of Istanbul, set gloriously on the Bosphorus Strait, has served as the center of numerous empires, including Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman. The historic areas of Istanbul have enjoyed UNESCO World Heritage List status for more than 20 years, testament to their historic significance and impressive beauty. From Istanbul, we venture to Cappadocia, a region of exceptional natural wonders characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage. Here, we hike amid bizarre rock formations and discover local artisan's shops. Our stay in a wonderfully unique cave hotel completes the experience. We then arrive on the Turquoise Coast, at the meeting of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Dotted with islands and rife with mythological history, the azure waters here invite us to explore in our traditional tirhandil-styled boat, with days spent snorkeling, swimming, or exploring the dazzlingly beautiful coves and hidden villages along the coastline.

Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-2: We explore on foot and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus in fascinating Istanbul, enriched with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Istanbul is home to the thousand-year-old Hagia Sophia, once the greatest church in Christendom, and the Blue Mosque, with its blue-themed interior, replete with panels of floral-motif tiles (20,000 of them) and graceful arabesque stenciling. Visit Topkapi Palace, where the sultans' wives, concubines, and eunuchs lived inside the “forbidden” harem quarters. Enjoy a guided walk through the Covered Bazaar to the Spice Market.

Days 3-4: Hiking in Cappadocia, with its magical landscape, frescoed Byzantine cave churches, and welcoming villages. Spread across the heart of Turkey is the volcanic moonscape of Cappadocia, with its mushroom-shaped rock formations into which the local people have carved homes. Enjoy hiking through the lunar-like landscape of Red Valley, from Ortahisar to Cavusin. Along the way, explore hidden churches and discover amazing frescoes that depict the early days of Christianity. Our guides describe the unique geological features of tuff cones, pillars, and the crumbling pyramid rock formations that dot the valley. Visit with Turkish craftsmen, exploring a potter's workshop carved in a cave or a local weaving cooperative.

Day 5: One of the most important outposts of the ancient world, Ephesus was the third largest city in the Roman Empire, after Rome and Alexandria. In this beautifully restored metropolis where St. Paul lived and preached, stroll from the theater to the harbor on the mile-long marble-paved Arcadian way, with its well-preserved mosaics, and feel transported back to the glory days of Rome.

Days 6-11: The calm waters of the Turquoise Coast glisten in every shade of blue in idyllic, deeply indented coves fragrant with pine forests and wild thyme. Aboard your own luxurious gulet, a wooden sailing yacht designed for cruising these waters, set out on a fantastic six-day Turquoise Coast cruise to experience the joys of this celebrated region of Turkey. Your guide will share the best hiking trails and villages, and life onboard is sheer delight: swimming, snorkeling in clear waters, and feasting on delicious cuisine served al fresco on the deck. Fresh-caught seafood is a highlight of many meals.

Days 12-13: Return to Istanbul for departure on day 13.

Cruising the Turquoise Coast

A highlight of our adventure will be the chance to spend six nights aboard a private yacht as we sail along the Lycean coastline, calling in at numerous islands, ancient ruins, and hidden lagoons.

 

 

The Boundless Journeys' Advantage

  • A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that is woven into every one of our journeys.
  • Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, hand-crafted journeys have received accolades from the world’s most revered travel publications.
  • Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider.
  • Small groups. We tread softly, and our average group size is just 6-8 guests.
  • Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both small-group departures and Private Collection trips.
  • Customer service that goes the extra mile. There is no request that is too big – or too small.
  • Sustainability. We are committed to traveling responsibly.

 

Group Size

5-11 guests

Trip Rating (1 Easiest - 5 Most Strenuous)

Description of Trip Ratings

Adventure travel may involve exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, and activities that may be new to you. We want to make sure that you choose the adventure that's right for you from our many one-of-a-kind trips. Each trip is rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest, and 5 being the most strenuous. A few of our trips have had a “+” added to the number, indicating something that falls in between. Our Trip Ratings may be found on the trip schedule and on our website. Our detailed itineraries provide additional information on what to expect on the trip you are considering (detailed itineraries are available by mail, fax, or e-mail; or you can find them on our website, www.boundlessjourneys.com).We encourage you to call one of our travel experts with any questions or concerns that you may have. We are always happy to assist you in any way that we can.

