The Turquoise Coast

A Mediterranean Voyage with Hikes to Hidden Ruins and Seaside villages

Overview

Sun-drenched skies, a warm, translucent sea, a dream world of astounding Greek, Byzantine, and Roman treasures, bountiful, freshly made meals served on deck, and expert Trip Leaders who bring history alive—our idyllic voyage 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 family in Bezirgan village, 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 can possibly have!

Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-4
Istanbul / Ephesus / Kaunos / Göcek (Eastbound Itinerary)

Our Istanbul explorations include the amazing Topkapi Palace and a private sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. At breathtaking Ephesus, we walk the marble-paved Arcadian Way, feeling transported back to ancient times. Along the Dalyan River, we visit Kaunos, an ancient harbor city with Greek temples and Roman baths, and we board our gulet in the sailing haven of Göcek.

Hotel Levni
Istanbul, Turkey
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Day 13 (1 night)
Charisma Hotel
Kusadasi, Turkey
Day 3 (1 night)
Days 5-10
Lydae / Kayaköy / Xanthos / Kekova Island / Myra

A high trail brings us to the hidden ruins of Lydae, accessible only on foot, and we can take a swim in “Cleopatra’s Sunken Baths.” On Gemiler Island our path leads to a Byzantine monastery. We’ll also walk to the eerie Greek ghost town of Kayaköy, enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a village, and at Kekova Island, see the submerged remains of a Lycian settlement. At Myra, we’ll find fine examples of Lycian rock tombs set high on the hillsides.

Days 11-14
Chimaera / Termessos / Antalya / Istanbul

Sailing to Cape Gelidonya, we contour the wildest part of the Turquoise Coast, with a hike to the legendary eternal flames of Chimaera and a visit to the haunting ruins of Termessos, a mountaintop acropolis. Depart on Day 14 via Istanbul, or join our extensions in Istanbul or Cappadocia.

Hotel Levni
Istanbul, Turkey
Day 13 (1 night)

Highlights

Highlights

Explore Istanbul, gem of the Ottoman and Byzantine worlds
Hike to hidden ruins, swim and snorkel in the warm Mediterranean
Discover amazing Ephesus, Lycian rock tombs, ancient Xanthos
The finest gulets (yachts) on the Turkish Riviera, with gourmet meals prepared by chefs
Optional pre- or post-trip extensions to Cappadocia or Istanbul

Details

Length: 14 days
Cost From: $6995  
Arrive: Istanbul, Turkey
Depart: Istanbul, Turkey
Lodging: 9 nights aboard yacht (single cabins available), 4 nights first-class hotels
Meals: All meals included except 2 dinners as indicated in the Detailed Itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Activity: Small Boat and Yacht Cruising, Walking, Archaeology, Cultural Adventures, Sea Kayaking, Snorkeling
Trip Level:

6 days easy to moderate optional day hikes, 1-4 hours, some steep sections

Recent Travel Blog Posts

Ancient Cultures and Blue Seas

Similar Private Journeys

Your family or friends, your trip dates, your dream adventure! Book them as they are or customize the journey just for you.

turkey gulet sailing flag happy people

Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turquoise Coast

Sail the exquisite Turquoise Coast in your own private gulet (yacht), visit the Byzantine cave churches of Cappadocia and the marble-paved streets of magnificent Roman Ephesus, explore the treasures of Istanbul.

11 days from: $5695
Trip Level:
2

Recent Travel Blog Posts

Ancient Cultures and Blue Seas