Canakkale is the second largest province in Turkey and is situated on the Asian part of the Dardanelles strait, a stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia and links the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

The province has witnessed two important battles in history. One of them being the mythological war of Troy, which Homer immortalized in “Iliad.” The other is the Battle of Canakkale during World War I. During the battle, Turkish troops victoriously defended this region against enemy forces. To honor the 500,000 soldiers who gave their lives or were wounded at Gallipoli, this peninsula is now a national park of remembrance.

From Canakkale guests can take an optional tour to the ancient city of Troy. The ruins of this Bronze Age metropolis were rediscovered in 1822 and plundered by treasure hunters over the next century. The city of Troy also features a wooden Trojan Horse, built in recent years to amuse tourists who climb inside to have their picture taken.

Star Flyer makes its inaugural call at Canakkale during the 2011-12 Mediterranean sailing season.