Name: Family Cruising the Turquoise Coast
Brand: Explore
SKU: FCE
Price: 1280.0 USD
Availability: InStock

Why book this trip?

Sailing on a traditional gulet, explore the legendary shoreline of the ancient kingdom of Lycia, known as the Turquoise Coast for its shimmering crystal clear waters. Along the way snorkel in secluded coves and discover uninhabited islands wandering through Roman ruins. Enjoy an easy going week where you can do as much or as little as you want.

Sailing on a traditional style wooden gulet - Seven nights cruising along the beautiful shoreline of the Turkey's Turquoise Coast

Swimming and snorkelling - In quiet coves, straight from the boat and Iztuzu beach

Kekova - Discover this stunning bay with its white washed villages, sunken ruins and medieval castle

Itinerary

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

fce-2023

Day 1 - Join trip in Fethiye harbour: Arrive in Fethiye, a lively market town that can trace its history back to the ancient Lycian town of Telmessos built around the harbour in the 5th or 6th century B.C.
For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you at gates of Fethiye harbour at 4pm to escort you to our boat. Your skipper and local leader will conduct the initial tour briefing on board. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Dalaman International Airport (airport code DLM), which is 50km, around 1 hour from the port.
We spend our first night in the harbour, dinner is served around 8pm.
If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to head into Fethiye. There are several restaurants and shops within walking distance of the harbour and an extensive lively market selling local produce, spices and Turkish delight off Pursahbey Street, 20 minutes' walk away.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Dinner

Day 2 - Travel by riverboat to the ruins at Caunus. Visit Iztuzu Beach before sailing to Yassica Island: After a short transfer to the sleepy village of Dalyan we board our riverboat. We first head upriver to the therapeutic mudbaths of Ilica and then meander downstream, weaving through reed beds rich in bird life. We pass cliffs carved with dramatic Necropolis tombs before coming to the ruins of the ancient seaport of Caunus. Much of the site is overgrown, but the fine Hellenistic theatre is well preserved and the views from the fortified acropolis are breathtaking. Looking south to the Aegean 5 kms away it is hard to imagine that Caunus was once a thriving port, but fell into decline when the harbour silted up. Continuing by riverboat we reach Iztuzu Beach, a wide spit of white sand lapped on one side by the Aegean and on the other side by the fresh waters of the Koycegiz River. This is one of the few remaining nesting places of Caretta caretta, the loggerhead turtle. Development at Iztuzu has been banned and an overnight curfew is placed on the beach, as this is when the female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Having paused to swim we transfer back to Gocek and board our gulet. We enjoy lunch aboard whilst sailing south to our first overnight mooring at the tranquil cove at Yassica Island.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 - Cruise to Gemiler Island and swim and snorkel in the warm waters of the Turquoise Coast: After an optional walk on Yassica Island, we make the short crossing to Tersane Island. Formerly the site of a prosperous Greek village, Tersane is now deserted. Among the remains are a watchtower and some tombs, all of which are now ruined but well preserved. From here we continue to Batik Hammam where we will have the opportunity to swim in the beautiful clear waters. We finish our day heading towards our next night stop at Gemiler Island.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - Sail to Kalkan with an optional trip to Saklikent Gorge and to the ancient city of Xanthos: We make an early start to sail to Kalkan, an attractive village built into the steep seacliff. Kalkan is an ideal base from which to visit the ancient city of Xanthos as well as Saklikent Gorge which is a short drive away. Xanthos was the capital of ancient Lycia, captured by Brutus in 43BC, but only after the menfolk had killed all their women and children to save them from falling into Roman hands. Saklikent Gorge, which means Hidden Place, is situated high in the mountains above Fethiye and was created by icy cold water cutting through the mountains over thousands of years. A natural wonder, the resulting canyon is 300 metres deep and 18 km long. The walls are so high they cut out most of the sunlight and the fresh spring waters that flow through are freezing cold! A great refuge on a hot summer day.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Cruise to the beautiful Bay of Kekova, stopping to swim en route: After sailing to one of the loveliest stretches of coastline from Kalkan eastwards towards the sheltered bay of Kekova, we then drop anchor and once again have the chance to venture onshore to discover the ancient heritage of the Lycian Coast.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Optional kayaking to the sunken city of Kekova before cruising to the harbour town of Kas: This morning there is the chance to try out sea-kayaking in the calm, protected waters of the bay of Kekova. Here we find the so called Sunken City of Kekova which is partly submerged within the bay with its streets and buildings being visible in the crystal clear waters. Later we paddle to the picturesque whitewashed village of Simena, whose harbour is dotted with ancient sarcophagi (tombs) and whose houses cling to the hillside beneath a medieval castle. Hiking up to the castle, we find an ancient theatre that is carved out from the solid rock - a wonderful place to sit and soak up the beautiful surroundings and wonder about the layers of history that are all about. In the afternoon, we make our final gulet journey, sailing west to the pleasant little harbour town of Kas. This attractive port is one of the most beautiful of the Turkish Riviera, backed by steep cliffs covered with dense green forest. You'll have time to enjoy the atmosphere at one of the many lively cafes near the harbour.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - Sail along the Turquoise Coast towards Fethiye, stopping for swimming and snorkelling: Today we cruise at a leisurely pace, returning westwards towards Fethiye. Stopping en route for swimming opportunities, we eventually moor up around an hour from Fethiye in a quiet bay.

