Sea Kayak Turkey's Carian Coast Tour

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details:

MEETING PLACE:  Istanbul Hotel
MEETING TIME:  7pm
PUT-IN: Selimiye
TAKE-OUT: Knidos
RETURN TIME:  3pm Approx
THE LAST SUPPER: Palamubükü
TRIP LENGTH: 8 days
AGE LIMIT: 12 years
BOAT TYPE: Sea Kayak
NEAREST AIRPORTS: Istanbul Airport (IST), Dalaman Airport (DLM)

Sea Kayak Turkey's Carian Coast Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul + Welcome Dinner

Fly into Istanbul, a buzzing cultural and historic epicenter that spans both the East and West. If you want to discover some of its monuments and marvels, we recommend arriving a few days in advance, with the option to explore independently or with the help of one of our guides.

Take time to settle into your room before the welcome dinner and orientation meeting with your guides.

Day 2: Introduction to Kayaking and Journey to Bozburun

In the morning, we'll transfer to the airport for a southbound flight to the Dalaman Airport. From there, it's a scenic 125 mile, 2 hour drive to Selimiye. After a leisurely lunch, we head to the beach for a safety briefing and kayak orientation before we begin paddling. Once we're all set, the day's weather will guide our route, whether we navigate around a nearby coastal island or paddle along the shoreline. Either way, we'll glide through beautiful waters framed by pine-covered hills.

Post-kayaking, we take a short drive to Bozburun, one of the three main hubs for gulet (wooden yacht) construction and travel. Back in the 1950s, gulets were used by fishermen, octopus hunters, and sponge divers, long before they became popular for tours. The transformation began when Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, invited intellectuals to explore the Turkish coast by sea. These gulets have since evolved into the comfortable, well-equipped boats featured on our yachting tours.

Out accommodations tonight will be in the charming town of Bozburun. Spend the evening watching the sunset over the sea.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Bozburun, Dolphin Hotel or similar

Day 3: Paddling in Paradise

Today, our itinerary offers a couple of options, and our guides will select the most suitable paddling route based on the group's skill and energy level, and the wind conditions. One choice is to navigate the Bozburun peninsula, paddling a rugged coastline adorned with beautiful shades of brown, green, and yellow. With this option, along the way, we might spot goats and shepherds traversing the slopes, just as they have for millennia. Alternatively, we could opt for a more sheltered paddle in the direction of Sogut.

We’ll break for a beach picnic, with opportunities for swimming or snorkeling in the warm, crystal-clear waters. By late afternoon, we'll head back to Bozburun and return to our hotel. After a refreshing shower and some rest, you'll have time to explore the town, shop, chat with the locals, and then gather for dinner.

• Activity: Kayaking: 5-10 miles, Walking: as desired.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Bozburun, Dolphin Hotel or similar

Day 4: Journey into History

Today promises an unforgettable experience as we dive into history in Loryma. We'll drive through numerous quaint Turkish town to reach a secluded cove where we’ll launch our kayaks and begin paddling towards the ancient port town of Loryma, just 25 miles from the Greek island of Rhodes, this area boasts an impressive fortified city built by ancient civilizations. The massive walls here inspire awe and curiosity about the engineering skills required to construct them. We’ll explore this historical site and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ruins.

After lunch, we’ll navigate the bay of Bozukkale and paddle back to our starting point, with time for a refreshing swim along the way.

Our final night in Bozburun will be a culinary delight, as we savor another delicious meal and relish the peaceful ambiance of rural Turkey.

• Activity: Kayaking: 5-10 miles, Walking: as desired.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Bozburun, Dolphin Hotel or similar

Day 5: Explore Datça

This morning we’ll board a small private boat and set sail northwest towards the town ofDatça. Along the way, we’ll stop for a swim or snorkel in a sheltered cove, where we can marvel at the clear views of the ocean bed teaming with marine life. After we’ve cooled off and explored, we’ll continue our journey across the bay, pausing for a relaxed lunch onboard. By mid-afternoon, we’ll arrive in the vibrant town of Datça, a popular place among Turkish intellectuals as a retirement spot. There will be some free time to explore the town at your own pace.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the historic heart of old Datça and stop by a local winery that upholds tradition spanning centuries. We’ll conclude the day with another delightful dinner, enjoying the lively atmosphere as locals and visitors alike stroll along the seafront, mingling with friends and family.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Datça Hotel Sapphire or similar

Day 6: Paddling and Hiking through History

Today promises another exhilarating adventure. After breakfast, we take a short drive to our launch point for what is likely to be the most breathtaking paddle of the trip. Today, we’ll head west and navigate these stunning turquoise waters as we pass by cliffs and sea caves.