EASIEST 1

Our easiest trips are generally hotel-based cultural and nature journeys that typically offer light activity. Optional walks and hikes (approximately 2 to 4 hours) through gentle terrain with little elevation gain or loss. Altitude is typically not a factor on these tours. Other activities, such as snorkeling or sea kayaking, are optional. Examples: Indochina, Galapagos Islands Cruise, Tanzania.

EASY TO MODERATE 2

Hotel nights and/or deluxe, safari-style camping. Walking, hiking (approximately 3 to 5 hours), kayaking, or other activities on most days. Trails and paths are through rolling countryside, with occasional steep trails with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Many of our hotel-based walking trips are in this category. Examples: Tuscany & Umbria, Morocco, Costa Rica.

MODERATE 3

Full day hikes (approximately 4 to 6 hours) most days on unpaved trails and paths through hilly terrain with typical elevation gains and losses of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. There may be occasional short steep sections of trail. Examples: Canadian Rockies, Scotland, Spain.

MODERATE TO STRENUOUS 4

Full day hikes (approximately 5 to 7 hours) through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gains and losses (2,000 to 3,000 feet). Terrain may be rugged with uneven footpaths. The average altitude is generally no more than 12,000 feet. Options are limited. These trips typically involve some camping or simple accommodations.Examples: Tour du Mont Blanc, Peru Trek.

MOST STRENUOUS 5

Full-day trekking (approximately 6 to 8 hours) through rugged mountainous terrain with steep climbs and descents and one or more of the following present: elevation gains and losses of as much as 4,000 feet, altitude that exceeds 12,000 feet, and rugged uneven footpaths. These trips typically offer few options and include camping.

Activity Details

Easy to moderate optional day hikes, 2-4 hours per day. Easy snorkeling along the Turquoise Coast.

Meeting Point

Istanbul, Turkey, 2 p.m.

Departure Point

Istanbul, Turkey, after breakfast

Traveling to and From

Most Convenient Airport:
Ataturk International Airport, Istanbul, Turkey (Airport code IST)

Meeting Time and Place:
2 p.m. on Day 1 in the lobby of the Arena Hotel, Istanbul. Please be dressed in comfortable clothing for a city walking tour.

Departure Time and Place:
Your guides will provide transportation to the Ataturk International Airport in time for your departing flights on the last day of the tour. There are no planned activities for Day 13, so you may schedule your flight for any time that day.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Physical Activity
Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast is rated 2, easy to moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). Although generally just 2-4 hours in length, the hikes may seem longer due to trail conditions. There are no maintained trails in Turkey, so our walks take us on nomadic paths and goat trails, which are often uneven and rocky. Warm weather and lack of shade can also be a factor in perceived difficulty of the walks. Typical elevation gain and loss is about 600 feet on most hikes. All hikes are optional.

Life on board a small boat requires physical agility and a flexible and social nature. Daily excursions from our sailing yacht bring us ashore for hikes and exposure to local culture. Most of our landings are “dry,” but some may be “wet,” requiring cautious footing and a good sense of balance on slippery rocks. Crew members will be there to assist.

Preparing for this Trip
It is important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! Please engage in moderate aerobic activities (walking, jogging, or cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability. Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness programs.  

About our Sailing Yacht
The Cavurali was designed and built for people who prefer a seaworthy boat to a floating hotel. Built in 1999, the Cavurali does not compromise comfort and quality, yet provides the nostalgia of a traditional Mediterranean sailing yacht design. Behind the design of this 65-foot, single-mast yacht lies the “Tirhandil Qaique,” a boat  design preferred by the mariners and sponge divers of the area for its seaworthiness, sailing ability, and stability. Tirhandil means “3-to-1” in Greek, referring to the ratio between the length and beam. Hand built in Bodrum in 1999, the hull and decks of the Cavurali are made entirely from teak; the interior is made of mahogany. She is the largest tirhandil sailing in these waters, tastefully accented with antique bronze portholes and cowl ducts.

The Cavurali has four comfortable cabins with private bathrooms. Two cabins have separate twin beds, while the other two cabins have double beds. The crew has their own quarters and facilities. Spacious aft and fore decks complete with awnings provide comfortable outdoor dining, lounging, and sleeping areas, while the cozy interior salon provides an enjoyable refuge during off-season sails and on rare rainy days. Full air conditioning is available, although the Cavurali’s natural ventilation is usually sufficient. Equipment available on board includes two sea kayaks, a windsurfer, and snorkeling gear. The captain of the Cavurali, Tosun Sezen, is a well-known and experienced sponge diver and seafarer. He, along with our gourmet chef, are ideal hosts during our time aboard.

