Discover our ultimate 2026 yacht charter guide for a yacht charter in Turkey, which blends centuries-old history along the Turquoise Coast with turquoise waters, calm bays, and well-sheltered anchorages ideal for bareboat, skippered, or crewed charters from Bodrum, Marmaris, Gocek, and Fethiye.
In Turkey, the optimal sailing season is from April to October, peaking in June-September with 30°C days, 8-20 knot breezes, and Meltemi winds. Discover sailing itineraries, weather insights, and charter types that will ensure seamless planning of your next Mediterranean sailing adventure.
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Turkey’s sailing season typically spans April to October, aligning with the country’s warm and sunny months. June through September brings the most reliable weather, with daytime temperatures frequently hitting 30°C (86°F) and light-to-moderate breezes (8–15 knots) on the Turquoise Coast.
Aegean winds can occasionally pick up in late afternoon, offering enjoyable, steady sailing for enthusiasts. While spring and autumn are less crowded and can still be quite pleasant, winter months often bring unpredictable conditions and cooler temperatures, making them less ideal for yachting adventures.
Turkey generally expects you to hold a recognized skipper’s qualification, such as the ICC or an RYA Day Skipper certificate. However, enforcement can vary depending on the region and local charter companies, so it is recommended to confirm the latest regulations with your chosen company.
The turquoise coastline, known as the Turquoise Coast or the “Blue Voyage” route, boasts sheltered bays, lively harbors, and archaeological wonders. While you navigate these waters, a recognized license and proven seamanship skills will give you the freedom to enjoy Turkey’s dramatic landscapes and vibrant coastal cities.
If you lack formal certification or prefer a carefree experience, opt for a professional skipper or crewed yacht charter.
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is steeped in a fusion of ancient Lycian, Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences - evident in its archaeological sites and lively bazaar culture. Between picturesque anchorages, relish Turkish meze platters, grilled kebabs, and the famous gözleme (stuffed flatbread), often paired with a glass of rakı.
Wandering local markets in towns like Fethiye or Bodrum reveals vibrant spices, textiles, and handmade crafts reflecting the region’s diverse heritage. By mingling with hospitable locals, you’ll gain insight into age-old traditions such as Turkish coffee preparation and folk dancing, enriching your Turkey sailing vacation with authentic flavors and customs.
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In the waters of Turkey, you will ride the winds of the Carians, Lycians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines who sailed here ages ago. Set sail, starting from either Bodrum northerly or land in Dalaman Airport and sail from Marmaris, Gocek, or Fethiye in the south.
Enjoy a lively afternoon amongst the bazaars of Bodrum, wander cobbled streets in the yachtsman’s favourite of Marmaris, explore the caves and ruins of Caunos, or the islets and well-loved anchorages of Fethiye.
Turkey boasts superb sailing conditions with at least 10 hours of sunshine each day, calm waters, and favorable westerly winds blowing at about 15 knots.
Are you ready to dive into more details for each sailing area?
Let’s get started.
A Yacht Charter in Bodrum is the ideal option for those wanting to sail right in the heart of the Mediterranean, i.e., the Southwest Aegean region of Turkey, which is very close to the Greek islands. Set sail from Bodrum and explore the Gulf of Gokova, or head South to the Gulf of Datca.
Bodrum itself, with its open-air clubs, exclusive restaurants, excellent shopping, and famous bazaars, offers a more lively stop and is a town not to be missed. The city also has a historic castle, which is declared a UNESCO Heritage site. The castle includes a museum of underwater archaeology and overlooks the harbour and the marina.
Sailing conditions in Bodrum
In summer, temperatures can reach 89°F (32 °C), making the cooling sea breezes most welcome. Winds are generally calm in the mornings, getting stronger in the afternoons, in the range of 10 to 20 knots, and generally die down after sundown.
Kindly note that the "Meltemi" wind is a regular phenomenon in the area during July and August, reaching up to Force 6-7. It usually dies down at the beginning of autumn and is less frequent during spring.
Where to start your Bodrum yacht charter from?
A yacht charter from Bodrum Marina is the ideal way to make the most of the superb sailing conditions Turkey has to offer and is suitable for all levels of sailors. The easiest way to reach Bodrum is to fly directly to the airport located in the town, which welcomes frequent flights from Europe and the UK. Several low-cost carriers fly to Bodrum Airport as well.
Transfer Time: 30 mins
Bodrum Sailing Holiday Tips
The official currency is, of course, the Turkish Lira, although a lot of places also accept credit cards, euros, and USD. Beginner sailors are advised to charter from Bodrum in spring or autumn when winds are lighter, while more advanced sailors will be able to enjoy some exhilarating sailing in high season (July and August).
Recommended Sailing Itineraries around Bodrum
7-day sailing route from Bodrum
Day 1. Bodrum - Akyarlar (10 N.M.)
Day 2. Akyarlar - Gumusluk (11 N.M.)
Day 3. Gumusluk - Maya Marina (15 N.M.)
Day 4. Maya Marina - Kaziliki (17 N.M.)
