Biking & Yachting
Royals Yacht has two destinations to offer. Turkey and the Islands
SOUTHERN COAST OF TURKEY FROM MARMARIS TO FETHIYE
Spend a week discovering the Southern Coast of Turkey from Marmaris to Fethiye by bike and on a luxurious Turkish gulet. This charming and stylish floating accommodation is built to the highest of standards. You will get to know the Turkish coast and back-country between Marmaris and Fethiye with the aid of a mountain bike. The tour guide will point out the unique natural wonders and historical cities which grace the area. Admire the famous graves of Kaunos, which were cut into the cliffs between 4 and 2 BC by the Lykian coastal inhabitants, or let yourself be mesmerized by the breathtaking Sakklikent Canyon. Spend your evenings in the deserted bays and let yourself be rocked to sleep by the ocean or make the most of the pulsating night life in the port cities and their many cafes and bars.
SKILL LEVEL
Moderate to Difficult. It is recommended you be in good physical shape ideally acquired by daily or frequent biking. Daily distances range anywhere from 22 to 34 miles (35 to 55 km) and take you through partly hilly or mountainous terrain. There will also be extended climbs. Most routes are paved and take place on lightly trafficked roads as much as possible. You can choose to spend a whole or half-day on board the boat whenever you want. These tours are only applicable to Private gulet & yacht charters and not for cabin charters.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
On a gulet of your choice.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
8- day trip on a gulet of your choice 7 nights accommodations in cabins with private bathrooms 6 guided bike-tours as described in itinerary Bed linen and towels 21-gear trekking bike with an saddle-bag or a mountain bike with a feathered fork Transfer from the airport in Dalaman or Izmir to the boat, as long as those transfers take place at embarkation and disembarkation days Entrances to museums and archeological sites English speaking tour guide
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Food and Beverages on board (tally sheet) Lunches on land Tips for crew and tour guide (optional) Bicycle protection
ITINERARY
Arrival in Marmaris. Marmaris – Sarsala, 22 mi. (35 km) Sarsala – Fethiye, 19 mi. (30 km) Fethiye – Göcek, 25 mi. (40 km) Göcek – Dalyan, 25 mi. (40 km) Dalyan – Ekincik, 19 mi. (30 km) Ekincik – Marmaris, 34 mi. (55 km) Departure. *All distances are approximate. The above planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc. SATURDAY: Arrival in Marmaris. Transfer from Izmir or Dalaman Airport to Marmaris. Check in on board from 2 pm. After dinner enjoy an evening stroll through the city’s labyrinth of winding streets. SUNDAY: Marmaris – Sarsala, 22 mi. (35 km) Ship ahoy! A short two-hour cruise brings you to a picturesque swimming bay. From here you will cross Dalaman plain (high past by bike approximately 250 m) towards Sarsala, a quiet bay for overnight. MONDAY: Sarsala – Fethiye, 19 mi. (30 km) Enjoy your breakfast sailing to Fethiye, passing many small islands on the way. A bike-tour through the pine forest will lead to the uninhabited ghost town of Kayaköy, which was once home to some 6,500 inhabitants but has been abandoned since 1922. There will be also a walking tour through the ruins of this town. We will continue by bike to Fethiye where there will still be time for a walk through town. Worth seeing places are the Mosque of Eski Cami (situated in the old town with its narrow alleys), the Lykian Tombs high above the city, and specifically the gorgeous rock cut temple tomb of Amyntas. TUESDAY: Fethiye – Saklikent Canyon-Göcek, 25 mi. (40 km) A short bus transfer (50 minutes) will take you to the start off the bike tour to Xantos and then to the Sakklikent Canyon, to enjoy a packed lunch at the foot of the river. The canyon is spectacular and can be crossed by foot without any problems. Then, the route leads north to Kemer, where a transfer awaits back to the boat in Fethiye (a 30 minute ride). Departure to Göcek for overnight. WEDNESDAY: Göcek – Dalyan, 25 mi. (40 km) The Göcek bike path passes through spectacular views of the whole bay (350 m high pass route). After biking through the pine forest, you will continue along a side-road down to the Dalaman plain, through fertile fields and lush vegetation to Dalyan. A small boat will be waiting here to transfer you down the Delta River for overnight in Dalyan, passing the impressive Lykian rock cut tombs of Dalyan. THURSDAY: Dalyan –Kaunos- Ekincik, 19 mi. (30 km) In the morning aboard to a small boat, transfer to the ancient city of Kaunos which is worth a visit before you cycle along the Koycegiz Lake to the thermal baths. After a 350 m climb to the little village of Ekincik. A fine prepared dinner will be waiting for you. FRIDAY: Ekincik – Marmaris, 34 mi. (55 km) After a two hour journey you will arrive at the Bozborun Peninsula. The last bike road passes through a lonely mountain path that reaches a 300 m high mountain village which has a 1500 year old tree. Further 200 meter after the village there is a spectacular descent down to Icmeler’s coastal road. The boat and a delicious evening meal will be served in Marmaris. SATURDAY: Departure. After breakfast, disembarkation. Transfer back to the airport.