Weather
The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. In İstanbul, daytime summer temperatures average around 70-74°F; the winters are chilly but usually above freezing, with moderate rain and perhaps a dusting of snow. Cappadocia has a steppe climate, meaning that there is a great temperature difference between day and night. The average temperature is 73°F in summer and 28°F in winter. It is cooler and drier than in the Mediterranean and the Aegean coasts. The average water temperature on the Turquoise Coast  is in the high 60's to mid-70's.

You may obtain more detailed weather information by visiting www.weatherbase.com.

When to Go
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, since the climate will be perfect in İstanbul and on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Visiting before mid-June or after August may also help you avoid mosquitoes.

 

Turkey Accommodations

Overview:  First-class and boutique hotels, and a newly built, traditionally-styled deluxe private sailing yacht to cruise the Aegean coast. All private baths.

Nights 1 & 2:  Arena Hotel
Istanbul, Turkey

Turquoise Coast Cruise - Arena Hotel Istanbul, Turkey The Arena Hotel is a charming and beautifully restored 19th-Century Ottoman stone house. Located in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet area within walking distance from Sultanahmet Mosque, Ayasofya Museum and Topkapı Palace, and 11 miles from the airport.



Nights 3 & 4:  Urgup Evi Cave Hotel

Urgup/Nevsehir, Turkey

Turquoise Coast Cruise - Urgup Evi Cave Hotel Urgup/Nevsehir, Turkey

A truly unique, boutique-style hotel built of stone and carved into solid rock, typical of the dwellings in the Cappadocia region. Each of the rooms is individually decorated with antique furniture and accessories collected from around Turkey.



Night 5:  Charisma Hotel

Kusadasi/Aydin, Turkey

Turkey Cruise - Charisma Hotel Kusadasi/Aydin, Turkey

A newly-built waterfront hotel with views over the beautiful Aegean.


 

 


Nights 6-11: The Cavurali

Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Turquoise Coast Cruise - The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, TurkeyA 65-foot, single-masted sailing yacht, The Cavurali sleeps seven in four cabins (each with private bath), with a crew of three in separate quarters. Teak decks, a mahogany interior, and traditional Mediterranean design offer an authentic, stable, and comfortable excursion.

 


Night 12:  Arena Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

See Nights 1 & 2 for details.

 

 

 

 

 


 

Turkey Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 
Istanbul: the Hagia Sophia and Bosphorus Cruise


City walking toureasy, about 2 hours.

We meet as a group early in the afternoon, and begin our exploration of this blend of Europe and Asia with a visit to the Hagia Sophia. Architecturally significant as the first structure in the world to support a dome atop a square edifice, the Hagia Sophia boasts tremendous historic relevance as well. Originally a church built between A.D. 532 and 537, the Hagia Sophia was converted to a mosque in 1453. During that time, the Christian wall frescoes were plastered over and remained covered until the early 20th century, when the building was converted to a museum in keeping with Mustafa Atatürk’s secularization of Turkey. The remarkably preserved wall murals now delight visitors of all religious backgrounds. Early in the evening, we enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus. This, the world’s narrowest strait, links the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, and divides Turkey’s landmass between Europe and Asia. Our boat ride ends at a pleasant waterfront restaurant offering seafood and other specialties for our welcome dinner.
Arena Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey

DAY 2 
Istanbul Immersion


City walking tour
easy, 4-5 hours.

Today we immerse ourselves in the historic wonders of Turkey’s capital with a walking tour that includes visits to the Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, the Hippodrome, and the Blue Mosque. Topkapi Palace was the official residence of Ottoman sultans between the mid-15th and the mid-19th centuries. The immense complex is made up of four main courtyards and numerous buildings, many of which are now museums housing a range of interesting artifacts. The armory, jewelry, porcelain ware, Ottoman miniatures, and calligraphic manuscripts on display offer a glimpse of Turkish history and culture. At the height of royal power, as many as 4,000 people lived on the palace grounds. At the Cistern, we explore the largest of the city’s earliest water supplies, which lies beneath the streets but is no longer used. We wander along boardwalks above the shallow water among ancient Greek and Roman statues and columns. Above ground, little is left of the 4th-century Hippodrome, but you can still see remnants of the U-shaped horse-racing track. At the stunning Blue Mosque (officially, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque), we marvel at the blue tile work adorning one of the greatest mosques built during the classical period of Ottoman rule.

