What are the best places to charter a yacht in Turkey?
Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, often referred to as the Turquoise Coast, is one of the most scenic and culturally rich sailing destinations in the world. The most popular charter hubs include Bodrum, Marmaris, Göcek, and Fethiye, ports that offer access to beautiful stretches of coastline dotted with pine-fringed bays, ancient ruins, and traditional seaside towns.
The Gulf of Göcek is ideal for shorter passages and relaxed sailing, with well-protected anchorages and scenic coves. Marmaris and Bodrum provide great access to longer coastal routes and are also homes to excellent marina facilities. From these ports you can sail south towards Kaş and Kalkan, or eastward along the Lycian Coast. The region is a superb blend of natural beauty, history, and hospitality, with many anchorages near small waterfront restaurants accessible only by boat.
We help you choose the base and route that best fits your sailing experience, preferences, and time available to ensure you make the most of Turkey’s many charter possibilities.
Related FAQs
Can you help us plan a Turkish sailing charter itinerary?
Yes, and we strongly recommend it. While Turkey offers endless sailing options, the best experiences come from well-planned routes tailored to your group’s interests. We help you design an itinerary that factors in sailing distances, local attractions, protected anchorages and ideal stopovers for food, culture, and swimming. Continue Reading...
Is the sailing in Turkey easy or challenging?
Turkey offers mostly sheltered, line-of-sight sailing with reliable summer breezes that make for relaxed coastal cruising. The prevailing wind in summer is the Meltemi that blows from the northwest. In most areas this is moderate, providing great sailing conditions without being overly demanding. Continue Reading...
What’s included in a Turkish yacht charter, and what’s extra?
Can I charter a yacht with a skipper or full crew in Turkey?
Yes, and Turkey is particularly well suited to crewed charter experiences. You can charter any suitable bareboat and add a professional skipper, or opt for a fully crewed gulet or catamaran for a truly carefree holiday. Continue Reading...
Can I charter a yacht with a skipper or full crew in Turkey?
What types of boats are available for charter in Turkey?
Turkey has one of the most diverse charter fleets in the Mediterranean, offering everything from modern monohull yachts and catamarans to traditional Turkish gulets. Continue Reading...
When is the best time to go charter sailing in Turkey?
The sailing season in Turkey runs from late April through October, with conditions varying throughout. May and June are delightful months to charter sail, offering warm but not overpowering temperatures, clear skies, and good winds. Continue Reading...
Do I need a sailing licence to charter a yacht in Turkey?
Yes, if you plan to skipper a bareboat in Turkey you’ll need to present a recognised sailing qualification. This typically means an ICC (International Certificate of Competence), RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate, or equivalent. Continue Reading...