SOUTHERN AEGEAN, RHODES AND ITS NEIGHBORS
Since ancient times the island of Rhodes has been called the Island of the Sun God with good reason! With over 3000 sunshine hours each year, it is one of the sunniest regions in Europe. Aboard a superb gulet yacht and atop your bicycle, you will explore Rhodes and its neighboring islands. Let yourself be mesmerized by this exquisite place with it’s sandy, pristine beaches and history dating back to the Byzantine era. The landscape is varied and ranges from arid and rocky to lush and forested. The island of Nissyros, located between Tilos and Kos, is famous mainly for its volcano, but is ideal for a quiet and relaxing vacation. You will discover the Castle of Spiliani, the villages and pebbled beaches, as well as, the thermal springs of the island on a journey full of blue and white. Impressive is the the towering volcanic crater of Nissyros or the charm of Symi,the island capital, with its wonderful neo-classical buildings. Follow the tracks of the midget elephant on the island of Tilos which fortunately hasn’t lost its tradition and character. You will be enchanted with the picturesque port of Chalki and fascinated by Aegean history, mythology and legends as you hear the stories of the rock throwing Poseidon, the Colossus of Rhodes, the Knights of St John and the famous sponge diver of Symi!
SKILL LEVEL
Moderate. Daily distances average approximately 25 miles (40 km) and will take you through partly hilly and mountainous terrain. There will also be extended climbs but walking your bike is of course permitted. Most of the roads are asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about your tour details. You can set aside a whole day or half day for swimming or relaxing on board. These tours are only applicable to private group gulet & yacht charters and not for cabin charters.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
On a gulet of your choice.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
8-day trip on a gulet of your choice 7 nights accommodations in cabins with private bathroom Bed linen and towels 6 guided and individual tours as described in itinerary 21-gear trekking bike with an Ortlieb saddle bag Overview-maps for the daily tours, on board Transfer from the airport of Dalaman/Izmir to the boat. And vise versa. (as long as those transfers take place at embarkation and disembarkation days) All entrances to museums and archaeological sites English and German speaking tour guide
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Food and Beverages on board (tally sheet) Lunches on land Tips for crew and tour guide (optional) Bicycle protection
ITINERARY
Arrival in Marmaris Symi , 6 mi/10 km Symi – Tilos, 16 and 7 mi/25 and 15km Nissyros – Chalki, 25 mi/40 km Rhodes, Plimiri – Lindos, 22 mi/35 km Rhodes, Lindos – Kolymbia – Rhodes town, 23 mi/37 km Rhodes, Rhodes town – Mamaris (3 hours by foot) Marmaris *All mentioned distances are approximate. The above planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc. DAY 1: Arrival in Marmaris Arrival at the Turkish airport of Ismis, Bodrum or Dalaman. Transfer to the embarkation port and check in starting at 2 pm. There will be plenty of opportunities to explore the bazaar or visit the Turkish hammam. Dinner will be enjoyed on board. DAY 2: Symi Island The first passage by boat will bring you to Symi. The entrance to the port will be a lasting memory for you: neo classical, pastel colored houses make a perfect picture of the island capital and the surroundings testify to the rich history. A short cycle ride to the beach provides a test ride for the bikes and opportunity to swim in the Aegean sea. In the evening a guide will accompany the group to the upper town of Symi. After a climb of 500 steps, the reward is a breathtaking view of the port and bay that deeply indents the coastline. With some luck, the day will be topped off by an unforgettable sunset. DAY 3: Symi 16 mi/25 km In the morning you will ride to the other side of the island. This is a magical place. A winding road slowly crests the mountain