Later, we’ll meander through Istanbul’s legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, encompassing many streets and thousands of shops. Each street features specific goods where buyers and sellers engage in the age-old practice of bargaining for the best deals. The ancient Spice Market is also a treat for the senses. Along the way we’ll see Rustem Pasha Mosque, the first example of an octagonal-shaped mosque.

When we’ve finished exploring Istanbul’s colorful streets, we board a local street car for an expeditious ride back to our hotel. After time to relax, we meet this evening for dinner at another fine local resaurant.
Arena Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey

DAY 3
Flight to Kayseri; Transfer to Cappadocia


Hiking
easy to moderate, 2-3 hours.

This morning we’ll fly to Kayseri then drive to Turkey’s Cappadocia region, arriving by lunchtime. Cappadocia is a vast area of exceptional natural wonders characterized by strangely fascinating rock formations called fairy chimneys. Our accommodations are truly unique; carved into one of these geological wonders is a cave hotel, whose appearance is reminiscent of a Dr. Suess story! The original name for the region, Katpatuka, was taken from an Old Persian word meaning “land of beautiful horses,” and the partnership between man and horse lives on here today. After lunch we embark on a hike through Bagli Dere, or the Valley of Spears, and explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a complex of cave churches carved by monks between A.D. 900 and 1200 featuring spectacular frescoes. The murals represent a unique Cappadocian artistic style, and the Byzantine architectural features of the churches (arches, columns, and capitals) are made more interesting because they aren’t structurally necessary. We stop by Pasabag, an area whose striking fairy chimneys capture the imagination. The stone pillars are carved from tuff, a type of rock consisting of consolidated ash ejected from vents during a volcanic eruption. This area is also known as “Monk’s Valley” because several Stylite ascetics sought a hermit lifestyle here, carving rock dwellings and also preaching atop them. Later, we’ll return to our hotel for dinner.
Urgup Evi Cave Hotel, Goreme, Turkey

DAY 4
Red Valley and Whirling Dervishes


Hiking
easy to moderate, 3-4 hours.

Our day begins with a hike through the lunar-like landscape of Red Valley, from Ortahisar to Cavusin. Along the way, we explore hidden churches and discover more amazing frescoes that depict the early days of Christianity. Our guides describe the unique geological features of tuff cones, pillars, and the crumbling pyramid rock formations that dot the valley. After lunch and sampling some local wine, we have the opportunity to meet Turkish craftsmen ― exploring a potter’s workshop carved in a cave or a local weaving cooperative. Collecting their clay from the riverbank, Cappadocian potters create intricate designs in a range of colorful, geometric patterns. This is a great opportunity to purchase some uniquely Turkish crafts and support local producers.

By late afternoon, we return to the hotel and prepare for tonight’s sema, the sacred dancing of the Mevlevi Order of Sufis, mystical practitioners of Islam. Also known as the Whirling Dervishes, the Sufis practice these dances in order to achieve closeness to God in a ceremony they call dkir, or “remembrance.” The Mevlevi Order was founded by the 13th-century poet Jelaladin Rumi, who is widely known throughout the world for his verse—love poems to God. The dances are simple yet captivating, and we are privileged to witness this sacred form of worship.
Urgup Evi Cave Hotel, Goreme, Turkey

DAY 5
Flight to Izmir; Ephesus


Walkingeasy, about two hours.

Early this morning we board a flight to Izmir, on the Aegean Sea. Depending on current schedules, we may have a short layover in Istanbul or a direct flight. We then drive to Sirince, a beautiful town whose whitewashed homes with red-tile roofs creep up the verdant mountainside. We have lunch in a café and enjoy absorbing the relaxed pace of everyday life in this community. Next, we explore the marvelous ruins of Roman baths, the library, agora, theatre, and the remains of the homes and administrative complexes that comprise the city of Ephesus. Founded in the 10th century B.C., the Biblical city was an Ionian colony situated on the Aegean; however, archaeological evidence indicates that the site was occupied since the Neolithic period. We stroll down the main road, paved with white marble slabs and surrounded by beautifully carved pillars, columns, and archways. The city was once distinguished for the nearby Temple of Artemis (or the Temple of Diana), dedicated around 550 B.C. The Library of Celsus (circa A.D. 135) was built to hold 12,000 scrolls and also served as a giant tomb for its namesake, Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus. Ephesus also boasts a massive Roman theater, which could seat 25,000 spectators. Initially, it was used for plays, but during Roman times, gladiators fought for their lives here. Evidence of a gladiator graveyard was found in May 2007. We learn more about the history of Ephesus at the museum in Selcuk, which houses a large collection of statuary and other artifacts taken from the ruined city. This afternoon, we check in at our hotel for the night, beautifully situated on the Aegean waterfront.
Charisma Hotel, Kusadasi, Turkey

