Tips for Yacht Charter and Sailing Holidays in Turkey
Know much about sailing in Turkey? No? Then read on, because sailing the Turkish Riviera is something that’s gaining popularity. It’s becoming “a thing.” Sure, the Greek islands are amazing, and of course the British Virgin Islands are stunning, but sailing the Turkish Riviera will give you the best of all worlds: rich culture, spectacular views, amazing food, and a super laid-back vibe. Here’s a little glossary of places, names, and words you’ll read and hear when learning about sailing through Turkey.
Sailing the Lycian Coast
First and foremost, if you want to know anything about sailing in Turkey, it’s this name. The Lycian Coast lines the Aegean edge of southwestern Turkey and makes up much of the Turkish Riviera. This stretch of rugged cliffs and maritime cities and villages is named for the Lycians who lived here during the time of the Trojan War. (It’s not to be confused with the Lycian Way, a 540km (336 mi), 29-day waymarked historic coastal hiking trail.)
Yacht Charter from Bodrum
Many sailing expeditions along the Lycian Coast start in Bodrum, a city built on the site of the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus. Bodrum used to be a quiet fishing village until the middle of the 20th century when intellectuals began moving here and made it a coveted destination for those in the cultural know. In the decades since, the city (with a population of just 136,000) has become one of the jewels of the eastern Mediterranean, attracting vacationing Turks and Europeans alike in search of a stunning seaside retreat. Don’t leave this place without taking time to wander its veritable warren of alleys and lanes.
Sailing from Marmaris
Marmaris is another stunner of a city you can’t miss when sailing the Turkish Riviera. For much of the year, it’s another tiny fishing village (with a population of about 30,000). But during high-season, it transforms into a serious destination for Mediterranean party-goers with a nightlife to rival that of any of Europe’s coastal hotspots. Marmaris is said to resemble northern Europe’s fjords, yet these cliffs drop off to the gorgeous turquoise Aegean.
Turquoise
It’s the perfect time to remind you that the word “turquoise” quite literally comes from the French word for Turkish. Originally used to refer to the stone found throughout the country, “turquoise” is a word that will come to mind a lot when you’re sailing these bright blue waters. Yes, the word exists because of this place.
The Lycian Tombs
The Lycian Tombs are some of the most famous buildings carved out of rock in the entire world. These small Doric temples are cut out into sheer rock cliffs in the countryside around the Turkish town of Dalyan. According to belief, the Lycian dead would be ferried to the afterworld by winged sirens, so the tombs could be built into perilous locations like these. A definite must-see for you and your camera of choice.
Raki
Nearly all cultures have their iconic drink, and for the Turkish Riviera, it’s raki – a boozy, anise-flavoured aperitif that’s usually served with seafood or other Turkish dishes. This is the Turkish version of ouzo, pastis or sambuca. As you raise your glass, remember to wish your friends “serife” (“cheers”).
Yacht Charter from Fethiye & Gocek
Enjoy a relaxed sailing holiday in the Gulf of Fethiye with short passages and protected anchorages.
The Gulf of Fethiye is a yachtsman’s paradise with so many sheltered anchorages, coves and islands with crystal clear water and protected coves for a tranquil night on anchor. The Gulf of Fethiye is a stunning setting for a relaxed sailing holiday in an unspoilt area, with pine covered fjord-like anchorages with names such as Four Fathom Bay, Ruin Bay, Wall Bay and Tomb Bay, evidence of an ancient Lycian civilization.
Start your yacht charter from Fethiye or Göcek, both easily reached from Dalaman airport. Fethiye is a friendly harbour town with waterfront boulevard and pedestrianised town centre lined with tavernas and shops selling everything from carpets to spices. Göcek is a yachting centre but has lost none of its authentic Turkish charm.
This sailing holiday is perfect for families with children. The crystal clear water in sheltered coves makes swimming and snorkelling a true delight.
Yacht Charter Enquiries for Turkey
We have a yacht to suit all tastes and budgets within our pool of yacht charter fleets.
To find out more, contact us via phone,