Day 5. Kaziliki - Gundogan (9 N.M.)
Day 6. Gundogan - Cokertme (22 N.M.)
Day 7. Check out
14-day sailing route from Bodrum
Day 1. Bodrum - Cokertme (22 N.M.)
Day 2. Cokertme - English Harbour (15 N.M.)
Day 3. English Harbour - Korme (8 N.M.)
Day 4. Korme - Datca (16 N.M.)
Day 5. Datca - Orhaniye (20 N.M.)
Day 6. Orhaniye - Paradise Bay (12 N.M.)
Day 7. Paradise Bay - Dirsek Bay (8 N.M.)
Day 8. Dirsek Bay - Serce Limani (12 N.M.)
Day 9. Serce Limani - Loryma (8 N.M.)
Day 10. Loryma - Ovabuku (16 N.M.)
Day 11. Ovabuku - Yedi Adalari (26 N.M.)
Day 12. Yedi Adalari - Bodrum (30 N.M.)
Day 13. Check out
A Yacht charter in Marmaris is the ideal sailing option for someone seeking great sailing conditions, with plenty of sunshine, good winds, and welcoming waves. At the heart of this yachtsman’s favourite sailing ground sits Marmaris.
Marmaris is one of Turkey's Premier holiday resorts and a beautiful seaside town. The old town consists of white-washed houses and charming little streets, leading up to the famous Turkish bazaars.
From Marmaris, you can either head East, towards Gocek and the Gulf of Fethiye, or West to explore the Bozburun peninsula.
Sailing Conditions in Marmaris
In regard to sailing conditions, there are great offshore NW winds (15-20 knots) throughout the season. As in all Mediterranean destinations, there are no tides. Local weather phenomena that you need to watch out for are the “Meltemi” picking up in the morning up to late afternoon/ evening (Force 3-5 during summer).
Note, though, that the area around Marmaris is considered much more protected than the Cyclades in Greece. The average summer temperature is 27°C.
Where to start your Marmaris Yacht charter from
There are several start-point marinas in Marmaris, all served by the international airports of Bodrum and Dalaman. Dalaman airport should be your first choice, as there are many direct flights from the UK (London and Manchester); it is also the closest one.
Transfers can be arranged upon request from both airports.
Marmaris Sailing Holiday Tips
The official currency is the Turkish Lira. Some places also accept Euros and USD; however, we do advise that you use Turkish Liras, as the exchange rate offered is often not favourable. Many shops and restaurants also accept credit cards.
This area is full of historical sights as well; in Ephesus, Caunus, and Pergamos, you can see ruins ranging from the proto-Greek period to the Byzantine period. Due to the stronger winds, especially during July and August, we recommend Marmaris to more experienced sailors.
Recommended Sailing Itineraries from Marmaris
7-day sailing route from Marmaris
Day 1. Marmaris - Bozuk Buku (25 N.M.)
Day 2. Bozuk Buku - Bozburun (13 N.M.)
Day 3. Bozburun - Keci Buku (15 N.M.)
Day 4. Keci Buku - Sogut (18 N.M.)
Day 5. Sogut - Kumlu Buku (30 N.M.)
Day 6. Kumlu Buku - Marmaris (12 N.M.)
Day 7. Check out
14-day sailing route from Marmaris
Day 1. Marmaris - Serce Limani (25 N.M.)
Day 2. Serce Limani - Ekincik (30 N.M.)
Day 3. Ekincik - Tomb Bay (18 N.M.)
Day 4. Tomb Bay - Fethiye (12 N.M.)
Day 5. Fethiye - Gocek (13 N.M.)
Day 6. Gocek - Cold Water Bay (15 N.M.)
Day 7. Cold Water Bay - Kalkan (30 N.M.)
Day 8. Kalkan - Kekova (27 N.M.)
Day 9. Kekova - Kas (15 N.M.)
Day 10. Kas - Wall Bay (35 N.M.)
Day 11. Wall Bay - Ekincik (30 N.M.)
Day 12. Ekincik - Ciftlik (23 N.M.)
Day 13. Ciftlik - Marmaris (12 N.M.)
Day 14. Check out
The town of Gocek lies in a wooded bay at the northern end of Skopea Liman. The town has quickly grown from a small fishing village to a popular yacht charter base. A Yacht charter in Gocek and Fethiye offers the possibility to explore the surrounding gulf, with short passages and protected anchorages.
You shouldn't miss the ultimate shopping experience at the Bazaars of Fethiye and, of course, the area's breathtaking bays, such as Butterfly Bay, Wall Bay, and Ruin Bay.
Sailing and weather conditions around Fethiye & Gocek
Fethiye and Gocek have a longer sailing period, with yacht charter bases being open from April until November. The temperature ranges between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius in the summer, making the cooling sea breezes of the afternoon most welcome. During the summer period, the winds usually blow from the NW as the weather pattern of “Meltemi” is affecting the area. Average wind speed is 10-20 KN.
Thanks to its easy sailing conditions and short passages, this area is ideal for beginner sailors looking to build on their limited chartering experience.
