Bodrum-Gokova-Bodrum (7 days - 99 NM)

At the convergence of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas lies the enchanting bay of Bodrum which is home to one of the most attractive cities in Turkey, Bodrum the mythical ancient Halicarnassus. Located on a peninsula opposite the Greek island of Kos, Bodrum is a great starting point to charter a catamaran, a yacht, a sailing boat or a gulet and cruise around the “Turkish Riviera” as this area is rich in historical and artistic character, combined with a bohemian and avant-garde nightlife. The lively nightclubs (some are cabarets) stay open until the break of dawn. The city’s many shops, bazaars and markets sell an incredible variety of articles, from natural sponges to kilims, sandals, broidery and original cotton pieces.

Kara Ada is an island located in the bay of Bodrum. Its name evokes images of pirate tales as in Turkish it literally means Black Island. Famous for its thermal springs and remote caves, this island attracts both scuba diving fans and seafarers who love cruising in a sailing boat. Next to the wooden pier, there is a restaurant called Arkanessos, which is the former name of the island. Here you can enjoy a drink or a quick aperitif, or why not treat your palate and your soul to an authentically luxurious meal? Seated at your table you will have spectacular views of the bay of Bodrum and the Aegean Sea.

The impressive mountains towering in the distance are what most attract people to Cokertme Beach. There are one or two small restaurants on this beach serving simple yet delicious local dishes such as very authentic kebabs. Impossible to resist! From Cokertme, we will sail to the island of Sedir (formerly Kedrai) in the Gulf of Gokova. It is said that this island has the most beautiful fine, white sandy beaches as well as splendid views of the Kiran mountain range. Sedir Island is also known as Cleopatra Island because as legend has it, Marco Antonio brought white sand to the island’s coves from Egypt to please his lover.

On the fourth day, we will cruise to Karaca, only one nautical mile away. We will also have enough time to visit the city of Marmaris if we like as it's less than half an hour's drive away. Shoppers can lose themselves for hours wandering around the little shops and bazaars in this tourist city which has become a highly solicited place for boat charters.

After the hustle and bustle of Marmaris, it's back to peace and quiet. With the rising of the sun, we will start making our way to Mersincik, first stopping in the bay of Kargili to have a swim. In Kisebuku (Alakisla) we can learn more about this interesting country by taking a visit to the Byzantine ruins. It’s much easier to explore when cruising in a catamaran or any other kind of boat charter.

In Mersincik we will enjoy beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters. Do we feel like going for a swim? Then jump right in! Do we prefer to try our hand at some water sports? We make it easy. You don’t have to carry your own equipment because the charter gulet tends to be equipped with material for different sports such as a surf board, diving equipment, water skis and more.

After cruising through the paradisiacal turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera, could we possibly dream of anything more marvellous? Yes we can, in Bodrum. We can't go home without visiting the Castle of Saint Peter, built by the Knights of Rhodes during the Middle Ages to protect the bay. Nor can we miss out on the amazing Underwater Archaeology Museum with its interesting galleries such as the Turtle Room or Shipwrecked. However, perhaps we should leave something for later because we will definitely feel like coming back again.