DAY 6
Transfer to
Aphrodisias; Marmaris

Cruising; Walking easy, about two hours.

This morning we drive to Aphrodisias (2.5 hours), and enjoy a walking tour of this ancient city, one of the most important archaeological sites of the Greek and Roman periods in Turkey. Famous for its Temple of Aphrodite, the city had a long and prosperous run from the 1st through the 6th centuries. An enormous earthquake in the 7th century hobbled the city, which never quite recovered. Founded near a marble quarry, Aphrodisias supported a local culture of world-renowned marble sculptors; excavations have unearthed marble statues and other treasures. Many ancient monuments still stand, and our guide tells us of the rise and fall of this fascinating city. After lunch, we continue to Marmaris (about 3 hours) where we take a short walk around town before boarding our private sailing yacht, the Cavurali, for our Turquoise Coast cruise. This 65-foot, single-mast vessel was built in 1999 and combines comfortable accommodations with the adventure of sailing aboard a traditional tirhandil-styled boat. The hull and decks are made of teak, while the interior boasts mahogany woodwork. Late this afternoon, we set sail to a wilderness cove for dinner and our first night aboard.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 7
Ekincik; Carian Cliff Tombs

Cruising; Hikingeasy to moderate, 2-3 hours.

In the morning, we sail to Ekincik. We enjoy breakfast aboard, with time to take a swim in the turquoise waters. We then disembark and begin a beautiful seaside hike between the villages of Ekincik and Candir. Here, we board a riverboat and cruise up the Dalyan River to view the magnificent tombs that are the resting places of the kings of Caunus. Cut into the rock faces, the Carian Cliff Tombs included false walls behind which the kings’ treasures were kept to hide them from grave robbers. Unfortunately, the trick didn’t work and many of the tombs were looted anyway. As the day continues, we find ourselves at natural hot springs for a soak in the warm waters, and an optional natural mud treatment; the mud contains minerals said to have therapeutic properties. Later, there is time to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Koycegiz Lake. As we continue our walk to Semisce Cove, we explore the ruins of Caunus, including its theater, tombs, Byzantine church, and Roman bath. The ancient city was named for Kaunos, a Greek mythological character and son of Miletus. In Semisce Cove we meet the Cavurali for another dinner on the sea.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 8
Aga Limani Cove; Lydea; Gocek Lagoon

Cruising; Hikingeasy to moderate, about 3 hours.

An early morning sail brings us to Aga Limani Cove in the azure waters of Fethiye Bay, once home to the civilizations of ancient Lycia. Following breakfast and a morning snorkel—where you might see various sponges and octopi—we hike to the remote site of Lydea, stopping en route to visit with nomadic shepards for tea. The trail winds through high, rocky ridge tops covered in pine forest, and past homesteads growing aromatic herbs of oregano, thyme, and sage. Lydea was home to a time-honored Lycian oracle, and we explore the sarcophagi, temple walls, cisterns, Corinthian columns, and inscribed tablets from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Farther along, we discover the Batik Hamam, or “Sunken Baths.” Cleopatra herself is said to have bathed here. After our hike, we’ll have a late lunch on board our private yacht before setting sail for Gocek Lagoon. Tonight, fall asleep to the sound of the water gently lapping the sides of our sailboat while at anchor in a secluded cove.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 9
Gemiler Island

Cruising; Hiking moderate, 3-4 hours.

