History Abounds

Cruise toward culturally rich Knidos beneath the dramatic Taurus Mountains. Ashore, explore the ancient town’s art and culture, including the circular temple dedicated to Aphrodite, Goddess of Love. Continue along the largely uninhabited Datça Peninsula to Datça Harbour, where shops, bars and restaurants invite late-night browsing. Bargain for carpets, ceramics and textiles a Turkish tradition.

Cruise toward Keçi Bükü, stopping to swim in secret coves along the way. With countless intricate bays and inlets, take the tender to smaller fishing towns rarely visited by tourists. Enjoy meze at a rustic waterfront restaurant, then swim in a secluded cove or relax on one of the coastline’s beaches. Spend the evening anchored in Keçi Bükü’s natural deep-water harbor.

Anchor in the pine-clad bay of Marmaris and enjoy an afternoon of watersports. Stroll along the waterfront, where, as with many Aegean towns, most of the social action is to be had. Browse the traditional Grand Bazaar, wander the winding streets in the older Kaleici district, catch an open-air concert in the amphitheater or simply watch the world go by from the huge array of restaurants and cocktail bars.

Cruise east to Ekincik. It is worth setting aside a day to visit Dalyan, with its fourth-century BC Lucian rock tombs carved into the cliff face. There also are local mud baths in ancient Kaunos where you can wallow in mineral-rich bliss. Factor in a few swimming stops at the breathtaking beaches and waterfalls along the way, and step ashore for lunch at a local eatery.