Sail by Private Gulet from Ephesus to Antalya, with Hikes to Hidden Ruins
The Turquoise Coast
Overview
Sun-drenched skies, a warm, translucent sea, a dream world of astounding Greek, Byzantine, and Roman treasures, fantastic meals served on deck, a small group (maximum 11!), and expert Trip Leaders—these are the delights of our Turquoise Coast journey. Traveling cove to cove by traditional gulet (wooden motor-sailing yacht) is an absolute treat and the best way to get away from the crowds. As we explore, we’ll hike to spectacular Lycian rock tombs and fascinating ruins accessible only on foot or by boat, stroll the lanes of magnificent Ephesus, enjoy lunch with a family in a village, and savor on-board cuisine that’s beyond fabulous. Don’t miss this trip—it is one of the most delicious, fascinating, and relaxing vacations you can possibly have!
Arrive: Istanbul, Turkey
Depart: Istanbul, Turkey
Highlights
- Enjoy special explorations in Istanbul, including a private sunset cruise on the Bosphorus
- Sail and hike to hidden Greek and Roman ruins accessible only by boat and foot, including swimming past underwater ruins!
- Explore unforgettable Ephesus, capital of Roman Asia, on a private walking tour
- Savor bountiful meals prepared by our talented on-board chefs and served al fresco
- Join our pre- or post-trip extensions to Cappadocia or Istanbul
Itinerary
Our Istanbul explorations include a private sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. At Ephesus, one of best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world, we walk the marble-paved Arcadian Way, feeling transported back to ancient times. Along the Dalyan River, we visit Kaunos, with its Greek temples and Roman baths, and board our gulet in the sailing haven of Göcek.
A high trail brings us to the ruins of Lydae, accessible only on foot, and we can swim and snorkel above Cleopatra’s Baths, a submerged ruin. On Gemiler Island, our path leads to a Byzantine monastery. We’ll walk to the eerie Greek ghost town of Kayaköy, enjoy a lunch in a village home, and at Kekova Island, see the submerged remains of a Lycian settlement. At Myra, we’ll find fine examples of Lycian rock tombs.
Sailing to Cape Gelidonya, the wildest part of the Turquoise Coast, we’ll hike to the legendary eternal flames of Chimaera and visit the haunting ruins of Termessos, a mountaintop acropolis. Depart on Day 14 via Istanbul, or join our extensions in Istanbul or Cappadocia.
Accommodations
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
What the Trip is Like
This trip is rated Level 2+, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip grading system. It is a relaxed cruising adventure, with hikes that should be fine for the average active traveler. The hikes are a focus of the trip, often bringing us to small villages or off-the-beaten-path ruins accessible only on foot, although all hikes are optional, should you prefer to relax on board the yacht.
We usually have seven hikes during the trip, 2-4 hours each, all with some uphill and downhill walking. Several hikes are of moderate difficultly, following coastal paths that can be steep and rocky. Even if you choose not to participate in the optional hikes, most visits to archaeological sites require walking or hiking on sometimes rocky, uneven paths. Having at least one hiking pole can be very helpful on the hikes as well. To ensure an enjoyable adventure in Turkey, you should make a special effort to be in good physical condition by engaging in a regular exercise regimen before the trip and bring lightweight hiking boots.
The climate along the Turquoise Coast is predominantly Mediterranean. Summers are hot and usually dry as the rainy season along the coast is November to March. It is generally quite warm even during rain showers. Normally there is not much wind, and the afternoon breezes arrive regularly to cool off the coastline. May and October departures may be cooler and we suggest bringing warmer clothing for these dates.
The spacious gulets have shaded aft and fore decks with chaises provide comfortable outdoor dining and lounging. Full air conditioning is available as an option, but the Cavurali's natural ventilation is usually sufficient even during hot mid-summer days (many trip members enjoy sleeping out on the deck under the stars for fresh air, as the locals do).
Four ocean kayaks (three single, one double) are available on board for exploring secluded coves and marine caves. A sailboard is also provided. To maximize time for exploration, we normally proceed under motor power. When conditions permit, and at the captain's discretion, sails will be raised. The Cavurali has a crew of three.
This is not a luxury cruise aboard a big cruise ship, but it's easy to adjust to yacht life, and we think you'll find this to be one of the most pleasant and relaxing journeys imaginable.
Meals on board have a wide variety of meats, fruits, and vegetables produced in Turkey and the bounty of fish in the Mediterranean, the Turks have developed a sumptuous and rich cuisine, influenced by its position as a cultural and geographical crossroads between Asia and Europe. We enjoy Turkish cuisine at its best aboard our yacht. In fact, for some trip members, meals on board become as much of a trip highlight as hiking and discovering ancient ruins!
