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Turkey Luxury Yacht Charter
Turkey’s yacht charter industry is thriving, offering some of the best-value yachts in the Mediterranean. It’s a top choice for larger groups, as Turkey allows charters for over 12 people—rare in the Mediterranean. Perfect for events, corporate trips, or big family gatherings.
Types of Yacht Charters in Turkey
Are you looking for a classic gulet, a sailing yacht, a motor yacht, a Superyacht, a yacht for 12-24 guests, or a luxury yacht with a Jacuzzi, Jet ski, and Scuba Gear? We’ve got it!
Market Trends
A steady market growth expected to continue
The Turkey Yacht Charter Industry has been growing steadily for many years, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% from 2024 to 2030. This positive trend is partly due to governmental efforts to make the country more charter-friendly in terms of cost and infrastructure.
Growing demand for larger, more luxurious yachts
Turkey is seeing an increasing demand for larger yachts above 50 feet. People are spending more on high-end vacations and valuing luxury amenities, longer charters, and unique charter activities and events. (6Wresearch).
Turkey increases the VAT on Turkish-flagged charter vessels by 2%
In July 2023, Turkey increased its VAT rate for yacht charters from 18% to 20%, while the reduced VAT rate of 8% has increased to 10%. This is part of broader economic measures aimed at stabilizing and developing the country’s economy (Ocean Independence) (VATcalc).
Stable tourism despite global political conflicts
By maintaining friendly ties with both Russia and the US, Turkey ensures a stable environment that supports continued tourism. This approach helps protect Turkey’s economic interests and sustains its appeal as a secure and attractive location for international visitors. (Al Jazeera), (Council on Foreign Relations)
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4 Popular Charter Routes in Turkey that can be done within a 1-week Charter
The central hub for yacht charters in Turkey is found on the southwest coast between Bodrum and Fethiye, also known as the Turquoise Coast or the Turkish Riviera.
Whether you want a sailing yacht, motor yacht, or a larger luxury yacht, you will find it here. Those who wish to have a more traditional Turkish experience might consider Gulet yacht charters.
The most popular starting points for yacht charters are Bodrum, Marmaris, and Gocek Marina. Here, you are well-placed to explore one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful cruising grounds.
Thanks to the archipelago, you are in protected waters, shielded against stronger wind. The conditions are truly ideal for a proper sailing vacation!
Turkey Yacht Itinerary – Explore Turkey in 6 Days
Read MoreThe scenery along these routes is consistently stunning, with a green, mountainous coastline and incredible historical sites dotting the coast. Two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are found in this area: The ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus.
Other highlights to include in a Turkey yacht charter are the famous rock tombs of Antalya and the popular Oludeniz beach, also known as the Blue Lagoon, located not far from Fethyie.
There are also options to include hot spots in the nearby Greek islands, such as Symi, Kos, and Rhodes, which is home to a third of the Wonders of the Ancient World: the Colossus of Rhodes.
However, if you decide to move into Greek territory on your Turkey yacht charter, there are a few things to keep in mind: There is an increase in the APA + you will not be able to go there with a group exceeding 12 people, due to Greece’s limitations on big group charters. Consult with us for more info.
When is the Best time for a Yacht Charter in Turkey?
The charter season in Turkey is quite long and spans the summer months, from May to October.
This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for sailing, with warm temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F), clear skies, gentle breezes, and long daylight hours. These conditions are ideal for cruising along the Turkish coast and exploring the islands.
Luxury Yacht charters in Turkey are a unique experience due to the Meltemi wind, which blows through the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea from the Northwest to West-Northwest on the open water and follows the coastlines closer to shore.
In the summer, the average wind speed is 10-15 knots, and sometimes, the guests can have a thrilling experience with 25-30 knots in the peak season. After the peak season, meltemi is generally weaker.
We recommend large, crewed yachts such as a motor yacht, a sailing yacht, or the more classic Gulet charters to give you the best experience in the Meltemi winds.
That said, while summer is the most popular time for yacht charters in Turkey, the spring and early autumn months can also offer pleasant weather conditions, fewer crowds, AND discounted charter prices, making them attractive alternatives for those seeking a quieter sailing experience.
Consult with one of our experienced charter brokers to get the best experience for your Luxury yacht charter in Turkey.
Best Charter Destinations in Turkey
Oludeniz Beach (Blue Lagoon)
Fethiye is a picturesque town located on the southwest coast of Turkey. The majestic rock tombs that once stood on the site of ancient Telmessos may still be seen carved into the towering cliffs of Fathiye.
