Planning a yacht charter for more than 12 guests presents a unique challenge. In most of the Mediterranean, international maritime law strictly limits charter yachts to a maximum of 12 passengers. This often forces large groups to charter two separate vessels, which complicates logistics and divides the group.
Turkey is the definitive exception. The country has a world-class fleet of commercially registered luxury gulets and superyachts legally built to host 16, 18, or even more guests in complete comfort and safety. As brokers, this is where we direct clients looking for a seamless large-group charter experience.
Why Turkey is the Smart Choice for Your Group of 12+
Arranging a holiday for a large family or corporate event often means compromise. You book separate hotel wings or, worse, charter two yachts. This splits the group and undermines the shared experience.
In Turkey, this problem does not exist. The country's maritime laws are uniquely suited for larger groups, making it the premier destination for a unified luxury holiday on the water. This is a significant advantage over other Mediterranean hotspots.
The Turkish Maritime Advantage
The solution lies in how yachts are classified and registered. Most luxury yachts worldwide are registered as private vessels, legally capped at 12 passengers. To carry more, a yacht must meet the rigorous standards of a commercial passenger ship.
Turkey’s centuries-old shipbuilding tradition, particularly with its iconic gulets, means many vessels are built from the keel up as commercial passenger vessels. They are designed from day one to meet the stringent safety and operational standards required for carrying more than 12 guests.
We recommend a single-yacht charter for larger groups for several key reasons:
A Unified Experience: Everyone stays on one magnificent yacht. You share every meal, sunset, and memory together, strengthening group cohesion.
Simplified Logistics: You manage one booking, one itinerary, and one set of preferences. This eliminates the complexity of coordinating two separate vessels and crews.
Greater Value: Chartering one large gulet or superyacht is almost always more cost-effective than chartering two smaller ones.
A Turkish yacht charter for 12+ guests is not a rare exception; it is a well-established specialty. The fleet is extensive, the crews are experts in managing larger groups, and the coastline from Bodrum to the Göcek bays is perfectly suited for it.
The Premier Destination for Large Group Charters
If you are planning a yacht charter for more than 12 people, you will find most top destinations are legally off-limits. This is not about yacht size; it is a strict regulatory line. International maritime law classifies any vessel carrying over 12 passengers as a "passenger ship," triggering a much stricter set of safety and construction regulations.
This is precisely why groups often end up on two yachts. It is a workable but inefficient solution that splits the party.
Turkey, however, operates under a framework that supports its traditional shipbuilding. Its fleet of luxury gulets and motor yachts is built under a commercial registration that legally allows them to host larger groups on a single vessel. We recommend this approach because it streamlines everything and creates a far better shared experience.
A Coastline Built for Grand Vessels
The Turkish coastline is ideal for larger yachts. The Turquoise Coast offers deep, protected anchorages and an endless supply of secluded bays. You can drop anchor in complete privacy, even in high season.
The cruising grounds are vast and varied, from the vibrant Bodrum peninsula to the tranquil islands around Göcek.
The infrastructure is world-class. Marinas in hubs like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye are equipped to handle superyachts with ease. International airports are just a short drive away, ensuring a seamless journey from arrival to departure.
Turkey's Strategic Market Position
Turkey’s ability to cater to large groups gives it a decisive advantage. The country commands a significant share of the Eastern Mediterranean’s luxury yachting industry. This is driven by the incredible value and unique experiences on offer, especially for Turkish yacht charters for 12+ guests.
Favourable VAT rules for foreign-flagged yachts often make pricing more competitive than in many EU destinations. You can find more details on Mediterranean charter market dynamics and Turkey's key role here.
Turkey's unique legal framework allows it to serve a market that other Mediterranean countries simply cannot. This has established it as the undisputed leader for large family reunions, corporate events, and milestone celebrations at sea.
At the heart of this is the Turkish gulet. These handcrafted wooden vessels offer an incredible amount of space, stability, and sprawling decks that are unmatched by modern motor yachts of a similar length. A gulet charter in Turkey provides an authentic maritime heritage experience combined with five-star service and modern luxuries.
Choosing the Right Yacht for Your Group
The yacht you choose is the heart of your holiday. For a Turkish charter with 12 or more guests, this decision dictates the atmosphere and rhythm of your trip. Turkey offers three excellent options, each delivering a distinct experience.
Luxury Gulets: The Authentic Turkish Experience
A luxury gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden motor sailer, reimagined for high-end comfort. These are stable, exceptionally spacious vessels built by master craftsmen in yards around Bodrum and Fethiye.
We recommend gulets for large families or groups seeking a relaxed, authentic cruise. Their main advantage is sheer volume. Expansive, single-level decks provide enormous space for dining, sunbathing, and socializing, keeping the group connected without feeling crowded. A gulet charter moves at a leisurely pace, focused on savoring the journey in secluded bays.
Motor Yachts: Speed, Style, and Modernity
For groups who want a more dynamic itinerary, a modern motor yacht is an excellent choice. The key benefit is speed. A motor yacht can cover more ground, opening up a wider range of destinations between Bodrum and Göcek in a single week.
