Turkey is a beautiful country with an 8,333km long coastline. Sailing in Turkey is a great experience for sailors of all levels of skill because of the gentle winds. There are short and long routes you can take, and some combine both Turkey and Greece. It’s possible to sail between bays with minimum facilities, find secluded anchorages, but also cosmopolitan bays. You have plenty of options to choose from; traditional food, exceptional scenery, relaxing sailing, and the opportunity to meet some of the world’s most welcoming people. Although some of the areas along the shore are undeveloped, the main resorts of Fethiye, Marmaris, and Bodrum have lots of amenities. So, let’s now move on and see the best sailing routes in Turkey. Follow me!

The Turkish Coastline

Sailing in Turkey entails traveling through the numerous gulfs and coves that dot the country’s heavily indented coastline. With a plethora of archaeological sites, castles, and temples that indicate its prominence in ancient and medieval times, it is also a journey back in time. The southwest coast, in particular, is an excellent cruising ground. It stretches from Izmir to Antalya via Kuşadas, Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Kaş. Turkey’s sailing coast, which stretches from Antalya to Bodrum, is full of gorgeous bays and coves. Moreover, the coast has plenty of isolated beaches and dense pine forests. So, check out the routes between ports depending on how long you wish to sail.

The sailing season in Turkey spans from April to November, and the weather is ideal for sailing during this time. The waters in the Gulf of Gökova are tranquil and protected, with winds ranging from 3 to 4 Beaufort. Most routes’ layovers have enough distance between them to be manageable, and the weather is frequently clear. Summer temperatures range from 27 to 33 degrees Celsius, and the water is generally warm. Should the weather change, there are numerous sheltered anchorages. Sailors should be cautious of shallows around islands and carefully read local charts. Because the region can get very busy during peak season, it’s advisable to make a reservation well in advance.

The stretch of the Turkish coastline is traditionally divided, with some overlap, into four different sailing areas:

• The Ionian Coast: a coastline that claims to have the greatest climate and whose coastlines gave rise to the Ionians’ rich culture and famous philosophers; İzmir  –  Çeşme  –  Sığacık  –  Didyma  –  Kuşadası  –  Güllük
• The Carian and Dorian Coasts: Turkey’s most popular sailing areas, home to numerous major yacht charter bases; Yalıkavak  –  Turgutreis  –  Ağaçlı Koyu  –  Bodrum  –  Knidos  –  Datça  –  Marmaris
• The west Lycian Coast: with its rough, steep coastline and hundreds of hidden bays, or alternatively, the pirate coast; Marmaris  –  Göcek  –  Ekinçik  –  Dalyan (Kaunos)  –  Fethiye
• The east Lycian Coast: islets, settlements, rock tombs, and sarcophagi made of solid stone; Fethiye  –  Kaş  –  Ölüdeniz (Kekova Roads)  –  Kalkan  –  Finike  –  Antalya.

>>Also Read: Best Sailing Destinations in the Mediterranean

Carian Sailing Itinerary

There are many different options for a sailing itinerary on the Carian coast. The first one is: Bodrum – Kara Ada – Cokertme – Cleopatra Island- Karaca – Mersincik -Datca – Bozburun. The lovely bay of Bodrum, located at the confluence of the Aegean and Mediterranean oceans, is home to one of Turkey’s most picturesque cities, Bodrum, the mythical old Halicarnassus.

You can also set sail from Yalikavak then head to Turgutreis,  Ağaçlı Köyü and then instead of Bodrum head to Knidos and Datca. The overall distance for this itinerary is 42NM.

Bodrum – Kara Ada (2,50 MN)

Bodrum is located on a peninsula near the Greek island of Kos. It’s a perfect place to set sail and cruise around the “Turkish Riviera”. The place is rich in historical and cultural character, as well as a bohemian and avant-garde nightlife. The vibrant nightclubs are open into the early hours of the morning. Natural sponges, kilims, sandals, embroidery, and original cotton pieces, among others. These are some of the items you can find in the city’s many stores, bazaars, and markets.

