Çanakkale is a town and seaport situated in Turkey’s Maramara region; on the narrowest shore of the Dardanelles strait. Canakkale’s history dates back as far as 3000 BC. In fact, prominent historical figures ranging from Xerxes, Agamemnon, and Alexander the Great all the way to leading personalities of the 20th century like Churchill have been involved in the area. The Gallipoli Peninsula lies on the strait of the Dardanelles, which opens into the Sea of Marmara. The peninsula was a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, but also a defensive zone for ancient Anatolia against any sea invasion. In 1915, Çanakkale and Gallipoli’s battles prevented the allied forces of the first world war from taking Istanbul and controlling the sea route from Europe to Russia. Today you can visit the National Historic Park of the Gallipoli peninsula, the Kabatepe War Museum, and the Lone Pine Cemetery detailing the impact of World War 1 on the region. When you arrive at the port of Canakkale you will observe the wooden Trojan Horse, which according to Homer’s Iliad, is where the legendary Trojan war took place. Çanakkale may be draped in history and mythological legends, but by renting a boat, your eyes will shift to the incredible shorelines of the Dardanelles where the hidden beauties of the Aegean Sea await.

With your boat rental in Çanakkale, you can enjoy a day cruise to Bozcaada or Gokceada. Voyaging out of the Dardanelles strait, you can approach Turkey’s largest island, Gokceada. This translates to “heavenly island” and offers a stunning landscape of sea and cliffs full of tranquil bays and sandy beaches. Pinarbasi, Aydincik, Kefalos Burnu, and Marmaros Beach are all beautiful beaches you can stop at during your cruise through this lush windswept island. There is also an ideal scuba diving location known as the Gokceada Underwater Park in Kalekoy. With your catamaran or motor yacht, you can enjoy a laid-back vibe while you take in the stunning views of upscale resorts and hotels. You can even enjoy a two-day cruise to Bozcaada where you will find beautiful nature and clear waters. The island is also known for its windmills and vineyards. Another option is to sail through the narrow strait of Canakkale and make your way to the majestic port of Istanbul.

A private yacht rental in Turkey will allow you to explore the North Aegean Sea and several Greek islands. Departing from Çanakkale with a sailboat, you can cruise to Lemnos opposite Gokceada. You may also sail from Bozcaada to Lesvos which is 15 nautical miles across Ayvalik, another popular tourist destination on the Turkish coast. Lesvos is blessed with olive trees, pine forests, and authentic villages such as Molyvos, Plomari, Eressos, and Sigri. You also have the option to rent a luxury sailboat for a week and explore Thassos and Halkidiki, known as the Maldives of the Aegean Sea. If you have more available time you can plan an itinerary around the beautiful islands on the west part of the Aegean, including Skopelos, Skiathos, and Alonissos which have little to no tourists crowds in their secluded bays and beaches.