Licence : TURSAB A4339
Standing on the shores of the Dardanelles Strait, watching the waters that have witnessed centuries of history unfold, you can almost hear the echoes of cannon fire from 18th March 1915. This date marks one of Turkey's most significant military victories - a naval triumph that would shape the course of World War I and lead to the legendary land campaign that forged the ANZAC spirit.
On 18th March 1915, the waters of the Dardanelles became the stage for an extraordinary military confrontation. The British and French navies, commanding what was then the world's most powerful fleet, attempted to force their way through the narrow strait to reach Constantinople (Istanbul). Their ultimate goal was to knock the Ottoman Empire out of World War I and open a supply route to Russia.
What they encountered was far more than they bargained for.
The Ottoman forces, under German advisement, had meticulously prepared their defenses. The strait was heavily mined, and artillery batteries positioned along both shores stood ready. When the Allied armada of 18 battleships entered the strait that day, they faced determined resistance that would ultimately change the trajectory of the war.
By the end of the day, three Allied battleships had been sunk, three more critically damaged, and hundreds of sailors lost. The naval attempt was unsuccessful, leading to a pivotal decision: if the strait couldn't be taken by sea, it would have to be taken by land.
The failed naval attack of 18th March directly led to what would become known as the Gallipoli Campaign. On 25th April 1915, Allied forces including the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula. What was planned as a swift operation turned into an eight-month ordeal, with immense suffering and over 250,000 lives lost from both sides.
While militarily unsuccessful for the Allies, the campaign became the foundation of national identity for Australia and New Zealand. For Turkey, it represented a pivotal moment of resistance and the emergence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who would later found the modern Turkish Republic.
Today, the Gallipoli Peninsula holds dual significance. For Turks, 18th March is celebrated as Çanakkale Victory and Martyrs' Day, honoring the naval triumph that protected their homeland. For Australians and New Zealanders, 25th April is ANZAC Day, commemorating the courage and sacrifice of their soldiers.
These two observances, separated by just over a month, represent different perspectives of the same historical events. Yet together, they tell a complete story of courage, determination, and ultimately, reconciliation.
Since 1997, Fez Travel has been at the forefront of providing meaningful, educational experiences at Gallipoli. Our expert guides bring history to life as you walk the same grounds where soldiers from both sides displayed extraordinary courage.
Whether you're exploring the naval battle sites along the Dardanelles or standing in solemn reflection at ANZAC Cove, our tours offer unparalleled insight into these pivotal historical events.
At Fez Travel, we understand that different travellers have different needs. That's why we offer a range of ANZAC tour options:
Our most comprehensive journey, covering Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, and Antalya with the ANZAC Day experience at its heart.
A perfect balance of historical sites including Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, and Pamukkale, centered around the ANZAC Day commemorations.
Focused on Istanbul and the Gallipoli Peninsula, providing ample time to experience the Dawn Service and explore key ANZAC sites.
Our most concise option for those who specifically want to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service and memorial ceremonies.
All tours include comfortable accommodation, professional English-speaking guides, and transportation in air-conditioned vehicles. Most importantly, they offer the chance to participate in the moving Dawn Service at ANZAC Cove - an experience that connects you directly to this profound chapter of history.
Perhaps nothing captures the spirit of healing better than the words attributed to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1934, addressing the mothers of the fallen ANZAC soldiers:
"Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives... You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours... You, the mothers who sent their sons from faraway countries, wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in peace. After having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well."These words of compassion continue to inspire reconciliation and have helped transform former battlegrounds into places of remembrance, peace, and mutual respect.
While the Gallipoli Peninsula's historical significance draws many visitors, a journey with Fez Travel offers much more. Our longer ANZAC tours incorporate visits to Turkey's most magnificent sites:
Each destination adds another dimension to your understanding of Turkey's rich cultural tapestry.
The Gallipoli Peninsula stands as a living memorial to courage, sacrifice, and ultimately reconciliation between former adversaries. By visiting during either 18th March commemorations or for ANZAC Day, you participate in keeping this important history alive.
Fez Travel's expertly guided tours offer not just historical insights but a profound human connection to events that shaped our modern world. Whether you choose our comprehensive Colonel Tour or the focused Trooper Tour, you'll experience the perfect balance of historical education, emotional resonance, and travel comfort.
Join us as we honor the naval victory of 18th March and the ANZAC legacy. Contact Fez Travel today to book your journey into history.
Our site only uses cookies when making a reservation or logging in.
