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The Dulcinea is available for virtually any journey desired in the region. We offer custom designed tours of the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Please contact us for further information or itineraries.
THE BLUE CRUISE
For first time visitors, we recommend the classic "Blue Cruise". Aptly titled for the long stretch of rich blue waters, this passage follows the Turkish Mediterranean coast from Bodrum to Antalya, to ancient ruins, seaside villages and natural preservation areas. The entire cruise takes two weeks; we are describing a one week trip below.
Day One- Bodrum
Upon arriving in the coastal city of Bodrum, spend your afternoon and evening visiting seaside shops and the famous Souk, familiarizing yourself with Turkish culture and traditions, and dining along the water's edge at any one of a dozen restaurants. Bodrum is one of the Aegean Coast's jewels, featuring natural beauty, ancient ruins, and a vibrant nightlife.
Day Two: Knidos-Mersincik
Our first destination will be mythic Knidos, an ancient Carian city. In Knidos, discover the remains of an outdoor amphitheatre, an Acropolis, an ancient temple and a statue of Aphrodite. It is said that in ancient times pilgrims would travel many miles to pay homage to Aphrodite in her temple. Guests will dine on the boat that evening and spend the night in nearby Mersincik, a lovely area fronted by steep pine-covered slopes and pebble beaches.
Day Three: Cati Lagoon-Yediadalar-English Harbour
After breakfast, spend the morning meandering along the coast toward Cati Lagoon, where we will lunch and take in the wondrous scenery. Swim in the pools of Cati or wander amongst natural beauty and ruins. After lunch, set sail for Yediadalar, a colorful setting noted for swimming, diving and snorkeling. Yediadalar literally means "the seven islands" and this pristine area features tree-lined slopes ideal for hiking.
Day Four: Tuzla-Ballisu
We will spend the morning sailing to Tuzla, a quiet coastal bay from which, after a free afternoon of wandering and shopping in this charming beach front resort town, continue on to the enchanting pools of Ballisu for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day Five: Cleopatra Island-Karacasogut
After sunbathing and swimming in Ballisu, our route takes us to Cleopatra Island, a hidden paradise of sandy beaches made of shattered seashells featuring scores of Roman ruins. A protected conservation area, this verdant island has some of the best-preserved classical remains in the region. Local myth has it that the soft white sand on the island was originally brought from Egypt for Anthony and Cleopatra's honeymoon. Our evening destination will be Karacasogut, a small seaside village.
Day Six: Cokertme-Oraklar
Mid-morning takes us to nearby Cokertme, a harbor surrounded by a rugged mountain range that rises sharply from the shore. Around the town are fields of olive trees and gentle slopes ideal for day trips. Cokertme is known for the hospitality and good nature of its residents,many of whom can be seen weaving carpets by hand. These townspeople have been the subject of good-natured folk songs for generations. After an afternoon of exploring, we will sail to Oraklar for dinner and our final overnight stay.
Day Seven: Return to Bodrum
After a farewell breakfast, we will slowly cruise back to Bodrum. This final leg of the trip is picturesque, suitable for reflection and saying farewell to the Sea. Upon arrival in Bodrum, transfer to the airport for your returning flight home or continue on to visit the other historical sites in Turkey.
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