These yachts feature sleek designs, the latest technology, and a wide array of modern water toys. They are a great fit for active groups who want to mix quiet anchorages with evenings exploring coastal towns like Marmaris or Kaş. They offer sophisticated interior lounges and smart, multi-level outdoor areas.
Superyachts: The Pinnacle of Onboard Luxury
Superyachts represent the absolute peak of the charter experience. They are floating five-star resorts offering unmatched service, space, and amenities. For groups of 12 or more, Turkish-flagged superyachts present an opportunity rarely found elsewhere.
Onboard, you can expect a private cinema, a fully equipped gym, a wellness spa, and an extensive collection of water toys. The crew-to-guest ratio is extremely high, ensuring seamless, professional service. A superyacht is the ultimate platform for milestone celebrations or for any group demanding the highest standards of luxury and privacy.
Yacht Type Comparison for 12+ Guests in Turkey
Yacht Type
Best For
Cruising Style
Typical Weekly Rate (EUR)
Luxury Gulet
Large families, relaxed groups, authentic experiences
Slow-paced, focused on relaxation and scenery
€25,000 – €90,000+
Motor Yacht
Active groups, itinerary-focused explorers, modern luxury
Fast-paced, covering more distance, mixing relaxation with town visits
€40,000 – €150,000+
Superyacht
Milestone events, corporate charters, ultimate privacy and service
Completely bespoke, from high-speed cruising to leisurely anchoring
€150,000 – €500,000+
Our Broker Insight: The choice between a gulet and a motor yacht depends on your group's holiday philosophy. Do you want to slowly absorb the scenery, or do you prefer to actively visit a wider range of destinations? Both offer incredible luxury, but the rhythm of the week is fundamentally different.
Consider these three factors:
Pace: Gulets offer a slow, immersive journey. Motor yachts provide speed for seeing more.
Atmosphere: Gulets feel traditional and grounded. Motor yachts are modern and dynamic.
Space: Gulets have huge, open decks for socializing. Superyachts offer multi-level privacy and vast interiors.
The right yacht is the one that fits your group's priorities.
Understanding Charter Costs and Your APA
A clear budget is the first step to a relaxing charter. Yacht charter costs in Turkey are straightforward. They consist of two parts: the base charter fee and the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA).
The base charter fee covers the hire of the yacht and its professional crew for your trip. It is your private floating hotel with a dedicated team. It does not cover variable running costs like fuel, food, and port fees. That is what the APA is for.
Your vacation style—be it relaxation, exploration, or ultimate luxury—guides your choice of yacht, which is the largest factor in the base charter fee.
Demystifying the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA)
The APA is the standard system for handling onboard expenses. We recommend this system because it is transparent and fair. It is essentially a slush fund you provide to the captain to use on your behalf.
The APA is usually calculated as a percentage of the base fee. For a Turkish yacht charter for 12+ guests, this is typically 30% to 40%. You pay this with your final charter payment before you board.
The APA covers all variable expenses:
Food and Beverages: All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol, based on your preferences.
Fuel: For the yacht, generators, and motorized water toys.
Port and Marina Fees: Berthing fees in marinas like Bodrum or Göcek.
Communications: Extra satellite internet or phone usage.
Special Requests: Sourcing flowers, organizing a party, or bringing in a DJ.
How the APA Works in Practice
The captain acts as your holiday's temporary accountant. They use the APA fund to purchase all provisions based on your detailed preference sheet. Throughout the charter, the captain maintains a fully itemized account of every expense, complete with receipts.
This system makes your charter truly bespoke. If your group prefers fresh lobster and fine Turkish wines, the APA will reflect that. If you prefer simple barbecues and local beer, that is what the fund will be used for. You only pay for what you use.
You can request an APA balance update from the captain at any time. At the end of your charter, the captain presents the final accounts. If money is left over, it is refunded to you in cash. If you go over, you settle the difference. It is a clean, fair system.
Crafting the Perfect Itinerary for a Large Group
A great charter balances exploration with downtime. The itinerary should keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed. Turkey's best cruising grounds for larger groups are concentrated in two classic regions. We have designed a sample week-long itinerary for each.
Sample Itinerary 1: The Classic Carian Coast
This is the quintessential Turkish yachting route. You start in Bodrum and explore the Gulf of Gökova, a region known for its pristine turquoise bays, pine-covered hills, and quiet fishing villages. We recommend this route for multi-generational families or groups seeking a mix of peaceful anchorages and charming towns.
A Week in the Gulf of Gökova:
Day 1: Board in Bodrum. Enjoy a welcome dinner with the Crusader castle as your backdrop.
Day 2: Cruise to Orak Island for swimming in crystal-clear water. Continue to the village of Çökertme for a dinner of fresh, local fish.
Day 3: Navigate the Seven Islands archipelago, a snorkeler's paradise. Anchor for the night in the incredibly sheltered English Harbour.
Day 4: Visit Sedir Island to see Cleopatra’s Beach. Anchor in Karacasöğüt, a small village with easy access to Marmaris for an optional trip.
Day 5: Cruise to the lush bay of Löngöz. Spend the afternoon swimming in Tuzla Bay before a tranquil dinner prepared by your chef.
