Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Bodrum – home to white-washed Mediterranean houses, cobblestone streets and high-end shopping that make this city one of Turkey's best retail destinations. If you arrive early, explore the twin bays at your own pace – boasting views of the iconic Bodrum Castle – a medieval fortress that was partly built with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – there's plenty to do and see here! At 4 pm, you’ll board your beautiful Turkish gullet (a classic wooden yacht from the southwest coast of Turkey). After a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travellers, you’ll have a briefing on what to expect over the next eight days of living on the boat. Then, sail to Black Island. When you arrive, why not jump into the crystal-clear waters for your first swim of the trip. Have dinner as a group and spend your first night aboard, falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the waves.

After breakfast on the boat this morning, sail to the Knidos Ancient City and if you like, hop off the boat to explore the impressive ruins that are still undergoing excavation. Climb to the top of the hill for views over the city's two harbors and maybe take a dip in the bay. Then, sail to Palamatbuku – renowned for its turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. When you arrive, jump in the bay’s crystal-clear waters in search of marine life and colourful fish. After swimming, head on to Datca. Here, a shuttle is available to the main town, where you can choose to spend your afternoon exploring the Old Town, scattered ancient temples, local cafes and some of the various historic sites.

This morning you’ll set sail for Kadirga’s secluded beachfront. When you arrive, recharge with a refreshing swim, relax in the sun and have some lunch. Then, you’ll continue to Bozukkale, where you’ll spend the night. Have dinner on board the boat, chilling out under the stars.

Today, cruise to Kumlubuku Bay for some snorkelling and swimming. Your next destination is Paradise Island, covered in pine forests and the perfect spot for a dip in the sea. Refuel with some afternoon tea, then carry on to the vibrant city of Marmaris. Sitting along the Turkish Riviera, this city has evolved into a hotspot for travellers. You’ll have a free evening here, so you can explore the town’s winding narrow streets, shops, cafes and restaurants. Maybe grab a few of your fellow travellers and explore the nightlife, as Marmaris is also home to many clubs and bars.

Sail towards Ekincik this morning – naturally beautiful, this village boasts a 2 km stretch of gravel beach surrounded by local wildlife. When you arrive, head out for a swim and a spot of snorkelling. Later, if you like, you can opt for an excursion to Dalyan – this small village sits within pine-covered hills, cotton fields and unspoiled coastline. Take a piyade (a small riverboat) to Turtle Beach, soaking in the natural beauty of the delta along the way. Stop for a swim at the beach – this is where the endangered Loggerhead Turtles lay their eggs during nesting season (May to October)! After a dip in the ocean, make your way to the ancient city of Kaunos – this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient Rock Tombs, which were carved into the cliffs 2500 years ago. End the day at the nearby mud baths, where the warm, sulfur-rich water will work wonders on your skin, leaving you soft and rejuvenated. Later, have dinner on board.

After breakfast on the boat this morning, sail to Palamatbuku – renowned for its turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. When you arrive, jump in the bay’s crystal-clear waters in search of marine life and colourful fish. Have lunch onboard, then continue sailing to Datca Marina. Here, a shuttle is available to take you to the main town, where you can choose to spend your afternoon exploring the Old Town, scattered ancient temples, local cafes and some of the various historic sites. Spend the night in Datca marina, maybe heading out for a local dinner with your group.

Sail to Kindos for a morning swim, then enjoy some free time. If you like, you can head to Knidos Ancient City and hop off the boat to see the impressive ruins still undergoing excavation. Climb to the top of the hill for views over the city's two harbors, then when you return to the bay, maybe take another dip to cool off. Next, sail to Bodrum – home to white-washed Mediterranean houses, cobblestone streets and high-end shopping that make this city one of Turkey's best retail destinations. The twin bays boast views of the iconic Bodrum Castle – a medieval fortress that was partly built with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World! After lunch, head out on the town with your group for a final night together. Maybe head to a local bar and explore before having dinner aboard the boat and toast to an amazing sailing adventure!

After breakfast on the boat, your adventure along the southern coast of Turkey comes to an end. Disembarkation will be at about 9.30 am. You might like to stay in Fethiye for an extra couple of days and explore anything you didn’t get a chance to yesterday. You could also continue your journey to one of the nearby Greek Islands, like Kos, and bliss out on the beaches. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.