Overview
Sun-drenched skies, a warm, translucent sea, a dream world of astounding Greek, Byzantine, and Roman treasures, bountiful, fresh-made meals served on deck, expert Trip Leaders who bring history alive—our idyllic journey brings you all the pleasures of the Turquoise Coast. Traveling cove to cove by traditional gulet (motor-sailing yacht), we snorkel above the ruins of ancient Aperlae, hike to spectacular Lycian rock tombs, stroll the lanes of magnificent Ephesus, enjoy lunch with a farm family in Bezirgan, and savor on-board cuisine that’s beyond fabulous. Don’t miss this trip—it will be one of the most delicious, fascinating, and relaxing vacations you’ve ever had!
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
Days 1-4
Istanbul / Ephesus / Kaunos / Gocek (Eastbound Itinerary)
Our insider’s experience of Istanbul brings us to its Ottoman gems, including the amazing Topkapi Palace, and we cruise by private boat at sunset along the Bosphorus. At astounding Ephesus, we walk the marble-paved Arcadian Way, feeling transported back to ancient times. Traveling by local boat along the Dalyan River, we explore Kaunos, an ancient harbor city with Greek temples, Roman baths, and a Byzantine church. We board our elegant gulet in the sailing haven of Gocek.
Istanbul / Ephesus / Kaunos / Gocek (Eastbound Itinerary) - Days 1-4
Hotel Levni
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights),Day 13 (1 night), Istanbul, Turkey
This hotel’s location could not be better—it’s within close walking distance to all the major sights (you can see the outer walls of the Topkapi Palace from the hotel’s front door). Guest rooms are well appointed, with comfortable beds and modern furnishings, and there is a Turkish bath, heated indoor pool, and fitness center on site. The service here is exceptional—the friendly and helpful staff goes the extra mile to make you feel welcome.
Charisma Hotel
Day 3 (1 night), Kusadasi, TurkeyThe Charisma is set right on the beach, with ocean-swimming access from a private dock as well as a huge swimming pool and open-air restaurant facing the water. Spacious guest rooms have a sea view and a balcony for watching sunset over the Aegean.
Kismet Hotel
Day 3 (1 night), Kusadasi, TurkeySituated on the tip of a peninsula with commanding views of the Aegean, the Kismet is an excellent base for exploring nearby Ephesus. Guest rooms feature private balconies overlooking the bay, and there are pool, garden, and beach areas where you can relax and enjoy the sunset. This welcoming hotel has hosted such luminaries as Queen Elizabeth and Jimmy Carter.
Days 5-8
Lydae / Kaya Koy / Xanthos / Patara / Kas
We hike across a peninsula to reach the hidden ruins of Lydae, accessible only on foot, swim in “Cleopatra’s Sunken Baths,” then head to Gemiler Island for a hike to the striking ruins of a Byzantine monastery. We’ll walk the lanes of the eerie Greek ghost town of Kaya Koy, then enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a family in a farming village. After visiting ancient Xanthos, a World Heritage Site, we relax with a swim in the sea at Patara and head to the harbor town of Kas.
Days 9-10
Kekova Island / Myra
At Kekova Island, we see the submerged remains of a Byzantine city, and at Myra, we’ll find fine examples of Lycian rock tombs set high on the hillsides.
Days 11-14
Chimaera / Termessos / Antalya / Istanbul
Sailing across the Bay of Finike to Cape Gelidonya, the southernmost point of our voyage, we contour the wildest and most beautiful part of the Turquoise Coast, with a hike to the legendary eternal flames of Chimaera and a visit to haunting Termessos, a mountaintop acropolis. Depart via Istanbul on Day 14, or join our extensions to Istanbul or Cappadocia.
Chimaera / Termessos / Antalya / Istanbul - Days 11-14
Hotel Levni
Day 13 (1 night), Istanbul, TurkeyThis hotel’s location could not be better—it’s within close walking distance to all the major sights (you can see the outer walls of the Topkapi Palace from the hotel’s front door). Guest rooms are well appointed, with comfortable beds and modern furnishings, and there is a Turkish bath, heated indoor pool, and fitness center on site. The service here is exceptional—the friendly and helpful staff goes the extra mile to make you feel welcome.
The Turquoise Coast
