Turkey Sailing Guide 2025

Planning a sailing vacation in Turkey in 2025? This guide offers up-to-date tips and insights for yachties heading to the Turquoise Coast this year. We’ll cover the sailing season and weather, Turkey’s main cruising regions (Aegean and Mediterranean coasts), key regulations (like transit logs and the “Blue Card” waste system), typical costs (and how Turkey compares to other Med destinations), plus must-see anchorages and even the option of a traditional gulet cruise. Read on for a comprehensive, sailor-friendly overview to help you cruise the Turkish coast safely and enjoyably in 2025.

Sailing Season & Weather in Turkey

One significant advantage of Turkey is its long sailing season, generally from late April through October.

• May–June & September: Warm (mid-20s °C), moderate breezes, fewer crowds — the sweet spot for easy cruising.

• July–August: Hot (35 °C+), busiest, and the Meltemi blows NW 15–25 kn most afternoons (30 kn in Bodrum/Datça). Sail mornings, anchor early.

• October: Pleasant low-20s °C, light winds with the odd shower or thunderstorm.

Keep an eye on forecasts in spring/fall; rare southerly gales can swing through. Bottom line: Aim for May-June or September for comfort, enjoy July-August if you love strong breeze, and shoulder months for quieter seas.

Top Sailing Destinations in Turkey

Turkey's extensive coastline, where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean, offers some of the world's most breathtaking and historically rich sailing grounds. From ancient ruins accessible only by sea to vibrant towns and secluded, turquoise coves, a Turkish sailing vacation is an unforgettable adventure.

1. The Aegean Coast

Stretching from İzmir to the Bodrum Peninsula, Turkey's Aegean coast is a sailor's paradise of island-dotted seas, deep inlets, and a perfect blend of ancient history and modern luxury.

Main Hub: Bodrum

Bodrum is the undisputed heart of Aegean sailing. This stunning city, with its iconic 15th-century Castle of St. Peter and whitewashed houses cascading down to a bustling harbor, is the perfect starting point. The castle itself houses the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology, a must-visit before you even set sail. By night, the town comes alive with its famous nightlife and bazaar.

Key Sailing Areas from Bodrum

From Bodrum, you can explore in several directions, with each route offering unique charms.

• The Gulf of Gökova: A deep, protected gulf known for its pine-clad shores and crystal-clear water.

  • Sedir Island (Cleopatra’s Island): Famous for its unique, powder-soft sand, legend says it was brought from Egypt for Cleopatra. The stunning beach and nearby ruins make it a highlight.
     

• The Datça Peninsula & Knidos: A rugged, mountainous peninsula that separates the Aegean and Mediterranean seas.

  • Knidos: An absolute must-see. The ruins of this ancient Greek city are scattered around a spectacular twin harbor. You can anchor and swim amongst 2,500-year-old mole ruins as the sun sets over the crumbling temples.

  • Datça Town: A charming and authentic town known for its honey, olives, and relaxed atmosphere.

• The Northern Peninsula (Yalikavak & Turgutreis): These towns offer modern, world-class marinas and serve as alternative bases. The nearby islands provide excellent destinations for day sails and short trips.

Sailing Conditions on the Aegean: Expect short hops between anchorages. The Meltemi wind can be strong here in the summer, especially in the afternoon, providing exciting sailing conditions (be prepared to reef!). The wind also means that even in high season, you can always find a quiet cove to yourself.

2. The Mediterranean Coast (Turquoise Coast from Marmaris to Antalya)

East of Bodrum, the Aegean gives way to the Mediterranean. Known as the Turquoise Coast for its incredibly vivid blue-green waters, this region is defined by dramatic cliffs, pine forests that tumble down to the sea, and ancient Lycian history at every turn.

Main Hubs: Marmaris, Fethiye & Göcek

While Marmaris is a major, bustling yachting center, the real jewels of this coast are found around Fethiye and Göcek. Göcek is a chic, upscale town built almost exclusively for sailors, while Fethiye is a larger, vibrant town with Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs above. This entire area is a protected environmental zone, ensuring its pristine nature.

Highlights of the Gulf of Fethiye

This vast, protected bay is a world-class cruising ground with countless postcard-perfect anchorages.

• Ölüdeniz (The Blue Lagoon): One of Turkey's most famous images. While boats anchor just outside, the view of the sandbar and turquoise lagoon is iconic.