Where to start your Fethiye and Gocek sailing holidays from
You can start your holiday from the well-known bases of Fethiye and Gocek, which are both within easy reach of the International Dalaman Airport. You will find frequent and convenient flights from Europe and the UK, most offered by low-cost carriers.
Sailing tips for Fethiye & Gocek
Gocek is considered a first-class sailing resort with 3 luxurious marinas and many more smaller ports and anchorages dotted around the gulf. When sailing this area, you will find breathtaking views of mountains, hills, forests, etc., as Gocek is situated right in the middle of a National Park. Make sure you arrive at some of the anchorages early in the afternoon, so that you can enjoy some exploring ashore as well.
Recommended Sailing Itineraries around Fethiye & Gocek
7-day sailing route from Gocek marina
Day 1. Marina Gocek - Kapi Creek (7 N.M.)
Day 2. Kapi Creek - Cold Water Bay (13 N.M.)
Day 3. Cold Water Bay - Wall Bay (15 N.M.)
Day 4. Wall Bay - Fethiye (16 N.M.)
Day 5. Fethiye - Sarsala (16 N.M.)
Day 6. Sarsala - Gocek (6 N.M.)
Day 7. Check out
14-day sailing route from Fethiye
Day 1. Fethiye - Cold Water Bay (12 N.M.)
Day 2. Cold Water Bay - Butterfly Bay (2 N.M.)
Day 3. Butterfly Bay - Kekova Roads (40 N.M.)
Day 4. Kekova Roads - Kas (20 N.M.)
Day 5. Kas - Wall Bay (35 N.M.)
Day 6. Wall Bay - Ekincik (30 N.M.)
Day 7. Ekincik - Marmaris (20 N.M.)
Day 8. Marmaris - Ruin Bay (35 N.M.)
Day 9. Ruin Bay - Tomb Bay (5 N.M.)
Day 10. Tomb Bay - Gocek (10 N.M.)
Day 11. Gocek - Tersane Adasi (8 N.M.)
Day 12. Tersane Adasi - Kapi Creek (5 N.M.)
Day 13. Kapi Creek - Fethiye (10 N.M.)
Day 14. Check out
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is famed for its blend of stunning scenery and rich history, making it a fantastic destination for all types of yacht charter holidays.
Experienced sailors can opt for a bareboat charter Turkiye, confidently exploring the calm bays and ancient ruins that speckle the coastline between Bodrum and Fethiye on their own sailboat.
If you prefer guidance, skippered charter Turkiye are a popular choice in Turkey – a local captain can navigate you to secluded coves, lively bazaars in harbor towns, and the best swimming spots in the clear Aegean waters.
Turkey also excels in crewed charter Turkiye, from all-inclusive modern yachts to traditional gulet cruises with full crew; whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy a private yacht cruise steeped in warm Turkish hospitality and breathtaking sunsets over the sea.
For real-time availability and pricing on sailing yacht charter Turkiye, catamaran charter Turkiye, gulet rental Turkiye, power catamaran charter Turkiye, and motorboat charter Turkiye deals, visit our real-time search engine.
This tool allows you to explore the best charter options instantly and secure your dream yacht charter with ease.
The yachting community's most-asked questions, answered by our experts.
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast combines history, culture, and natural beauty with turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and lively harbors. The region is famous for the “Blue Voyage,” offering sheltered bays, gulets, and vibrant coastal towns.
April–October is the prime sailing season. June–September has hot weather and steady 8-15 knot breezes, while spring and autumn are cooler with fewer crowds. Winter sailing is not recommended due to unpredictable weather.
Yes, most companies require an ICC or RYA Day Skipper certificate. Enforcement may vary, but proof of sailing competence is expected. Beginners can book a skippered or fully crewed charter.
Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Göcek are the top charter hubs. All are well-connected via Bodrum and Dalaman airports, making access easy from Europe and beyond.
Enjoy Turkish meze platters, kebabs, gözleme, and baklava, often paired with rakı. Cultural highlights include Ottoman bazaars, Lycian tombs, Bodrum Castle, and lively markets in towns like Fethiye and Marmaris.
Yes. A transit log is required, listing ports of call. Customs clearance must be done at designated checkpoints. Some coastal zones and archaeological sites restrict anchoring to protect heritage.
Expect mostly calm mornings with winds strengthening in the afternoon to 10-20 knots. The Meltemi wind can blow strongly in July–August, especially in the Aegean. Most areas are beginner-friendly outside peak summer
Loggerhead turtles, dolphins, seabirds, and colorful marine life are common along the coast. Inland, you may encounter goats and diverse birdlife near forested anchorages.
Bareboat charters start from about €2,200/week, while luxury catamarans or fully crewed gulets can exceed €15,000/week depending on yacht type, size, and season.
Crossing between Turkey and Greek islands like Rhodes or Kos is a popular route, but it requires formal exit and entry procedures. You must clear customs in a Turkish port of entry before heading to a Greek port of entry. Ensure your charter company permits international travel, as additional paperwork and insurance coverage are necessary for cross-border sailing.