Kara Ada – Cokertme (17,50 MN)

Kara Ada is a small island off the coast of Bodrum. Its name conjures up thoughts of pirate legends, as it literally translates to “Black Island” in Turkish. This island is known for its warm springs and isolated caves. It attracts both scuba divers and sailors who like traveling on a sailing boat. A restaurant called Arkanessos, which is the island’s old name, is located next to the wooden pier. You can have a drink here, or why not treat your taste buds and soul to a traditional meal? From your table, you’ll get a wonderful view of Bodrum Bay and the Aegean Sea.

Cokertme – Cleopatra Island (21 MN)

The magnificent mountains in the distance are what draw visitors to Cokertme beach. On this beach, there are a couple of modest restaurants for tasting local food like real Turkish kebabs. You can cruise from Cokertme to the Gulf of Gokova’s Sedir (previously Kedrai) island. This island has the most magnificent fine, white sand beaches in the world. You will also enjoy spectacular views of the Kiran mountain range. Because, according to mythology, Marco Antonio transported white sand from Egypt to the island’s coves to delight his sweetheart; Sedir Island is also known as Cleopatra Island.

Cleopatra Island – Karaca Island (1NM)

You can then set sail to Karaca, which is only one nautical mile distant. Karaca Adas is a privately owned resort in Gökova Bay near Taşbükü, Turkey, where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea. It’s half a mile off the coast and near to the Turkish tourist hotspots of Bodrum and Marmaris. Consider visiting the city of Marmaris, which is only about a half-hour drive away. And, if you’re into shopping you might lose yourself for hours meandering through the tourist city’s little shops and bazaars. Marmaris is one of the most popular destinations for boat charters.

Karaca – Mersincik (40 MN)

It’s back to calm and quiet after the noise and bustle of Marmaris. You can then set sail to Mersincik as the sun rises. But, consider making a stop at first in the bay of Kargil for a swim. By seeing the Byzantine ruins in Kisebuku (Alakisla), you will learn more about the country’s history. Keep in mind that if you’re sailing with a catamaran, it is considerably easier to explore the place.

Mersincik – Daça – Bozburun (30NM)

It’s a fact that the lovely beaches with crystal clear waters in Mersincik will take your breath away. You can also engage in many watersport activities such as surfboard, water ski, etc. While in Bodrum, don’t leave without seeing the Castle of Saint Peter. The Knights of Rhodes built the Castle to safeguard the bay during the Middle Ages. Also, consider visiting the wonderful Underwater Archaeology Museum. It has unique displays like the Turtle Room and Shipwrecked, which is also a must to visit.

Keep in mind that along the journey between Daça and Bozburun, you’ll see the breathtaking Selimiye, Orhaniye, Bencik, and Hisarönü bays. Moreover, you’ll sail along two of the coast’s most gorgeous peninsulas. The Datça Peninsula is a location of pristine nature. It is full of evergreen trees, mountains, and clear waterways, as well as little settlements nestled among olive trees. The Bozburun Peninsula is located at the confluence of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. It’s also an untouched area with many secluded beaches and a boutique hotel that blends in nicely with its environment.

Another popular sailing itinerary on the Carian Coast starts from Bodrum, Cokertme, Sehir Adalari, Degirmen Buku, Kormen, Datça, Orhaniye, Kemer, Dirsek, Serce Limani, Loryma, Ovabuku, Yedi Adalari, and back to Bodrum.

Bodrum – Orak Island – Cokertme (20NM)

On a voyage in the Gulf of Gokova, this is most frequently the first night stop. Although the north side of the Gulf is less appealing than the south, it is a respectable distance from Bodrum. You will also benefit from the adequate protection of the Meltemi wind. There is a chance of violent gusts from the mountains behind you, as they’re everywhere along this coast. Despite the fact that Bodrum’s role as a sailboat base appears to have waned in recent years, it can get congested in the summer. And, this is because it is such a common first-night stop while sailing. From the water, it does not appear to be particularly appealing, but once you arrive, it is quite charming.

Then, from Bodrum, you can set sail to Orak Island. Orak Island is located in the Gulf of Gokova, just off the coast of Bodrum. It is a popular diving place, and most day boats and gulet cruises will anchor here for a swim. The island’s surroundings are like swimming in an aquarium because they are so stunning. Then, hoist your sails to Çökertme; a small fishing town where you can enjoy the sunshine and stroll along the shoreline.