Today we sail to Gemiler Island to explore the mysterious ruins of a Byzantine monastery. We will have time to wander among the temple and basilica, learning about the settlement here and viewing some lovely mosaic remnants. Pirates were also said to have once inhabited this island as well. After lunch and some time for a swim, we take an excursion to the ruins of Affouli Nunnery perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Later, discover the eerie ghost town of Kayakoy, a village of more than 600 Greek-style stone houses and churches covering the mountainside. The town was built on the site of the ancient city of Carmylessus in the 1700's. But following the Greco-Turkish War, it was abandoned due to the“population exchange” agreement between the Turkish and Greek governments in 1923. This mutually agreed upon expulsion of citizens involved some two million people who were driven from their homelands. The exchange involved Turkish nationals of the Greek Orthodox religion established in Turkey and Greek nationals of the Muslim religion established in Greece. From Kayakoy, we hike to Soguk Su Cove and meet our yacht. There is time to enjoy an afternoon swim or snorkel before dinner.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 10
Burguncuk Cove; Kalkan; Xanthos; Patara


Cruising; Hikingeasy to moderate, about 1 hour.

This morning we find ourselves at the wild Burguncuk Cove. Truly a hidden gem, this is a special place very few locals even know about. Sheer, 1500-foot cliffs tower above us, while Aleppo-pine studded lowlands form our cove. A cluster of unnamed Lycian and Byzantine ruins are ours to explore on this coast, hidden under the pine forest. It’s a beautiful place. Next, we cross the Seven Capes (Yedi Burun), one of the last undeveloped stretches of the Turkish Mediterannean, and reach the small seaport of Kalkan. Going ashore, we’ll take a short drive to the picturesque mountain village of Bezirgan, where we are guests at a Turkish home for a traditional lunch of delectible local cuisine. Learn more about rural life in this part of Turkey from our hosts who chat with us over the meal. This afternoon, explore the ruins of Xanthos, a Lycian center of culture and commerce, which later served the Persians, Macedonians, Greeks, and Romans who in turn conquered the city and occupied the adjacent territory. Excavations have unearthed texts written in Lycian and Greek, including several bilingual texts that were useful in deciphering the Lycian language. Continue to Patara, once a flourishing maritime city, where we can swim from the vast and deserted beach. At dusk, we enjoy a short hike through a secret Roman aquaduct to Firnazlar Cove to connect with the Cavurali.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 11
Kas; Aperlae’s Sunken Ruins;  Kekova; Skyrock Bay


Cruising; Hiking easy to moderate, 2 hours, and optional snorkeling ― easy.

This morning we sail to Kas, a lovely town featuring charming boutiques and whitewashed houses clad in colorful bougainvillea blossoms. There is ample time to stroll through the village and enjoy lunch at one of the many cafés on your own. Early this afternoon, we sail to Aperlae to snorkel over ruins of the mysterious town, some of which has collapsed into the sea. Some believe the town was founded to harvest a purple dye from a species of snail found here. Our guide introduces us to Aperlae’s strange past and how its resourceful inhabitants survived in harsh conditions until the city’s abandonment in the 7th century. Next, we head for Kekova Sound; the whole Kekova region was declared a Specially Protected Area in 1990 to preserve its natural, cultural, and geographic richness. At dusk, we clamber up to the Crusader Castle—built by the Knights of Rhodes—at timeless and waterlocked Simena, for a breathtaking view of the sea below. We’ll spend about an hour hiking around Lycian sarcophagi and ancient olive trees to Skyrock Bay to meet our yacht for a final dinner aboard.
The Cavurali, Turquoise Coast, Turkey

DAY 12
Myra; Ulupinar; Olympos; Return to Istanbul


Cruising; Hikingeasy to moderate, 1-2 hours.

Following a swim and breakfast, we set sail again for Andriace, port of Myra, on the final leg of our voyage. Enjoy your last morning on deck with the scenery and keeping an eye out for seabirds. We disembark in Myra, the leading city of the Lycian Union, which surpassed Xanthos in early Byzantine times to become Lycia’s capital. Before leaving Myra, we take time to discover the fantastic Lycian House Tombs carved into a hillside, like an apparition seeping from the rock. The Church of St. Nicholas was named for the 4th-century bishop of Myra, though the first church wasn’t built until about two centuries later. We continue to Ulupinar, where we enjoy a farewell lunch. At  nearby Olympos, we hike among the fascinating eternal fires of Chimaera, a site mentioned in Homer’s Illiad. Olympos became one of the six leading cities of the Lycian federation, and during the 1st century B.C., was invaded and settled by Cilician pirates. Though fueled by natural gas—mostly methane—seeping through cracks in the earth, the mythical Chimaera was thought to be a savage beast who spouted fire from its mouth. There may be time for a final swim at the white pebble beach here before continuing to Antalya and our early evening flight to Istanbul. We say goodbye to our guide and are transferred to the hotel. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening at one of the city’s many fine restaurants―your guide will be happy to make recommendations.
Arena Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey

DAY 13
Departure


After breakfast, transfers to the airport for homebound flights are provided as needed.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these should the need arise.
 

