Bodrum, a city steeped in ancient history is also one of Turkeys leading tourist attractions. Scholars of history will know it as Halicarnassus, home to the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The modern term “mausoleum” comes from his name. Unfortunately, we cannot see this site anymore since the Knights Hospitalier used the mausoleums stones to build another impressive structure, the imposing Bodrum Castle. This 15th century edifice sits on the waters edge and was the founding point of the city of Petronium, which is today Bodrum. The castle contains Bodrum’s underwater museum of archeology.
Kos is one of the most prominent Dodecanese islands, most probably only second to Rhodes. This is where Hippocrates taught in the Asklepion, the ancient Greek college that was set under a Plane tree that still stands in its place. Kos is steeped in history, and there are many archeological treats to find here, including Corinthian columns that line the roads, the Castle of the Knights of Saint John, and the famous Kos harbor. With all this magnificent history, it is not surprising to see how modern tourism fits in perfectly, with an international marina, lost of shops, tavernas and leading restaurants that offer local cuisine as well as international dishes.
When you arrive ay Nisiros island, you will be taken aback by the elegant scenery that the port of Mandraki gives as you enter its waters. The ancient fortress, Paleokastro is situated in the village and there are plenty of amazing white washed walled houses with winding alleyways and colorful flowers, doors and windows overlooking amazing taverna and bars. This is a great place to visit, and a must stop over for a days visit when sailing in the area.
Between Kos and Rhodes in the Dodecanese lies the small island of Tilos. Nestled between two giants, this lovely spot is quieter than its two neighbors. The main town to start in is Livida, where the port will greet you with few facilities. There is a ghost town nearby called Mikro Chorio, and the beaches along the coastline are relatively quiet and raw.
Another quiet spot to visit from the madding crowd is Chalki. So many tourists overlook this lovely island, and the beaches are mostly empty, the town has a port with a small promenade, and some local eateries which provide excelled local cuisine.
Alimnia is an uninhabited island in the Dodecanese, and is close to both Chalki and Rhodes. This island did have a population back in prehistory, but today the island is bare, and while you can see some of the ancient settlement lines, all that remains are beaches and sparse vegetation. This is a lovely place to visit for a quick walk over desolation.
When visiting the area of Symi town, perhaps visit the small village of Panormitis, it is home to the monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis and is an amazing landmark place to visit.
Our next destination is the charming bay of Nanou in Symi Island where the boat will anchor for lunch and a swimming break. We will anchor at Symi Port late in the afternoon. You can see the shoreline with its neo-classical houses and the peripheral districts. You are going to adore Symi Island for its pine and oak forests and unique bays.
Rhodes is a world-famous island, with its UNESCO world heritage town and is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Rhodes has over 200 kilometers of coastline and is filled with everything an advanced society based on ancient heritage can provide. You have access to culture, architecture, history, religion, entertainment and of course, cuisine. Unfortunately, what you cannot get is a view of the colossus of Rhodes, this amazing feat of ancient sculpture was destroyed in an earthquake centuries ago, but there is plenty more to see around the old walled town.
After breakfast, you will be informed about the cruise itinerary and boat. We set sail to Arap Island where the lunch will be served.
Just west of Marmaris you come to the blue flag awarded and shelter Kadirga Harbour. Aptly awarded since it has amazing clear waters and provides a nice respite for a quick dip.
Kumlubuku is one of those lovely places along the Turkish coast that you can just lie back and relax. With sandy beaches and cool clear water. You can either enjoy the sea, the sand, or sit under the shade in one the many local tavernas and partake in an exquisite local culinary feast supported by local wine.
One of the nicest peninsulas near Marmaris is Yildiz island. This island offers visitors a number of cafes and restaurants dotted around the island for its many visitors. This is one of the few islands that you can literally spend a whole day at, and never get bored. There is plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities to choose from. There is also a bay area called “the wrong channel” that’s because it resembles a channel at night, and many a sailor has made the mistake of going down I, ending up crashing on its rocky ending.
After finishing your long and exhilarating voyage across the Mediterranean, maybe the Aegean and Adriatic too, you arrive back in Marmaris and prepare for your return home. This is a great moment to enjoy a day’s stay over in this amazing city. Marmaris is a jewel, its name is appropriate “Turquoise coast” and it provides you with every taste of the Mediterranean and Turkey before you leave for home. This is the time to take that last shopping walk and collect the memorable items and local wares before leaving.
12 Guests
6 Crew
