When clients ask us for an exceptional yachting experience on the Turkish coast, one name consistently comes up: San Lorenzo. A San Lorenzo isn’t just a yacht; it’s a private, floating villa. It unlocks Turkey’s most exclusive destinations with a level of Italian style and performance few other brands can match.
Why Charter a San Lorenzo Yacht in Turkey?
As brokers who live and breathe the Turkish market, we know what separates a good charter from a great one. It is the perfect mix of the right yacht, a brilliant crew, and an itinerary that unlocks the coastline's magic. A San Lorenzo charter in Turkey delivers on all three.
Unlike the more traditional gulet charter Turkey is famous for, a modern motor yacht like a San Lorenzo brings speed, stability, and contemporary luxury. This combination is ideal for exploring the cruising grounds between Bodrum and Göcek. You can cover more ground in total comfort, moving from a secluded cove to a buzzing port town in a fraction of the time.
The Broker's Perspective on San Lorenzo
We recommend San Lorenzo for practical reasons that make a real difference to our clients’ holidays. Their design philosophy is about creating yachts that feel less like boats and more like sophisticated homes on the water.
This comes down to a few key factors:
Timeless Italian Design: San Lorenzo avoids flashy trends. The focus is on understated elegance, with interiors flooded with natural light, premium materials, and smart layouts.
Superior Seakeeping: These yachts are built to perform. Advanced stabilization systems reduce roll, creating a smooth, comfortable ride. This is a game-changer for guests new to yachting.
Unmatched Versatility: Whether you want a fast-paced week on a Bodrum yacht charter or a quiet escape into the tranquil Göcek bays, there’s a San Lorenzo model that fits perfectly.
Think of chartering a San Lorenzo as checking into a five-star boutique hotel that moves with you. It’s your high-end base for exploring the beauty of the Turkish coast, from ancient ruins to chic beach clubs.
This guide provides a genuine broker’s perspective. We will walk you through the key models available for charter, what to expect from the onboard experience, and sample itineraries built around a San Lorenzo’s capabilities.
Consider this your insider’s brief for a flawless holiday on the Turkish Riviera. Our aim is to give you the clarity you need to make the right choice.
Understanding the San Lorenzo Pedigree
What makes a San Lorenzo stand out? It comes down to two things: timeless Italian design and semi-custom build quality. These are not mass-produced boats; each one showcases 'Made in Italy' craftsmanship. The focus is on understated elegance and how the yacht feels at sea.
For a charterer, this translates into a better experience. The yachts are quiet, stable, and designed for genuine living. They are a perfect platform for exploring the Turquoise Coast. To help you choose, let's break down the key model lines available for charter in Turkey.
Our job is to match the yacht to your style of holiday. This obsession with quality and owner-focused design has made San Lorenzo a powerhouse. The numbers back it up; in the first half of 2025, Europe remained its biggest market, pulling in €267.1 million in new yacht revenues. That’s a 15.4% jump year-on-year. You can dive into the full San Lorenzo financial update if you want the details.
The Classic SL Line for Speed and Style
We recommend the SL line for clients who want to pack as much as possible into their week. These are planing yachts, built to move with speed and agility. They never sacrifice comfort.
The SL line makes a dynamic itinerary effortless. Imagine leaving Bodrum after breakfast, having lunch in a deserted cove, and then cruising to a vibrant town for sunset cocktails. Their sleek, sporty lines turn heads in every marina. The interiors are bright, with open-plan saloons and comfortable cabins.
The Spacious SD Line for Comfort and Range
For charterers who prioritize space and comfort over speed, we recommend the SD line. These are semi-displacement yachts, built for long-range cruising in absolute comfort.
Think of them as your floating luxury villa. An SD model offers far more interior volume than an SL of the same length. They feature multiple decks, huge master suites, and a wonderfully smooth ride.
We find the SD models are perfect for multi-generational families or groups seeking pure relaxation. Their exceptional stability and quiet operation make for a restful journey through the calm waters of the Göcek bays.
The SD line is also more fuel-efficient. This means you can explore remote anchorages without frequent fuel stops, opening up Turkey's hidden gems.
The Innovative SX Crossover for Ultimate Water Access
The SX line is a game-changer and a model we're excited about for the Turkish charter market. It merges the best of a flybridge yacht with the open stern of an explorer vessel.
The result is an enormous, free-flowing beach club area that creates an incredible connection to the sea. The back of the yacht opens into a huge terrace right at water level. It is perfect for launching toys or just relaxing.
Unmatched Beach Club: The main saloon flows seamlessly to the deck and down to the stern, creating one huge social space.
Versatile Layout: The design offers dedicated areas for sunbathing, dining, and watersports in one cohesive zone.
Modern Aesthetic: With their distinctive profiles, the SX yachts feel fresh and modern, suited for a fun-loving group.
We recommend the San Lorenzo yacht SX line for clients who truly want to live on the water. If your days will be filled with swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying Turkey’s incredible marine environment, this is the definitive choice.