allowing a lot of time to enjoy the many beautiful panoramic views. Final destination is the bay of Panormitis. The monastery here of the archangel Michael is worth visiting. Afterwards on board towards the Island of Tilos, where your bike ride will take you to the abandoned town of Mikro Chorio. The old houses and buildings are all decaying and crumbling. Only a white-washed church with a tall bell-tower stands erect in stark and romantic contrast, overlooking the valley and the sea. Mikro Horio was first inhabited in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John who also built a castle on a hill. Until 1940, the village had 750 inhabitants but then gradually it was abandoned. If weather conditions are fine, final destination will be Nissyros. DAY 4: Nissyros – Chalki, 19 mi/30 km Formed by the volcano eruptions, Nisyros is a place of wild beauty. The cycle ride to Nikia, a village directly built at the edge of the volcano’s crater at 430m height, is picturesque and impressive. The green gives way increasingly to gray and the scenery becomes dry and wild. From here we can enjoy a fascinating view into the crater of volcano, the white houses and numerous mosaics made from pebbles. Upon arrival at the village square, do not miss the opportunity to sit and enjoy a Greek coffee. From here you will cycle on to the crater with its steaming sulfur springs and finally back to the small port town of Mandraki – its charm has attracted visitors for centuries. In the afternoon the Bahriyeli will move on to Chalki where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening in an authentic Greek fishing port. DAY 5: Rhodes, Plimiri – Lindos, 22 mi/35 km The morning will be spent on board during the passage from Plimiri to the Island of Rhodes. From here you will cycle close to the coast on roads with light traffic. During a break in a café by the sea you might see the Bahriyeli passing, which later on will be waiting you in Lindos. This picturesque and ancient village is one of the most beautiful in all of country. After a last ascent, the unforgettable view of this small town with its cubic houses and narrow alleys overshadowed by its mighty acropolis will be worth the effort. DAY 6: Rhodes, Lindos – Kolymbia – Rhodes town, 23 mi/37 km Today the tour will start from Lindos into the fertile, agricultural used hinterland of Rhodes. The island of Rhodes was an important economic center in the ancient world. You will cycle through old olive tree groves on small side roads to Archangelos where a typical Greek tavern invites for lunch. The boat will be waiting at the end of an impressing eucalyptus alley in the tiny port of Kolymbia to bring you to the town of Rhodes. You may spent the rest of the afternoon by walking through the fantastic medieval old town. DAY 7: Rhodes, Rhodes town – Mamaris (3 hours by foot) After breakfast the guide will accompany on a thrilling expedition through the 2400 year old history of the island capital on foot. The deer and the hind at the entrance of the Mandraki-port will offer the first opportunity to take a photo. The Colossus of Rhodes, an ancient “Statue of Liberty” has a fascinating story. The Colossus of Rhodes is a huge monument constructed of bronze plates over an iron framework (very similar to the Statue of Liberty which is copper over a steel frame) The Colossus, which relied on weaker materials than that of the Statue of Liberty, must have weighed at least as much -if not more than, the Statue of Liberty. It stood still over two thousand years ago at the entrance of this busy harbor. Like the Statue of Liberty, it was also built to symbolize and celebrate freedom. This amazing statue, standing heigh from toe to head as the modern colossus, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Colossus stood proudly at the harbor entrance for some fifty-six years. Each morning the sun must have caught its polished bronze surface and made the God’s figure shine. Then an earthquake hit Rhodes and the statue collapsed. Huge pieces of the figure lay along the harbor for centuries. “Even as it