After a couple of hours, we’ll arrive at a serene beach where we’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch full of traditional Turkish cuisine. Following lunch, there’s an optional hike of approximately 6 miles with some elevation changes that some may choose to go on. Our path is the historic Carian Way, a well-marked 530-mile trail that has been traveled for thousands of years.

The hike concludes near Datça, where we return to our hotel for some relaxation. In the evening, we’ll savor another wonderful Turkish meal under the stars.

• Activity: Kayaking: 9-12 miles.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Datça Hotel Sapphire or similar

Day 7: Journey to Knidos

Today’s paddling plan will depend on the weather and wind conditions. We have the flexibility to choose between two different paddling distances and a hike. Depending on wind, we’ll either paddle in the morning or later in the afternoon. Alternatively, we’ll start with a hike along rocky trails in the morning and paddle in the afternoon. Regardless of the schedule, our destination is the ancient city of Knidos.

Knidos was once a major port for commercial ships in ancient times. We'll explore the expansive classical ruins, including the birthplace of the architect of the Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World). Visiting Knidos will be a remarkable conclusion to our journey.

After exploring, we’ll return to our hotel in Datça for a celebratory farewell dinner, marking the end of our adventure.

• Activity: Kayaking: 5-10 miles, Hiking: 2-6 miles.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Datça Hotel Sapphire or similar

Day 8: Dalaman Airport

After breakfast, we’ll make the three-hour drive to Dalaman Airport for our return flight to Istanbul. Once there, you can continue on your journey home or connect to one of our Cappadocia trips to experience the region’s spellbinding landscapes.

• Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to Instabul, Turkey

Istanbul Atatürk Airport is a big international airport with many flights coming and going from all over the world. Turkey is a beautiful place bringing together the East and the West. Wherever you are flying from, you can likely find an easy flight into Istanbul.

Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, United, American, and British Airways all offer convenient flights to Istanbul. Some of these airlines fly direct to Istanbul from other major international airports. When you arrive in Istanbul, you will be 10 hours ahead of Pacific Time, so plan your flights accordingly.

Airport Transfer Upon Arrival

Once you arrive in Istanbul, the most convenient way to get around is by buses and trams. You can also opt to take the metro which has consistent transportation from the Istanbul Atatürk Airport to downtown Istanbul. The metro is more convenient for locals as they don’t stop as close to tourists sights as the trams and other buses do, but its a great alternative for getting to and from the airport for those visiting.

Turkey Weather

Weather in May, June, September and October should be mostly sunny and warm. Expect daytime temperatures between 75-90 degrees (85-100 in July) in Turkey. Evenings may be cool enough for a light sweater. 

When To Go?

If you are interested in more specific information regarding the weather in Turkey, we highly suggest this website: wunderground. If you put in the location you are traveling, and the date, it will provide you with historical weather data that you can use to plan for your upcoming adventure.

Adventure Unbound Physical Requirements  

Here at Adventure Unbound our first and foremost goal is for you to have an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some of our trips are more active than others and it’s important that you understand the physical requirement of the trip you choose. 

All of our trips are active adventures that involve some level of physical exertion and possible exposure to the elements including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, sun, cold temperatures and cold water conditions. Adventure Unbound is able to accommodate people with physical limitations, disabilities and medical conditions; please speak with your Adventure Consultant if you think you will require any additional assistance while on the trip. We ask that you consult your doctor if you have health or medical conditions that could impact your ability to participate in an active and outdoor adventure. In general, all trip participants must be able to do the following:  

• Wear all protective and safety equipment that are required by Adventure Unbound and recommended/required by industry wide standards.
• Load and unload, on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion, the bus and/or van providing transportation for Adventure Unbound activities.
• Reach the water access points (put-in and take-out) on their own, or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Enter and exit a raft, kayak and/or inflatable kayak on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Remain seated and balanced in a floating raft, canoe, kayak or inflatable kayak w/ the aid of adaptive equipment, if necessary.
• Float on their back when entering moving and still water. The participant must be capable of turning from face-down to face-up in the water with the aid of a Personal Floatation Device and must be able to hold their breath while under water.
• Remain calm and keep breathing under control in the event of a swim.
• Climb into the kayak, with the help of another person, should an involuntary swim happen at any point on the water.
• Make progress toward the shoreline or a boat by swimming in moving water and must be able to exit the water and ascend the shoreline once reached.
• Participate as an active paddler when instructed by the guide for the duration of trip. 
• Move about the campsite on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion on all trips that include overnight camping and/or lunch.