Accommodation:

Overnight on Gulet (or similar)

Grade: Simple Boat

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 - Trip ends in Fethiye harbour: The trip ends after breakfast in Fethiye harbour.
There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Fethiye harbour at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day it will be possible to leave your baggage either on board the boat or at the boat office in Fethiye. Please speak to your Tour Leader or the boat captain to make the necessary arrangements.
If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you need to depart from Dalaman International Airport (airport code DLM), which is 50km, around 90 minutes from the port.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information: Turkey

Climate

Summers are hot and dry with refreshing sea breezes and clear waters, great for boat trips. It is often cooler on higher ground and in the mountains and can be cold at night, even in the summer. During the shoulder seasons (loosely speaking, before mid-May and after early October), temperatures and rainfall can be erratic, with some temperatures dropping to 8-12 degrees, and other days being bright and sunny up to 25 degrees. Mountain locations will be cooler than on the coast, of course. In the winter, temperatures usually hover between 0 and 10 degrees, but are usually wet, particularly around the coast. The best time for walking in Turkey is mid-May, June and September, with pleasant temperatures and clear blue skies.

Time difference to GMT

+3

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Islam, Christian

Language

Turkish

Budgeting and packing: Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.

A selection of optional activities are listed below to help you budget for your Family adventure. Whilst the basic tour price you pay before you travel includes a great selection of highlights, we have also built in free time to allow you the flexibility to choose from a carefully selected range of additional excursions and activities or take time to relax, the choice is yours. At certain destinations along the way there may be several options to choose from and it may not be possible to fit all the activities in; your Explore Leader will be able to give advice on which are the most suitable for your

Kalkan:
Day 4: Saklikent Gorge - By minibus/taxi from Kalkan £15.00 (depending on numbers).

Kekova:
Day 6: Guided sea-kayaking over sunken city from cruise £35 - £80 (depending on numbers)

Clothing

The long Turkish summer can be hot, though much of the Mediterranean coastline is freshened by sea breezes. A warmer sweater or light fleece and long trousers are advisable for the evenings in early and late season. Dress on the gulet is informal.

Footwear

Footwear is generally not worn on the boat, which is recommended as you get much better grip with bare feet. Bring sandals for general wear and a pair of old or plastic shoes for walking on rocks and wet beach landings. A pair of trainers or a comfortable pair of walking shoes is required for walks and visiting ancient sites.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

One main piece of baggage and a daysack for a few personal things. Space is limited in the gulet cabins so luggage should be kept to a minimum. A soft holdall is recommended rather than a hard suitcase.

Equipment

Useful equipment includes a water bottle, small torch, high factor suncream, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a snorkel and mask for keen swimmers. Whilst some towels are provided you may want to bring your own beach towel for outdoor use and swimming. Note: Qualified scuba divers wishing to dive should bring their diving certificate and log book.

Tipping

Explore leader

Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we would recommend £15 to £20 per family member as a guideline.

Local crew

Although voluntary, tipping is a recognised part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. Accordingly, you should allow approximately £15 of local currency per family member.

In order to make things easier for you, the Explore Leader may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the trip

Local fees

Tea and coffee will be provided on board the gulet at meal/tea times and water is provided at meal times also. You cannot bring your own drinks on board the gulet, but they can be purchased on the boat at the following approximate rates:

Wine (70cl): £10.00
Water (small): £0.35
Beer (small): £2.00
Soft Drinks: £1.10
Raki: £2.65
Spirits: £2.65

It's not possible to pay by credit/debit card or travellers cheque on board. Cash machines also aren't easily found during this trip. Please also note that if you would like to offer tips for the Explore staff, it is probably best to bring this amount before you travel as cash machines are not easily found on this trip.

Turkey

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.

Lunch price

£7

Dinner price

£13

Beer price

£2.7

Water price

£1

Foreign Exchange

Local currency

Turkish Lira.

Recommended Currency For Exchange

Major foreign currencies such as US Dollars, £Sterling and Euros can easily be changed. We advise against travelling with Travellers Cheques as commission rates are high. Other currencies can be exchanged in larger cities. We advise you to change money in Turkey as rates tend to be better.

Where To Exchange

Most major towns - your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.

ATM Availability

ATMs are widely available throughout Turkey. To avoid large queues at the airport exchanges, you may wish to xchange some lira before arriving.