lies,” wrote Pliny, “it excites our wonder and admiration. Few men can clasp the thumb in their arms, and its fingers which are larger than most statues. Where the limbs are broken asunder, vast caverns are seen yawning in the interior. Within it there are to be seen large masses of rocks, by the weight of which the artist steadied it while erecting it. From here we will move on to the moat of the crusader town. Even today Rhodes monumental walls contribute to its unique character. A walk though the countless alleys with its impressive constructions will make this guided city tour an unforgettable experience. Afterwards we will head back to Marmaris where you will once again have the possibility to visit the bazaar or the hammam. DAY 8: Mamaris Disembarkation will occur after breakfast.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Food and Beverages on board (tally sheet) Lunches on land Tips for crew and tour guide (optional) Bicycle protection
ITINERARY
Arrival in Marmaris. Marmaris – Sarsala, 22 mi. (35 km) Sarsala – Fethiye, 19 mi. (30 km) Fethiye – Göcek, 25 mi. (40 km) Göcek – Dalyan, 25 mi. (40 km) Dalyan – Ekincik, 19 mi. (30 km) Ekincik – Marmaris, 34 mi. (55 km) Departure. *All distances are approximate. The above planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc. SATURDAY: Arrival in Marmaris. Transfer from Izmir or Dalaman Airport to Marmaris. Check in on board from 2 pm. After dinner enjoy an evening stroll through the city’s labyrinth of winding streets. SUNDAY: Marmaris – Sarsala, 22 mi. (35 km) Ship ahoy! A short two-hour cruise brings you to a picturesque swimming bay. From here you will cross Dalaman plain (high past by bike approximately 250 m) towards Sarsala, a quiet bay for overnight. MONDAY: Sarsala – Fethiye, 19 mi. (30 km) Enjoy your breakfast sailing to Fethiye, passing many small islands on the way. A bike-tour through the pine forest will lead to the uninhabited ghost town of Kayaköy, which was once home to some 6,500 inhabitants but has been abandoned since 1922. There will be also a walking tour through the ruins of this town. We will continue by bike to Fethiye where there will still be time for a walk through town. Worth seeing places are the Mosque of Eski Cami (situated in the old town with its narrow alleys), the Lykian Tombs high above the city, and specifically the gorgeous rock cut temple tomb of Amyntas. TUESDAY: Fethiye – Saklikent Canyon-Göcek, 25 mi. (40 km) A short bus transfer (50 minutes) will take you to the start off the bike tour to Xantos and then to the Sakklikent Canyon, to enjoy a packed lunch at the foot of the river. The canyon is spectacular and can be crossed by foot without any problems. Then, the route leads north to Kemer, where a transfer awaits back to the boat in Fethiye (a 30 minute ride). Departure to Göcek for overnight. WEDNESDAY: Göcek – Dalyan, 25 mi. (40 km) The Göcek bike path passes through spectacular views of the whole bay (350 m high pass route). After biking through the pine forest, you will continue along a side-road down to the Dalaman plain, through fertile fields and lush vegetation to Dalyan. A small boat will be waiting here to transfer you down the Delta River for overnight in Dalyan, passing the impressive Lykian rock cut tombs of Dalyan. THURSDAY: Dalyan –Kaunos- Ekincik, 19 mi. (30 km) In the morning aboard to a small boat, transfer to the ancient city of Kaunos which is worth a visit before you cycle along the Koycegiz Lake to the thermal baths. After a 350 m climb to the little village of Ekincik. A fine prepared dinner will be waiting for you. FRIDAY: Ekincik – Marmaris, 34 mi. (55 km) After a two hour journey you will arrive at the Bozborun Peninsula. The last bike road passes through a lonely mountain path that reaches a 300 m high mountain village which has a 1500 year old tree. Further 200 meter after the village there is a spectacular descent down to Icmeler’s coastal road. The boat and a delicious evening meal will be served in Marmaris. SATURDAY: Departure. After breakfast, disembarkation. Transfer back to the airport.