Breakfasts include fresh yogurt, local honey, fresh-baked breads, eggs, and Turkish breakfast items such as feta cheese, olives, and sun-ripened tomatoes and cucumbers. Lunches and dinners offer an array of appetizers, a variety of salads and vegetable dishes (eggplant in olive oil is a favorite), plus a main entree of lamb, beef, chicken, or fish, grilled, baked, or prepared in other styles. Main dishes are often served with side dishes such as rice pilaf seasoned with currents or pine nuts. Some days, our crew fishes and serves us their “catch of the day.” Desserts include fresh fruits or assorted local pastries such as baklava (nuts and honey in puff pastry).
Thanks to the balmy Mediterranean climate, we enjoy our meals in the open air of the yacht's deck, sitting around a large table under a shade awning, with the fragrant breezes blowing. On occasion, we eat a lunch or dinner at a local town we are visiting. Wine, beer, and sodas are available for purchase. You can run a tab for your drinks and pay at the end of the cruise in Turkish Lira, Euros or US Dollars (credit cards are not accepted on the gulet). Complimentary drinking water, coffee, and tea are provided.
Being able to swim is important on any boating trip, and the warm waters make this an ideal trip for those who like to swim and snorkel. While there is some snorkeling equipment available on board, we cannot guarantee the quality and the fit of the equipment. We highly recommend bringing your own snorkel and mask to assure a proper fit. To get on and off the boat, there is a gradual 45-degree incline on the suspended sea ladder that allows easy access. The dinghy can take up to five guests at a time and has an outboard engine.
For trips with seven group members or fewer, the yacht we use is the Cavurali, a classic 65-foot, single-masted yacht with beautiful handmade teak hull and decks that is ideal for this type of journey. The Cavurali features four comfortable cabins with beautiful mahogany paneling and private bathrooms (two cabins have single beds and two have double beds). All cabins have en suite facilities, including a shower stall, and there are marine windows that open. Linens and towels are provided, including beach towels for swimming. We suggest you pack light because bunk and luggage space aboard is limited. There are 220-volt electrical outlets in the bedroom and bathroom (you will need a plug adaptor with two round prongs), plus an outlet in the salon that supplies power around the clock for charging batteries; it's a useful source when the generators are not on.
For trips with more than seven group members, a larger six-cabin yacht is used. They are generally about 90 feet in length with a 21-foot beam and are similar to the Cavurali in that they feature teak hulls and decks and mahogany interiors. All cabins have a private toilet and shower.
Client Testimonials
"We would rate this as one of our top vacations, a perfect combination of relaxation, hiking, and history."
Abigail H.
Bowie, MD
"The trip was just superlative—there really is nothing to improve. "
Ann F.
Moss Beach, CA
"This trip was fantastic, with excellent coordination of boat/van/walking itineraries—a trip you just couldn't do on your own. And the food was fabulous—both in cities and on the boat."
Ann S.
Los Alamos, NM
"What a treat. Our first WT trip but it won’t be our last. The number of veteran WT travelers on our trip speaks very highly of your company."
Bruce N.
Oakland, CA
"This is a fabulous trip! The boat we were on was wonderful: great crew, great food, great guide, and amazing sites."
Caroline S.
Dover-Foxcroft, ME
"This was an experience we won't forget. Traveling the Turquoise Coast via gulet was the only way to go. The captain and his crew, along with our excellent guide, made this trip close to perfect."
Carolyn S.
Edmonton, Alberta
"Just had a perfect time—an outstanding trip!"
Cindy C.
Santa Barbara, CA
"This was truly a magical adventure. The visit to the rug weaving school, tea with the goatherder's family, and lunch with an extended family high in the mountains were amazing experiences. We visited many wonderful villages, markets, restaurants, and shops as well as ancient ruins. I felt I was really getting a taste of the culture and the history of the region."
Claire G.
Seattle, WA
"This trip was relaxing, fun-filled, full of learning, and very well choreographed!"
Darian M.
Eugene, OR
"A well designed trip through a beautiful and fascinating part of the world. We enjoyed every minute of it."
Dennis K.
Shaker Heights, OH
"The hiking was incredible, the food was out of this world, and the variety of activities and locations made for a first-rate trip. Life on the boat was wonderful!"
Elizabeth F.
Aptos, CA
"This trip was sensational in every way and even exceeded our high expectations. It opened our eyes to the rich and monumentally important history of Turkey, its blend of cultures, and delicious food. We loved the experience on the gulet, balanced with daily excursions on land. All in all, we had a blast!"
Ellen and Norman R.
New York, NY
"WT never ceases to amaze. This trip was more than we expected, with the perfect mix of culture, fun, food and drink."
Gary F.
Manhattan Beach, CA
"Really, really good. Have raved about it to friends."
George E.
Pacific Palisdes, CA
"This was the most relaxing vacation we've ever been on. The gulet was extremely clean and the crew worked constantly to keep it that way. The food on board was fresh, creative, wholesome, and we looked forward to every meal!"
