Show Host, Tory Salvia, President of TheSailingChannel, introduces "Distant Shores" the highly acclaimed half-hour sailing/travel/adventure series produced by Canadian sailors, Paul and Sheryl Shard. Over the next several weeks, viewers will sail with the Shards aboard their Classic 37 sloop, "Two Step" as they explore the West Coast of Turkey. Tory then provides a brief bio of the sailing couple followed by the episode intro.

In episode 1, the Shards voyage north along the west coast of Turkey viewing ancient ruins and olive groves along the way. They take a Turkish bath in a natural hot spring "hamam" along the shore and visit a town on an inland lake. A trip to a barber becomes an enlightening experience when Paul discovers that Turkish barbers use flames as well as razors when he goes for a shave.

In episode 2, the Shards voyage north along the Turkish coast sailing up the Dardanelles, stopping at the Gallipoli War Memorial, and encountering a squall in the Sea of Marmara. They arrive in Istanbul and sail past famous monuments en-route to their base for exploring the old city.

In episode 3, the Shards begin their exploration of Istanbul from their base in Atakoy Marina. They visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. With local friends, the Shards learn about Turkish fashion, food, and night life.

In episode 4, the Shards make landfall in Greece on the island of Lesvos, home of the Muses and poetess, Sappho. They visit the island's two gulfs of Kalloni and Yeras, home to delicious sardines and olive oil. They visit the Mylelia water mill, where these two products are still produced in the traditional style. The Shards take a tour of the local church's catacombs at Skopelos, and finally they participate in the Festival of Ay Marina.

In episode 5, the Shards continue exploring the island of Lesvos by traveling to the town of Plomari. Here they encounter many traditional festivals celebrating the heritage of the region. Plomari is the capital of ouzo, and the Shards arrive on the first day of the Annual Ouzo Festival where for four nights in July there is feasting, regional music, and free ouzo provided by the local distilleries. Paul and Sheryl end their visit by attending the Annual Horse Festival where local riders parade through town and display their riding skills in a unique dance competition at the waterfront.