Sehir Adalari (21NM)

Sehir Adalari, or Snake and Castle Island, was the ancient name Kedreai. “Cleopatra’s Beach” is a beach on the island’s west coast. It was thought to have been built with sand brought from Egypt specifically for Cleopatra by Mark Anthony. There are numerous ruins now, and strolling around the island is enjoyable. Along this magnificent coast, this place is an Aladdin’s cave of Lycian remains. But, the bay on Castle Island can get full of people as day-tripper boats take crowds there.

You can anchor on the E side of the bay in 5-10 m of water in the middle of the bay or in shallower water and take a line ashore. The bottom is full of sand and vegetation, and it provides good grip, especially if you stay away from the weed. Keep in mind that in the evening, the wind direction is likely to shift from N to NE.

Degirmen Buku (8NM)

Degirmen Bükü, also known as Deremen or English Harbor, is a wide, beautiful, thickly wooded harbor with numerous anchoring options. This is just another of the Gulf of Gokova’s incredibly breathtaking inlets. English Harbour is the most well-known location there. It earned its name from the fact that it was utilized as a base for British Motor Torpedo Boats during WWII. East Cove features two welcome restaurants, both of which provide a good selection of food. Taking your lunch at the first one provides a breathtaking view of the inlet.

Kormen (13NM)

Kormen Harbour provides great protection. It’s a good port to moor if you’re planning to anchor in Knidos. And, in case the wind picks up, or if the waves are choppy and the meltem sets in around the point of the Datca peninsula you will be protected. When mooring, keep in mind that Kormen is also a ferry terminal that runs ferries to Bodrum. Kormen is an excellent site to stop for the night because it’s a calm small village with a well-sheltered tiny harbour. There’s also a great fish restaurant and a little restaurant on the quay where you can enjoy traditional food. It’s worth noting that the original harbour is not frequently used. Just be aware when entering and exiting because it can be a bit challenging.

Datça and Orhaniye (20NM)

Datca is near the old Knidos site. It was abandoned when the new Knidos was discovered further down the peninsula and the inhabitants relocated. A few ruins of the ancient city can be found to the north of the current settlement. If you’re a serious history enthusiast it’s worth seeing them. Datca is generally a peaceful port, but it comes alive during the season. Numerous yachts fill the place up before venturing out into the Gulf and dining at one of the many restaurants along the harbor.

Orhaniye is home to Marti Marina, where you may relax in the luxury of the marina’s restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish and Thai cuisine. If you prefer a more rustic experience, moor your boat, have your dinner aboard, and enjoy the scenery!

Kemer – Paradise Bay (26NM)

This cove is located on the west side of Kazikli Limani, a huge bay between Alangul Burun on the south and Kara Burun on the north. The slopes of the pine-covered hills lead down to the shore and a little beach. Paradise Bay is a beautiful stopover with excellent swimming and snorkeling.

Paradise Bay, an unknown bay on the charts, got its moniker from yachtsmen, and it’s easy to see why. The scenery is really stunning, with its surrounding hills engulfed in thick pine and a little beach at the head. Paradise Harbor is a quiet, serene bay with a restaurant and a little wooden jetty where you can keep your boat for the night. In these natural surroundings, you may expect solar-powered showers due to the abundance of fresh water from the mountain.

Dirsek (5NM)

Whether you prefer to take a line ashore, pick up a mooring buoy, or dock on the restaurant’s jetty, you will enjoy a relaxing day. The bay’s crystal blue waters are also great for swimming and snorkeling. Because there is no road connecting Dirsek to the rest of the peninsula, the best option is sailing. And, you will be able to get freshly baked bread from the café in the morning. There is a walkway that leads out of the bay to wonderful vistas of the surrounding area for those who have the energy for trekking.

Serce Limani (7NM)

Don’t be surprised by the tiny entry; once inside, the bay expands up dramatically in front of you. Many relics from a Byzantine wreck from the 11th century have been unearthed in this harbor. You can still view some glass objects at the Medieval Age Hall at Bodrum castle. There are two restaurants inside the bay, both of which have moorings. In the summer, Serce Limani is a popular harbor that can get congested. So, it’s advisable to anchor and cast a long line ashore. The Captain Nemos restaurant, located on the bay’s northwest corner, serves excellent seafood and homemade bread.

Loryma and Ovabuku (6NM)

A popular location for its panoramic vistas, and on a clear day, one can look over to Rhodes from here. Loryma is located just to the south of the Bozburun Peninsula. As you approach the vast sheltered bay, also known as Bozukkale, which means shattered castle, you’ll notice the historic citadel on the western head. Loryma is a great place to spend an afternoon snorkeling or swimming, and there are various local tavernas to choose from. Ova Buku is a little cove with only one restaurant, which is owned by the local figure Ogun. There is a tiny jetty outside the restaurant where you may moor your boat with shore power, internet access, and a washing service.

Yedi Adalari (8NM)

Yedi Adalari is a secluded anchorage in the lovely Seven Islands that offers a peaceful place to rest for days. You can dine under the stars, completely far from the rush and bustle of Bodrum. Other creeks and anchorages, such as Amazon Creek, offer a place to stay for the night. Access is straightforward enough during the day, but not at night. An ideal anchorage is in North Cove, but there is limited space there, and it is frequently full. The shallowness of the water near the head limits the number of yachts that may anchor there. The eastern end of East Creek is a very remote spot, but you must stick to the pilot book to prevent running aground. There is also space on the south side of the East Creek, where you will be safer from strong winds.

>>Also Read: How Far Can you Sail in One Day?

Western and Eastern Lycian Sailing Itinerary

The route between Fethiye and Demre is full of Lycian ruins, gorgeous rocky coves accompanied by turquoise waters, and small towns that make for wonderful layovers for some on-land exploration and a lovely meal, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Taurus mountains. The best route there starts from Marmaris, Kumlubuk, Ekincik, Asi Koyu, Gobun, Sarsala, Wall Bay, Gocek, Fethiye, Cold Water Bay, Oludeniz, Butterfly Bay, Kalkan, Kas, and Kekova.

The Lycian Coast stretches from Marmaris to Antalya, although the western section, which goes from Marmaris to Olu Deniz, just past Gocek and Fethiye Bays, is the most popular sailing location. Apart from the main holiday resorts of Marmaris and Fethiye, much of the habitation is on a similar scale to that of the Carian Coast, with several “one restaurant” bays featuring nothing but a dock to tie to and a place to eat. The scenery is a little greener now, however there are still a lot of cliffs.

Marmaris – Kumblubuk (6,25NM)

Setting sail from Marmaris which is a popular tourist location in the province of Mugla in southwestern Turkey. The city features two major marinas as well as smaller marinas, making it one of the most popular destinations for all kinds of boats in Turkey. Marmaris was formerly a little fishing village, but it has grown into a major leisure destination that encourages people to stroll along its beachfront promenade, which is lined with cafes and restaurants. If you prefer, you can take in the sights and sounds of Turkish nightlife by sipping a drink on a terrace or witnessing a belly dance or Turkish folk dance performance.

There are many different places that you can visit during the first days of your Turkish sailing journey, including Tomb Bay, Wall Bay, Ekincik, and Kumlubuku. These are all simply a short 10-15 mile sail from your starting point and offer stunning views along the rugged coast. Because of its beautiful features, Tomb Bay is a great anchorage along the Lycian coast. The bay itself has enough room for numerous yachts to moor overnight, but it’s also a nice site to anchor for lunch. Several restaurants line the bay, allowing you to choose from a variety of the best Turkish delicacies for lunch or dinner.

Kumbuluk Beach is one of the peninsula’s longest lengths of sand. The community has escaped the effects of tourism and maintains its traditional Turkish way of life. The beach of Kumbuluk has two main bays, both of which are accessible by mooring at the port or anchoring and bringing your dinghy ashore.

Kumlubuk – Ekincik – Asi Koyu – Gobun – Sarsala (42NM)

The Bay of Sand, or Kumbuluk, is the peninsula’s biggest length of the beach. Even in the height of summer, there is always plenty of unoccupied beach area. The appealing turquoise waters are pure and clear, giving these shores their name. Because the majority of the western Lycian coastline faces directly into the prevailing winds and Meltemi, Ekincik Bay is the largest and safest. You can anchor in one of three huge bays. You’ll need to take a line ashore for the two farthest from the bay’s head. However, at the bay’s head, there is a huge anchorage with a sandy bottom that provides decent holding.