Day 6: Enjoy a final full day of swimming and water sports in the beautiful bays of Kargılı and Kisebükü.
Day 7: A leisurely breakfast cruise back to Bodrum before disembarkation.
Sample Itinerary 2: The Lycian Explorer
For more adventurous groups, we recommend the Lycian Explorer route. This journey starts from Göcek or Fethiye and navigates the dramatic coastline toward Kaş and Kalkan. It is a trip through ancient history, with sunken cities and rock tombs. This route is perfect for active groups keen on exploring ruins and accessing top diving spots.
Broker's Tip: The Lycian coast has a much higher density of historical sites accessible directly from the sea. If your group includes any history buffs or avid divers, this itinerary is a guaranteed winner.
A Week Along the Lycian Coast:
Board in Göcek: Settle into your yacht in one of the world's most beautiful natural harbors.
Ölüdeniz & Gemiler Island: Cruise to the famous Ölüdeniz lagoon before anchoring at Gemiler Island. Hike among Byzantine ruins as the sun sets.
Kalkan & Kaputaş Beach: Head to the chic town of Kalkan. Stop for a swim at the stunning Kaputaş Beach on the way.
Kaş & Sunken City of Kekova: Explore the charming harbor town of Kaş, a scuba diving hub. Cruise over the protected Sunken City of Kekova.
Simena Castle & Tersane Bay: Hike up to the Crusader castle at Simena (Kaleköy) for incredible panoramic views. Anchor in the calm waters of Tersane Bay.
Butterfly Valley & Fethiye: Visit the spectacular Butterfly Valley. Spend your final night in a secluded bay near Fethiye.
Disembark in Fethiye: Enjoy one last breakfast before disembarking, with easy connections to Dalaman Airport.
These are starting points. We work with you and your captain to tailor every day to your group's preferences.
The Booking Process and Key Considerations
Booking the right yacht for a large group in Turkey is all about timing. The best vessels are in high demand and book up quickly.
We recommend clients start their search 9 to 12 months in advance, especially for charters in July and August. Planning this early gives you access to the entire fleet before the best options are secured.
Your Booking Timeline
Working with an experienced broker simplifies the process. We handle every detail, ensuring a seamless and secure transaction.
Initial Consultation: We discuss your group's size, dates, budget, and ideal holiday style.
Yacht Selection: We provide a curated list of suitable yachts with full specifications, crew profiles, and recent photos.
Contract and Payments: Once you choose a yacht, we secure it with a standard industry contract, typically a MYBA agreement. Payment is split: 50% is due upon signing, and the final 50% plus the APA is due one month before your charter.
The Key to a Bespoke Experience: The Preference Sheet
About a month before your charter, we send you a detailed preference sheet. This document is crucial for personalizing your trip. It is your direct line to the crew.
This is not just a food questionnaire. It covers every guest's dietary needs, allergies, favorite drinks, special celebrations, and preferred daily rhythm. The more detail you provide, the more tailored your experience will be.
The preference sheet allows your chef to stock the galley perfectly and helps the captain plan an itinerary that aligns with your interests. This attention to detail enables the crew to deliver true five-star service throughout your Turkish yacht charter for 12+ guests.
Your Turkish Charter Questions, Answered
As brokers, we address the same key questions from nearly every group. Here are some straight answers to help you plan with confidence.
When Is the Best Time to Charter a Yacht in Turkey?
The Turkish charter season runs from May through October.
We recommend the shoulder months of June and September for the best balance of excellent weather and fewer crowds. The sea is warm, the sun is out, and popular bays are much quieter.
July and August are the hottest and busiest months. They offer a vibrant atmosphere in towns like Bodrum and Göcek, but it is essential to book far in advance.
What Kind of Crew Can We Expect on a Luxury Gulet?
The crews on Turkish luxury gulets are known for their exceptional hospitality and local knowledge. For a gulet accommodating 12 or more guests, the professional crew typically includes:
A Captain: An experienced mariner responsible for navigation, safety, and overall yacht management.
A Professional Chef: A culinary expert who designs menus based on your preferences.
Deckhands: They manage the yacht’s exterior, mooring, and water toys.
A Steward or Stewardess: Your contact for interior service and housekeeping.
This team works together to deliver professional and genuinely warm five-star service.
Are Turkish Yacht Charters Safe for Families with Children?
Absolutely. Safety is the top priority. Every commercially registered yacht in our fleet meets strict international and Turkish maritime safety standards. Crews are highly trained in safety drills and first aid.
We also help you select a yacht that is well-suited for children, with features like safety netting, age-appropriate water toys, and a crew experienced in hosting young guests.
Can We Customise the Menu for Our Group?
Yes, the menu is 100% customisable. This is a cornerstone of a private charter.
You will fill out a detailed preference sheet covering every guest's dietary needs, allergies, and preferences. Your chef uses this to provision the yacht and create daily menus that everyone will enjoy. Every dish is made just for your group.
Planning a group charter requires expertise. Our deep knowledge of the Turkish coast and its fleet allows us to find the perfect yacht for your party of 12 or more. We manage the details so you can focus on the experience. Explore our fleet and start planning your charter today.