The San Lorenzo Onboard Experience
When you step aboard a San Lorenzo, you enter a world of seamless service. On a vessel of this quality, the crew is as important as the hardware. They make a great holiday truly effortless.
The crews we work with in Turkey are exceptional. They have a deep knowledge of the Turquoise Coast, knowing which secluded cove will be quietest or where to find the clearest water. Their service is proactive. Your favourite drink appears before you ask, and the water toys are ready when you are.
Daily Life on a San Lorenzo Charter
Life aboard a San Lorenzo yacht quickly settles into a blissful rhythm. Mornings often start with a fresh breakfast on the aft deck. The day is yours to enjoy. Spend it using the yacht's high-tech water toys or relaxing on the sundeck.
Amenities are state-of-the-art. You’ll find excellent Wi-Fi, sophisticated sound systems, and often comfortable cinema rooms. The chef is central to the experience, creating bespoke menus with fresh, local Turkish ingredients.
The flowchart below helps you think about which San Lorenzo model line best fits your charter style.
As you can see, the right choice depends on how you picture spending your time on the water.
Understanding Your Charter Costs
We believe in total transparency. It is important to understand how charter fees are structured. The price has two parts: the base charter fee and the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA).
Base Charter Fee: This covers the hire of the yacht and the crew for your trip. It is a fixed cost agreed upon in your contract.
Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA): This is a separate fund for all variable expenses. Think of it as a transparent expense account managed by the captain.
The APA pays for fuel, food and beverages, marina fees, and any other special requests.
For charters in Turkey, we recommend an APA of 30-35% of the base charter fee. This is a realistic figure that covers a week of active cruising and excellent dining without surprises.
The captain keeps a detailed tally of all expenditures, which you can review anytime. At the end of your charter, you get a full accounting, and any unspent funds are returned to you. It’s a fair system that ensures you only pay for what you use.
Ideal Cruising Grounds in Turkey
A San Lorenzo yacht unlocks the best of the Turkish coast. Its speed and comfort let you experience the region’s diversity in a single week. We can say with confidence that two hubs stand out for a San Lorenzo holiday: Bodrum and Göcek.
The choice comes down to your preferred holiday style. We recommend Bodrum as the dynamic, cosmopolitan option. It is perfect for mixing ancient history with vibrant nightlife. Göcek, on the other hand, is the heart of tranquility. It is a sailor’s paradise and the gateway to serene, sheltered bays.
Bodrum: The Chic and Historic Gateway
We recommend a Bodrum yacht charter for clients who want energy and variety. The Bodrum Peninsula is a microcosm of modern Turkey. Explore the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in the morning and anchor off a world-class beach club in Türkbükü by afternoon. The area is buzzy and stylish.
From its world-class marina, a San Lorenzo gives you access to two cruising areas:
The Northern Peninsula: Home to glamorous towns like Türkbükü and Yalıkavak, known for high-end restaurants and shopping.
The Gulf of Gökova: A vast, protected bay to the south, famous for deep blue waters and pine-clad hills.
The performance of a San Lorenzo SL or SX model is a perfect match for this region. You have the speed to cover the ground between these zones, creating a varied itinerary without feeling rushed.
Göcek: The Capital of Serenity
For those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, we always point them toward Göcek. This area is arguably the finest cruising ground in Turkey. It is the entry point to the famous ‘12 Islands’ archipelago and Fethiye Bay.
Here, the focus is less on towns and more on nature. The experience is about discovering pristine coves. Days are spent swimming in turquoise water, having lunch at a secluded waterfront restaurant, and anchoring in complete peace.
Göcek is where the comfort of a San Lorenzo SD line comes into its own. We recommend this line because its stability, volume, and quiet operation provide the perfect platform for a week of pure relaxation in these calm, sheltered waters.
Delivering these premium experiences is what the brand is built on. This is reflected in its strong financial performance. Sanlorenzo reported net revenues from new yacht sales of €930.4 million in 2024, a 10.7% increase. You can read more about Sanlorenzo's record financial results for 2024 to understand their market position.
Ultimately, both Bodrum and Göcek offer world-class charter experiences. Our job is to listen to your vision and match you with the right destination and the specific San Lorenzo yacht.
A Sample Seven-Day Göcek Itinerary
To give you a taste of a San Lorenzo yacht charter, we've sketched out a sample itinerary from Göcek. This is a journey we have crafted from years of sailing these waters. It shows how a charter comes to life based on real knowledge of the Turkish coastline.
This route is a perfect match for the comfortable cruising style of a San Lorenzo SD or SX model. They glide between anchorages smoothly. The stability and space these yachts offer make them ideal for a week of relaxation in the Göcek bays.
Day 1: Arrival in Göcek and Tersane Island
Your charter begins in the chic marina of Göcek. Once settled, it’s a short cruise to Tersane Island. Its main bay is sheltered with clear water.
We recommend this as a first stop. Why? It instantly drops you into the quiet rhythm of the region. Enjoy an afternoon swim, then let your chef prepare dinner on deck.
