Yacht Charter Türkiye

Yacht Charter in Turkey

Turkey's Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines — collectively known as the Turquoise Coast — represent one of the finest stretches of sailing water in the world. Winding for over 8,000 kilometres between the Greek islands to the west and the mountains of Lycia to the east, this coastline is a mosaic of pine-forested headlands, ancient ruins, turquoise coves, and vibrant harbour towns. For yacht charter, Turkey offers outstanding value, a rich cultural dimension, and a diversity of sailing grounds that keeps experienced sailors returning year after year.

The Turquoise Coast

The stretch of coast between Bodrum in the north and Antalya in the east is the heart of Turkish yacht charter. Here the Aegean gradually gives way to the Mediterranean, and the landscape changes from the low, rocky islands of the northern Dodecanese to the dramatic limestone peaks of the Taurus Mountains that plunge directly into the sea. The gullet — a broad-beamed traditional wooden sailing vessel — was invented on this coast, and it remains the most popular charter vessel in Turkish waters: roomy, stable, and perfectly suited to multi-day cruising with families or groups of friends.

Top Sailing Destinations

Marmaris is one of Turkey's premier charter bases, offering a large, well-equipped marina and easy access to the spectacular Gulf of Hisaronu. Bodrum, dominated by its Crusader castle, is the social hub of the Aegean coast and the gateway to the Greek islands of Kos and Rhodes. Fethiye sits at the head of a magnificent natural harbour surrounded by forested mountains, and its fish market is one of the finest in Turkey. Gocek, a small resort town with six marinas, is the most popular provisioning stop on the coast and the starting point for trips to the Twelve Islands. Antalya, further east, offers a more adventurous sailing ground with fewer tourists and more dramatic scenery.

History and Culture

Turkey's coastline is saturated with history. The Lycian Way, one of the world's great long-distance hiking trails, follows a route above the sea from Fethiye to Antalya, passing through the ruins of dozens of ancient cities, many accessible only by boat. Ephesus, near Bodrum, is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. The sunken city of Kekova can be viewed directly from a charter yacht, its submerged ruins visible through the clear water. For every hour spent at sea in Turkey, there is an equivalent hour's worth of history and culture waiting ashore.

Cuisine and Hospitality

Turkish hospitality is legendary, and the food culture along the coast is exceptional. Fresh fish and seafood are abundant, typically served at simple waterfront restaurants where the catch of the day is displayed on ice for guests to choose. Mezes — small plates of grilled vegetables, stuffed vine leaves, hummus, and fresh bread — begin every serious meal. Local wines from the Aegean region have improved dramatically in recent years, and the tradition of drinking tea at every opportunity is one of the warmest aspects of Turkish culture.

Charter Season

The Turkish charter season runs from April through October, with July and August representing the warmest and busiest months. The shoulder months of May, June, September, and October offer calmer conditions, fewer visitors, and often better value. The meltemi — a strong northerly wind that blows across the Aegean in mid-summer — can make some northern passages lively, and experienced captains plan itineraries to take advantage of, rather than fight, these conditions.