15 kilometers south of Fethiye, is the town of Olüdeniz, which is known for its turquoise-protected blue lagoon, white sand beach, and National Park forest land best explored using a luxury motor yacht.
Although it is well known for its beauty and might get crowded in the summer, when you travel by superyacht during your sailing vacation, you are likely to find an unexplored cove.
If you’re determined to find peace on land, hop across the hill to the abandoned settlement of Kayaköy (Karmylassos), which gained fame in Louis Des Bernières’ book Birds Without Wings.
Don’t Miss☝
- Blue Lagoon: a stunning bay with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches
- Butterfly Valley: a nature reserve with a diverse ecosystem and a waterfall
- Saklikent Gorge: a natural wonder with high cliffs and a river flowing through it
- Ancient ruins: Fethiye is home to several ancient ruins, including the Lycian Rock Tombs and the Roman Theater
Gocek
Göcek is a charming town located in the Gulf of Fethiye on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey.
Göcek is known for its modern marinas, which are popular among luxury yacht charters, with proximity to many secluded coves and bays. Some of the popular marinas in Göcek are D-Marin Göcek, Göcek Village Port, and Skopea Marina.
Göcek is located in an area surrounded by pine forests and hills, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The Göcek Yacht Club is situated in the middle of the pine forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and sea.
Don’t Miss☝
- Twelve Islands: a group of small islands with crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches
- Dalyan: a town on the Dalyan River known for its mud baths and ancient ruins
- Water sports: Göcek is a popular destination for sailing and offers many opportunities for water sports, including windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding
Bodrum (Historic Wonders)
Bodrum is a popular destination for luxury yacht charters in Turkey for its lively nightlife and beaches with Club Catamaran, and Marina Yacht Club.
Besides, The town was once known as Halicarnassus and was home to the famous Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Today, Bodrum is home to several historic landmarks and museums, including the Castle of St. Peter, which now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Luxury private boat rental (motor yacht charter) will allow you to discover these historical landmarks on the turquoise coast of Turkey.
Don’t Miss☝
- Castle of St. Peter: a medieval castle that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Mausoleum of Halicarnassus: one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- Bodrum Marina: a modern marina with upscale restaurants, cafes, and shops
- Water sports: Bodrum offers a variety of water sports, including diving, snorkeling, and parasailing
Antalya
Antalya has a rich history, with well-preserved ancient ruins, including the Roman Theater and Perge, an ancient city with impressive ruins of a stadium, a theatre, and a bathhouse.
In addition to its historical sites, Antalya is known for its beautiful beaches, including Lara Beach and Konyaalti Beach, which are best explored by luxury gulet charters or motor yacht charters. You can also explore the Düden Waterfalls, a series of cascading waterfalls on the Düden River.
Antalya is also home to many upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a bustling bazaar where visitors can find traditional Turkish goods, including rugs, ceramics, and jewelry.
Don’t Miss☝
- Perge: an ancient city with well-preserved ruins, including a theatre and a stadium
- Hadrian’s Gate: a well-preserved Roman gate that dates back to the 2nd century
- Düden Waterfalls: a series of waterfalls on the Düden River
Kekova Island (The Sunken City)
Kas and Kekova are two neighboring destinations on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey that are popular among luxury yacht charters.
Kekova Island and Myra offer a unique luxury experience for a yacht charter in Turkey, where they can enjoy swimming in the clear waters while exploring the remains of the Lycian civilization.
While snorkeling or diving, visitors can observe sarcophagi, ancient tombs, and archways, which are submerged underwater. This is a truly standout experience of any Turkish Riviera trip, as the sunken city is a sight to behold.
Don’t Miss☝
- Lycian Way: a long-distance hiking trail that passes through Kas and offers stunning views of the coastline
- Antiphellos Ancient City: an ancient Lycian city with well-preserved ruins, including a theatre and a temple
- Sunken City of Simena: a partially submerged ancient city with well-preserved ruins that can be seen from the water or by snorkeling
- Üçağız: a small fishing village with traditional houses and a scenic harbor
- Glass-Bottomed Boat Tours: Kekova is known for its glass-bottomed boat tours that offer a unique view of the sunken city and the surrounding marine life.
Our Recommended 6-Day Charter Itinerary in Turkey
A Luxury yacht charter in Turkey is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! This awesome itinerary takes you to famous island regions like Gocek, Fethiye, Gemiler, Kalkan, Kekova, Myra, and Kas for an extraordinary luxury private yacht charter vacation in Turkey!
Over the years, we have built up personal relationships with yacht crew in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, on different size vessels. This has given us not only a unique insight into chartering itineraries for the best secret anchorages, best beaches, local bars, snorkeling hotspots, and beautiful sunset locations but also the expertise to match you with your perfect crew and yacht for your Turkey Yacht Charter.