• Butterfly Valley: A breathtaking canyon with near-vertical cliffs, accessible only by boat. It's named for the hundreds of species of butterflies found here.

The Historic Lycian Coast: Kaş & Kekova

Sailing south from Fethiye takes you along the heart of the ancient Lycian civilization.

• The Kekova Region: A strictly protected area and the crown jewel of the Turquoise Coast. Here you can sail directly over the partially submerged ruins of a sunken Lycian city.

• Kaleköy (Simena): A magical, car-free village accessible only by boat. A medieval castle sits atop the hill, offering panoramic views. The waterfront is lined with simple, charming restaurants.

• Kaş: A bohemian and charming town with cobbled streets, great restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. It's also a renowned center for scuba diving.

Sailing Conditions on the Turquoise Coast: The winds are generally gentler here than in the Aegean. A typical summer day brings calm mornings, followed by a reliable afternoon sea breeze of 10-20 knots—perfect for a leisurely sail to your next anchorage. The sailing is mostly line-of-sight, making it ideal for families and less experienced skippers. While some popular spots attract day-tripper boats, they depart by late afternoon, leaving the stunning bays peaceful for those staying the night.

Charter Regulations & Anchoring Rules in Turkey

When sailing in Turkey, there are a few formalities and rules to be aware of – but don’t worry, these are straightforward and any reputable charter company will assist you:

What documents do I need to charter and sail a yacht?

You will need two main things: a permit for the boat and a license for the skipper.

Transit Log (Cruising Permit): Every yacht in Turkey requires a Transit Log. Your charter company will arrange this for you during check-in. You just need to provide your crew's passports. The fee is typically around €60–€100 and is often part of a "starter pack" that also includes essentials like bed linen, towels, and final cleaning.

Sailing License: To skipper a bareboat yacht, you must have a valid sailing license, such as an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent national certification. A VHF operator’s license is also usually required. If you don't have a qualified skipper, you can easily hire a professional local skipper who can also act as a fantastic guide.

Can I visit the Greek islands during my charter from Turkey?

While possible, it requires special arrangements. You must discuss this with your charter company in advance, as not all boats are permitted to enter international waters. Visiting Greece involves additional customs procedures and fees. For most one-week charters, sailors find it more practical and rewarding to focus exclusively on exploring the rich Turkish coastline.

What is the "Blue Card" system for waste disposal?

The "Blue Card" is a crucial part of Turkey's environmental protection program, especially along the coast from Bodrum to Fethiye.

What it is: A digital card that tracks your yacht's black water (toilet) pump-outs.

The Rule: It is strictly prohibited to discharge black water or any other pollutant into the sea. You must use designated pump-out facilities.

How it works: Your charter company will provide the boat with its Blue Card. You are required to empty your holding tanks every few days at a marina or a dedicated pump-out boat. Each pump-out is logged on the card. Authorities may perform spot checks, and fines for non-compliance are hefty.

Tip: Pump out your tanks before leaving your charter base and plan a mid-week stop at a marina to do it again. Facilities are common, and the fee is modest (around €30).

What are the rules for anchoring and mooring in bays?

Turkey offers fantastic freedom for anchoring, but there are some key practices to know.

Anchoring: In most coves and bays, anchoring is free and unrestricted. The seabed holding is generally good (sand or mud).

Stern-to-Shore Mooring: A very common technique in tight coves is to drop your bow anchor and then run a long stern line to a rock or tree on the shore. This secures the boat from swinging and allows more vessels to share the beautiful anchorage safely.

Mooring Buoys: In some protected areas, particularly around Göcek, you will find state-installed mooring buoys. If these are present, you should use them instead of dropping your anchor to protect the delicate seagrass on the seabed. Park rangers may collect a small fee for their use.

When entering a town harbor or marina, you will usually be guided in by marina staff (marineros) who will help you with the lines for a "Med mooring" (stern-to the quay). A wonderful Turkish custom involves restaurant jetties:

Many waterfront restaurants have their own private docks. They will often wave you in and help you moor free of charge.

The unspoken agreement is that you will dine at their restaurant that evening. This is a fantastic "win-win" system: you get a secure berth for the night, and in return, you enjoy an authentic local meal. Just confirm the arrangement with a simple, "We’ll eat with you tonight?" to ensure a warm welcome.

Are there any specific navigation hazards I should know about?

While navigation is generally straightforward with line-of-sight sailing, it's wise to be aware of a few points.