Day 2: Tomb Bay and Cleopatra's Bath
After breakfast, your yacht will head to Tomb Bay, also known as Bedri Rahmi Koyu. The bay is named for a fish motif painted on a rock by Turkish artist Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu in 1974.
Later, it is a short hop to Cleopatra’s Bath (Hamam Koyu). Here, you swim over submerged ancient ruins. A San Lorenzo’s agility means your captain can find the perfect spot for you to explore.
A San Lorenzo's speed means you spend less time travelling and more time being there. The journey between these iconic bays becomes part of the experience, giving you more hours to swim, use water toys, or relax.
Day 3: Kapi Creek and Gemiler Island
Today you’ll head towards the outer reaches of Fethiye Bay. Kapi Creek is a stunning, fjord-like inlet. We recommend lunch at the charming, family-run restaurant accessible only by boat.
Later, your captain will navigate to Gemiler Island. Take the tender ashore before sunset and walk up through the Byzantine ruins. The panoramic view from the top is unforgettable.
Day 4: Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley
Today includes a visit to the famous lagoon of Ölüdeniz. The beauty of a private yacht is avoiding the crowds on the beach. Your captain will anchor offshore, giving you a perfect, private view.
Next, you'll cruise to Butterfly Valley, a dramatic canyon reachable only from the sea. It’s a protected nature reserve. This stop shows the freedom a yacht gives you, opening up natural wonders that are otherwise out of reach.
How to Book Your San Lorenzo Charter
Booking your dream San Lorenzo yacht in Turkey is simple when you work with professionals. As your broker, we guide you through every detail, from your first call until you’re back on shore.
If there’s one piece of advice we give every client, it’s this: book early. The demand for high-quality yachts like San Lorenzo always outweighs the supply on the Turkish coast.
When to Book for the Best Selection
Timing is everything. To secure the best yachts with the most professional crews, you need to plan ahead.
For Peak Season (July & August): We recommend confirming your booking 6 to 9 months in advance. This is when the top-tier yachts with stellar reputations get reserved.
For Shoulder Season (June & September): For these fantastic months, booking 4 to 6 months ahead is smart. The best San Lorenzo models are always the first to go.
Demand for these yachts is intense. Sanlorenzo's order books are full through 2024–2025, with a backlog hitting around €1.44–€1.7 billion. This competition trickles down to the charter market, making early planning essential. You can get more insight into Sanlorenzo's strong market performance on YachtBuyer.
The Value of a Professional Broker
Working with an experienced broker isn’t an extra cost—it’s insurance for a seamless holiday. We bring deep market knowledge, diligent vetting, and on-the-ground support.
Our commitment is to total transparency and your satisfaction. We vet every yacht and crew, manage all contracts securely, and act as your single point of contact. We are here to ensure your holiday is memorable for the right reasons.
Here’s how we work:
Personal Consultation: It starts with a conversation. We learn about your group, your cruising style, and your ideal day.
Curated Yacht Selection: We present a hand-picked shortlist of vetted San Lorenzo yachts, giving honest advice on each.
Flawless Administration: We handle charter agreements, negotiations, and secure management of your funds.
Bespoke Itinerary Planning: We work with you and the captain to build a custom itinerary that hits all your points of interest.
Continuous Support: From booking until you’re home, we're on call. Your job is to relax; ours is to handle the rest.
A Few Common Questions
We get asked the same questions by clients planning their first San Lorenzo charter in Turkey. Here are straightforward answers.
When Is the Best Time to Charter in Turkey?
For the perfect balance of sun, warm seas, and quiet anchorages, we recommend the shoulder seasons: June and September. The weather is fantastic, but the crowds are thinner than in July and August. You get a better choice of yachts and can enjoy popular spots with more privacy.
Are San Lorenzo Yachts Good for Families?
Yes, absolutely. We find San Lorenzo yachts are a brilliant choice for families. The SD and SX lines with their huge beach clubs offer easy water access. They are stable, spacious platforms that give kids a safe and exciting home base. The crews we work with are pros at looking after multi-generational groups.
The real beauty of a private charter is that nothing is set in stone. Think of our sample itinerary as a suggestion. We work with you and the captain to build a route around what you love—be it ancient ruins, secluded bays, or lively towns.
How Does the Charter Pricing Work?
It is simpler than you might think.
The Base Charter Fee: This fixed cost covers the yacht and its professional crew for the week.
The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA): This separate fund, usually 30-35% of the base fee, covers your running costs—fuel, food, drinks, and port fees.
The captain manages the APA for you and keeps a running tally of all expenses. At the end of the trip, you get a full breakdown, and any unspent money is refunded to you. No surprises, no hidden fees.
At DMA Yachting, we don’t just book yachts; we build entire charter experiences. Our local knowledge and rigorous vetting process mean every detail is sorted, leaving you free to enjoy an unforgettable holiday on the Turkish coast.
See our handpicked collection of charter yachts and start planning your trip at https://myturkishcharter.com.
