Turkey Yacht Charter - Turquoise Coast Sailing Itinerary

Turkey Yacht Charter - Turquoise Coast Sailing Itinerary

While Greece is a popular beach destination, many travelers don’t realize that the neighboring country of Turkey is just as stunning. Stretching from Fethiye to Antalya, this stretch of coastline contains not only gorgeous beaches but ancient ruins and plenty of opportunities for activities from hiking to diving. ​​In ancient times it was known as Lycia, a region home to an independent people whose most apparent legacy is the distinctive rock tombs that litter the landscape. The best part is that much of the region has been left untouched, with coves and islets inaccessible to vehicles. As a result, the best way to enjoy everything that the Turkish Riviera offers is by boat, private yacht, or gulet charter.


This specific itinerary is focused on the Gocek, which takes you to the beautiful turquoise waters of the Lycian Coast. A typical 7-day Göçek itinerary centers on sailing in Fethiye Bay and its many islands and coves, as well as along the coast to places such as Ekincik and Bestas Limani. On longer cruises, you can sail west to Marmaris, Datca, and Bodrum, or you can sail east to Kalkan, Kas, and Kekova.


Are you ready to begin your yacht experience in Turkey? Let’s go.


SAMPLE ITINERARY*


Day 1: Our crew will be happy to coordinate a taxi pick-up once you arrive at the airport. Our driver will meet you at baggage claim and take you to meet the crew at the harbour, Göçek. Once aboard the boat, you will be briefed before allowing to settle in and enjoy your welcome cocktail on board as we set sail. We will head out to Kapi Creek, a beautiful bay in the Skopia Limani area. 


Once we moor, we will head ashore and hike up to the summit of the mountain--views from the top are magnificent and if we are lucky, we may even spot a pair of Eleonora’s falcones. After the hike we will head to the village near the anchorage to do some handicraft shopping. Then we will head over to the beach on the north side of the anchorage to take a dip into the turquoise-blue waters of the bay before heading to the Kapi Creek restaurant for dinner. 


Day 2: After breakfast we will head to Ekincik Limani. We will moor in a stunning bay that is  surrounded by mountains covered with huge pine trees. We will do a day tour around Dalyan and Caunos where we will visit ruins, villages, hot springs, thermal gardens and Turkish mud baths. ​​The archaeological record indicates that the original city of Caunos was established nearly 5,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest on Earth.


In the evening we will take the time to explore Dalyan’s cobblestone streets, stop at the local shops and sit down for a traditional Turkish meal for dinner before heading back to the boat. 


Day 3: Today we will set sail to Fethiye. Fethiye is the Turquoise Coast’s oldest and largest resort town. It is surrounded by heritage sites, archeological wonder, pristine beaches, gorgeous turquoise-blue lagoons, and towering mountains. 


Once we arrive at our anchorage we will go ashore to where we will visit the Amyntas Rock Tombs, go shopping, eat at the local markets, walk around the old town or visit the Fethiye Museum. For lunch we will ​try pide–long pizza made with Middle Eastern flavors. 


After lunch we will sail to the uninhabited island of Gemiler. Although it is a relatively small island, it does pack quite the historical punch. The island was inhabited in Lycian times and is said to be the resting place of St Nicholas (also known as Santa Clause). Another option is to take a day trip to Ephesus, which is home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. 


Day 4: From Fethiye we will sail to Bestas Liamni where we will anchor for the night. This anchorage is also known as Cold Water Bay due to the cold freshwater springs that flow into it. Another interesting fact is that the bay was a former pirate haven. Today it is a popular place to relax and go for a swim. 


After lunch on board we will go swimming, rock diving and hike over the hills to the deserted Greek village of Kakoy. For dinner we will go to a restaurant perched on the hills overlooking Bestas Liamni before heading back to the boat. 


Day 5: We will sail westward across Fethiye Bay to Tomb Bay, which got its name due to the Lycian rock tombs carved on the cliff side above. We will spend the morning and early afternoon exploring the coves and inlets in Kizilkuyrusk or Red Tail Bay where we will stop to go swimming and snorkeling. We will then sail to Tomb Bay where we will drop anchor. 


Towards the west side of the bay is a small local restaurant where we will have dinner and then take an evening stroll through the ruins of Crya, a Carian and Lycian city dating back to the 4th century B.C.


Day 6: On our last day of our charter we will sail back to Göçek. Along the way we will make sure to stop along the way for a quick swim or snorkel. Once we dock in Göçek guests can opt to stay on the boat, go on the beach or wander into town. Our last dinner will be served onboard underneath the stars. 


Day 7: Good morning! Take your time to get up, drink a nice warm cup of coffee on the deck and make sure to soak in all the magic of the TUrkey one last time. As this is the last day of your charter so it’s time to disembark. Until next time! 


*Remember that we are here to help you plan your dream vacation, so the itinerary outlined above can be changed. All you need to do is discuss your needs with our crew, and we will do our best to make it happen. Do you want to stay one day longer for a particular bay or move on to a new experience? No problem, we are here to make your visit to Turkey unforgettable.