Lycian Coastline Bike and Barge Adventure
Uncover the secrets of the ancient Rock Tombs of Dalyan, carved into sheer cliffs
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Saklikent Canyon, Turkey’s awe-inspiring natural wonder
Relax in the comfort of a floating hotel, where elegance meets adventure
Explore the remnants of Lycian civilization with an expert guide illuminating their past
Enjoy the vibrant life of harbor towns, where cafes and bars offer a taste of local culture
Retreat each evening to the serenity of secluded bays under a canopy of stars
Itinerary
Individual arrival by plane to Bodrum Airport and transfer to Bodrum. Check-in on the boat begins at 2 pm. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant old town, the famous bazaar, and the impressive fortress. The evening is rounded off with a communal dinner on board.
Early morning departure from Bodrum to Körmen by boat. Upon arrival, the cycling tour begins, taking us along the Datça peninsula. The route offers stunning views, possibly sighting the Greek islands of Nisyros, Tilos, and Rhodes on a clear day. The journey continues along the coast and through rural areas to Knidos. After exploring the significant archaeological site, the day ends in one of the most picturesque bays on the Turkish coast.
42 km/26 mi
The morning sail takes us to a secluded bay on the Bozburun Peninsula. From there, a mountain road leads to a village where a 1,500-year-old plane tree stands. Legend has it that walking around this tree ensures a long and fortunate life. Post-lunch, the ride continues to Çiftlik Bay, with time for a refreshing swim in the sea.
49 km/30 mi
While having breakfast, we sail to Ekincik, the starting point for today’s cycling. After a pass with breathtaking views, we reach Lake Köycegiz and may indulge in a therapeutic mud bath near Sultaniye. Another small pass later, we arrive at the Dalyan River and take a boat cruise past the Lycian rock-cut tombs to our anchored boat.
31 km/19 mi
The day starts with a visit to the ancient city of Kaunos during a short boat trip. Cycling through the Dalaman plains, we stop at a tea house before tackling a small pass leading to the stunning Sarsala Bay, where our ship awaits.
42 km/26 mi
Our journey takes us past small islands to Gemiler, known for its 5th-century church dedicated to St. Nicolas. The bike tour then leads through a pine forest to the deserted Greek city of Kayaköy. The ride can be extended to a nearby peninsula with serene bays and beaches. The evening is free to explore Fethiye, its bazaar, and the old town.
33 km/21 mi
A bus transfer brings us to Cavdir, where we start cycling to the Saklikent Canyon for lunch by the river. The “Hidden City” canyon is a natural wonder. Post-canyon exploration, we ride to Kadiköy and then transfer to the ancient Lycian town of Tlos. The day concludes with a transfer to Göcek.
27 km/17 mi
After breakfast, it’s time to check out. Transfers to the airport are available upon request, marking the end of the journey or the start of an extended stay in Turkey.
Pricing
Included in price
8-day trip on a gulet with crew
7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
7x half board
Bottled mineral water on board and for all activities ashore
Bed linen and towels
Guided bike tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Support vehicle on all cycle tours
Transfers during the trip incl. bicycle transport as described in itinerary
Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
English speaking tour guide
Flights to/from Turkey
Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
Meals and beverages ashore
Entry fee for attractions visited individually (without group)
Tips for tour guides and crew
Important for the tour
Description
This journey along the Lycian coast is a harmonious blend of historical discovery and natural beauty, offering an unparalleled experience.
Aboard our floating hotel, guests will find comfort and elegance, providing a perfect retreat after days filled with adventure and exploration.
The tour unfolds with the exploration of ancient wonders, where history is etched into the very landscape. The Rock Tombs of Dalyan stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the Lycians, offering a window into a civilization long passed. These monumental carvings, coupled with the guidance of our knowledgeable tour guide, ensure a rich historical narrative.
As we navigate the turquoise waters, the Saklikent Canyon awaits with its majestic gorges and hidden depths. This natural marvel, known as the “Hidden City,” is a spectacle of raw geological power, inviting guests to marvel at its grandeur.
Evenings are spent in the tranquility of secluded bays, where the lull of the waves may lull you into relaxation, or in the embrace of lively harbor towns. Here, the vibrant culture comes alive in the form of bustling cafes and bars, allowing for immersive experiences in the local nightlife.
The journey is crafted to ensure a seamless flow of experiences, each day building upon the last to create a cohesive and memorable adventure.
