The Aegean and Mediterranean coast of Turkey is acknowledged to be one of the best cruising areas in Europe. With abundant sunshine, crystal clear waters, continuous blue skies, good anchorages and friendly people, this coast offers many diversities...

There are many unspoiled areas rich in natural beauty and in coastal settlements and villages it is still possible to observe local people going about their lives in traditional Turkish village fashion. Archaeological ruins and historic sites around in Turkey`s southern coastal regions.

Many ruins and sites such as Cleopatra's lsland, Knidos, Caunos, Patara and Kekova can be seen directly from the sea. Others such as Ephesus, Dydima, Miletos, Xanthos and Aspendos can easily be reached from anchorage points. Turkey's climate also contributes to the cruising excellence of this area with a season that can begin in April and end in October. June, July and August are of course the hottest months.

May and September cooler and quieter and April and October still offering 8 to 9 hours of sunshine a day, with the opportunity for walking and exploring as well as cruising. Traditional Turkish yachts are called 'Gulete' and 'Tirhandils'. These beautiful motorsailers are handmade from pine and oak and range in size from 14 to 28 meters. There are accommodations for 6 to 16 persons in separate double cabins, some with en suite WC/shower, some with shared facilities. Gulets are especially suited for cruising the Turkish southern Coast, as they have many features designed for this region.

Generally, Gulets have Turkish crew of 3 or 4 depending on the size of the yacht. One of these crew member act as a cook preparing meal and helping with the shopping when necessary. Serving and cleaning are also done by the crew.