Jan B.
Mountain View, CA
"This was one of the best vacations we have had. I can't believe how good the quality of food was that came out of that little boat kitchen."
Jerrold E.
Seattle, WA
"It was a perfect trip - the organization, timing, food, accommodations, and especially the itinerary. Informative and great fun. I could not have asked for more."
Joan and George S.
Margate, NJ
"Not knowing very much about the history and politics of Turkey, I was fascinated with the incredible archaeological sites where we were often the only visitors. The coast was lovely and being on a boat for nearly all the trip meant no packing and unpacking as on other travels, and the accommodation and food and the crew were very hospitable."
Joanna M.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
"The itinerary was fabulous and we enjoyed every minute of the trip. It's one of the best we have ever taken."
Joanne G.
Denver, CO
"This was hands down the most enjoyable trip I have taken in years. The combination of sailing, hiking, exploration, and goofing off on the boat is unbeatable."
John D.
Louisville, KY
"This was the trip of a lifetime. I was treated like the sultan's wife. The gulet, the hikes, the food, the weather, the sea, snorkeling over sunken ruins—it was all wonderful."
Joni H.
Evergreen, CO
"We loved the hikes, found the archaeological sites fascinating, and loved being on the boat (and the food on the boat was beyond fabulous!)."
Judy S.
Bend, OR
"Mehmet was an amazing guide, so knowledgeable and pleasant. The crew and food on the boat was excellent. And the itinerary was fantastic, with a great combination of sailing, hiking, and exploring ruins. Thanks for a great experience!"
Katherine B.
Denver, CO
"A superb trip with an excellent guide. The boat crew was extraordinary. They pampered us, prepared wonderful meals, and simply could not have done more to ensure that every aspect of life on the boat was wonderful."
Lawrence G.
East Falmouth, MA
"Best holiday ever. We saw and experienced more than we could have dreamed possible. We ran out of superlatives on the second day!"
Lee T.
Abbotsford, BC
"This trip far exceeded my expectations. It is a must do for anyone who appreciates history, hiking and has a spirit of adventure. The food was 5 stars!"
Lora D.
San Diego, CA
"This is one of the most outstanding trips we have ever taken. The depth of information, the comfort of the boat, the culture we learned about...all added up to a perfect trip."
Lynn B.
Portland, OR
"This trip was so good, we would like to do it again. We will certainly tell all of our friends that this is the ONLY way to go."
Lynn C.
Bellevue, WA
"The itinerary was excellent with a great mix of walking/hiking, visiting archaeological sites and a wonderfully relaxing cruise."
Lynne R.
New York, NY
"Great combination of interesting sites, education, activities, swimming, comfortable accommodations, great fresh food, and a nice small group with a terrific leader. I’m hooked and planning on traveling with WT again. I like your style and small-group trips."
Madeleine G.
Bellevue, WA
"This trip was fantastic. The boat was beautiful and the crew and their service first-rate. I heard that this is one of your most popular trips—now I know why."
Mary Beth P.
Arlington, MA
"The most interesting trip I've ever taken. I loved everything, and especially Turkey!"
Mary Lee C.
Santa Fe, NM
"The captain and crew of the gulet were skilled, personable, and fun."
Neal F.
Reno, NV
"There is so much history in this beautiful land that I knew nothing about. Archeological sites, scenery, food, and people are all magical, and traveling by gulet adds another level of other-worldliness. No world traveler should miss this trip!"
Pam H.
Denver, CO
"Bravo WT! You have fine-tuned this adventure to perfection. It exceeded our every expectation."
Paul M.
Richmond, VA
"Fantastic! Could not have asked for more."
Paul P.
Scarsdale, NY
"Extraordinary. An exceptional two weeks rich in natural beauty, history, culture, hiking, and great companions. I may never travel without WT again."
Sarah B.
Palo Alto, CA
"My husband and I travel A LOT and this was one of the best trips we have ever taken."
Susie T.
Columbia, SC
"This trip exceeded all of our expectations. There was the perfect blend of adventure and leisure. All needs were met in advance—air, hotels, transfers, drivers, meals—it was a very well-oiled machine that enhanced our experience. We absolutely loved it and will definitely sign on for more Wilderness Travel trips."
Terry T.
Danville, CA
"The trip exceeded my expectations. The optimum weather, outstanding boat and crew, and fun traveling companions allowed us to fully enjoy all the scenery and historical sites."
Tom E.
Lawrenceville, NJ
"The combination of sailing, swimming, and hiking in a sunny climate is hard to surpass. Couple this with historical sites that rival more well known places and a guide whose knowledge is astounding—the perfect trip!"
Wendy H.
Beecroft, Australia
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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
Itinerary
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Trip Levels
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.