Yacht Charters in Turkey

The Blue Voyage: Turkey's Legendary Sailing Experience

Turkey's Turquoise Coast invented the concept of the sailing vacation. The "Blue Voyage" tradition began in the 1920s when Turkish intellectuals chartered fishing boats to explore the pristine coastline. Today, the region offers some of the Mediterranean's best value chartering with exceptional natural beauty.

The Turquoise Coast

The Turkish Riviera stretches from Bodrum in the north to Antalya in the east, with the best sailing concentrated between Bodrum and Fethiye. Pine-forested mountains plunge into crystal-clear bays, ancient Lycian ruins dot the coastline, and traditional waterside restaurants serve fresh-caught fish.

Göcek and the Twelve Islands

Göcek, a purpose-built yachting town, serves as the premier charter base. The surrounding Twelve Islands (Oniki Adalar) offer perfect day-sailing with protected anchorages, excellent swimming, and waterside restaurants. The Gulf of Fethiye to the east features even more dramatic scenery, including the famous Butterfly Valley accessible only by sea.

Bodrum Peninsula

The Bodrum Peninsula combines ancient history with modern glamour. The ancient Mausoleum (one of the Seven Wonders) once stood here, and the Castle of St. Peter houses an excellent underwater archaeology museum. The peninsula's many bays offer varied sailing, and a night in Bodrum town provides excellent restaurants and nightlife.

Gulet Charters

Turkey is famous for the gulet – traditional wooden motor-sailors unique to this coast. A crewed gulet charter offers a unique experience: handcrafted boats, Turkish cuisine prepared on board, and a captain who knows every hidden bay. Gulets range from simple to ultra-luxurious, with prices reflecting the variety.

Value and Variety

Turkey offers exceptional value compared to other Mediterranean destinations. Marina fees are lower, provisioning is inexpensive, and the variety of charter options (bareboats, gulets, crewed yachts) suits every budget. The hospitality is legendary, and the combination of natural beauty, history, and value is unmatched.