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Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.

TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
SwimTrek Classic
6km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2023
17 Jul - 23 Jul
Full
24 Jul - 30 Jul
Private
07 Aug - 13 Aug
Full
14 Aug - 20 Aug
Full
21 Aug - 27 Aug
Full
28 Aug - 03 Sep
1 Space
11 Sep - 17 Sep
Full
18 Sep - 24 Sep
Private
25 Sep - 01 Oct
Full
09 Oct - 15 Oct
Full
16 Oct - 22 Oct
Full
23 Oct - 29 Oct
Private
2024

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Tour Highlights

  • Experience some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean along Turkey's Turquoise Coast

  • Follow a portion of the famous Lycian Way walking path by water - it stretches 509 kilometres from Fethiye to Antalya!

  • Discover the historic city of Aperlai, including ancient ruins both above and below water

  • Explore caves, tunnels, arches and bays as we complete a range of beautiful coastal swims and challenging crossings

  • Relax and soak in the world-renowned Turkish hospitality in the lovely seaside village of Kaş

Based in the small coastal village of Kaş, we spend the week exploring countless caves, tunnels, arches, and bays. Our swims will uncover the area’s most isolated beaches, scattered archipelagos and ancient sites perched on hilltops.

Our main boat for the week is a traditional Turkish ‘gulet,’ which is an ideal way to experience this part of the world. The gulet is also where we will enjoy the fresh, traditional Turkish lunches which are served on board between your swims – a highlight for many SwimTrekkers! There is plenty of room to stretch out as well and relax under the sun while you are out of the water.

If you would like to explore this part of the world, but are looking for slightly shorter swimming distances, please check out our Lycian Way Short Swims - Turkey trip.


Who is this trip for?

This trip is designed for swimmers who enjoy both crossings and coastal swims, including exploring sea caves, tunnels, and arches.

Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average daily swim distance of around 3 km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 6km (split over a minimum of two swims).

We have given this trip a 'Moderate' grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.


What's included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday in Turkey
  • Swim guides and full safety escort on all swims
  • Technique advice with video playback
  • Six nights' accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • All lunches

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the tour
  • Evening meals



Related Trips

Daily Itineraries

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during the course of your trip. However, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and sea conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilot will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Linda Hotel, Kaş, Turkey

Start Time: 19:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Linda Hotel, Kaş

Finish Time: 11:00 on Day 7

Day 1

After meeting in the reception area of the hotel, we’ll enjoy welcome drinks and a safety briefing while discussing our plans for the week ahead.

Day 2

First thing this morning we meet up for a short acclimatisation swim just a short walk from the hotel. After heading back to the hotel for breakfast, we make our way out to Kaş Peninsula for our first coastal swim of the trip. Following lunch and some time to relax on board the gulet, we get you back into the water in order to film your stroke, both above and below the water, which we will play back and provide you with technique advice on Day 3. After the filming session, we’ll set off on another enchanting coastal swim, which finishes at the tranquil Dolphin Beach.

Day 3

This morning is spent island-hopping within the Canyon archipelago of seven islands, situated midway between Greece and Turkey. We retreat to Limanağzi Bay to moor our gulet for lunch above a sunken C-47 Dakota aeroplane. After lunch, we’ll complete another stunning coastal swim, which ends at a cool water cave close to Big Pebble Beach. Keep an eye out for ancient Lycian tombs embedded into the cliff face. Once we arrive back at Linda Hotel, we will review the video playback from Day 2 and provide technique advice for all guests that are interested in taking part.

Day 4

This morning, we head out along the coast, past the Uluburun Cliffs for a swim towards the ancient city of Aperlai. Here we swim into the bay, over ancient foundations and ruins which have been deposited on the sea bed by numerous earthquakes. Once we arrive into the bay, which sits beneath the city of Aperlai, you have the opportunity to complete a short but rocky walk uphill to explore the city’s ruins. After lunch on board the boat, we head back to Kaş, stopping off for our swim following the Lycian Way from beneath the dramatic cliffs of Uluburun.

Day 5

We make our way to Bayrak Adasi, just outside the Greek waters off the island of Meis, before beginning our crossing back to the Turkish mainland in one of the more challenging and rewarding swims of the week. After completing the crossing, it’s time for a snack and lunch aboard the gulet. Following lunch, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy, whether that involves exploring the village of Kaş or simply relaxing at the nearby beach areas. For guests who are looking for other activities to take part in, a traditional Turkish bath or breathtaking paragliding session are both fantastic ways to spend your afternoon.

Day 6

This morning, we continue our swims from Kas Peninsula to Merida Islands. After a hearty lunch on board the gulet, we complete the day by swimming along the coastline within Deregemlik Bay. The remote nature of today’s locations make for some truly memorable swimming experiences.