Charts & Apps: Turkish charts are reliable, but using a modern cruising guide app (like Navionics or Navily) is highly recommended for identifying hazards and anchorages.

Key Areas: Pay close attention to the well-marked channel when approaching Fethiye Harbor to avoid shallow sandbanks. Also, the western approach to Kekova Sound has reefs; follow the marked channel around Kekova Island.

Buoyage System: Turkey uses the IALA-A system, where green buoys are kept to starboard when entering a harbor.

What is the etiquette for mooring in harbors or at restaurant jetties?

One final “regulation”: respect and courtesy. Turkish coast guard and officials are generally friendly and helpful to foreign yachts. Make sure you fly the Turkish courtesy flag and have your boat papers in order (again, your charter company handles that). Be polite if visited – they may ask to see your transit log or Blue Card. And do respect the local culture: Turkey is a secular but predominantly Muslim country, which doesn’t affect sailing much, but modest dress is expected if you tour mosques or villages inland, and blaring loud music in a quiet cove at midnight would be frowned upon (and is officially prohibited in some areas). Basically, sail responsibly, and you’ll find Turkey extremely welcoming to sailors.

Marina & Cruising Costs in Turkey (Compared to Europe)

One of the questions on any sailor’s mind: How expensive is it to sail in Turkey, and how do costs compare to other hotspots like Croatia, Greece, or Italy? The answer: Turkey can offer great value, especially for day-to-day expenses, but top-end marina fees have risen recently. Here’s a breakdown of what to budget in 2025:

Marina and Mooring Fees in Turkey

If you plan to spend nights in marinas, be aware that prices in Turkey are no longer the bargain they once were – in fact, some private marinas now rival Western Europe in cost. As of 2025, reports from local boat owners note that daily mooring fees in high-end Turkish marinas often start around 5,000 TL (≈€170) per night for a 12m yacht, not including electricity/water. This means a marina like Bodrum Milta, Marmaris Netsel, or Göcek D-Marin in peak season might charge on the order of €150 (or more) a night for a 40-footer, similar to a prime marina in Italy or the South of France. A Turkish yachting association spokesperson recently lamented that Turkey’s marina prices have become higher than even Monaco’s in some cases. The surge is partly due to high demand (an influx of foreign yachts, limited capacity) and inflation.

The good news is you don’t need to stay in marinas much in Turkey. With so many anchorages and town quays, a common strategy is to anchor out most nights (free), occasionally picking up a restaurant mooring (free with dinner, as mentioned), or using municipal docks, which are either free or charge only token fees. Many small harbors in Turkey are essentially run by the local municipality and cost very little, sometimes under €10 a night, or just the cost of water/electricity if you plug in. For example, in one local harbor, a 12 m boat might pay the equivalent of €10–€20 to Med-moor for the night (and often an official may never even come to collect a fee). This is a stark contrast to Croatia, where even a town quay can hit €80+. Bottom line: plan on minimal marina use, and you can keep mooring costs low.

Anchoring in Turkey

Free everywhere. Unlike some parts of Croatia or Italy, Turkey currently has no general anchoring fees. You can drop anchor in a beautiful bay and pay nothing, which is a joy for budget-conscious cruisers. Just ensure you’re not in a forbidden zone (few and clearly indicated) and that you respect any posted rules (some bays limit stays to 11 days max, mainly to prevent live-aboards from hogging the space, but this isn’t an issue for a charter itinerary).

Fuel in Turkey

Diesel in Turkey is moderately priced – not as cheap as, say, North Africa, but usually a bit lower than prices in the EU (partly due to favorable marine fuel tax policies). As of summer 2025, diesel is roughly 25–30 TL per liter (about €0.85–€1.00/L). Filling up a 200L tank might cost ~€170, which is similar to or slightly less than in Croatia. Many charter sailors won’t need to refuel during a one-week trip, especially if winds cooperate, but budget for a top-up if you motor a lot or have A/C and generator use on a crewed yacht.

Food Provisioning in Turkey

Grocery prices in Turkey are generally much lower than in Western Europe. Local produce is abundant and cheap – visiting a weekly market is both a cultural experience and a bargain hunter’s dream. For example, you might buy a kilogram of tomatoes or oranges for the equivalent of €1–€2, bread for a few cents, and a nice chunk of local cheese for a couple of euros. Even imported items (like that one box of Cornflakes the kids insist on) might be a bit cheaper than in Croatia. Most charter bases (Marmaris, Fethiye, Bodrum) have big supermarkets nearby. Stock up on heavy items (bottled water, drinks, canned goods) before departure, as small island shops or tiny village minimarts will have higher prices and limited selection – this is just due to transport costs and low volume, similar to any country. But you’ll likely find you want to buy fresh along the way: every town has a bakery, fruit stands, and fishermen selling the day’s catch.

