The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Chartering in Turkey (What You Need to Know)

A yacht charter in Turkey is not just another Mediterranean holiday. It is a fundamentally different experience. For clients who have sailed the well-trodden routes of the Western Mediterranean, the Turquoise Coast offers something more authentic and profoundly private. It is a place where serene natural beauty meets thousands of years of history, all delivered with world-class Turkish hospitality.

Unlike crowded destinations, Turkey’s coastline is a sprawling labyrinth of secluded bays and pine-clad coves, many reachable only by boat. This creates a sense of discovery that is increasingly rare. It is this blend of genuine seclusion, exceptional value, and ancient ruins lining pristine shores that makes it such a compelling choice for a charter. This is, after all, the global center of gulet building, giving you direct access to magnificent, expertly crewed vessels designed for this very coastline.

This guide explains how to select the right yacht and navigate the stunning waters between Bodrum and Göcek to ensure your charter is exceptional.

Why Choose a Yacht Charter in Turkey

For seasoned charter guests, Turkey presents a compelling and refreshingly distinct alternative to the usual Mediterranean circuit. The appeal is not just in the scenery, but in the unique character of the journey itself.

Our clients consistently report that the real magic lies in the sense of privacy and exploration. While other destinations can feel like a race for the last decent anchorage, the Turkish coastline is a vast tapestry of hidden coves. This allows for a charter that feels truly exclusive, where your yacht is often the only one in sight.

The industry has taken notice. Turkey’s yacht charter market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 13.7% between 2024 and 2030, significantly outpacing the global average.

The Gulet: A Uniquely Turkish Experience

One of the biggest draws is the gulet. These traditional, handcrafted wooden yachts are native to Turkey and embody its maritime soul. They are purpose-built for leisurely cruising along this specific coastline.

A gulet charter in Turkey is about embracing a slower, more immersive way to travel. Their expansive open decks are designed for long afternoons lounging and dining, while their comfortable interiors offer a cool retreat from the sun. We recommend gulets for families and groups who want to connect with the local culture and settle into a relaxed, unhurried pace.

Exceptional Value and World-Class Service

Another key factor is the outstanding value. A luxury yacht charter in Turkey often comes at a substantially lower cost than a comparable charter in other Mediterranean hotspots.

This is not about compromising on quality. In fact, Turkish crews are renowned for their professionalism and incredibly warm hospitality. The service culture here is deeply ingrained, ensuring every guest feels looked after from the moment they step aboard.

We find that the crew’s intuitive service and genuine warmth are often the most memorable aspects of our clients’ Turkish charters. They are not just staff; they are expert hosts and knowledgeable local guides who elevate the entire experience.

A Rich Cultural Backdrop

Your entire voyage is set against a backdrop of immense history. One day you can be swimming over the sunken ruins of an ancient city; the next, you are anchored beside Lycian rock tombs carved into sheer cliffs. You can explore Greek and Roman ruins just a short walk from the shore.

This seamless blend of pristine nature and ancient history offers a depth that is hard to find elsewhere. It transforms a simple holiday into a journey through time, making a yacht charter in Turkey an adventure you will not soon forget.

Choosing the Right Yacht for Your Turkish Holiday

Of all the decisions you will make, selecting the right yacht is the most critical. In our experience, this choice is the foundation of a truly unforgettable charter. The perfect yacht depends entirely on your group, your preferred pace, and what you want your holiday to feel like.

The options can seem overwhelming, but they fall into four main categories. Each offers a different way to experience the Turkish coastline. We guide clients through this decision daily.

Gulets: The Authentic Turkish Choice

For a truly authentic journey, we almost always recommend a traditional Turkish gulet. These handcrafted wooden yachts are the heart of the region’s maritime heritage.

Their huge, open decks are built for long days of sunbathing, socialising, and dining under the sky. Gulets are not about speed; they are about comfort and sinking into the gentle rhythm of the sea. A gulet charter in Turkey is the classic choice for a very good reason.

Motor Yachts: For Speed and Modern Luxury

If you want to cover more ground and desire modern comforts, a motor yacht brings speed and sophistication. These yachts are ideal for dynamic itineraries, allowing you to move between hotspots like Bodrum and Göcek with ease.

Onboard, you will find the latest amenities and water toys. We typically recommend motor yachts for groups who value a faster pace and want a sleek, contemporary base for their adventures.

Sailing Yachts and Catamarans

Sailing yachts are for purists. They appeal to guests who love the journey itself—the feeling of the wind catching the sails is a huge part of the experience. They offer an intimate connection to the water but have less deck space than a gulet of a similar size.

Catamarans are a fantastic choice for families. Their two hulls provide incredible stability and create huge, open-plan social areas. Their shallow draft also means they can access secluded anchorages that other yachts cannot reach.

Your choice of yacht fundamentally shapes your holiday. We recommend a gulet for a slow, culturally rich journey, and a motor yacht for speed and modern energy. Understanding this distinction is the key to a successful charter.

Matching Your Charter Style to the Right Yacht in Turkey

This table provides a quick-reference guide to help you determine the best fit for your group.

To find the perfect match, we ask a few simple questions: your ideal pace, what luxury means to you, how important water sports are, and your group dynamic. Your answers quickly narrow the field to a handful of yachts that genuinely fit.

Understanding Your Turkey Yacht Charter Costs

We believe in complete transparency. Knowing what to expect financially is key to a seamless charter. The Turkish charter market operates on two primary pricing models, determined by the type of yacht you choose.

