Are 12 islands enough? We think so… the tour is a must for anyone visiting this region of Turkey with Premier Villas. Fethiye is abounding with double-decker gulets (traditional two-masted wooden sailing vessel) – a beautiful sight to behold as you wander around the marina and harbour.
The 12 island tour is one of our favourites. Relax in comfort as you gently meander through the inland waters of the Aegean, passing stunning scenery and stopping at many interesting places. Whenever the gulet is at anchor there is a chance to swim in safe bays with crystal-clear waters, a welcome respite from the sun if you are taking in the rays on the top deck, and a delight for the snorkelers among you. Be careful though, sunbathing on the top deck can be deceiving with the sea breezes. You won’t notice just how much sun you’ve taken until your evening shower, when it’s time for the lotions! While out on the water, it is not unusual to catch sight of some of the Aegean inhabitants, such as dolphins (who commonly flank the boat), flying fish, and sea turtles. This is an excellent family day out for the family, and villas T2011, T2040-01, T2040-02, T2042-01are perfectly located just a short drive away from the harbour.
Anchored Gulets for Swimming
The gulets themselves (most of which are built in the dockyards of Fethiye) have capacities ranging from 30 up to 150 people, but of course, you can choose your preferred size of vessel. All of them have toilets and a self-service bar. Be ready to make new friends! The tours leave port daily between 10-11am and return to Fethiye at around 5.30-6.30pm. Lunch is always included, and usually consists of freshly prepared pasta, meatballs (sometimes chicken/fish), salad, and water melon.
There are usually five stops in the tour:
Gobun Bay or Cavy Bay
Gorgeous calm bay with 7-10m depth crystal-clear turquoise water – you can see all the way to the bottom! There is also a small local family cafe-restaurant where sailors often stay overnight. Cavy bay is next door and has a fascinating cave in the rocks with a natural staircase!
The bay of Cleopatra’s Baths
A bay surrounded by evergreen pine trees, and again incredible deep-blue waters which become lighter as you move toward shore. There are some ancient ruins here, and according to myth, are of an ancient hot-spring bath built for Cleopatra by one of her friends. The mineral water is said to be good for the skin, which is why Cleopatra was so beautiful. If you want to test it, you are welcome to swim in and around the ruins!
Dockyard Island
This is the first real island on the tour (others are semi-islands). The bay gently approaches the shore and there are some ancient Ottoman Greek ruins. This bay was used to launch ships built on the island due to its shallow nature. Hence the name – Dockyard Island.
The Flat Islands
The Flat Islands
This is a group of islands that are very close to each other, directly opposite from the port town of Gocek. There is a salty ‘lake’ between islands, and in places you can walk from one island to another through the water, as it is only 1.5m deep. Further north on the biggest island there is a long sandy beach where you can buy freshly made pancakes made by locals from Gocek who visit in the daytime. Banana, bingo, and water skiing are available here and there’s also a large boat converted into a restaurant.
Red Island or Samanlık Bay
During your return voyage, the captain will select one of two bays – Either Red Island, where you can swim to the red-coloured shore just a few metres from the boat, or Samanlık Bay. Both of these present the last opportunity to swim before reaching Fethiye some 30 minutes later. Watch the sunset as you cruise.
During your villa holiday, Premier Villas Turkey can arrange your boat trip for you. We have connections with the best boat tour operators in Turkey and can get the best prices. However, that would take all the fun out of haggling at the harbour!
Bon voyage…!
For more information on Premier Villas and our villa holidays in Turkey, contact Ece on +44 1243 887840 or ece@premiervillas.net.