How do I Book a Yacht Charter in Turkey?
Booking with us is easy and can be done in 5 simple steps – Just check out our video where Charter Broker Martina Asmus explains the easy process. The most important thing to consider is booking in good time.
Ideally, you’d inquire about a Turkey yacht charter 12 months in advance. WHY? The best yachts are often fully booked long in advance and it’s not unusual to see popular dates booked 2 summers ahead.
Inquiring less than 6 months ahead often means that your first choice is unavailable for charter. Additionally, you might find that the yacht you wish to charter, can’t make it to the port where you wish to commence your yacht charter.
WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS SAY?
Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a straightforward booking process, highlighting the excellence of their luxury yacht charter experiences in Turkey.
We have a Background in Sailing and are continuously involved with Yachting Events around the World
At DMA Yachting, we are proud to have a team of individuals who not only work in the yachting industry but also live it. Many of our brokers have extensive experience with yachts, either working onboard charter yachts or even living onboard, sailing purely for fun, in everything from bay races to circumnavigations.
Our team’s firsthand experience is crucial—it means we’ve been in the shoes of both the crew and the clients. We understand the nuances of life at sea, which drastically differs from life on land.
Understanding how yachts operate also allows our brokers to ask the right questions and spot the finest details during yacht inspections. This inside knowledge ensures that we know precisely what to look for, whether it’s gauging the quality of the onboard amenities or evaluating the professionalism of the crew.
Our brokers aren’t just checking boxes; they’re assessing how each element contributes to the sublime experience our clients expect.
We were at the recent TYBA Yacht Charter Show 2024 in Gocek
Participation in yacht shows is fundamental to our approach. By engaging directly with crews and industry professionals at yachts show like TYBA, EMMYS and MEDYS, where our presence was notably strong this year, we exchange ideas, gather insights, and forge great connections. These interactions are invaluable as they allow us to refine our understanding of market trends and client expectations continuously.
This year’s yacht shows have been particularly inspiring, showcasing more and larger yachts, each maintaining exceptionally high standards of service. Our team returned with notebooks brimming with new knowledge, ready to apply these fresh insights to benefit our future clients.
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BONUS: Things You Must Try on Your Turkey Yacht Charter
Turkish Tea Ceremony
Turkish tea is a symbol of hospitality and is typically served in tulip-shaped glasses to enhance its aroma and flavor.
This ceremony is not just about drinking tea but also about slowing down and enjoying the moment, often accompanied by delightful sweets like baklava or lokum (Turkish delight).
Explore Local Markets and Bazaars
A visit to a local bazaar is an experience that should not be missed. These traditional markets will give you a real look into Turkish culture.
It’s an experience for all senses—smelling the spices, the hot apple tea, and the shishas, all the colors of the fabrics, lamps, and other nicknacks, the glitter of the jewelry and precious stones, the constant chatter of people bargaining and salesmen calling out good deals, and the tastes of the many delicacies laid out in huge piles—Turkish delights, dried fruits, nuts, and honey-dripping baklava.
Don’t miss the Marmaris Grand Bazaar, open daily with a wide assortment of spices, sweets, and handcrafted goods, and the historic Kaleiçi Market in the Old Town of Antalya, which offers a scenic shopping experience with a variety of handicrafts and local foods.
Taste Authentic Dishes and Street Food
Meze: Lots of small dishes meant to be shared, often starting a meal. Common meze include dolma (stuffed vine leaves), haydari (thick yogurt dip), and acılı ezme (spicy tomato dip).
Kebab: Turkish kebabs come in many varieties, including Adana (spicy minced meat), Şiş (skewered meats), and Döner (rotating roast).
Seafood: Given its extensive coastline, Turkey offers a rich selection of seafood dishes, especially in coastal towns where fish and other seafood are freshly caught.
Simit: Often referred to as Turkish bagels, simit is a sesame-encrusted bread that is crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Gözleme: This is a traditional savory flatbread and pastry dish made of hand-rolled dough that is lightly brushed with butter and eggs, filled with various toppings, folded, and cooked over a griddle.
Dondurma: Turkish ice cream is notable for its chewy texture and the theatrical way it is served by vendors.
Visit a Hamam
A visit to a traditional Turkish bath, or hamam, is a great experience for relaxation and cultural immersion. These baths involve a sequence of rooms that you progress through.
You start in a warm steam room and move to a hot room for sweating, followed by a scrub down and massage, and finally, a cooldown period.
It’s a rejuvenating ritual that cleanses both body and mind.
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