Physical Preparedness

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

Sea Kayaking Turkey's Carian Coast Adventure Packing List

Overview

The packing list outlined below is meant to serve as a guide to help you plan, prepare and outfit yourself for your upcoming travels. We have provided our best recommendations and suggestions. These suggestions are broken down by your tour type and are based on the outlined itinerary, the geographic region, our knowledge of Turkey, and our personal experience. We hope you find this list helpful, use it as a guide and feel free to amend it with your favorite travel items too!

Gear Provided by Adventure Unbound

Adventure Unbound provides all necessary equipment for your selected tour. Since this is a hotel-based sea kayaking tour, the gear includes all the necessary equipment for kayaking including: personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles, and kayaks. Your other luggage will be transported between each night’s hotel in the trip vehicle.

Luggage Recommendations:

Adventure Unbound trips are best enjoyed if you travel light. We think it is wise to avoid checking any luggage under the plane. If you do check a bag, make sure that you have everything that is either essential or would be hard to replace, with you in your carry-on.

We recommend packing in one soft sided, roll-on (ideally a non-hard-sided version) or duffle luggage that meets carry-on requirements. Alternatively, if you must have a checked bag; make sure your personal item is packed with your “hard to replace items.”

We also recommend bringing one small day pack.  This dual-purpose pack can serve as your personal item during your flights as well as your day pack for hikes during the tour. Outside zippered pockets are nice and allow you to organize your travel gear. Carry medications, travel documents, important personal items and other essentials or “hard-to-replace” items in this on the plane.

Sea Kayak Turkey Packing List:

Essential Items

• Passport – must be valid for at least six (6) months after the date of your arrival
• A photocopy of your passport, inside a Ziplock bag and stowed elsewhere in your luggage (As an additional precautionary measure, consider leaving a photocopy with family or friends at home).  Keep a photo on your phone as well.
• Copy of your air tickets with ticket numbers placed elsewhere in your luggage and/or email someone back home your air ticket information in case you lose your phone.
• Credit and/or Debit/ATM card that works internationally, ideally with chip technology (Some banks want you to notify them of travel plans ahead of time which often can be done online.)
• Plan to use cash (Turkish Lira) for small purchases, taxis, incidental tipping
• USD, CAD or Euros for guide gratuities at the end of your trip
• Watch or small travel clock with alarm (if you are taking a phone, this can serve as your alarm clock)
• Money belt or concealed passport carrier to carry your passport, travel documents and money, hidden under your clothing
• TSA-accessible lock for luggage security when not on your person (optional- can buy these at any travel or outdoor recreation store)
• Phone – Most people bring a phone to also use as their camera. You might want to check with your carrier about plans for Turkey.

Active Clothing

We highly suggest that all of your kayak clothing is synthetic or wool, not cotton. Synthetics are also ideal for activity, as they wick away moisture from the body and dry quickly. (Added SPF protection in your clothing is always a great option). We recommend keeping one outfit out of the following packing guidelines as a “post activity” outfit for mornings and evenings in the small towns or villages where we stay.

• One - two pairs long, lightweight, nylon pants with zipper pockets (zip off legs give you more options)
• One pair nylon shorts
• Swimsuit
• Rash guard – great for use as sun-protection and extra warmth when swimming or snorkeling
• Sarong (optional, but super handy for changing clothes, laying on the ground, etc.)
• One - three short sleeve button-up shirt(s) or t-shirt(s) (synthetic is best)
• One - three long sleeve shirts, ideally with SPF protection
• One light-weight bottom layer like a long-sleeve synthetic shirt or merino wool t-shirt
• One medium-weight layer of fleece – synthetic or merino wool for warmth
• One windbreaker or light raincoat (better)
• Underwear
• One wide-brim, tie-on hat
• Three pairs light synthetic or merino wool socks
• One pair sturdy trail shoes, or running shoes, to use for hiking and for casual time.
• One pair of sandals with ankle straps to wear while kayaking, on the beaches, walking around towns, etc.

Casual Pre & Post Activity Clothing

• One - two other comfortable pairs of bottoms: pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, etc.
• One pair other lightweight shoes for town time
• One - two tops: short sleeve, long sleeve and/or button up shirt(s)
• One light sweater or jacket for warmth in the evenings and mornings
• One pair pajamas

*The suggested numbers of clothing items are based on a 7-day kayak trip. You might want to add a couple items if you are extending your travels.