SOUTHERN AEGEAN, RHODES AND ITS NEIGHBORS
Since ancient times the island of Rhodes has been called the Island of the Sun God with good reason! With over 3000 sunshine hours each year, it is one of the sunniest regions in Europe. Aboard a superb gulet yacht and atop your bicycle, you will explore Rhodes and its neighboring islands. Let yourself be mesmerized by this exquisite place with it’s sandy, pristine beaches and history dating back to the Byzantine era. The landscape is varied and ranges from arid and rocky to lush and forested. The island of Nissyros, located between Tilos and Kos, is famous mainly for its volcano, but is ideal for a quiet and relaxing vacation. You will discover the Castle of Spiliani, the villages and pebbled beaches, as well as, the thermal springs of the island on a journey full of blue and white. Impressive is the the towering volcanic crater of Nissyros or the charm of Symi,the island capital, with its wonderful neo-classical buildings. Follow the tracks of the midget elephant on the island of Tilos which fortunately hasn’t lost its tradition and character. You will be enchanted with the picturesque port of Chalki and fascinated by Aegean history, mythology and legends as you hear the stories of the rock throwing Poseidon, the Colossus of Rhodes, the Knights of St John and the famous sponge diver of Symi!
SKILL LEVEL
Moderate. Daily distances average approximately 25 miles (40 km) and will take you through partly hilly and mountainous terrain. There will also be extended climbs but walking your bike is of course permitted. Most of the roads are asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about your tour details. You can set aside a whole day or half day for swimming or relaxing on board. These tours are only applicable to private group gulet & yacht charters and not for cabin charters.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
On a gulet of your choice.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
8-day trip on a gulet of your choice 7 nights accommodations in cabins with private bathroom Bed linen and towels 6 guided and individual tours as described in itinerary 21-gear trekking bike with an Ortlieb saddle bag Overview-maps for the daily tours, on board Transfer from the airport of Dalaman/Izmir to the boat. And vise versa. (as long as those transfers take place at embarkation and disembarkation days) All entrances to museums and archaeological sites English and German speaking tour guide
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Food and Beverages on board (tally sheet) Lunches on land Tips for crew and tour guide (optional) Bicycle protection
ITINERARY
Arrival in Marmaris Symi , 6 mi/10 km Symi – Tilos, 16 and 7 mi/25 and 15km Nissyros – Chalki, 25 mi/40 km Rhodes, Plimiri – Lindos, 22 mi/35 km Rhodes, Lindos – Kolymbia – Rhodes town, 23 mi/37 km Rhodes, Rhodes town – Mamaris (3 hours by foot) Mamaris *All mentioned distances are approximate. The above planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc. DAY 1: Arrival in Marmaris Arrival at the Turkish airport of Ismis, Bodrum or Dalaman. Transfer to the embarkation port and check in starting at 2 pm. There will be plenty of opportunities to explore the bazaar or visit the Turkish hammam. Dinner will be enjoyed on board. DAY 2: Symi Island The first passage by boat will bring you to Symi. The entrance to the port will be a lasting memory for you: neo classical, pastel colored houses make a perfect picture of the island capital and the surroundings testify to the rich history. A short cycle ride to the beach provides a test ride for the bikes and opportunity to swim in the Aegean sea. In the evening a guide will accompany the group to the upper town of Symi. After a climb of 500 steps, the reward is a breathtaking view of the port and bay that deeply indents the coastline. With some luck, the day will be topped off by an unforgettable sunset. DAY 3: Symi 16 mi/25 km In the morning you will ride to the other side of the island. This is a magical place. A winding road slowly crests the mountain allowing a lot of time to enjoy the many beautiful panoramic views. Final destination is the bay of Panormitis. The monastery here of the archangel Michael is worth visiting. Afterwards on board towards the Island of Tilos, where your bike ride will take you to the abandoned town of Mikro Chorio. The old houses and buildings are all decaying and crumbling. Only a white-washed church with a tall