Credit Card Acceptance

In major restaurants.

Travellers Cheques

Not recommended.

Transport, Accommodation & Meals: Transport Information

Bus, Boat

Accommodation notes

Our traditional gulet is hand built in teak and pine, with a spacious and partly shaded foredeck and comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge areas. Meals are prepared on board by the boat chef and enjoyed in the shaded aft deck.

There are four twin and four double cabins, all with an en suite toilet and shower. Please note we don't have single cabins on board, if you are a family of two, four or six you will all get twin cabins. If you are a family of three or five you will still get twin cabins and there is a very small chance, if the trip is fully booked and we have a number of families of three and five that one of your party will need to share with someone of the same gender and age group (i.e. adults will only ever share with adults or children with children).

The cabins are cosy and can get warm in summer as there is no air-conditioning or fans, so you may find it preferable to sleep above deck although port holes can usually be opened. There are plugs available in the communal areas, so it is possible to charge cameras and phones.

There is some snorkelling equipment available aboard the gullet. If you are a keen snorkeler, you may prefer to bring your own mask and snorkel with you.

The gullet may moor in a quiet bay near the night stop to minimise disturbances in the evening, especially in large urban areas/ports.

Family swimming

There is a chance to swim every day from the gulet

Essential Information: Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice.

Please refer to our COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry. Whilst we strive to update this on a regular basis we recommend you also check the FCDO website for the latest advice on entry requirements in this fast-evolving situation. Information can change at any time.

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions

Visa and Passport Information

Turkey:
Citizens from the UK, New Zealand and the EU travelling to Turkey for tourism purposes do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days.
Citizens of Australia, US and Canada require a visa that will last for up to 90 days

Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.

If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.

Minimum age restrictions
For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.

Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.

Free transfers are not available for Self-Guided, Polar, Tailormade or Tours for Churches customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore offers a wide range of flexible flying options to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.

Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display a UK flight inclusive package guide price which is generally based on a London departure. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Ability to swim

An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of the water based activities on this trip. If you wish to participate in these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.

Turkey

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against tetanus, typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.

Family information: $\text{[math]}$
Typical cabin on board

Gulet information: Our traditional gulet is hand built in teak and pine, with a spacious and partly shaded foredeck and comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge areas. Meals are prepared on board by the boat chef and enjoyed in the shaded aft deck. There are four twin and four double cabins (no triple cabins available although it is possible to sleep on deck), all with an en suite bathrooms and plugs in the communal areas to charge mobile devices and cameras.

It’s possible to combine this trip with a week of activity on the Lycian coast, staying in the delightful town of Kas. See our Legends of Lycia and Cruising the Turquoise Coast for details.

Average Age: As a guide we have identified the actual average age of the children who have travelled on this trip over the last 5 years, to help you decide whether it's the right one for your family. The average age on this trip is 13 years old.

Minimum age: This trip is suitable for children of all ages from 7 upwards. On certain trips there may be some flexibility to accept children from the age of 5 if travelling with older siblings, please speak to our reservations team for details.

Additional Information: Why book this trip
A relaxing holiday and at a great price with most elements all included. We sail along the Turkish coast with stops off at historic ruins, have the option to kayak and walk amonst the history of the country. Our vessel is the gulet boat, a traditional Turkish vessel that is now used for cruises along the coastal treats of this great country.

Dates, prices and booking

📢 Prices may change - book now and today's trip price is guaranteed in our price promise

Sat 15 Jul 2023 - Sat 22 Jul 2023 Guaranteed departure

FCE_2023

US$1280

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CHILD PRICE US$1160

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FCE_2023

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Sat 22 Jul 2023 - Sat 29 Jul 2023 Guaranteed departure

FCE_2023

US$1280

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CHILD PRICE US$1160

was Save

FCE_2023

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Sat 29 Jul 2023 - Sat 5 Aug 2023 Guaranteed departure

FCE_2023

US$1310

was Save

CHILD PRICE US$1180

was Save

FCE_2023

View Trip Notes

Sat 5 Aug 2023 - Sat 12 Aug 2023 Guaranteed departure

FCE_2023

US$1310

was Save

CHILD PRICE US$1180

was Save

FCE_2023

View Trip Notes

Sat 12 Aug 2023 - Sat 19 Aug 2023 Guaranteed departure

FCE_2023

US$1310

was Save

CHILD PRICE US$1180

was Save

FCE_2023

View Trip Notes

Sat 19 Aug 2023 - Sat 26 Aug 2023

FCE_2023

US$1310

was Save

CHILD PRICE US$1180

was Save

FCE_2023

View Trip Notes

Family Cruising the Turquoise Coast

Why book this trip?

Included meals

Trip staff

Transport

Accommodation

Trip pace:

Group Size: