WELCOME TO A SAILING PARADISE

The geat blue waters of the Aegean, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea, as well as the Sea of Marmara, surround Turkey to the south, west and north.

With over 8,333 kilometres of coastline along the four seas, Turkey is just a treasure of hidden bays, beaches, and historical caves at which yachtsmen can choose a different and private location each night. The sailing paradise of Turkey is also a big house to the Blue Voyage. This idyllic cruise means sailing with the winds, into coves and over the seas and becoming one body with nature. It is also an experience of the history of man from the perspective of the sea rather than from the land, a journey which carries you to the private beach of Cleopatra, the eternal fires of remains of ancient civilizations. For lovers of the active life, sailing in clear waters provides great opportunities for swimming, fishing, waterskiing, surfing and diving.

Sailing in Turkey also allows you to experience a truly enriching cultural exchange with the hospitable and gracious people of the coastal villages and towns. The tempered winds which generally blow from the west and northwest make the long summers ideal for yachting, and seem to encourage an appreciation of nature. From some of the turquoise coast's unspoilt and sheltered bays you can see mountain peaks rising to almost 3,000 metres above sea level.

In Turkey, modem facilities and comfort have not overshadowed ancient hospitality and the slower pace of life. The pleasure of yachting in Turkey will tempt you to come back again and again, to explore yet another stretch of coast and to relive the luxurious ease of life on the sea.

TURKEY WILL BE ON YOUR YACHT'S ROUTE?

You can hire a yacht, with or without crew, in Turkey or you can sail to Turkey in your own yacht.

Please visit the website of the Turkish Consulate to enquire whether, due to the nationality, you require a visa to visit Turkey or not.

WELCOME TO TURKEY!
All yachts entering or leaving Turkey are required to make their entry or departure at frontier ports.

YACHTING REGULATIONS
Useful information to help you plan your trip and to ensure you get the best out of your visit to Turkey.

MARINAS
A practical guide to the modern and well-equipped marina facilities that Turkey has to offer.

Other sailing options in Turkey

Find out more about the various ways to experience the delights of the Turkish coast, from the freedom of a yacht charter, to the total relaxation of a fully-manned traditional Gulet.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
A selection of possible sailing routes, specifically designed to enable visitors to take in the spectacular scenery and marvel at the wealth of history and culture in this unique Country.

SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATORS
ATOL-protected operators, including Gulet and sailing specialists, based in the UK.

USEFUL CONTACTS
Find out further information on Turkish based and non-ATOL protected UK-based operators.

YACHTING REGULATIONS

Ports of Entry in Turkey
Hopa, Rize, Trabzon, Giresun, Ordu, Samsun, Inebolu, Sinop, Bartin, Zonguldak, Eregli, Istanbul, Tekirdag, Derince, Gemlik, Mudanya, Bandirma, ?anakkale, Ak?ay, Ayvalik, Dikili, Izmir, Kusadasi, Didim, Güllük, Bodrum, Turgutreis, Dat?a, Marmaris, Fethiye, Kas, Finike, Kemer, Antalya, Alanya, Anamur, Bozyazi, Tasucu, Mersin, Botas, Iskenderun.

Entering Turkey
If you wish to enter Turkey after you have sailed through international ports and waters, then you are required to obtain a Yacht Registration Form (Transit Log), which contains information about yachts and yachtsmen. The Form should be completed in accordance with the explanations given and you will need to go through the Customs, Health and Port procedures as per the international regulations stated within those explanations and in accordance with your declaration.

The cost of the Transit Log is $30.00 and it is valid for one year. However, if the owner of the yacht or the legal keeper of the yacht changes within that year and if the yacht leaves Turkish Customs Area or the Form is lost, then the term of validity of the Form comes to an end. It is possible to obtain a new Yacht Registration Form in such occurrences.

Trips within Turkish Waters or Between Turkish Ports

You, as the owner of the yacht, and your guests on the yacht are entitled to sail freely in Turkish waters and between ports, on condition that the purpose of the trip is not commercial. You may wish to sail between Turkish ports for the purpose of travel, leisure or sport.

As long as the captain, crew and the yachtsmen of the yacht remain the same on such trips, you can sail freely to the bays on your route, except forbidden areas, without the need to go through any procedures. If any change occurs between ports, in terms of your captain, yachtsmen or crew, then you should definitely make an application to the Harbour Master in your area and obtain a confirmation for the change. Foreign-flagged private yachts belonging to more than one owner and yachts belonging to an association or a yacht club, may be used by four keepers only in one year.

If you are in our country with your yacht and you wish to extend your visa for your stay, then you will need to allocate a marina or a mooring place licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, as your address of residence and after you notify the authorities of the address you will be granted an extension. In such cases, the extension you can be granted on your term of residence and visa may be no longer than 5 (five) years, depending on your term of contract that you have with the marina or the moorage. You can also use your own vehicle freely, after you inform the Directorate of Customs, whilst you stay in Turkey under the term of your visa and residency.

Should you wish to leave Turkey for a period of time temporarily with your yacht, you can leave your road vehicle, if you have one, which you have brought to Turkey, at places that are allocated and monitored by the Customs authorities. If, for example, you or your family need to be collected from another port or taken to another port, then your captain, on condition that he has your written or fax instructions to do so, can obtain a permit to sail from the Directorate of Port and can sail to another Turkish port, forth and back, without any yachtsmen or guests on board.

Unless the authorities receive a complaint or a claim, which should be made in accordance with the regulations, no searches, either of your yacht or for any goods, will be carried out. However, if the authorities conduct a search upon receipt of a complaint or a claim through the appropriate channels and establish you to be in possession of goods that are forbidden to be taken into Turkey, then any such item or items will be seized by the customs authorities and will not be returned until your yacht leaves Turkish waters. In such instances when you have to depart from or enter Turkey for reasons of emergency, extraordinary conditions or under the obligations set out by the Law protecting life and property afloat, it is an obligation to report the case to the Turkish officials at the first port of arrival.

Diving Areas
Equipped diving is subject to obtaining permission. You can obtain the relevant information and the co-ordinations from regional Tourist and Information directorates.

CHANGES IN THE YACHT INVENTORY
Whilst your yacht is in Turkey, if due to any reason (i.e. repairs, etc.) a change occurs in the inventory of the yacht, you will be required to have the necessary changes logged through the relevant Customs officials on your Yacht Registration Form.

Spare parts belonging to your yacht and other material will be allowed to remain in Turkey as long as your yacht remains in Turkey. If any spare part becomes redundant following repairs carried out on the yacht and the owner wishes to take it out of Turkey, then the owner will have to have such parts registered in the inventory list of the yacht. You can also leave your old spare parts with the customs officials in accordance with the Customs Act 4458, section 164.

Leaving Your Yacht in Turkey
Foreign-flagged yachts, on condition that they are sailed by their owners once every two years, can remain in Turkey up to five (5) years without a requirement for any permission. You can leave our country by another means of transport during this period after you leave your yacht at a marina or a moorage licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

Leaving Turkey
When leaving Turkish ports for international ports with your yacht, you need to complete the relevant section of the Yacht Registration Form, have it confirmed by the Harbour Master and complete the required procedures at the Customs Directorate.

Please Note:
1) You are not allowed to use your private yacht for commercial purposes unless you obtain the necessary permission from the Ministry of Tourism.

2) You are not allowed to charge individuals you have declared as your guests for any cruises.

3) You need to be aware that if any untruthful declarations are being submitted, these will be subject to legal proceedings brought against you.

4) If you export any historical artefacts, you will be subjected to legal proceedings brought against you. Such an act constitutes a crime.

5) You should not engage yourself in any way of exchange of goods (buying or selling) that have not yet been through the necessary customs and duty procedures, with other yachts or ships. Such an exchange is illegal.

Such occurrences as stated above are considered as acts of crime internationally and in our country and if such an act is established to have taken place, then the legal proceedings to follow will be in accordance with the relevant legislation in Turkey.

MARINAS  

Yachting remains a popular activity for residents as well as visitors to Turkey.

Over the past 40 years the industry has grown, and today a large number of marinas dot the coastline between Istanbul and Antalya. These provide supplies, easy access to the shore at major resorts and safe harbours, as well as often becoming local entertainment venues in themselves. In Istanbul, yachtsmen will delight in splendid natural landscapes, open seas and magnificent sunsets, as well as a voyage through Byzantine and Ottoman history as they sail past the impressive castles, palaces and mosques.

While navigating the breathtaking Bosphorus and sailing under the two enormous bridges which span Europe and Asia, meandering along the mosque-lined Golden Horn or cruising in the coves and bays of the Princes' Islands, you can always return to one of the two large marinas in the area. Both Atakoy Marina on the European side and Kalamis Fenerbahce (Amiral Fahri Koruturk) From the North Sea through the European interior, yachtsmen can sail down the European channel system and the Rhine and Danube Rivers into the Black Sea harbors and to the Istanbul Bosphorus and Istanbul marinas a safe and short way to get to the Turkish coasts. The Black Sea coast provides yachtsmen with a lush green coastal band where the environment is wen- protected. There are coves and fishing harbours along this coast, and the weather is mild during the summer and winter.

Turkey's most established marinas he on the southern Aegean and Mediterranean coasts at Izmir, Cesme, Kusadasi, Bodrum, Ayvalik, Mersin, Datca, Bozburun, Marmaris, Gocek, Fethiye, Kalkan, Kas, Finike, Kerner and Antalya. In these well- equipped harbours, yachtsmen can find the services and provisions they require. Antalya, Bodrum Dalaman, Izmir and Istanbul airports provide quick links to all of Turkey's marinas. After an easy flight you can board your yacht and sail off all within a day.

Doğus Marina, Bodrum

Turgutreis Marina, within the Municipality Boundaries of Turgutreis, is situated on the furthest west point of the Bodrum Peninsula. Between the gulfs of Güllük and Gökova, the location has served as a home to many different civilizations throughout history. The district of Turgutreis, in the town of Bodrum is situated where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Aegean Sea. There are 14 Turkish islands around Turgutreis as well as the Greek Islands Kos, Kalimnos, Patmos.

Marina staff will warmly welcome you and your yacht and will provide full range of first quality service that exceeds your expectations. Along with environment friendly, secure and sheltered mooring facilities, a Shopping Complex and other recreation possibilities are at your service.

Ece Saray Marina, Fethiye

Fethiye is one of the most popular sailing spots in the Mediterranean Sea, with a history dating back as far as the 4th Century BC. Ece Saray Marina is first class with respect to the technology and materials used, the services, facilities, location, professional management and hospitality. Located on the eastern side of Fethiye Harbour, with a stunning panorama in front of it and a wealth of facilities behind, Ece Saray Marina provides not only a safe berth but also a real home for you and your boat. The combination of a five-star marina, separate boat yard, a beautiful boutique hotel with a spa and wellness centre, giant swimming pool, bars and restaurants serving both international and Turkish cuisine in a unique environment all contribute to making Ece Saray Marina such a perfect place to visit or to stay.

Port Göcek Marina, Göcek

Göcek is a charming village near the holiday resort town of Fethiye. As home to the first marina in the Gulf of Fethiye, Göcek has rapidly become known as a yachting haven. Club Marina is an ambassador for the development of yacht tourism in Turkey since it's foundation in 1990. Facilities include Restaurant, Bar, Cafe, Fitness Centre, Sauna, Turkish Bath, Market, Private Villas, Captain's Cafe, Boutique, Exhibition Hall, Telephone Booths, Showers and Toilets.           

Martı Marina. Marmaris

Hisarönü Bay, home of the Goddess Hemithea, is one of the most stunning bays along the Turkish cost. Martı Marina, situated in the Bay, offers complete and exclusive yachting and sailing facilities with the latest technology in pontoon systems, resources and security for mooring yachts and boats of any size. 

An atmosphere of calm and tranquillity surrounds you at Martı Marina where you may lounge under the cool shades of a canopy, or swing effortlessly in a hammock under the trees knowing that, should it be necessary, modern communication with full office facilities are available 24 hours a day. A well stocked market, laundry service, tour and travel arrangements, and a shuttle service to the town of Marmaris are within call.

Netsel Marina, Marmaris

Netsel Marina is located right in the heart of antiquity and unsurpassed natural beauty, while still remaining totally unspoilt. The Marina provides all weather protection for over 750 yachts. In addition to top class yachting services, Marina facilities include a shopping centre, swimming pool, caf?, restaurant, bar, bathroom amenities.

Port Bodrum Yalıkavak

Yalıkavak lies at the north-west corner of the Bodrum Peninsula, 17 km or 10 miles from Bodrum, and used to be a fishing and sponge divers village. Yalıkavak is renowned for its superb sunsets and its sparkling clean sea is one of the few remaining abodes of the endangered ?Monachus Monachus? Mediterranean seals. The combination of its exceptional architectural design, the availability of state-of-the-art equipment and the facilities only matched by a luxury holiday resort, constitutes a way of life, rather than just being a luxury mooring area for your yacht.

For full details of all Marinas approved by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, please visit the relevant section of the Business Directory.

OTHER SAILING OPTIONS IN TURKEY

Traditional Turkish Gulet
The singular design of Turkey's indigenous sea-going vessel, the gulet, blends practicality and tradition in a relaxed style that embodies the Blue Voyage.

Over the years gulets have evolved from traditional fishing and cargo vessels into their present profile of a broad beam and wide deck. Constructed mainly in the shipyards of Bodrum, Bozburun, Marmaris and Istanbul, and along the Black Sea Coast, the boats are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. The number of passengers a gulet carries depends on the boat's size, although most of them accommodate between eight and twelve people. These vessels offer passengers separate accommodations, and chartering one includes services and entertainment. Modem gulets are comfortably equipped with all of the amenities of home and encourage an environment in which you are expected to do nothing but enjoy yourself.

The closeness of the entourage on board promotes an atmosphere of friendship and sharing; relations between passengers and crew tend to be relaxed and casual.

Travel agencies can arrange charters and fixed tours for a specific group or for you individually. Unlike cruises on large ocean liners, on a gulet you can explore the secluded and often deserted bays and coves of the coastline. The small harbours and settlements offer an intimate view of coastal life which large ships simply cannot. In many ways a gulet is like a full-service hotel where every room has a sea view and the scenery changes constantly.

Bare-Boat Charter and Flotilla Cruises
Bare-boat charter has recently been introduced as another form of yacht hire in Turkey. Maintenance crews keep these yachts in optimum condition, but it is the passengers themselves who crew the boat. The charters are undertaken by representatives who are responsible for putting the passengers on board, looking after them and seeing that they return safely to port. Of course, an experienced skipper accompanies the vessel, but once on board the people who undertake the charter perform all of the tasks the handling of the sails, the seaman's chores, meal preparation and housekeeping. For those who want to escape all kitchen duties on their holiday, there is at least one restaurant at every anchorage, so eating out remains an option.

The more adventurous and experienced sailors can charter and pilot smaller (9- to 10- meter) motor yachts. Before setting sail, bare-boat companies generally brief their clients on the navigational characteristics of the environment, meteorological conditions, where and how to restock provisions, how to act in an emergency and any other pertinent information.

Flotilla sailing, or sailing with a group of yachts led by one boat, is another great adventure on the sea. Although an experienced sailor skippers the lead boat, the navigation of each individual boat is left to its crew.
 

