Marmaris

Marmaris is one of Turkey's premier holiday resorts, built around a sweeping natural bay at the foot of steep pine covered mountain slopes. The old Marmaris town is a maze of twisting little streets and alleys with whitewashed houses in the traditional Turkish style with an excellent shopping bazaar. The resort is an ideal starting point for sailing, where you can ease into things by relaxing in the sun, stroll along the " Riviera" style promenade, provision for your sailing holiday or even visit one of the numerous nightspots or restaurants of the town!

Whether you're wining and dining, quenching your thirst in a restaurant, or haggling for souvenirs; the value for money is still good, though shopping around will always reap rewards. Then there are the people, a charming and friendly bunch well known for their hospitality – and also their ‘robust’ selling style.

Marmaris is perhaps the most cosmopolitan of the Turkish resorts, although a walk into the maze of narrow streets which make up the Old Quarter soon reveals a very Turkish atmosphere. Old men sit in the shade playing backgammon just yards from the more sophisticated bars of the seafront, and the market area is thronged with local life. One look at the yachts in the harbour will tell you that Marmaris is a stylish and cosmopolitan resort. The coastline here, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, is perfect cruising country, dark blue seas giving way to shallow turquoise waters on hideaway beaches, while the mountains march inland. It's a dramatic backdrop for any holiday and offers something for everyone and all 'mod cons' while retaining much of its charm.

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 a Bareboat Sailing Holiday of the Aegean Coast.

Ekincik

In Ekincik Gulf there are two islands called Semizce I and Seminca II where you can anchor with a lovely view of the pine clad hills. During the summer months the waters here can be quite busy it’s the main waterway between Fethiye and Marmaris and is close to the Dalyan River and historical Caunos.

Caunos is where the logger head turtles lay their eggs on Iztuzu beach. If you’re lucky you might see one of these magnificent creatures which are protected by the world wildlife association. About 6 miles we come to Caretta Cateretta beach and the ancient city of Caunos with its King’s tombs built into the rock face. There is also the small town of Dalyan. Further downriver there are the mud baths, don’t be put off by the smell of sulphur!

Kapi Creek

This narrow bay is surrounded by pines and olives, with crystal blue waters and its own restaurant. Renowned for their hospitality and their fresh home-cooked food, the friendly staff will even hand you a lazy line on their wooden jetty. This bay is ideal for swimming and, of course, relaxing.

Fethiye

Fethiye is a pleasant and popular town overlooked by Lycian Rock Tombs and a medieval fortress, which makes for an impressive sight.  Fethiye is a shopper’s paradise, from leather goods to food from the market which is open all week.  Fethiye is an excellent place to visit, with many restaurants on offer as well as ample opportunities to sample the local nightlife.

Gocek

A wonderful place to visit, Gocek waterfront is lined with many restaurants and bars.  Inland life centers around the pretty town square with shops selling antiques and crafts, as well as the usual Turkish rugs. The bay of Skopea which stretches out from Gocek village is a great cruising ground offering 12 islands.  One of these islands, Tersane Island features the partially submerged remains of a Byzantine Monastery and ancient boatyard, and there’s also a restaurant on the island to.

Sarsala

Sarsala Cove is one of the most popular stop points for boats and yachts during the summer time. The water of the cove is crystal blue, and where there is no construction pine trees grow down to the sea.

Asi Koyu

Asi Koyu is a particularly small bay that’s popular with divers, under the water you’ll find brightly coloured sponges in an array of colours that line the caves. An abundance of sea life from groupers to rays it’s a memorable spot.  If diving doesn’t float your boat, there is a restaurant where you can partake in some Turkish food and watch the sun go down.