The Al Mirqab is more than a superyacht; she is a benchmark for ultimate luxury. For us as brokers, she represents a level of bespoke design and service that clients often use to describe their dream charter. While this iconic vessel is strictly private, she serves as the perfect starting point for defining your ideal yacht charter in Turkey.
Understanding the Al Mirqab Standard
Al Mirqab is not available for charter. Our goal is not to find her, but to translate her spirit into a real, bookable experience for you in the stunning waters of Turkey. We use her as a case study to deconstruct greatness—from engineering to service—so we can recommend a yacht that delivers that same feeling of uncompromising quality.
This guide explains how we apply these world-class standards to the Turkish charter market, ensuring you find an exceptional yacht for your holiday.
A Monument of Modern Shipbuilding
Al Mirqab is a masterpiece of European shipbuilding. Delivered in 2008 by Peters Schiffbau in Germany, the 133-metre motor yacht set a new standard for private vessels. Her launch came during a boom in superyacht construction, as German and Dutch shipyards were producing some of the largest and most complex yachts ever built. You can learn more about the history and specifications of the iconic Al Mirqab yacht here.
What Defines Her Stature
To grasp her scale, you must look at the numbers:
Length Overall: A commanding 133 metres (436 feet).
Design Pedigree: Exterior by Tim Heywood; interiors by Andrew Winch Designs.
Build Cost: Estimated between $250–$300 million at launch.
Operational Scale: Annual running costs are estimated at $15–$25 million.
We use these figures to provide context. They illustrate the immense commitment behind such a vessel and highlight the incredible value and practicality of chartering. You get a similar level of luxury without the complexities of ownership. This knowledge helps us guide you to a charter in Turkey that delivers on the promise of quality and unforgettable memories.
A Broker’s View on World-Class Yacht Design
A superyacht’s true quality is revealed in its design and layout. The Al Mirqab yacht, with interiors by the legendary Andrew Winch Designs, is a masterclass in creating functional, beautiful spaces. Her layout features distinct zones for socialising, relaxation, and family time. This concept of "zoning" is essential for a successful charter, especially with larger groups. It ensures guests can enjoy time together without feeling crowded.
When we inspect a potential charter yacht in Turkey, we analyse how well its layout achieves this balance. We recommend clients consider the flow of a yacht’s decks just as much as its amenities. A well-designed yacht feels intuitive and effortless to live on, making every moment of your holiday better.
Key Amenities That Define an Elite Charter
When matching clients with a top-tier yacht, we focus on features that genuinely elevate the experience. The amenities on Al Mirqab serve as a benchmark. Here’s what we look for when finding a comparable charter for you in Turkey:
Superb Water Access: A large beach club or stern swimming platform is non-negotiable for enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Turkish coast.
Versatile Deck Spaces: We recommend yachts with multiple outdoor areas. A sundeck with a Jacuzzi, a shaded aft deck for dining, and a private bow area for sunbathing provide the perfect spot for any time of day.
Wellness and Entertainment: A dedicated cinema, a well-equipped gym, or spa facilities can transform a great holiday. These are excellent features, especially on longer charters.
Flawless Interior Craftsmanship: The quality of the materials says it all. A yacht’s interior should feel refined, comfortable, and elegant—like a floating home.
By focusing on these defining features, we can find you a gulet charter in Turkey or a modern motor yacht from a Bodrum yacht charter base that captures the true essence of this elite lifestyle.
The Reality of Running a Superyacht
Understanding the operational side of a vessel like Al Mirqab is key to appreciating why a well-managed charter is the smart choice. A yacht of this scale requires a crew of 50-60 highly-trained professionals just to operate safely and maintain its seven-star standard.
The True Cost of Ownership
The purchase price is just the beginning. The annual running cost, estimated at $15 million to $25 million, is the real commitment. This budget covers a long list of non-stop expenses:
Maintenance and Refits: Constant servicing and multi-million-dollar refits are required to keep the yacht in class.
Insurance: Comprehensive policies easily run into the millions each year.
Dockage Fees: Mooring a 133-metre yacht in a prime marina costs thousands per night.
Provisioning: Sourcing specific foods and wines is a global logistical challenge.
At this level, ownership is about managing a massive, floating enterprise.
Why Chartering Is the Smarter Alternative
This is where the charter model proves its worth. A professionally managed charter yacht in Turkey delivers the same calibre of luxury, privacy, and service you would expect on Al Mirqab—without any of the operational headaches.
When you book a charter, you step into a perfectly tuned ecosystem. The owner has already handled the crew, maintenance, and legal compliance. Our role as your broker is to manage everything behind the scenes, ensuring your experience is completely seamless.
Instead of worrying about crew contracts or engine servicing, your only job is to relax. If you want a rare vintage of wine while anchored in the secluded Göcek bays, the crew simply makes it happen. You don't see the effort, just the result. This is the invisible, high-level service that defines an elite charter.
Can You Charter the Al Mirqab Yacht?
Let's address the most common question we hear. The short answer is no. The Al Mirqab yacht is a strictly private vessel and is not available for charter.
As professional brokers, we believe in being direct about this. It manages expectations and allows us to focus on what is possible. The distinction between a private and a commercial (charter) yacht is a serious legal one, involving different registrations, insurance, and safety codes. A private yacht is run solely for its owner, while a commercial yacht is certified to carry paying guests.
This isn't a dead end. It’s the starting point for a conversation about what you truly desire from a charter experience.
Defining the "Spirit of Al Mirqab"
When clients ask to charter Al Mirqab, they are asking for what she represents: ultimate space, flawless service, incredible amenities, and a commanding presence.
