Turkey Mothership Adventure

Discover Turkey’s diverse Turquoise Coast where dramatic mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea. Here you will experience some of the world’s most spectacular sea kayaking or hiking – or both!

Your home away from home is a luxurious classic 100 ft sailing yacht giving you unique access to remote and pristine stretches of the coast. You will marvel at the unbelievable clear azure sea, watch loggerhead turtles surface close by and paddle through spectacular sea caves. In protected coves where the mothership anchors, you swim in warm water and, for those who want some extra exercise, meander along the shoreline on SUPs (stand up paddle-boards)! Hikers have access to the famous Lycian Way a renowned trail network that was recently developed. 

On this unique adventure you also discover the astonishing cultural sites along the coast. This area was the home of the ancient Lycians, a highly advanced civilization who invented democracy and left amazing feats of architecture in their wake. Other cultures including Greeks, Romans, Crusaders and Ottomans also left their mark. The many layers of the rich history along this coast unfurl before your eyes as you cruise past stunning ruins and hike to astonishing antiquities.

Here where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean Sea, not only do you enjoy first class kayaking and hiking, but you also savour exquisite Mediterranean cuisine and hospitality, enjoy a fascinating culture where East meets West and have time to simply unwind and relax on board your gorgeous mothership.

Sample Itinerary

Sample itinerary for the kayaking trip. (Please contact us for the hiking itinerary.)

This Turkey Mothership Adventure takes us along wild, remote sections of the Turquoise Coast, and deep into the history of the ancient Lycians and Carians. Wander through the ruins of a city dating back to the 10^th Century BC, explore an eerie village abandoned in recent times, paddle to an island where Santa Claus lies at rest, try out your belly dancing skills in a local bar, and go on a culinary adventure that brings daily food buzzes! Tie all this and more together with daily paddling excursions, swimming and SUP sessions, and time to relax aboard your floating home, a luxurious classic wooden gulet – and it’s a trip you’ll want to do all over again!

Keep an eye out for surfacing turtles as you paddle across the astonishingly clear blue Mediterranean. Kayak into caves where light streams up through the water to naturally create a surreal ‘special effects’ atmosphere. In protected coves try out your SUP skills.

Conditions permitting paddle around the dramatic Devil’s Cape. In Kayakoy, wander through an eerie ghost town, the inspiration for Louise de Bernierne’s novel “Birds Without Wings”.

At our favourite Turkish fishing village, shop in its handicraft market, explore the surrounding area and enjoy a seafood dinner in a special restaurant overlooking the harbour.

Your mothership sails to a cute Greek island to discover one of the lesser known wonders of this world: a vast sea cave –  like a huge, blue-lit cathedral – an experience that will take your breath away.

You head to the sunken Lycian city of Kekova where you kayak around semi-submerged tombs. Overlooking the bay is a medieval village and you climb to the Crusader’s castle above it to take in amazing views.

Explore an ancient Roman/Greek amphitheater complex and visit an astonishing medieval church where St. Nicholas was buried.

FAQs

What is so special about Turkey?

The coastline is spectacular: the intricate topography makes it a world class kayaking destination. Add to that the astonishing layers of ancient history left by Greeks, Lycians, and Romans: stunning ruins in landscapes  dotted with Turkish pines and olives groves. The warmth and hospitality of the Turish people is unparalleled, and their cuisine is fabulous: we wager that by the end of the trip you’ll be hooked on Turkish breakfasts of fresh cheeses, free range boiled eggs, tomato salad, olives and freshly baked bread. Oh, and did we mention the great local wines? You will be experiencing the coast in the very best way possible: aboard your luxurious private yacht, and in your kayaks. 

How do I get there?

The nearest airport to where the trip begins is Dalaman, which can be reached via numerous airlines from London or other European hubs. Alternatively you can fly to Istanbul, which you can reach from London and other European hubs, or fly to directly from New York or Chicago.

What are the physical activities on the trip and what level of fitness do I need?

A reasonable level of fitness is required. This can be tailored to your group however you typically average about 3 to 4 hours of kayaking a day.  In protected anchorages we can swim or SUP from the mothership

Do I have to be an experience kayaker?

No. This is trip is suitable for all levels of kayakers, including beginners. If you are a beginner kayaker, however, we recommend that before the trip you take an introductory day course just to put yourself at ease. 

I’m more into physical activity than my travelling partner, is that a problem?

If one of you isn’t so keen on kayaking, or if you just feel like taking a break, you can relax on the yacht and enjoy the spectacular scenery as you sail to our rendezvous point. 

Do I need a visa?

Yes. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport in Turkey, or apply for one ahead of time through your nearest Turkish embassy or a visa agency.

Do I need insurance?

Medical insurance, including emergency evacuation is strongly recommended. 

Do I need vaccinations?

Your routine vaccinations (tetanus/diphtheria, polio, etc.) should be up to date. 

Are bugs a problem?

In general, not at all, however, it’s always worth having some insect repellent along with you on land.