Cesme, meaning ‘fountain’, derives its name from the many water sources found in the area. A fortress from the 14th century in Genoa, which was enhanced and renovated by the Ottomans in the 16th century, overlooks the quaint port of Cesme. In the Cesme region, the large Altin Yunus Setur Marina complex, along with the berthing sites of Ilica and Dalyan, is noted for its safety. In the town, the caravanserai built in the 16th century by Süleyman the Magnificent near the fortress has been converted into a hotel. Excellent shopping – top-notch Carpets, leather goods, and a variety of souvenir products are available. At night, a lively and fun atmosphere pervades, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs situated along the promenade.

In July, Cesme’s International Song Contest attracts famous artists who add charm and excitement to the town. The area’s thermal spas, along with the natural springs situated just off the coast that mix with the seawater in Ilica Bay, provide soothing relaxation. Southeast of Cesme, beautiful coves offer breathtaking vistas and tranquil nighttime anchorages fully protected from winds and waves. Soon, you will arrive at Sigacik, home to a delightful marina tucked beneath the fortifications from the time of the Genoese. From this spot, the historic site of Teos, famous for its Temple of Dionysus, the god of wine, is easily accessible. It is also an excellent location to sample some of Turkey’s exquisite wines.

The waters of Hisaronu Gulf gently touch the stunning shores that reflect the heritage of both ancient and contemporary cultures. At the extremity of the Datca Peninsula lies the historic Carian city of Knidos, which Strabo characterized as “a city constructed for the most beautiful goddess, Aphrodite, on the most stunning peninsula.” Renowned as a hub of art and culture in the fourth century B.C., the city featured two ports: one on the Aegean Sea and the other on the Mediterranean. The remnants of a round temple devoted to the goddess of love gaze down on the ruins of the two harbors; the arcade path was constructed with white marble columns in the shape of hearts. The renowned statue of Aphrodite by Praxiteles, regarded as one of the finest sculptures from ancient times, once adorned this temple.

The town of Datca has emerged as a favored stop for Yachtsmen, featuring numerous vibrant seafood restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Nestled in the Gulf of Hisaronu is the tranquil Keci Buku Bay; the Bay Marina boasts abundant natural beauty, featuring the nearby mountains and forests, along with the extensive “Kizkumu” (submerged ‘pier’), a natural sand structure. Departing from the Gulf of Hisaronu: tucked within its private cove is the town of Bozburun, renowned as one of Turkey’s Gulet Building hubs. Loryma, located at the end of the Bozburun Peninsula, where the remnants of the ancient harbor and castle exist, is accessible only by boat. Kumlubuk, a turquoise haven, is situated on the southern shore of the bay; on the northern side, overlooking the water, is the historic Rhodian city of Amos. In Turunc, a natural harbor extends into a vast area of stunning blue waters.

Bodrum, located on the northern coast of the Gulf of Gokova, was the birthplace of the inaugural “Blue Cruiser”, known as the “Fisherman of Halikarnas”. It is the undeniable “hot-spot” of the Aegean Shore. This lively, musical, vibrant town, imbued with a bohemian vibe, attracts Turkey’s artists, thinkers, and aficionados of the good life. A yacht trip in the Gulf of Gokova begins in Bodrum. The clear and profound waters of the Gulf along the southern edge of the Bodrum Peninsula range from the deepest blue to the lightest turquoise, while the shore is richly covered in lush greenery of every shade. In the evening, the sea mirrors the mountains outlined by the sinking sun, and at night it glows with phosphorescent light.

One of the finest harbors is the beautifully picturesque Akbuk, tucked away behind a wooded headland. The wonderful cozy eateries are just as valid a reason to stay for a delicious meal following an afternoon of snorkeling and diving. Sedir Island (historically known as Cedrai) boasts a remarkable beach with fine sand made up of fossils, along with a beautiful view of the Kiran mountains across the bay. While navigating the southern-western shoreline of the island, woodlands extend to greet the profound recesses of the bays. The rugged shoreline, referred to as the Bay of Sixty-Six Inlets, appears to have sprung from the frequently recounted stories of pirates.

Delikli Island is situated just off the coast, to the south-east of Ekincik. Sailors appreciate a shift in tempo when they dock at the island and embark on a small boat trip into the Dalyan Delta. The Delta features a lengthy, golden sandy shore at its entrance, serving as a nature conservation zone and a sanctuary for sea turtles (caretta caretta) and blue crabs.

At a curve in the river, elevated on the cliffside overlooking the intriguing ancient port city of Caunos, splendid tombs were hewn from the stone. Sailing south-east from Delikli Island, you reach Sarigerme, where delightful holiday resorts are situated amidst charming pine woods. Sailors will wish to dock at Baba Island, facing the unspoiled sandy shores.