Eating Out

Turkish cuisine is a highlight of any sailing trip – and it’s quite affordable. In a casual lokanta (tavern) or a seaside café, a filling meal might cost only 200–300 TL per person (around €7–€11). For instance, a plate of fresh grilled fish with salad might be €10–€15, a kebab €5–€8, and a large beer about €3–€4. Even at touristy spots, prices tend to be lower than their equivalents in Greece or Spain. High-end restaurants in big marinas or luxury resorts will charge more (you could pay €20–€30 for a main course at a fancy marina restaurant in Göcek or Bodrum). But overall, dining in Turkey is a great value and delicious. Don’t miss the chance to feast on meze (assorted appetizers), local seafood, hearty gözleme (stuffed flatbread) from a village lady, and of course, Turkish tea and baklava as an afternoon treat.

As mentioned earlier, many secluded bay restaurants entice sailors by offering free mooring if you eat at their place. This is common in spots like Bozukkale, Çatı Cove, Sarsala, etc. The food at these family-run spots is often excellent (simple, fresh, cooked to order) – think catch-of-the-day fish, lamb stews, meze spreads – and you’ll typically spend perhaps €15–€25 per person for a hearty dinner including drinks. Considering that doubles as your “mooring fee,” it’s fantastic value. Plus, you get an authentic experience and support local families.

How Does Turkey Compare to Other Sailing Hotspots?

In Croatia, a 12m yacht can easily spend €100+ per night in marinas and $0 on anchoring (if you find space), but dining out might be a bit pricier (€15–€25 per dish in mid-range restaurants). In Greece, mooring costs are famously low (often under €20), and Turkey’s municipal harbors are similarly cheap. Where Turkey shines is that nearly all of its cruising grounds allow anchoring and have those free/private jetties, so you can avoid marinas completely if you wish. Provisioning and fuel are cheaper than in Croatia and on par with or cheaper than in Greece. Charter prices (the cost to rent the boat) in Turkey are often a bit lower than in Croatia for similar boats, partly because Turkey is still growing as a charter market. And finally, many extras (transit log, final cleaning, etc.) are priced in local currency, which, due to exchange rates, often ends up as a good deal for foreign visitors.

In summary, Turkey can be as budget-friendly or as luxurious as you want. A crew looking to save money can anchor every night and cook onboard, spending very little beyond the boat rental and groceries. Those wanting full-service marina comfort and gourmet dining can find that too, at prices still generally below the glitzier parts of the Med. Most sailors will probably choose a balance: anchor in gorgeous bays most nights, splurge on a marina maybe once (to enjoy shore power/A.C. or a night out in town), and often dine ashore because the food is too good to miss. Either way, you’ll likely find your money goes further here than in the more crowded Western Med circuits.

Top Anchorages and Bays in Turkey

Insider picks from Boataround’s local partner and veteran sailing guide Oguzhan Erdogan.

Cleopatra’s Bath Bay (Göcek)

📍 N36°38.444' E28°51.294'

One of the most iconic coves in Göcek Bay, Cleopatra’s Bath Bay, stands out as a unique anchorage with both natural beauty and historical intrigue. Surrounded by pine forests and featuring turquoise, crystal-clear waters, it’s a true Mediterranean classic.

• Holding: The seabed consists mainly of sand, with patches of seagrass in some areas. Depths of 6–12 m are ideal for anchoring here. If you can drop an anchor over a sandy patch, your anchor will hold firm.

• Protection: The bay is well-protected from northerly and westerly winds. Especially if you anchor near the western shore, you’ll be sheltered from the light evening breezes that typically pick up after sunset. However, during strong southerly winds, the bay can be exposed to some swell and is best avoided in those conditions.

• Anchoring Tips: Longline mooring to the shore is a common practice in Göcek, and Cleopatra’s Bath Bay is ideal for it. Drop your anchor in 8–10 m of water and run a long line ashore, fastening it to sturdy pine trees or natural rock fixtures along the coastline. In the high summer season, especially in the afternoons, the bay fills up quickly with daily excursion boats and charter yachts. It’s advisable to arrive and anchor early in the morning to secure a good spot. By evening, most of the daily boats leave, creating a much quieter and peaceful setting for the night.

