Most Göcek gulet charters spend their week among the Twelve Islands, but just to the west lies one of the most fascinating day trips on the Turkish coast: Dalyan. Here, a winding river flows through reed beds past spectacular rock tombs carved into the cliffs by the Lycians more than two thousand years ago, the ruins of the ancient city of Caunos rise from the hillside, and the long sandy spit of İztuzu – Turtle Beach – protects one of the most important nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean. Combining Dalyan with a Göcek gulet charter adds a wonderful cultural and natural highlight to your week.
Gulets cannot sail up the shallow Dalyan river itself, so the usual approach is to cruise from Göcek to the beautiful Ekincik Bay, about a few hours west, and anchor there. From Ekincik, local river boats run by the village cooperative take you through the reed-lined channels to Dalyan, Caunos and the beach – a memorable excursion that most guests rate as a highlight of the holiday.
Gulets for a Göcek–Dalyan cruise
Ekincik Bay
Ekincik is a deep, wooded bay framed by mountains, with clear water ideal for swimming and a peaceful atmosphere at night. It is a lovely anchorage in its own right and the gateway to Dalyan. In the evening you can dine on deck or at the restaurant perched above the bay, enjoying views across the water as the sun sets behind the hills.
The Lycian Rock Tombs and Ancient Caunos
Cruising up the Dalyan river, you will pass the famous rock tombs carved into the cliff face above the water – temple-like facades with columns and pediments, built for the rulers of ancient Caunos in the fourth century BC. They are one of the most photographed sights in Turkey, especially in the golden afternoon light. Nearby, the ruins of Caunos itself include a theatre, baths, a basilica and the remains of the old harbour, set in quiet countryside with sweeping views over the delta.
Mud Baths and İztuzu Turtle Beach
Many visitors stop at the mud baths and thermal springs along the river, where you can coat yourself in warm mud said to be good for the skin before rinsing off in the springs – a fun experience for all ages. The river then opens out at İztuzu, a 4.5-kilometre stretch of golden sand between the sea and a freshwater lagoon. The beach is a protected nesting site for loggerhead turtles, so it closes at night during the nesting season; during the day it is perfect for swimming and you may even spot turtles in the river.
Fitting Dalyan into Your Göcek Week
A typical plan is to spend the first days exploring the Twelve Islands, then cruise west to Ekincik for one or two nights with a full-day excursion to Dalyan, before returning to Göcek via Sarsala and the Yassıca Islands. Your captain will choose the best timing based on the wind, as the passage to Ekincik is more open than the sheltered Göcek bays. Read our best bays of Göcek and Göcek gulet charter guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a gulet go up the Dalyan river?
No, the river is too shallow; you take a local river boat from Ekincik.
How long is the Dalyan excursion?
Usually a full day, including the tombs, Caunos, mud baths and Turtle Beach.
Is the beach open all the time?
It closes at night during turtle nesting season.