Top Reasons Why Sailing in Turkey Is Heavenly

Ready to explore Turkey from the water? Hire a boat for the day through SamBoat, or book a multi-day sailing adventure with Dream Yacht Charter.

Turkey is home to some of the oldest remaining archaeological sites in the world, many of which are perched overlooking the sea. Just south of Bodrum, you’ll find Knidos, a city built by the Greeks in the fifth century BCE; wander around the ruins of the temple and statue of Aphrodite. Further north is Didyma, where you can see more temple ruins, including a carved stone head of Medusa.

From sizzling koftas to sticky baklava, Turkey has a long history of delectable local dishes. Head to a meyhane where meze and traditional meals are served alongside endless glasses of wine and raki (a grape-based spirit). You won’t find these authentic eateries filled with tourists; expect crowds of locals listening to live music and tucking into fresh-off-the-boat octopus.

Turkey’s position in the very south of Europe means it boasts a longer sailing season than neighbouring countries. Mid-April to early November marks the peak season here, with temperatures already hovering around 22C (72F) in the spring. Avoid the hottest months (July and August) if possible, as they also coincide with European school holidays.

The stretch of coastline from Bodrum to Antalya is perfect for beginner sailors. Generally, the wind is steady and there are no difficult currents to tackle. Quiet bays provide respite along the way, although distances between marinas are short, so there are no gruelling long passages to worry about. Just relax and focus on finding the best swimming spots, and where to moor up for lunch.

Gin-clear waters, pine-covered hillsides and sandy beaches – it’s easy to see why Turkey is such a popular sailing destination. Take Oludeniz, for example, where emerald-green hills tumble down to shallow, turquoise waters. Chartering a boat means you’ll experience these spots without the crowds; you’ll feel smug as you moor up for sunset, just as the hordes of day-trippers are leaving.

Warm hospitality is a big deal in Turkey – in fact, it’s a key part of the culture. Strangers are treated like family in this corner of the world. Expect hearty handshakes and friendly welcomes in every harbour town. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered tea while visiting a shop – it’s all part of the Turkish charm.

From Antalya all the way to Bodrum, Turkey’s cruising coast is full of beautiful bays and coves, remote beaches and lush pine forests. Depending on how long you want to cruise, there are dozens of routes to choose from: drift between the 12 gorgeous islands between Fethiye and Göcek; or for unspoilt beauty, head to the Datça Peninsula, where lush mountains covered in olive groves butt up against the crystalline Mediterranean.

When you’re ready to anchor up for the night, there are dozens of excellent marinas (boasting top-level home comforts) to choose from. If you’re in Bodrum or Göcek, head to D-Marin Turgutreis Marina. Its berthing capacity is 532 for vessels up to 75m (246ft). Highlights include tennis courts, a swimming pool and an on-site spa with a well-equipped gym, plus the marina even has its own heliport. If you’re sailing around Fethiye, the best spot is Ece Marina, with capacity for 460 boats up to 60m (197ft).

SamBoat have a wide variety of vessels to rent across Turkey – from zippy motorboats to 30m (100ft) traditional gulets (two-masted Turkish sailing boats), many of which come with skippers included. Alternatively, Dream Yacht Charter organise bareboat and skippered sailing holidays from their base in Göcek. They can arrange everything for you – from airport transfers to private chefs. Just kick back on deck with a cold beer and enjoy your well-deserved time off.

Feride Yalav-Heckeroth contributed additional reporting.