• Extra Info: Right along the shore lie the ruins of an ancient bath, partially submerged in the water. According to legend, Cleopatra herself once bathed here. You can snorkel to explore these remains or visit the small pebble beaches on the eastern side of the bay. There are no shops or restaurants available, but mobile market boats from Göcek occasionally pass through, offering fresh bread, fruit, and ice.

• Fees: As of the 2025 season, there’s no official fee for entering or anchoring in the bay. However, some areas managed by private operators may have mooring buoys available for a fee.

• Note: With new regulations introduced in the Göcek region, it’s forbidden to anchor within 100 m of designated swimming areas and to moor to the shore via longline farther than 40 m from the coastline. Be sure to respect these distances when dropping anchor and running your lines ashore.

Bozukkale Bay (Marmaris)

📍 N36°34.471' E28°00.671'

Located on the southwestern coast of Marmaris, facing the Greek island of Symi, Bozukkale Bay is one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems. It’s known for its historical ruins, crystal-clear waters, and a naturally sheltered harbor even in windy conditions. The bay gets its name from the partially ruined (or “broken”) ancient castle walls lining the shore. It’s a favorite spot for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and sea travellers alike.

• Holding: The seabed is mostly a mix of sand and rocks. Anchoring is possible at depths of 6–15 m. The anchor holds well on sandy patches, but take care if you drop it over rocky areas—always make sure your anchor is well set.

• Protection: Bozukkale offers excellent protection from southerly and westerly winds. Winds coming from the east might be felt further out, but they rarely reach deep into the bay. In summer, the typical Mediterranean afternoon westerly breeze (meltem) appears, yet the eastern side of the bay remains calm and sheltered.

• Anchoring Tips: The standard practice here is to drop the anchor in 8–12 m of water and run a longline to shore. Around the castle walls, you’ll find convenient rocks and trees to tie off your lines. The bay is quite popular during the summer season, so it’s wise to arrive before noon to secure a good spot. The area is particularly famous for its sunset views — climbing up to the ancient fortress to watch the sunset has become a ritual for those coming ashore from their boats.

• Extra Info: There are three small restaurants in the bay: Ali Baba, Sailor’s House, and Loryma. All offer small docks where you can tie up. In the evenings, they set up tables right on the docks, creating a memorable dining experience by candlelight over the water. The bay is also excellent for diving, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. If you wish to dock at one of the piers or use a restaurant’s mooring, it’s a good idea to contact them in advance.

• Fees: If you anchor with your gear and run a longline ashore, there’s no fee. However, if you use one of the restaurant docks, a dinner reservation is required, and mooring fees typically range from 500 to 700 TL per person for the 2025 summer season (usually the fee is offset by dining at the restaurant).

• Note: In the 2025 season, Turkey has tightened shore mooring regulations. In Bozukkale, it’s mandatory to anchor at least 100 m away from swimming areas and no more than 40–50 m from the shore when running a longline. At the restaurant docks, a mooring buoy system is used, and anchoring with your own anchor in those spots is not permitted.

Dirsek Bükü Bay (Bozburun)

📍 N36°41.098' E27°58.839'

One of the most famous and beloved coves of the Hisarönü Gulf, Dirsek Bükü is a secluded, peaceful bay surrounded by nature and accessible only by sea. With its deep blue, crystal-clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere — where the stars reflect on the water at night — it’s a favorite overnight anchorage for yacht owners and sailors.

• Holding: The seabed is a mix of sand and pebbles, and holding is excellent at depths of 6–12 m. Even in the shallows, the water is perfectly clear. It’s a common practice here to dive in with a mask and fins to check your anchor visually, given the inviting clarity of the water.

• Protection: The bay is well sheltered from southerly, easterly, and westerly winds. Strong southerlies rarely have any effect here. In summer, the afternoon meltem breeze may pick up slightly, but the waters inside the bay remain as calm as glass.

• Anchoring Tips: The ideal technique in Dirsek Bükü is to drop anchor in 7–10 m of water and run a longline ashore. Along the western side of the bay, you’ll find plenty of rocks or trees to tie your lines to. The bay can get crowded with daily excursion boats during the daytime. After sunset, however, those boats depart, and the cove transforms into a serene, magical scene under the stars.