Day 7

We hold a final early morning swim before breakfast before our fantastic week of swimming draws to a close.

Location Summary

Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is a 509km walking path which follows several ancient routes of the local Lycian people along Turkey’s beautiful southern coastline. The path runs from Fethiye to Antalya and takes in some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery and historic sites, including fascinating ruins from the Greek, Roman and Persian civilisations. We can walk a small section of this iconic path as we traverse a narrow, rocky path towards the ancient city of Aperlai.

Kaş

The small coastal village of Kaş is our home for the week and a fantastic base from which to explore the surrounding area. With its narrow streets, filled with cafes, bars and restaurants, there are plenty of options to enjoy the delicious local cuisine and experience the renowned local hospitality.

Kekova

Kekova is a small island, which was declared a protected area in 1990. Just off its coast are the spectacular underwater ruins of Dolchiste - an ancient town destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd Century.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a 'Moderate' grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distances
Kaş Peninsula 2km
Kaş Peninsula - Dolphin Beach 3km
Canyon Archipelago 3km
Ufakdere Coastal 3km
Aperlai Bay 3½km
Ulubrun Coastal 2km
Bayrak Adasi- Turkey Crossing 6km
Pebble Beach - Limanağzi 3km
Limanağzi Peninsula 3km

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience. However, you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures, but if you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Conditions

Most walks to and from our swims take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces and care should be taken in these areas.

There is also an opportunity to walk a short (approximately 200 metre) section of the famous Lycian Way. This walk takes place on a rocky, uphill track which leads to the ancient city of Aperlai. Sturdy walking shoes or sandals are recommended for this walk.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
April 15-19°C / 61-65°F 14-21°C / 57-70°F
May 18-24°C / 64-75°F 17-22°C / 63-72°F
July 26-29°C / 79-84°F 29-33°C / 84-91°F
August 27-30°C / 81-86°F 30-34°C / 86-93°F
September 25-29°C / 77-84°F 26-31°C / 79-88°F
October 22-27°C / 72-81°F 23-27°C / 73-81°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible

Trip Information

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 16. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two inflatable boats to be piloted by your SwimTrek guides and a local boat pilot. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. There are no additional, specific items required for this location.

SwimTrek will also provide water and electrolytes at every location and refill your bottles.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to Kaş is to fly into Dalaman and take a shared transfer to the Linda Hotel in Kaş. It is also possible to fly into Antalya and take a private transfer, however, please be aware that this can take up to one hour longer than the journey from Dalaman to Kaş.

Whichever route you choose to take, we recommend confirming your flights and other travel arrangements as early as possible to avoid price rises and availability issues.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out our SwimTrek flight tips page on the website.

Dalaman Airport to Kas - Transfers

You can arrange a private transfer service through several online and local providers direct from the airport to the Linda Hotel in Kaş, depending on the number of passengers and the time of arrival at the airport.

Our local partner, Wilusa Travel, can also assist with the provision of private and shared transfers. For a quote, please email info@swiminturkey.com at least seven days prior to your arrival with your flight number and arrival time.

Dalaman Airport to Kas - Shuttle Service

Transfer Kas provides a shared transfer from Dalaman Airport and Kaş. The cost depends on the number of passengers and the time of year. It takes approximately 2 ½ hours. You can reserve your place for this service via www.transferkas.com.

Dalaman Airport to Kas - Public Bus

Catching a public bus is a great way to see more of the Turkish coast. From the airport, you will need to travel to Fethiye using local bus company. A timetable can be found at www.havas.net. Once in Fethiye, you will need to change buses to head towards Kaş. Buses from both the airport to Fethiye and Fethiye to Kaş run frequently throughout the day. The total journey time is approximately 3½ hours.

Antalya Airport to Kas - Transfers

You can arrange a private transfer service through a number of online and local providers direct from the airport to the Linda Hotel in Kaş depending on the number of passengers and the time of arrival at the airport.

Our local partner, Wilusa Travel, can also assist with the provision of transfers. For a quote, please email info@swiminturkey.com at least seven days prior to your arrival with your flight number and arrival time.

Accommodation

Accommodation during this trip is in the Linda Hotel in the small coastal village of Kaş. Our accommodation is based on twin-share rooms with en-suite facilities. There are a limited number of single supplement rooms which can be reserved during the booking process, subject to availability.

Please note that we stay at the Linda Hotel, not the Linda Beach Hotel which is also located in Kaş.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you require any additional nights’ accommodation before or after the trip, this can be arranged directly via our partners in Turkey, Wilusa via info@swiminturkey.com.

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches are included in your trip price - however, dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as dinners, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc. The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides, but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Turkey is not part of the European Union. Non-residents of Turkey require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay.