Trip Length

13 Days

Trip Dates

Upcoming Trips:

  • May 08–20, 2011
  • Sep 06–18, 2011

2011 Land Cost

From $5,695 per person

Tiered Pricing

5-7 Guests: $5,995 per person
8-11 Guests: $5,695 per person

Single Supplement

$450 (land only); $975 (gulet only); $1425 (land and gulet)

View Single Supplement Policy

Single Supplements:

Accommodations (hotels, tents, cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability. If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 90 days ahead and a roommate is not available, you will only be charged a “forced” single supplement in the amount of 50% of the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary). Single accommodations are limited so you are encouraged to reserve early!

Internal Airfare

$510 (may be subject to change)

View Internal Airfare Description

Istanbul - Kayseri - Izmir - Istanbul

What's Included

  • Expert leadership
  • All accommodations
  • All meals except one lunch and one dinner
  • All land transportation and charter cruise aboard a deluxe sailing yacht during the tour
  • All activities as noted in the itinerary

Please complete the following information to request a reservation. A trip deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm your reservation (payable by check or major credit card). Once we receive your request we will contact you within one business day to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have.

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Picture Yourself Here:

Seven days sailing and cruising aboard a private traditional sailing vessel with active land itinerary

Hiking in Cappadocia, with its magical landscape, frescoed Byzantine cave churches, and welcoming villages

Walking explorations of important sites of the ancient world: Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Lydia, Xanthos, Olympos, and the eternal flames of Chimera

Swimming and snorkeling along the Turquoise Coast

Exploring Istanbul's Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace

Upcoming Trips:

  • May 08–20, 2011
  • Sep 06–18, 2011

You may also be interested in:

Prefer a private departure?

Turkey, Turquoise Coast Private CruisePlease see our Private Collection, Turkey: Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast

Announcements:

Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia: Available at an additional cost. Float intimately amongst the fairy chimneys and soar over the magnificent Cappadocian landscape. To reserve call 1-800-941-8010.

Latest Blog Posts About Turkey

Walking tours and the finest foods

Traveling to a foreign country, you’ll quickly spot the differences, the subtleties and the intricacies of a new culture. On a walking tour it’s even more marked, as you get to engage on a personal level with your surroundings. Food is an integral part of a country’s culture, however it’s not always the first thing you [...]

Turkey: Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast

Easter, for many, is a time of celebration and indulgence. Although while some take a well-deserved break from the humdrum of working life by staying home, others take the time to travel. For those Europeans who jumped a plane to Istanbul, hand luggage only, the weekend break was likely to be a taster of things to [...]

Boundless Journeys’ tour of Turkey begins in the culturally rich city of Istanbul

Istanbul  – the 2010 European Capital of Culture Congratulations to Istanbul, which has been designated the 2010 European Capital of Culture. This title is bestowed by the European Union, which designates a European Capital of Culture to recognize a city’s cultural development and history. Istanbul’s title is particularly significant this year – 2010 is the 25th anniversary [...]

Turkey cruise along the Turquoise Coast

Recent Boundless Journeys guest, Mary Lil Chappell, shares her experience exploring beautiful coves and hidden villages, and indulging in delightful cuisine, on our September 2009 Turkey: Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast tour.

How to do a Cruise along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

Turkey Sailing and Cruising: From Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast Summer is fast approaching here in Vermont, which makes for the perfect time for thinking about taking to the water. Yes, we have our beautiful Lake Champlain which offers some nice boating opportunities, but I’m thinking of something much grander in scale -- cruising Turkey’s famous [...]

Read More from the Boundless Journeys Blog »


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Testimonials

"Nothing can capture the beauty of this scenic country like one’s own eyes. Whether standing on a swinging bridge at tree top level in the cloud forest or watching Arenal Volcano, a photograph just can’t capture the breathtaking views and perspectives." - Kim Strunz, Costa Rica: Nature’s Richness Revealed




  
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