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

SAILING FROM IZMIR TO KUSADASI: LIKE HOMER'S ODYSSEY
Known in Turkish as "Beautiful Izmir ", the city lies at the head of a long and narrow gulf furrowed by ships. The climate is mild, and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breeze tempers the sun's heat. Behind the palm-lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains. The art galleries, theatres and cultural events give this cosmopolitan city its special vibrancy. The original settlement was established in the third millennium BC and represented the most advanced culture in western Anatolia at that time. Through the centuries this thriving city and the surrounding area came under the sovereignty of Hittites, lonians, Lydians, Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans. Levent Marina provides an excellent place to begin a yachting adventure. Sailing in and around the beautiful Gulf of Izmir will prepare voyagers for the wonderful sites that lie ahead. At Urla Iskelesi (Urla Pier), the small islands that dot the coast will certainly charm you. Beautiful beaches and excellent moorings with swimming, snorkelling and diving are all available in the area.

From Urla Iskelesi sail on to the Karaburun Peninsula. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels, tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water. Voyage out of the Gulf of Izmir around the Karaburun Peninsula to the Cesme Peninsula, a spit of land lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Cesme, ("fountain"), derives its name from the many sources of water found in the area. A l4th-century Genoese fortress, restored and enlarged by the Ottomans in the 16th century, dominates the small port of Cesme. Around Cesme the large Altin Yunus Setur Marina complex and the berthing places of Ilica and Dalyan are all noted for their safety. In town, the 16th century caravanserai built by Suleyman the Magnificent near the fortress, has been converted into a hotel. Excellent shopping opportunities offer the finest quality carpets, leather goods, as well as souvenir items. At night, a lively, fun atmosphere pervades the port, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars and discos along the promenade. In July, the Cesme International Song Contest attracts world famous performers who add glamour and excitement to the town. The thermal baths in the area, along with the natural springs which mix with the sea water in llica Bay, provide soothing relaxation. "

Southeast of Cesme beautiful bays offer splendid scenery and tranquil night moorings in complete safety from the winds and waves. Further along is Sigacik, where a picturesque manna rests beneath fortifications that date from the Genoese period. Conveniently dose is the antique site of Teos, noted for its Temple of Dionysus, the god of wine. it is also an excellent area in which to sample some of the country's superb wines.

The Kusadasi Gulf spreads south and southeast with some of the most enticing beaches, bays and coves on the Aegean coast.

SAILING FROM KUSADASI TO BODRUM: ST. JOHN'S HERITAGE REDISCOVERED
Kusadasi is a major holiday resort centre that, during the summer months, teems with swimmers, fishermen, sunlovers and sightseers.

Once known as Scala Nova, the town boasts wonderful seafood restaurants, lively cafes, beautiful parks and superb beaches. The shopping is rich with everything from beads and bangles to leather, jewellery and carpets.

The Kusadasi Setur Marina is one of the best-equipped marinas in Turkey, with wintering capabilities for boats both afloat and on shore. Scuba diving has become very popular. The night life is renowned along the coast thanks to numerous bars, jazz clubs, discos and cabarets that promise evenings filled with excitement and entertainment.

Not far from Kusadasi the ancient site of Ephesus, an important city -of antiquity, remains a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple was rebuilt several times and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The ancient theater there has found new life as a major concert venue. Nearby is the site of St. John's Basilica.

South of Kusadasi the beautiful waters of the Dilek Peninsula National Park welcome yachtsmen into its serene inlets and coves. Between Kusadasi's southern shores and Pamukkale lies the valley of the Menderes River (the Meander) where several ancient civilizations built major settlements, including Priene, Miletus, Didyma (Didim), Aphrodisias and Hierapolis (Pamukkale).

The Temple to Apollo at Didim was one of the most sacred places of antiquity. Though many times looted and burned, the sanctuary still possesses elegant beauty. Not far from this archaeological site, the beautiful beach of Altinkum tempts visitors with sailing, swimming and relaxation. it is the last stop before entering the Gulluk Gulf.

A visit to this gulf can provide holiday in itself with four large natural bays and numerous coves and inlets. The entire area has excellent moorings, and scuba-divers will be particularly interested in exploring these waters. The fisherman's village of Gulluk has a pretty port and numerous guest-houses and small hotels. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kiyikislacik (lassos). As you sail out of this beautiful gulf, the Bodrum Peninsula comes into view.