bell-tower stands erect in stark and romantic contrast, overlooking the valley and the sea. Mikro Horio was first inhabited in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John who also built a castle on a hill. Until 1940, the village had 750 inhabitants but then gradually it was abandoned. If weather conditions are fine, final destination will be Nissyros. DAY 4: Nissyros – Chalki, 19 mi/30 km Formed by the volcano eruptions, Nisyros is a place of wild beauty. The cycle ride to Nikia, a village directly built at the edge of the volcano’s crater at 430m height, is picturesque and impressive. The green gives way increasingly to gray and the scenery becomes dry and wild. From here we can enjoy a fascinating view into the crater of volcano, the white houses and numerous mosaics made from pebbles. Upon arrival at the village square, do not miss the opportunity to sit and enjoy a Greek coffee. From here you will cycle on to the crater with its steaming sulfur springs and finally back to the small port town of Mandraki – its charm has attracted visitors for centuries. In the afternoon the Bahriyeli will move on to Chalki where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening in an authentic Greek fishing port. DAY 5: Rhodes, Plimiri – Lindos, 22 mi/35 km The morning will be spent on board during the passage from Plimiri to the Island of Rhodes. From here you will cycle close to the coast on roads with light traffic. During a break in a café by the sea you might see the Bahriyeli passing, which later on will be waiting you in Lindos. This picturesque and ancient village is one of the most beautiful in all of country. After a last ascent, the unforgettable view of this small town with its cubic houses and narrow alleys overshadowed by its mighty acropolis will be worth the effort. DAY 6: Rhodes, Lindos – Kolymbia – Rhodes town, 23 mi/37 km Today the tour will start from Lindos into the fertile, agricultural used hinterland of Rhodes. The island of Rhodes was an important economic center in the ancient world. You will cycle through old olive tree groves on small side roads to Archangelos where a typical Greek tavern invites for lunch. The boat will be waiting at the end of an impressing eucalyptus alley in the tiny port of Kolymbia to bring you to the town of Rhodes. You may spent the rest of the afternoon by walking through the fantastic medieval old town. DAY 7: Rhodes, Rhodes town – Mamaris (3 hours by foot) After breakfast the guide will accompany on a thrilling expedition through the 2400 year old history of the island capital on foot. The deer and the hind at the entrance of the Mandraki-port will offer the first opportunity to take a photo. The Colossus of Rhodes, an ancient “Statue of Liberty” has a fascinating story. The Colossus of Rhodes is a huge monument constructed of bronze plates over an iron framework (very similar to the Statue of Liberty which is copper over a steel frame) The Colossus, which relied on weaker materials than that of the Statue of Liberty, must have weighed at least as much -if not more than, the Statue of Liberty. It stood still over two thousand years ago at the entrance of this busy harbor. Like the Statue of Liberty, it was also built to symbolize and celebrate freedom. This amazing statue, standing heigh from toe to head as the modern colossus, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Colossus stood proudly at the harbor entrance for some fifty-six years. Each morning the sun must have caught its polished bronze surface and made the God’s figure shine. Then an earthquake hit Rhodes and the statue collapsed. Huge pieces of the figure lay along the harbor for centuries. “Even as it lies,” wrote Pliny, “it excites our wonder and admiration. Few men can clasp the thumb in their arms, and its fingers which are larger than most statues. Where the limbs are broken asunder, vast caverns are seen yawning in the interior. Within it there are to be seen large masses of rocks, by the weight of which the artist steadied it while erecting it. From here we will move on to the moat of the crusader town. Even today Rhodes monumental walls contribute to its unique character. A walk though the countless alleys with its impressive constructions will make this guided city tour an unforgettable experience. Afterwards we will head back to Marmaris where you will once again have the possibility to visit the bazaar or the hammam. DAY 8: Marmaris Disembarkation will occur after breakfast.