• Extra Info: There’s only one restaurant in the bay: Dirsek Bükü Restaurant. It offers mooring via its dock and buoy system. The restaurant is famous for its fresh fish, calamari, and traditional mezes. Dining under the stars — often with a small bonfire by the shore — is a cherished experience here.

• Fees: Anchoring with your anchor and running a longline to shore is free of charge. If you choose to moor at the restaurant’s dock, a dinner reservation is required, and mooring fees range from 500 to 750 TL per person for the 2025 summer season. (Even those who wish to stop only for drinks are typically subject to a mooring fee.)

• Note: As of 2025, Turkey’s longline shore mooring regulations allow you to anchor no more than 50 m from the shore when tying a line to land. In Dirsek Bükü, this distance is easy to maintain due to the narrow inlet. Remember that at docks equipped with mooring buoys (like the restaurant’s), dropping your anchor is not permitted.

Bencik Bay (Hisarönü Gulf)

📍 N36°46.774' E28°02.560'

Bencik Bay lies at the innermost part of the Hisarönü Gulf, famous for its narrow inlet that resembles a river mouth. At the bay’s entrance, the two shores come so close that in the past, there was even a plan to dig a canal here to connect the two gulfs! As you enter, the bay opens into a wide, natural lagoon surrounded by pine forests, with glass-like calm water, especially in the mornings.

• Holding: The seabed is mostly a mix of sand and seagrass. Anchors hold well at depths of 5–10 m, but be careful to choose sandy spots away from seagrass beds to protect the marine environment and ensure a good set.

• Protection: The bay is completely sheltered from northerly and westerly winds. Light southerly or southeasterly breezes may cause a slight ripple on the water, but overall, Bencik remains very stable. It’s notably unaffected by the typical summer meltem winds thanks to its enclosed geography.

• Anchoring Tips: There’s plenty of space to anchor here. Drop anchor in 6–8 m of water and run a longline ashore. Along the eastern side of the bay, you’ll find rocks and trees suitable for tying up your lines. In the evening, this is an incredible spot to watch Hisarönü’s famous purple-toned sunset across the calm water.

• Extra Info: There are no restaurants or facilities in Bencik Bay — it’s completely unspoiled nature. This anchorage is ideal for those who enjoy the simple pleasure of camping aboard their boat: stargazing from the deck, a quiet swim at dawn, and waking up to absolute silence broken only by birdsong. In the early morning, you might encounter local fishermen passing by to offer fresh fish for sale straight from their catch.

• Fees: Anchoring with your anchor and long-lining to shore is entirely free of charge here. (There are no mooring buoys or paid facilities in this untouched bay.)

• Note: According to the 2025 Turkish coastal regulations, the maximum distance for longline mooring to shore is 50 m. This is easy to adhere to in Bencik Bay’s narrow inlet. Always respect the environment by avoiding anchoring on seagrass and keeping a safe distance from any marked swimming areas.

Gökkaya Bay (Kekova)

📍 N36°12.663' E29°53.480'

Gökkaya Bay is one of the most popular and largest bays in the Kekova region. Surrounded by rugged hills and natural rock formations, and known for its indented coastline, it’s a famous anchorage that can offer either tranquillity or festivity depending on where you moor. By day, you can find quiet corners for a peaceful stay, while by night, certain spots come alive with music and lights from gulets and cruisers. This bay is a regular stop for blue cruise yachts touring Kekova, offering a little something for every mood.

• Holding: The seabed is mostly sand intermixed with some seagrass. Anchor holding is very good at depths of 6–12 m. On the western side in particular, there are broad sandy patches where your anchor will set firmly.

• Protection: The bay is well protected from northerly and easterly winds. Its inner coves offer good shelter from southerly and westerly breezes as well. Generally, Gökkaya remains calm during the summer months, even when winds pick up outside.

• Anchoring Tips: It’s recommended to drop anchor in 6–10 m of water and preferably run a longline ashore for extra security. There are a few small restaurant jetties within the bay — if you reserve a spot, mooring in front of a restaurant is an option and can be convenient for going ashore. Notably, Gökkaya is home to the famous Smuggler’s Inn, a lively floating bar that becomes a nightlife hub after dark. If you’re looking for quiet, you can anchor farther away from the bar; if you’re in the mood to socialize, you might anchor closer and take the dinghy over for a unique night out.