SAILING FROM BODRUM TO MARMARIS: BLESSED WITH THE LOVE OF APHRODITE
Bodrum, on the north shore of the Gulf of Gokova, was the home of the first "Blue Voyager," Cevat Sakir Kabaagac or the "Fisherman of Halikarnas."

It is the undisputed "hot-spot" of the Aegean Coast. This swinging, singing, dancing town, with its bohemian atmosphere gathers together Turkey's artists, intellectuals and lovers of the good life.

An impressive medieval castle built by the Knights of Rhodes guards the entrance to Bodrum's dazzling blue bay, in which the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas meet. The Bodrum Castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, Bodrum is the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of King Mausolus' Tomb (4th century BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

The yearly throng of visitors has encouraged small entrepreneurs who have made shopping in Bodrum. a delight. Souvenirs abound, and on certain streets local artists gather to sell their works that come in all forms.

The Bodrum Karada Marina is one of the loveliest and best-equipped marinas in the region.

A yachting tour of the Gulf of Gokova starts in Bodrum. The translucent and deep waters of the Gulf on the southern shore of the Bodrum. Peninsula vary from the darkest blue to the palest turquoise, and the coastline is thickly wooded with every hue of green. In the evening, the sea reflects the mountains silhouetted against the setting sun, while at night it shimmers with phosphorescence.

One of the best anchorages is the splendidly scenic Akbuk, hidden behind a forested promontory. The excellent cosy restaurants are as good a reason as any to linger for a tasty meal after an afternoon of snorkelling; and diving. Sedir Island (ancient Cedrai) boasts an incredible beach with fine sand composed of fossils, and a splendid view of the Kiran Mountains across the bay. As you sail along the island's southwestern coast, forests stretch out to meet the deep inlets of the bays. The jagged -coastline, known as the Bay of Sixty-Six Inlets, seems to have emerged from the oft-told tales of pirates.

The waters of the Gulf of Hisaronu lap the breathtaking shores that hold the legacy of both ancient and modern civilizations.

SAILING FROM MARMARIS TO FETHIYE: IN THE ROUTE OF ST. PAUL

The Marmaris Netsel Marina, one of the largest and best-equipped marinas in Turkey, and the Marmaris Albatross Marina, one of the best for wintering and maintaining yachts, make Marmaris an excellent starting point for the Blue Voyage tour of the Aegean Coast. In May, the Marmaris Yacht Charter Show provides an opportunity to meet the captains and their crews.

With plenty of provisions aboard, you set sail in the craft of your choice and languidly explore the spectacular beauty of southern Turkey.

At Ekincik, a delightful yacht-mooring, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this area and the friendly hospitality of its people.

Delikli Island lies right off the coast, southeast of Ekincik. Yachtsmen enjoy a change of pace when they anchor at the island and take a smaller craft excursion into the Dalyan Delta. The Delta, with a long, golden, sandy beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and blue crabs. At a bend in the river, high on the cliff face above the fascinating ancient harbour-city of Caunos, magnificent tombs were carved into the rock. From Delikli Island, sailing southeast, you arrive at Sarigerme with its pleasant holiday complexes, nestled in cosy pine forests. Yachtsmen will want to anchor at Baba Island, across from the pristine sandy beaches.

The Gulf of Gocek, with the friendly Club Marina set in a beautiful pine forest, is one of the Mediterranean's best sailing spots. Dotted with islands and indented with many coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The ruins of Arymaxa, an ancient city at the southern tip of the gulf, lie at the edge of the azure waters. Opposite on Tersane Island stand Byzantine ruins including those of the ancient shipyards. From the Gulf of Gocek sail on into Fethiye.

SAILING FROM FETHIYE TO KAS: A LYCIAN DREAM
The resort town of Fethiye has an important marina and overlooks a beautiful bay strewn with islands.

