Qantas Long Haul Cabin Crew member Sharon Linfoot with some advice on Turkish sailing holidays.
Turkey has long been known for its sailing cruises, usually departing from either Marmaris or Bodrum. Flights from Istanbul to Marmaris or Bodrum can be arranged quite cheaply and the flying time is approximately one hour.
Particularly famous is Oludeniz. Think crystal clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, dolphins swimming underneath the boat, loads of history and nothing to do other than swim, eat and relax.
Once you arrive at your sailing destination, there are literally hundreds of tour operators offering similar itineries for one week cruises, some including alcohol, others without, but all with full catering and crew from approximately $600 per person for the week up to luxury yachts designed for whatever your heart desires. Most common, however, are the local gulets, which were traditionally used as fishing boats. These boats take anywhere from 12 to 18 passengers and can be privately chartered.
Don't forget to spare a couple of days for a look around Istanbul. It is packed with history: the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the Greeks and the Romans... not to be missed.
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