Turkey & the Turkish Riviera
Eastern Mediterranean · Turkey
Turkey's Turquoise Coast — the stretch of Aegean and Mediterranean shoreline from Bodrum to Antalya — offers one of the most rewarding and underappreciated yacht charter experiences in the world. Named for the extraordinary colour of its waters, this coastline combines ancient Lycian ruins, pine-forested mountains plunging into the sea, and a rich culinary tradition that elevates every charter into a cultural journey.
Bodrum, the ancient Halicarnassus, serves as the western gateway to the Turkish Riviera, with its iconic castle, vibrant bazaar, and sophisticated marina attracting an international yachting crowd. From Bodrum, charters cruise southeast along the coast through the Gulf of Gökova, past the Greek island of Symi, to the stunning Dalyan Delta and the ancient city of Kaunos. The Twelve Islands near Fethiye, the sunken city of Kekova, and the dramatic Butterfly Valley create a succession of unforgettable anchorages.
Turkey is also the home of the traditional gulet — the elegant wooden motor-sailing vessel that has become synonymous with Turkish chartering. While Bluebnc Yachting primarily offers modern motor yacht charters, the influence of gulet culture pervades the Turkish charter experience, particularly in the emphasis on relaxed, multi-day coastal cruising.
The Turkish charter season runs from April through November, with the longest season in the Mediterranean thanks to the coast's sheltered geography and warm climate.
Highlights
- Bodrum Castle & Marina,Butterfly Valley,Kekova Sunken City,Göcek & Twelve Islands,Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon,Dalyan & Kaunos,Kaş & Kaputaş Beach,Gulf of Gökova
- Best time to visit
- April – November (Best: May–June, September–October)
- Climate
- Hot Mediterranean summers (30–38°C) with very warm sea temperatures and extended season.
Sample itineraries
Yachts cruising in Turkey
- VETRO — 48 m · Other · 10 guests · Home port: Turkey | Marmaris Yacht Marina · Weekly charter rate from €50,000/week
- PANFELISS — 40 m · Mengi Yay · 12 guests · Home port: Turkey | Marmaris Yacht Marina · Weekly charter rate from €47,500/week
- SON OF WIND — 44 m · Other · 10 guests · Home port: Turkey | Marmaris Yacht Marina · Weekly charter rate from €27,350/week
- QUEEN OF MAKRI — 40 m · Other · 12 guests · Home port: Turkey | Marmaris Yacht Marina · Weekly charter rate from €21,000/week
- CROCUS — 40 m · Other · 12 guests · Home port: Turkey | Marmaris Yacht Marina · Weekly charter rate from €7,150/week