The secrets of the ancient gods of mythology still lie hidden in the secluded coves and bays around the Gulf of Fethiye. This is truly paradise for those who want to sail through history.

Above the town, known as Telmessos in ancient times, numerous Lycian rock tombs reproducing the facades of ancient buildings were cut into the cliff face. Explore the Belcegiz Bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz), where the calm, crystal-dear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. On Gemiler Island, Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines.

Go ashore at Kinik (65 kin from Fethiye) where the ruins of Xanthos, the ancient Lycian capital, lie in a splendid natural setting. At the holy Lycian centre of Letoon, three temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar gods of mythology, await the intrepid tourist. Mythology records that Apollo was born at Patara, a principal harbour of ancient Lycia, south of Letoon and Xanthos. The ruins are, of course, numerous and fascinating. Its 22 kilometres of pure white sand stretch as far as the eye can see, making it a natural choice for all types of beach sports.

A short sail to the east brings you to Kalkan, a small, attractive hilltop town that overlooks a tiny bay. Narrow, winding streets lined with souvenir shops lead down to the charming marina. Every morning, boats busily take tourists to one of the nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets, it is Kalkan-style to meet on the roof terraces for a drink before dinner, and enjoy the comings and goings of the yachts, the business of the marina and the panoramic view.

SAILING FROM KAS TO ANTALYA: DOLPHINS' PLAYGROUND
Kekova, "Home of the sun" is an island located an hour from Dalyanagzi (ancient Andriace) by sea, as well as the name of a whole ensemble of picturesque islands with numerous bays and ancient cities.  Along the northern shore of Kekova Island, at Apollonia, earthquakes once disturbed the land causing some of the ancient houses to sink under the clear water, creating a sunkern city. Kalekoy Castle (ancient Simena) offers a bird's-eye view of the bays inlets, islands and colourful yachts sailing peacefully on the glassy water. Kekova has the blue skies and orange sunsets of a Van Gogh painting, along with starry nights, peace and tranquility, playful dolphins, mythological mysteries, and the sparkling sea - all this and more.

At Demre (Kale), the ancient Myra (25km west of Finike), many splendid carved rock tombs overlook the magnificent Roman theatre. St Nicholas was the Bishop of this Mediterranean city during the fourth century, and he died here in 342. Finike is an official entry port and is surrounded by citrus trees and gardens.

32km from the Finike Marina are the remains of the beautiful and ancient Lycian city of Arikanda. A mountain trek inland rewards you with superb views, fabulous ruins and fresh mountain air.

Slipping around the Kirlangic Peninsula brings you into the gulf of Antalya. The first site you come to is the ancient city of Olympos, on the southern side of Mount Tahtali (Mt. Olympos). Oleander and laurel bushes shade the Olypos Valley, which can be approached by land as well as sea. Nearby at Yanartas (at a height of 300 metres), the mythological Lycian hero Bellerophon mounted his winged horse Pegasus and slew the fire-breathing Chimaera.

The favourite winter resort of Alexander the Great was Phaselis, the ancient commercial harbour north of Olympos. Sail on to Kemer, a resort town carefully designed to blend in with the surrounding scenery. The fully equipped Park Kemer Marina has facilities for all activities and yachtsmen can enjoy the unspoilt bays and beaches south of the town. April is the month of the colourful Kemer Carnival. Also in the spring are the yacht races between Kemer and Girne, in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Sailing around the coast towards Antalya will give you a glimpse of some of Turkey's most modern and luxurious holiday villages. Antalya, Turkey's principal holiday resort city on the Mediterranean, embodies the contrast between the majestic coastline of beaches and rocky coves, and the towering Taurus Mountains. Here the ancient Attaleia, named after the King of Attalus II of the Pergamum, was founded in the 2nd century BC. Today, palm-lined boulevards, beautiful parks, historical buildings, monuments, museums and the picturesque old quarter of Kaleici (with the Kaleici Turban Marina) blend together to create an ideal holiday atmosphere.