Additional Gear 

• One 10L dry bag (this is to carry your essentials while you're paddling)
• Retaining strap for glasses and sunglasses
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Small day pack or fanny pack for hikes 
• One large-mouth water bottle, 1 liter or larger
• One buff or bandana for sun protection and cooling off
• Camp towel (small lightweight towel, backpacking style works great) you might to use during the day.
• ​Camera and appropriate charging mechanism
• Back up battery pack for electronic devices (put in carry-on luggage when flying)
• Waterproof camera or valuables case
• Binoculars or monocular 
• *Optional fins - these can be challenging to travel with, but if you have a small pair feel free to bring them for snorkeling.
• Glasses or contacts if needed
• Polarized sunglasses
• Reusable dirty/clean gear bags for wet or soiled items
• ​Small ​​reusable, leak-proof bags for liquid or spillable personal items
• Books or E-reader, pen and notepad, headphones, etc.  If you want to listen to music, please do it privately with earbuds or headphones.

Toiletries and First Aid

• Standard toiletry kit including general hygiene products, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. (keep liquids under 3.38 oz.(100ml) for carry-on)
• Insect repellent 
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 20-50
• Pre-moistened toilette packets or disposable shower wipes to refresh
• Prescriptions and any necessary personal medicines (please be sure to bring necessary prescriptions and any needed emergency medicine such as an EpiPen, Benadryl, Loperamide, etc)
• Heavy duty skin lotion for dry, sun-baked, and salted skin
• Small squeeze bottle of hand-sanitizer gel
• Shampoo and soap (Hotels will have basic amenities including this)
• *Optional female urinary device (allows women to urinate standing up without removing clothing). Silicon or hard plastic ones work great. Popular name brands include Gogirl and Shewee.

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes, bees or hornets are sometimes present during our tours. If you are sensitive to these you may want to pack a quality insect repellent.

Adventure Unbound - Turkey Recommended Reading List

Most of our trip is through the lands and water of ancient Greece. Therefore, any of the great Greek authors are excellent traveling companions.  Homer's Iliad or Odyssey are superb and the best translation is by Lattimore.  Other choices are Herodotus' History and Thucydides' Peloponnesian War. 

The Book of Acts, in the New Testament is especially interesting as it records much of St. Paul's travels and adventures in Ephesus.

GUIDE BOOKS: There are two fine modern guides to Turkey.  For an excellent and readable narrative on the country and something to read before you go and while in Turkey, get a copy of Turkey in the Cadogan guidebook series. Lonely Planet has a great guide book - Lonely Planet Turkey. Also from Lonely Planet is a Turkish Phrasebook which you will receive compliments of Adventure Unbound.

Many of the books below will be available in your local library or on Amazon in either hard or digital copy.

• Barber, Noel, The Sultans, Simon and Schuster, 1973.  A unique and fascinating record of four centuries of glory, debauchery, splendor and cruelty.  This book will add much to your enjoyment of Istanbul and the Topkapi Palace.  A must read! 
• Bean, George, Aegean Turkey, 1966; Turkey Beyond the Meander, 1971 and Lycian Turkey, 1978,
• Chase, Holly, Turkish Tapestry, Bosphorus Books, 1993.  A modern traveler offers humorous insight and lots of good tidbits about modern Turkey.
• Lord Kinross, Ataturk, The Rebirth of a Nation, Weidenfeld & Nicholson, London, 1964.  Essential reading for anyone wanting to understand the formation of the modern Republic of Turkey, as well as the reverence in which modern Turks hold the father of modern Turkey.
• Lord Kinross, Europa Minor, Morrow, NY/Johathan Cape, London, 1956.  Lord Kinross traveled was the British Consul General in Izmir around 1947-51, and traveled by yacht along Turkey's coast, as did Freya Stark (below). 
• Lord Kinross, The Ottoman Centuries, Morrow, NY/Jonathan Cape, London, 1977. The best known popular history.
• Nikos Kazantzakis,Zorba the Greek, The Last Temptation of Christ, The Greek Passion, The Odyssey-A Modern Sequel and Report to Greco. Born in 1883 he grew up in Crete during the last years of the Turkish occupation. His books include
• Stark, Freya, The Lycian Shore, 1956, John Murray and reprinted by Dover.  A remarkable Englishwoman who traveled extensively in Turkey and the Middle East.  Difficult reading, but excellent black and white photos. 
• Yasar Kemal, Mehmed, My Hawk and The Wind from the Plains, 1955.
• Everyday Life in Ottoman Turkey (Putnam's Sons, New York, 1971) is a good overview of life during the great days of the empire.

Top 5 Historical Sites to Visit in Turkey - Check out historical sites and museums not to miss on your trip!

Tips for Navigating World Markets - Get excitied to explore the markets of Istanbul.

How to Pack Just a Carry-On for an Active International Tour - Packing tips to prepare for your adventure!

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