Ships
Admiral
The Admiral is a traditional Turkish gullet. The magnificent vessel, with its three imposing masts and impressive sails, is equipped for the greatest comfort and is an eyecatcher in every harbor. The Admiral hosts 15 tastefully decorated spacious guest cabins and can easily accommodate bigger groups of guests. The guest cabins, located below the deck and all adorned in noble wood, are equipped with air conditioning and offer private bathrooms with shower cabins and toilets.
Start planning today!
Things to know
Helmets are mandatory for all cyclists in Turkey, and Croatia, and for minors in several other European countries. While not obligatory elsewhere, we recommend bringing your own for safety. Helmets are available for rent on our tours.
You’re welcome to bring your own bicycle on most tours. Please confirm space availability on your chosen vessel in advance. Note that we are not liable for any loss or damage to personal bicycles. If you don’t have your bicycle, you can rent it on our tours.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to enjoy the tours, which typically involve 40-60 kilometers of cycling daily, averaging around 5 hours of riding.
Our tours are designed to immerse you in the experience, hence a support vehicle is not part of the journey. Participants are encouraged to complete the daily cycling stages with their fellow cyclists.
To ensure the integrity of our rental bikes and your safety, we do not allow personal pedals to be attached to them.
While our routes are planned for full-day adventures, certain tours may offer the flexibility to return to the ship earlier, subject to the ship’s docking capabilities.
The adventure each day can span from 30 to 60 kilometers, with the time spent cycling influenced by your pace and the number of stops to soak in the scenery.
Our guides converse fluently in Dutch, English, and German, with some also proficient in French or Italian. Briefings are conducted in English and sometimes in German.
The number of companions on your journey will vary, with smaller ships often at full capacity and larger vessels typically filled to 80-90%.
Accommodations range from cozy standard cabins to luxurious superior suites, with each ship offering its unique array of options.
Stay connected with Wi-Fi available across all our vessels, with specifics outlined in our Travel Preparation guide.
To maintain the serene ambiance of our ships, laundry services are not offered on board.
Some ships equip cabins with hairdryers, while others can provide them upon request.
Our ships maintain a smoke-free environment in cabins and indoor public areas, with designated smoking zones available on deck on most vessels.
To ensure the comfort of all our guests, pets are not permitted on board, with the exception of crew members’ dogs that are familiar with life at sea.
Seasickness is uncommon due to the stability of our vessels and the typically calm waters on our routes.
Parking solutions are tailored to each departure point, with options like P+R facilities and valet services detailed in your pre-travel boarding information.
You will receive comprehensive travel details to your ship’s location upon booking, including information on parking and available transfer services.
Our guests are generally between the ages of 45 and 65, bringing a wealth of life experiences to share.
Our tours attract a global audience, from the far reaches of Scandinavia to the southern tips of Africa, and from the Americas to Asia.
Packing light is key, as cabin space is optimized for comfort and not for large luggage.
Our tour leaders are equipped to assist with minor issues, and in case of emergencies, the local emergency number 112 should be contacted.
For your safety, helmets are available for rent on most tours, and are included with our Premium tour packages.
You are welcome to enjoy the amenities on board instead of cycling. Please inform the tour leader or crew of your plans.
Our tours proceed rain or shine, with your safety as our top priority. You have the freedom to cycle or remain on board, based on your comfort with the weather conditions.
Weather conditions can vary from country to country and from season to season, so we suggest preparing for everything from rain to bright sunshine. For a detailed forecast, AccuWeather is a reliable source.
Not always. We suggest you bring your own equipment if you plan to snorkel.
Life-saving boats and life jackets are available on all ships and can be found in marked wardrobes on the deck, in the salon, or under the beds in cabins. In case you cannot swim, it is important to inform the crew and the captain. While on the ship, it is essential to pay attention to the following safety measures:
The stairs on the vessels can be steep and narrow, so it’s important to be careful while going up or down. The decks can also be very slippery, especially in wet conditions, so passengers should use caution and hold onto the railings when walking around the vessel.
Climbing the foremast, jumping off the deck during the cruise, or going too far from the vessel during swim pauses are strictly prohibited.
In the busy high season, harbors can become congested, and vessels may have to dock beside each other, so it is essential to exercise caution when moving between them. Crew members are available to assist passengers who require help. However, the cruise is not recommended for those with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.
The length of the cycling routes planned for each day is an estimate and takes into account local conditions and possible detours or shortcuts. The sailing and cycling routes may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and the abilities of the cyclists on board. Typically, departures are in the morning, usually after breakfast.
Bringing and consuming your own beverages on the vessel is prohibited. Instead, you can order drinks from the vessel’s salon, which serves as a restaurant, living room, and bar. The bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you would like a drink that is unavailable at the time, please inform the crew, and they will do their best to arrange it for you at the next port of call.