A WEEK AFLOAT MARMARIS, TURKEY

A friendly welcome awaits Lu Heikell as she explores the bays, anchorages and cultural highlights of this Turkish region

- Lu Heikell

DO YOU ONLY HAVE A WEEK TO SPARE?

For those of us who are time poor but who want to seize the moment, either on our own boat or on a charter, it is reassuring to know that there are plenty of cruising hubs from where we can enjoy some of the best of the region in only a few days. This new series, A Week Afloat, commissioned by Yachting Monthly and Imray, visits some ideal destinations and suggests a one-week itinerary. Each article, complete with expanded information about cruising each area, will be available as a PDF download via Imray’s website or Google Play Books.

Turkey is a geographical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia that presents a new arrival with a curious amalgam of East and West. You will encounter all the trappings of a modern western economy side by side with Islamic culture, pencilthin minarets, the call to prayer and the smells and sights of the bazaar. Turks are renowned for their hospitality. Almost without exception you will be greeted everywhere with ‘Hosgeldiniz’ ('welcome') although in most places English is spoken.

The southwestern corner of Turkey is an area perfectly suited to cruising. The coastline is deeply indented with bays and several deep gulfs. The Greek islands of the Dodecanese lie close offshore, in places just a mile or so away. Marmaris lies in the centre of this region where there are harbours, anchorages and marinas conveniently spaced along the coast with plenty of options for shelter. It is common to find small home-built catwalks off a restaurant even in the most remote bays, and although they tend to come and go they often have wonderful fresh fish and home-baked village bread.