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Lycian Coast, Turkey & Greece
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The country of Turkey has an ancient history linked with the ocean and seafaring. The Lycian Coast of Turkey offers some of the least crowded cruising grounds in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea and yet is considered some of the most beautiful water in the world with cliff lined shores, heavily forested mountains and exotic beaches outlining the abundant bays and coves.
Typically sailing out of Gocek or Fethiye and head eastward past a rugged land dotted by small coastal towns and fringed by white sandy beaches.
Sailors choosing the Lycian Coast for their yachting adventure find gentle, warm winds in the high season for cruising which runs from mid-April to mid-November. The relative ease with which the yachts can move from anchorage to anchorage affords plenty of time for land based excursions spent exploring the picturesque landscape as well as the cafés, restaurants and shopping around the various harbors. The area is nicknamed the “Turquoise Coast” as homage to the cruising ground’s beautiful waters.
Among the many worthy activities to be considered include anchorage at Ekincik, near the mouth of the Dalyan River, which allows for exploration of an area inhabited many centuries ago where the ruins of that ancient civilization remain. Diving at Afulke I using SCUBA equipment allows for examination of unusual sea creatures that inhabit the underwater cave. Gemiler Island affords an opportunity to investigate the relics of a Christian community that existed there beginning in the 6th century. The island also provides one of the best views of the Eastern Mediterranean from an easily climbed hilltop.
An extensive collection of catamarans and monohull yachts are available through a number of charter operators on the Lycian Coast. The town of Gocek affords the primary access to the Lycian Coast and charter providers there can accommodate your needs no matter your level of expertise or needs for crew, skipper, guides or chef. Traditional Turkish sailboats, called Gulets, are among the offerings of the charter providers. You might like to try your hand skippering a Gulet for a truly authentic Turkish sailing adventure. Gocek is accessible through Dalaman Airport with regular service from Istanbul and Ankara. A modern highway system also provides access to Gocek.
Your dream of sailing the waters first explored by the ancient Turks can begin by adding a trip to cruise the Lycian Coast to your list. Start planning the details now.
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