Excursion The gallipoli battlefields tour at Canakkale
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore one of the largest military campaigns of World War I during this half-day excursion to the historic Gallipoli battlefields.
Depart the pier by bus and then board the public ferry for the approximate 30-minute transfer to the opposite side of the Dardanelles. Upon arrival, drive to the Gallipoli Peninsula and Anzac Cove, the landing site for most of the 50,000 Australian soldiers who fought at Gallipoli during World War I. Leaving Anzac Cove, proceed for visits to Brighton's Beach and the Beach Cemetery, which the Anzac Corps nicknamed Hell Spit.
Anafartalar War Museum
This museum is dedicated to the memory of the soldiers of all sides who served, and so often died, during the Gallipoli Campaign. However, while displaying relics, original documents and artwork relating to all three main sectors of the campaign, its special focus is on the Suvla front, scene of the British landings in August, and the north of the Anzac sector. The museum's collection includes original weapons, equipment, uniforms, maps, insignia, documents, photographs and images from the campaign, as well as personal belongings of the men who fought on the peninsula. All exhibits are accompanied by detailed information in Turkish and English. The museum is the lifework of Ozay Gündoğan, whose family has lived in the village of Büyük Anafarta for generations. Like many locals, Özay had a number of relatives who served in the Turkish army during the Gallipoli Campaign. Many of the relics on display have been found on land owned by the Gündoğan family near Laba Baba, Hill 60, the W Hills and below Chunuk Bair.
Gallipoli Battlefields
Next, your tour continues with a visit to Shrapnel Valley, at times called Shrapnel Gully. Once the Turks realised that this had become the highway to the front, their guns rained shrapnel shells down upon this area. From here, a visit is made to the Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Johnston's Jolly for a look at the original Allied and Turkish trenches and tunnels. Other memorials include 'The Nek', site of the famous Light Horse Brigade depicted in the movie Gallipoli, and the Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial.
Following your visit to the Gallipoli battlefields, embark the ferry for the approximate 30-minute ride back across the Dardanelles. Upon arrival, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over uneven surfaces, some of which are grassy or unpaved, and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary. Vehicles and guides are the best-available in the area. The ferry is a public one and is not exclusive to Silversea guests. Tour visits Australian and New Zealand memorials.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Cannakale, Dardanelles, Gallipoli Battlefields, Anzac Cove, Brighton Beach and Cemetery, Anafartalar War Museum, Shrapnel Valley, Memorials, Johnston's Jolly