Spend a week or two discovering the fascinating Turkish coast on your own modern luxury yacht or aboard an opulent traditional wooden 'gulet'. Learn the ropes and the skill of navigating as you are the crew. Enjoy the crystal-clear Turkish Aegean and relax under a brilliant sun. Explore Turkey’s history by visiting some of the countless archaeological sites. The remains of Lycian, Carian, Greek, Roman and Medieval civilisations are spread all along the coast. Enjoy fascinating museums, healing Turkish baths, fabulous shopping at Turkish bazaars, great nightlife, renowned beaches, enchanting secluded coves, and exhilarating sailing on crystal clear waters. Join us sailing the Turkish coast on a journey that can only be described as a feast for the senses!

Charter sailing can be affected by the weather. The seas in the Turkish Aegean are generally calm in May, June and July. In August and September the god Zephyr (god of wind) is responsible for the famous ‘Meltem’ wind. This is typically a northeasterly which can develop into 6-8 Beaufort. The Turkish Aegean can be flat like a mirror, but a short chop of 1 meter is common. When Poseidon (the god of the sea) gets restless 3 to 4 meter swells can develop. This is a challenge but not a problem for the larger yachts used for the ‘Archaeological Cruises’. One spare day is often kept on all cruises in case of a delay due to bad weather. As in all sailing holidays rough weather conditions may alter the proposed itinerary.

One of the unique attributes of the Archaeological Adventure Cruise is that it is a hands on adventure tour and not a fully crewed charter. Guests are considered part of the crew and are encouraged to take part in all aspects of life aboard ship including navigation, sailing, taking watches, practicing mooring procedures as well as helping in the galley. Fellow crewmates, Captains and Program Directors develop a mutual respect aboard each voyage thus group dynamics are exceptionally good. Topside, the deck allows ample room for guests to enjoy their own solitude. Below deck, guests can relax in a comfortable salon and private cabins. Upon arrival at island ports, guests explore the islands on their own and can participate in the planned group excursions to sites with Program Directors. Ashore, guests can access Internet cafes, digital telephone service, 24-hour cash machines and laundry and shower services at many ports.

Porpoise and dolphin that often swim at the bow while we sail. Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles still swim and sun themselves in Turkish waters probably as a direct result of the great efforts of Turkish environmentalists. Sardines, tuna, swordfish and mackerel are also often seen on the surface. Scuba diving is available at Bodrum, Marmaris, Ekiçik and Gocek and divers can see moray eels, eagle and sand rays, octopus, kalamari, crayfish, rock lobster, crabs, triton and nautilus shells, Nudibranchs, jellyfish, scorpion fish and many other colorful fish. The only danger is stepping on a sea urchin! Sea sponges and incredibly colorful coral encrustations cover rocks and caves. Fantastic archaeological treasures can be seen on many dives. Wreck diving is offered at many locations in Turkey. *N.B. artifacts must not be touched or taken.

The two healthy meals served aboard each day consist of the following: Breakfast: coffee / tea, freshly baked bread or pastries, cereal and fresh tropical fruit. Eggs can also be prepared. Breakfast is usually served while moored or anchored prior to departing for the next destination. Lunch: consists of vegetable and pasta salads, cheeses and cold cuts, fresh bread and fruit. Lunches are usually served under the boom tarp while anchored in secluded bays. Stops are often made for lunch and a swim & snorkel. Liquids such as juices, soft drinks, ice tea and water are included and stowed on board. Alcohol can be purchased at reasonable prices on all inhabited islands. The galley is always well stocked in the event that we decide to eat dinner on board under the stars.

Flotillas are arranged based on our Turkish partners' departure schedule. The schedule begins in May and runs to the end of October. Flotilla guests are offered assistance with provisioning, fuel and water at departure and throughout the tour. They are given briefings, VHF and visual contact, receive docking assistance and they are welcome to join on the excursions in the evenings to sites and exceptional local restaurants. There must be two certified or experienced sailors on the flotilla yacht and it must be chartered as a bareboat from our office. Please see the Turkish Flotilla page for Flotilla fees and details

As a result of the adventurous nature of this type of holiday all guests aboard Poseidon Charters cruises will be required to sign a liability waiver prior to departure on the cruise. Guests are advised to get medical, cancellation and property insurance for peace of mind while cruising. The yachts are all fully insured for damage but guests are not covered for injury or loss of personal possessions under these policies.

Poseidon Charters also offers many flight, land tour, hotel & island packages which can be combined with cruising. Bareboats, flotilla sailing, power boats, luxury launches, classic and traditional motorsailers and cruise ships are also available Please contact us!