• Extra Info: Gökkaya Bay is rich with things to explore. It’s famous for its ancient ruins and underwater caves along the coast. By day, you can paddleboard or take a dinghy to investigate these caves (one of them is often called the “Pirates Cave”). In the late afternoon, don’t miss the stunning Kekova sunset, with the sun dipping behind the rocky islands.

• Fees: Anchoring on your own in the free zones of the bay costs nothing. The restaurant docks, however, may charge mooring fees (usually waived or included if you dine with them). In 2025, most places require a dinner reservation for dock use, and fees can apply if you’re just stopping for the night (similar range as other bays, around 500–700 TL per person, typically offset by the meal). Longline mooring to shore, where allowed, remains free.

• Note: Under the new Turkish coastal safety regulations, anchoring within 100 m of designated swimming areas is prohibited. During the busy season, Gökkaya’s popular swimming zones and jetty areas are marked with buoys or signs — so stay alert and give them a wide berth. Also, remember the 50 m longline rule when tying to shore. Respect these rules and the environment, so we can all continue to enjoy Gökkaya’s beauty for years to come.

Gulet Cruises – The Turkish Blue Voyage

Sailing in Turkey wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the gulet experience. If you’ve been browsing dreamy Turkey sailing photos, you’ve likely seen these handsome wooden vessels gliding along the coast. A gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden yacht, typically 20–30 meters long, with a broad beam and two or three masts. Originally used for fishing and cargo decades ago, gulets have been refitted (or newly built) as comfortable cruising yachts, and they form the backbone of the famous “Blue Cruise” vacation in Turkey.

Why choose a gulet? Unlike bareboat chartering, where you sail yourself, a gulet cruise comes with a professional crew – usually a captain, a cook, and additional hands. It’s essentially a floating boutique hotel. Onboard, you’ll find spacious en-suite cabins, plenty of deck space with sun loungers, and a home-like salon. Many gulets are quite luxurious, even offering air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and water sports gear. The crew takes care of navigation, cooking authentic Turkish meals, and all the chores, so you just relax and enjoy the journey.

The gulet itinerary (Blue Voyage): Gulets typically follow similar routes that we’ve discussed – eg, Bodrum–Gökova, Marmaris–Fethiye, or Fethiye–Kaş – but at a leisurely pace with plenty of swim stops. The experience is tailored to relaxation and discovery. Imagine waking up in a quiet cove to the smell of coffee and a Turkish breakfast prepared for you, then spending the day cruising a short distance to the next bay, stopping to swim in azure water, maybe hopping ashore to see ruins or a village, then dining under the stars on deck. It’s no wonder this style of cruising is immensely popular in Turkey – for many visitors, a gulet trip is the vacation of a lifetime.

Cost-wise, gulet charters range widely – there are budget gulets and ultra-deluxe ones. But per person, if you fill the boat, it can be comparable to a luxury resort stay, considering it includes your accommodation, crew, and usually meals. For those not keen on doing the sailing themselves or who want to indulge in a bit of old-world maritime charm, a skippered gulet charter is absolutely worth it. It’s a unique blend of Turkish hospitality and yachting – handcrafted wooden decks, a chef grilling fresh fish on the stern BBQ, and a route flexible to your whims (since the crew will adjust to your interests – be it more swimming, more sailing, or more onshore exploring).

Tip: If interested in a gulet, you can find many options via Boataround’s platform – look for “crewed yacht” or “gulet”. Routes typically go from Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, or Antalya. And if you’re split between bareboat vs gulet for a group trip – consider that on a gulet, nobody has to be the responsible skipper; everyone gets to kick back.

Plan Your Turkish Sailing Adventure – Quick Itineraries

Not sure where to begin? Start with one of these bite-size, 7-day routes from the Boataround blog:

• Turquoise Turkey Loop – Fethiye – Easy hops around Göcek, Kekova and Kaş: sunken-city ruins, turquoise coves and laid-back harbor towns.

Final Tips

Plan—but stay flexible. Turkey’s best moments often come from an unplanned cove or a welcoming village taverna. Stock up on basics, taste the local markets, and follow eco-rules (pump-outs, no anchoring on seagrass). Respect the sea, and it will reward you.

Bring curiosity and a sense of adventure. From Aegean ruins to starlit gulet nights, the Turquoise Coast delivers magic at every turn. Hoşçakalın—fair winds for your 2025 voyage!