Turkey: Sail & Swim

Picture this: swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient towns, and snacking on delicious Turkish treats (baklava included). Grab your sunnies and swimmers, and meet us in Fethiye. You’ll get to know your crewmates over a welcome cocktail before we set sail. Spend the afternoon stretched out on the sun-soaked deck as we cruise towards Boncuklu Bay. Tonight, we’ll tuck into our first chef-prepared meal as the sun sets over the sea. This? This is what you came for.  

How you start the day is up to you - early morning swim or a lazy lie-in? After breakfast, we’ll set sail toward the stunning Gemiler Bay, stopping first at the dreamy Butterfly Valley. Swim, chill, fish or wander the lush slopes before heading to the breathtaking Blue Lagoon for lunch. Fancy a splash or some adventure? Snorkel, paddleboard, kayak – or for the ultimate adrenaline fix, take to the skies with a paragliding flight from Babadag Peak. In the afternoon, we’ll cruise on to Gemiler Bay, arriving just in time for dinner onboard and a night anchored in this magical corner of the coast.  

Rise and shine! Today we’ll be up with the sun (well, almost) to cruise across to Ekincik Bay, our next overnight stop. This spot is tucked at the top of the Dalyan Delta, known for its golden beaches, rock-carved tombs, and sulfur-rich mud baths. Feeling adventurous? Join an optional boat trip upriver to the ancient city of Kaunos—said to have been founded by the grandson of Apollo, the god of music and dance. Sounds like our kind of guy. Then it’s time for a dip in Dalyan’s famous ‘beauty mud’. And this afternoon? Float your worries away with a swim at Iztuzu Beach, where you might even spot a loggerhead turtle. 

Today we’ll soak up more breathtaking Riviera views as we journey west to Marmaris. First up: a scenic swim stop at the aptly named Paradise Island. Dry off on deck and enjoy another delicious lunch.  

Then it’s onwards to Marmaris, where the marina is packed with boats of all shapes and sizes. Hop off and get your bearings with an orientation walk led by our Trip Leader.  

After that, it’s time to explore. Wander through the maze-like Grand Bazaar, take a stroll along Marmaris Beach, or visit the impressive Marmaris Castle. Tonight, head to Bar Street for drinks, dancing, and a great atmosphere. Memories: made. 

Shake off last night’s fun with more incredible swim stops around the Fethiye Gulf. First, we’ll drop anchor at Agalimani Bay, where you can swim, snorkel or simply soak up the scenery. Feeling adventurous? Take an optional guided hike to the ancient Roman ruins of Lydae before continuing to explore the string of paradise islands that make this stretch of coast truly unique. 
  

Next, we’ll stop in a bay that was once a shipyard for the Lycians. Once you’ve perfected your backflips (or maybe a few belly flops), we’ll head to Monastery Bay. Here you’ll find ancient ruins and calm waters perfect for snorkelling. Tonight, enjoy another delicious dinner with your crew. All in favour? Say aye!

Another day of refreshing swims and soaking up the sunshine? You’ve got it. Grab a spot at the front of the boat and enjoy a final look at Monastery Bay. Next stop: the beautiful Gocek Bays. This cluster of stunning coves is sure to impress. We’ll zigzag between Sarsala Bay, Boynuzbükü, Bedri Rahmi Bay and Gocek town, before anchoring in Kizil Ada Bay for the night. After another delicious chef-prepared dinner, gather the crew and break out the playing cards—Go Fish, anyone? 

Land ahoy! Today’s the final day of our adventure, so we’ll set sail for Fethiye. Along the way, enjoy a few last swim stops and another tasty meal on deck. When we reach the marina, join a walking tour with our Trip Leader to check out the highlights.  

Then you’ll have the afternoon free to explore—wander the cobbled alleyways of Fethiye’s Old Town, see the rock tombs carved into the cliffs, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the bazaar. Feeling adventurous? If you didn't take the plunge earlier in the week, there’s an optional paragliding trip in nearby Babadağ.  

Tonight, gather the crew for one final dinner onboard. Want to give this trip the send-off it deserves? Head back into Fethiye after dark for a night to remember. 

After breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to the boat that’s been our home at sea. Make sure to swap contact details with your new friends—you never know when a reunion trip might be on the cards. Not ready for the adventure to end? Istanbul is just a short trip north and the starting point of our Turkey: Baths & Bazaars (and certain dates are perfectly designed to match up.)