Please note: As of 2nd March 2020, UK and EU Citizens no longer require a visa to enter Turkey and stay for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries including the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand require a visa to enter Turkey. Most foreign nationals entering Turkey must purchase a visa before entering the country. It is important that you purchase your visa through the official website, www.evisa.gov.tr and avoid purchasing through third-party providers, as these can be considerably more expensive.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and we advise that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference. For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website

Here at SwimTrek we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

Hotel Linda offers free WIFI throughout the hotel. For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit worldstandards.eu.

  • "The Lycian way is spectacular: swimming with turtles and over ancient ruins was an experience that I will never forget!"

    Till Ottlitz, Germany - 2022
  • I'm three trips in and puzzling over how this company can exceed my expectations so drastically every time. The kind of guests these trips attract are my kind of people...

    Edmund L, UK - 2022
  • This was the perfect break, sea, sun, and awesome company. My soul has been revived and replenished. Thank you for an amazing weeks swimming!

    Alex L, Germany - 2022
  • This was just the most fantastic trip ever - warm clear waters, lots of fish and sights to see, brilliant guides, beautiful food and great people.

    Louise C, UK - 2022
  • It was great and we had a lot of fun!

    Birgit Skodda
  • I truly enjoyed the trip . Özgen and all the crew did a super job. The crossing was the definite highlight of my swimming life. I can only recommend the trip to all passionate about open water.

    Lodovico Simone
  • The experience of the turtles and the swimming in lovely blue clear waters has made me want to return for more, very soon. I'm still smiling from ear to ear when I think of the swims!

    Julie, UK - 2020
  • Energising!

    Cheryl, UK - 2020
  • My first SwimTrek, and it was perfect. Guides were superb, hotel was good, location great, other guests made it fun. "I'll be back".

    Stuart, UK - 2020
  • The Lycian Way was an amazing location - lovely clear, warm water and lots of interesting things to see. As usual a wonderfully relaxing/active holiday - perfect, thank you!

    Alison, UK - 2020
  • Another fantastic Swim Trek holiday completed - technique improved, speed increased, fish spotted and new friends made. Far too much delicious food consumed but it was a holiday after all! Where to go next is the question?

    Helen K, Netherlands - 2019
  • This trip exceeded my expectations. Extremely well organised and both Tim and Shelli our guides were excellent. I was an open water swimming novice so was quite anxious about how I would cope but by Day 2 I was loving it didn't want the trip to end. Swimming every day in the beautiful Mediterranean was sublime and being based in Kaş was fabulous. Well done Swimtrek!

    Louise M, Australia - 2019
  • Swimtrek trips never disappoint! Wonderful and knowledgeable guides, beautiful settings, great and varied swimming, big sense of achievement on the bigger crossings, and finally the chance to share all of this with like minded swimmers from all over the world. You leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, fit and with a bunch of new friends!

    Rhiannon C, UK - 2019
  • Beautiful sea temperature, fantastic town to stay in, a great SwimTrek team and a wonderful set of people to share a holiday with...what's not to love!

    Helen L, UK - 2018
  • Every year I come home and say that trip was the best ever. But this year, it really was the best ever. Wonderful, wonderful time.

    Mimi S, US - 2018
  • This was one of the best trips I had in my entire life. The group, challenges, location, guides, boat, food, free time, etc. were excellent.

    Niko P, Germany - 2018
  • Amongst the best weeks of my almost 60 years of life!

    Susanne T, UK - 2018
  • Kaş was a great place for a Swimtrek base -boat, crew and culture were all fantastic!

    Adrianne D, Canada - 2018
  • This holiday exceeded my expectations. I'm already thinking where to book for next year.

    Konrad B, UK - 2018
  • Great swims, beautiful town, stunning boat, lovely company, delicious food and... turtles!

    Sally T, UK-2017
  • Fabulous Food, Quality Boat, Awesome swimming distances, locations & Guides.... Just keep swimming ! The best swimming holiday I've been on

    Kim P, UK-2017
  • As someone relatively new to open water swimming, and a first time Swim Trek traveller, I didn't really know what to expect, but the whole experience was wonderful - life-changing in fact. I was researching my next trip on the 'plane home...

    Rachel H. UK- 2017
  • The Lycian Way is near the top of the pack of my SwimTrek experiences. The swimming, the boat, the food and the town itself make for a wonderful swimming holiday.

    Joseph C. Australia - 2016
  • Fabulous food, quality boat, awesome swimming distances, locations & guides.... Just keep swimming ! The best swimming holiday I've been on.

    Kim P. UK - 2016
  • The Turkish Lycian Way has to be one of the best locations operated by Swim Trek. Great swimming in warm waters backed up by superb lunches on a spacious boat. Kas (hotel location) felt very welcoming and safe.

    David B. UK - 2016

Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.