Between Sarigerme and Dalyan, Asi Koyu is unmarked and practically hidden. With crystal clear turquoise water and a small beach with modest facilities, the bay is ideal for swimming. It’s a great place to spend the night as well. The bay is somewhat small, but it is very popular with divers. Brightly colored sponges in a variety of colors adorn the walls of the underwater tunnels. From groupers to rays, there is a plethora of sea life.

Gobun and Sarsala Cove are the most beautiful stretches of the Turkish coastline. The sparkling waters and verdant woodlands covered with pine and olive trees will enchant you, even after three days of sailing. This is the pinnacle of beauty!

Wall Bay – Gocek – Fethiye – Oludeniz – Cold Water Bay – Butterfly Bay (31NM)

Wall Bay is the farthest bay south of Skopea Limani, and it’s certainly one of the most beautiful ones, with a wonderful anchorage. Nearby you can find Monastir Bay as well. The bay’s western end is on the Isthmus to the Mediterranean, and there’s a massive historic wall that runs parallel to the water’s edge and crosses the Isthmus. This was a defensive wall built to keep ancient Lydae on the peninsula safe from mainland attacks.

Gocek Bay, Turkey’s major “beginners area,” is located along this shore. The bay is only 8 miles long from top to bottom. You can also find several anchorages and restaurants with piers if the winds become too strong. Indeed, for the more experienced, the challenge is to plan an itinerary that includes enough sailing while not omitting the numerous wonderful stops! The Fethiye Bay region (of which Gocek Bay is a part) is only somewhat less sheltered, albeit it is still quite undeveloped.

Some of Turkey’s most picturesque locations, such as Cold Water Bay, Oludeniz, and Butterfly Bay, may be found as you go southeast from the preceding sites. Because of its beautiful beach, Oludeniz is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist sites. The crystal blue waters along with the long coastline of this sandy beach lead to a lovely lagoon that is simply breathtaking. The beach is ideal for a relaxing swim, or if you’re feeling more daring, try a tandem paraglide down the nearby mountain.

Because of the numerous cold-water springs that run down into the sea from the Taurus Mountains, Bestas Limani is also known as Cold Water Bay. It’s a good area to swim, but be aware that the water is colder here than elsewhere along the shore. It can be just what you need on a hot day!

Butterfly Bay, approximately 10 miles south of Oludeniz, is also worth a visit. The bay is named after the hundreds of butterflies that make their home there. At the bottom of the valley, there’s a wide sandy beach with a trail and by the end. In addition, there are two waterfalls, which are worth the trekking to get there.

Kalkan – Kas – Kekova (43NM)

Kalkan is a charming harbor town situated on hills overlooking a beautiful bay. It has been increasingly popular with visitors and ex-pats in recent years, and it has become fairly pricey compared to the rest of the coast. Please keep this in mind when docking in its harbor.

As you cruise further down the south coast, you’ll pass through several charming tourist towns and villages with plenty to do. Kas is popular for its underwater activities and an antique theatre that has been nicely preserved. There are no spectacular beaches here, but if you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, you’ve come to the correct area. Kaş is on a ridge that runs down to the sea. The climate of the district is the Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, ideal for growing oranges, lemons, and bananas. You can see everywhere cut flowers across the lowlands and a variety of fruits and vegetables that grow all year. The hillsides also yield honey and almonds, as does much of Turkey.

The Kekova region stretches from ancient Aperlae on the west to ancient Andriake 10 miles to the east. This location takes its name after the elongated island that creates a protected bay between the mainland and the island. The place has some of the most magnificently located ruins on the south Turquoise coast. If you’re looking for a spot to anchor then head to Kekova Roads; there are many anchorages in the bay as well as little coves.

The Bottom Line

With all of these fantastic routes, it’s no surprise that Turkey’s marinas are many and feature cutting-edge equipment and amenities. D-Marin is the finest option if you’re in Bodrum or Göcek, whereas Ece Marina is the finest option in Fethiye. Docks in gorgeous bays with a berthing capacity of over 300 are available, as well as full services such as fuel stations, laundry, technical help, and environmental cleaning. Turkey is one of the top destinations for smooth sailing in the Mediterranean. With so many itineraries available for you to choose from you will definitely need more than 1 month of sailing in the region. Remember that the best months to sail are from April to June or from late August to October. This is because there will be fewer people, better prices, and favorable weather. I hope that this article will help you plan your voyage to magnificent Turkey!

İyi yolculuklar!