Our job is to find you the "spirit of Al Mirqab" within the Turkish charter fleet. We use our deep, firsthand knowledge of the available yachts to find vessels that capture that same feeling of world-class luxury. As brokers, we don't just find you a yacht; we find you the right experience. We listen to the desire behind your inquiry and translate it into a tangible, bookable charter that will exceed your expectations.
The good news is that the Turkish coast is home to a superb selection of charter yachts that deliver on this promise. From massive modern motor yachts to the new generation of ultra-luxurious gulets, the options are outstanding. Rather than fixating on an unavailable yacht, we shift our focus to what is possible.
This is the advantage of working with a specialist brokerage. We provide solutions. The 'spirit of Al Mirqab' is very much alive in the charter world—you just need to know where to look.
Finding Your Al Mirqab Experience in Turkey
Since Al Mirqab is private, our mission is to create an experience that captures her spirit. This is where our specialist knowledge of the Turkish charter market becomes your greatest asset. We provide thoughtful, reasoned recommendations based on your specific vision.
This infographic summarises the Al Mirqab yacht's charter status.
As the data shows, she is 100% private. This reinforces the need to find a superb alternative.
For Lovers of Modern Grandeur
If you admire Al Mirqab's modern features, we recommend the large, contemporary motor yachts available in Turkey. Many come from esteemed Northern European shipyards known for exceptional build quality. These yachts offer comparable luxury, with features such as:
Expansive Beach Clubs: Your private gateway to the sea, equipped with water toys.
Dedicated Wellness Centres: Onboard gyms, massage rooms, and saunas.
Private Cinemas: Perfect for evening entertainment.
We recommend this yacht type for clients who prioritise speed and modern comforts. They are ideal for itineraries covering more ground, moving swiftly between destinations like Bodrum and the Datça Peninsula. A Bodrum yacht charter is an excellent starting point for such a journey.
For an Authentic Turkish Experience
For a luxurious and authentically Turkish experience, we strongly recommend a new-generation high-end gulet. These are sophisticated, custom-built vessels combining timeless craftsmanship with modern superyacht comforts. A luxury gulet charter in Turkey offers a different kind of magic. Their wide beams create exceptionally spacious deck areas, perfect for lounging and alfresco dining.
We recommend a modern luxury gulet because it provides the best of both worlds: the romance of a traditional vessel with the amenities and service of a contemporary motor yacht. It is a uniquely Turkish experience. Their shallow draft also allows access to secluded coves that larger motor yachts cannot reach, ensuring unparalleled privacy.
Comparing Charter Yacht Types In Turkey
Yacht Type
Best For
Typical Size
Key Features
Modern Superyacht
Speed, modern amenities, resort-style luxury.
50m – 90m+
Beach club, gym, cinema, zero-speed stabilisers.
Luxury Gulet
Authentic experience, relaxation, accessing secluded bays.
30m – 50m+
Expansive deck space, intimate connection to the sea.
Tailoring the Itinerary to Your Style
The itinerary brings the experience to life. Our advice connects your desires to the perfect route.
For Total Privacy: We recommend a Bodrum yacht charter itinerary focusing on the Gulf of Gökova. This area is famous for its deep, pine-clad fjords and secluded anchorages.
For Tranquil Bays: We suggest an itinerary starting in Göcek. The Göcek bays are a protected paradise with calm waters and short cruising distances.
Our role is to listen, advise, and execute flawlessly. We find a charter yacht and create an itinerary in Turkey that delivers that same feeling of awe and unforgettable luxury.
Why the Right Broker Makes All the Difference
Booking a luxury yacht charter requires specialist expertise. Our job is to understand what you want from your time on the water, then match that vision with the right yacht, crew, and itinerary on the Turkish coast.
Insider Knowledge You Can't Google
The Turkish charter market runs on relationships. We tap into our network to access the best yachts, often before they are publicly listed. This is about quality control. We are constantly on the docks, from Bodrum to Göcek, inspecting yachts and meeting crews. When we recommend a yacht, we do so with total confidence.
We know which chef excels at Aegean cuisine or which captain finds the most deserted anchorages. That is the detail that elevates a holiday.
From Complex Negotiations to a Flawless Holiday
As your broker, we handle all the complex details behind the scenes:
Charter Agreements: We negotiate the MYBA contract to protect your interests.
Preference Planning: We create a detailed brief for the crew covering everything from dietary needs to your ideal daily schedule.
Financial Management: We handle the secure transfer of all funds with full transparency.
Logistical Coordination: We arrange VIP transfers and any special on-board requests.
We are the project managers for your holiday. We solve problems before they reach you, leaving you free to relax. The right partnership ensures your charter is a perfectly crafted journey.
Contact our specialists. Let’s start the conversation about your next Turkish charter.
Your Charter Questions, Answered
Here is some straightforward advice on common questions about the Turkish market.
What Does a Superyacht Charter in Turkey Actually Cost?
Rates vary depending on the yacht's size, age, and builder. A modern motor yacht comparable to the Al Mirqab standard typically starts around €300,000 and can exceed €1,000,000 per week, plus expenses.
For a luxurious and authentic Turkish experience, a new-generation gulet is an excellent choice. These typically range from €50,000 to €150,000 per week and offer incredible value. We provide a clear cost breakdown for any yacht we recommend.
When Is the Best Time to Charter a Yacht in Turkey?
The main season runs from May to October. For the perfect mix of warm weather and fewer crowds, we always recommend June or September. July and August are the peak months—hottest, busiest, and with a vibrant social scene.
How Far in Advance Should I Book?
Simple: book early. For the best yachts, we strongly advise booking 6 to 12 months ahead. This is essential for peak season travel in July and August. Booking well in advance allows us to secure your first-choice yacht and build the perfect itinerary without compromise.
Contact us, and let's start planning your Turkish yacht charter.
