Cruising to Ephesus Traveller Reviews

The cruise was all we hoped it would be - a lovely cruise along the Turkish coast in a gorgeous gulet, with visits to archaeological sites that would have been difficult for us to see any other way. And all in the excellent company of a small group of like-minded fellow passengers from around the world. Perhaps best of all was the leadership and knowledge of Olivier, our amazing and enthusiastic archaeologist, supported by Ugur, the Tour Manager. We all learned so much from them - not just about the history of the region, but also about the culture, politics and daily life in modern Turkey. It was an enriching experience that we will not forget.

Before the holiday, the tour operator was helpful in responding to our questions about logistics. This was particularly important to us since the cruise was just one part of an extended holiday, and we were planning to continue through other parts of eastern and western Europe. There was one minor glitch when our Bodrum airport pickup arrangements fell down, but that was sorted with a phone call and out of hours support from UK and from the local Tour Manager. During the one week cruise we were well supported by the full time presence of Ugur, our Tour Manager, constantly alert to any concerns or preferences that any of the passengers may have - he even turned up with fresh figs from his home town when we stopped there.

A wonderful experience. Excellent expert guide who made the sites come alive with his detailed knowledge and great communication skills. The local tour manager was very efficient and considerate, and happy to explain Turkish customs and way of life. The gûlet was beautiful with a fantastic crew, and the food was absolutely amazing

Well managed booking, good communication before holiday, good information. We got the impression that they cared about their clients and wanted them to enjoy the holiday.

My trip cruising up the coast of Turkey visiting the ancient ruins was an amazing experience. I had wanted to make this trip for over 20 years so my expectations were high -- and the trip exceeded all my expectations. We had an archeologist on board who brought such enthusiasm and knowledge to our excursions, and his passion was contagious. The cruise was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and learning. This vacation was truly transformative.

Every aspect of the trip was perfect. The staff at Peter Sommer are truly committed to providing you with a wonderful experience from the moment you book your trip to the moment you leave the boat. The staff anticipated every need and was always first-rate. And the food on the trip was incredible, taking into consideration the specific dietary requirements of each person. I will definitely be planning another trip with them in the near future.

We visited 7 ancient cities in as many days. They fed our minds and our body's with joy and passion beyond compare. We walked away with plenty to read and think about and we are definitely thinking about when to do it again.

Each step was provided with great skill and enthusiasm, from Peter's and Julie's introduction, to Ugur's welcome and guidance, to Olivier's knowledge about archeology. (uploading images failed)

We were thrilled and intellectually stimulated by the ancient sites we visited. The boat was comfortable and relaxing. The meals were excellent.

Peter Sommers Tours are extremely well run. Everything that was promised was delivered. The tour guide was excellent, as was the rest of the staff and the crew of the boat.

It was just the best thing ever. My husband has a terminal illness and this holiday was a chance for us to make great memories and share precious time in fabulous surroundings with our children and close friends.

Peter Sommers were great from initial enquiry to the end of the holiday. We would highly recommend them.

Week long gullet cruise from Bodrum to Ephesus featuring archaeological tours each day. Guides included native Turk for cultural interpretation and a PhD archaeologist specializing in the history of the region. Four native crew were wonderful.

Peter Somers had done good research on the route, boat crew, cultural activities, cuisine to ensure a pleasant, relaxing and educational trip.

This was our second gulet cruise with Peter Sommer Travels. Complete relaxation on board the gulet with comfortable accommodation, very attentive crew, good freshly prepared local food, swimming in secluded bays and the company of a small group of interesting international travellers. But what makes a Peter Sommer holiday stand out is the opportunity to visit both well known and little visited archeological sites with a knowledgeable local guide and an enthusiastic historian.

The tours are well planned and organised and as this is a small family business we received personal attention both before and after the holiday.

I really went for the archaeological experience but was thrilled to find that we were given plenty of time to enjoy the boat experience as well. The crew of four ran the boat like a well-oiled machine and the food was nothing short of fantastic. Olivier Henry was passionate about his subject and Cem was very professional, knowledgable and fun. He is a real gem for the company to have.

I found Julie to be very proactive and friendly and any questions were answered by return.

The Peter Sommer Travel experience was excellent. I had always wanted to go up the Coast of Turkey visiting the incredible ruins. This was every bit what I wanted and then some.

Peter Sommer Travel was VERY professional by all standards.