Understanding this from the start means no surprises later.

Gulet Charters Pricing

Traditional Turkish gulets often operate on a more inclusive basis, which simplifies budgeting. Rates are typically advertised as half-board (breakfast and lunch included) or sometimes full-board.

This model is an excellent fit for families and groups who want cost certainty. It bundles the yacht, crew, fuel for a set number of cruising hours, and most meals into a single, upfront price. It is clean, simple, and easy to plan around.

Motor Yachts and the APA Model

Most motor yachts and larger sailing yachts in Turkey follow the international MYBA “plus expenses” model. The advertised charter fee covers only the yacht and the crew.

Everything else—fuel, food, drinks, port fees—is handled through an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA).

The APA is your charter’s expense account. You pay it in advance, and the captain manages it on your behalf, keeping a detailed log of all expenditures. We recommend budgeting around 30% of the base charter fee for the APA.

This allowance covers all variable costs, such as:

• Fuel: For the yacht, tenders, and any motorised water toys.
• Food and Beverages: All meals, snacks, and drinks, tailored to your preferences.
• Port and Marina Fees: Costs for docking overnight in harbours.
• Communications: Any onboard satellite phone or premium internet usage.

If money remains in the APA at the end of your trip, it is refunded in full. This model offers total flexibility, letting you fine-tune every detail.

The Exceptional Value of Chartering in Turkey

A major draw of a yacht charter in Turkey is its remarkable value. It has become a compelling alternative to Western Mediterranean destinations, offering world-class yachts and service at a fraction of the cost. Weekly charter rates in Turkey can be 40–60% lower than in Western Europe.

This is not about cutting corners. You still enjoy exceptional vessels, highly professional crews, and five-star service, making Turkey one of the smartest choices for a luxury charter in the Mediterranean.

Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary on the Turquoise Coast

An unforgettable charter is built around the right itinerary. The yacht is your private floating villa; the route is the story of your adventure. We specialise in designing routes that match your preferences, whether that is the buzz of coastal towns or the quiet of remote coves.

We start by asking what your ideal day looks like. Do you picture early swims and ancient ruins, or long lunches and sunset beach clubs? There are no wrong answers—only the version that fits you best.

The Classic Bodrum to Göcek Route

For guests seeking a blend of cosmopolitan energy and historical discovery, we often recommend the route between Bodrum and Göcek. This journey offers a fantastic mix of experiences, making it a great choice for first-time visitors.

A Bodrum yacht charter typically begins with exploring the peninsula’s stylish marinas. From there, you cruise towards the ancient Carian city of Knidos, then weave through the serene Hisarönü Gulf, stopping at villages like Selimiye and Bozburun before finishing in Göcek’s sophisticated marina.

The Nature Lover’s Göcek to Fethiye Route

If unspoiled nature and seclusion are your priorities, we strongly recommend an itinerary focused on the bays between Göcek and Fethiye. This protected national park is arguably the most beautiful and tranquil cruising ground in Turkey.

This journey centres on the Göcek bays of Skopea Limanı, known as the “12 Islands.” Here, you will find countless sheltered coves, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. Further along, highlights include Gemiler Island with its Byzantine ruins and the famous Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon.

When to Book Your Yacht Charter in Turkey

Timing is critical. To secure the yacht, crew, and dates you want, we recommend booking well in advance, especially for the peak summer season.

High season runs from late June through August. This is when sea temperatures are warmest and towns like Bodrum are at their most vibrant. For these months, booking six to nine months in advance is essential.

Shoulder season—May, June, September, and October—often offers the best balance of weather, pricing, and quieter bays. We find September particularly appealing: warm seas, pleasant temperatures, and more relaxed anchorages.

Why Partner with a Specialist Charter Broker

Booking a crewed yacht charter in Turkey is not like booking a hotel. It is a complex market where success depends on expertise. A specialist broker acts as your advocate and consultant, protecting both your holiday and your investment.

We vet yachts and crews, negotiate clear contracts, design tailored itineraries, and provide support before and during your trip.

Your Top Questions About Chartering in Turkey, Answered

Are Turkish crews experienced and do they speak English?

Yes. The crews we work with are seasoned professionals. English is the working language onboard, and captains and crew are used to international guests.

Is Turkey a safe destination for a yacht charter?

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is an incredibly safe and welcoming place for a charter. The main cruising grounds between Bodrum and Göcek are well-patrolled, and marinas are modern and secure.

What is included in a typical charter fee?

Gulet charters often work on an inclusive basis, covering the yacht, crew, fuel for several hours per day, and half-board or full-board meals.

Motor yacht charters usually follow a “plus expenses” model, where the base rate covers the yacht and crew and everything else is handled through the APA, typically around 30% of the charter fee.

What can we do besides relaxing onboard?

The Turkish coast is an adventure playground. Depending on your interests, your itinerary can include watersports, archaeological sites like Kekova, hikes along the Lycian Way, paragliding over Ölüdeniz, and dinners in authentic coastal villages.

Ready to Plan Your Turkish Yacht Charter?

Ready to plan your unforgettable journey along the Turquoise Coast? The specialists at DMA Yachting are here to provide expert, personalised advice. We will help you select the perfect yacht, craft a bespoke itinerary, and handle every detail to ensure a seamless and extraordinary charter experience.

Consult Our Turkey Charter Specialists Today