away from the ordinary
Sailing in Turkey
This destination offers superb sailing by day and exotic fun by evening.
Anchor in crystal clear waters in deep, quiet bays or enjoy being part of village life by mooring on the town quay. This coast, known as the Turkish Riviera, offers sailors easy sailing on reaching tacks.
Sunsail offers three bases along the coast from which to choose:
- Carian Coast (Turgutreis): Modern city start, fishing villages, plus ancient ruins
- Lycian Coast (Orhaniye): Central location offers city start, peaceful anchorages
- Lycian Coast (Göcek): Easy gentle sailing, quiet bays, Dalyan River trip
Turgutreis Base
Our Carian Coast base is in the well equipped Turgutreis Marina situated in the furthest west points of Bodrum Peninsula between the Güllük and Gökova gulfs. Sat where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean, this modern marina is equipped with plenty of on shore activities and Turgutreis Town is only a short stroll away for last minute provisioning.
Cruising Notes
Turgutreis
Turgutreis is perfectly placed to explore both the Gulf of Gulluk to the north and the Gulf of Gökova to the south. Head north and discover the ancient city of Iassos. Dating back to the Bronze Age, this archeological site remains largely intact. Nearby Gumusluk, meaning 'place of silver', is an enchanting little harbor offering great shelter for a lovely evening. During summer, wade across to Rabbit Island for a dramatic sunset view over Kalimnos. Famed for its waterfront restaurants, head away from the harbor to explore the sunken city of Myndus.
Bodrum
A hive of activity all year round, this town has something for everyone and more. Buzzing nightlife, fantastic shopping, stunning scenery, and historical buildings all mingle together to absorbing the unique Bodrum atmosphere. Tour the medieval castle that serves as the focal point of the bustling harbor. Choose a waterside restaurant to watch the boats dancing in the harbor and enjoy a fine seafood meal.
Amazon Creek
Head southeast down to Amazon Creek, a lovely narrow bay lined with pine trees offering shelter from the Meltemi winds. As you sail up the creek, picturesque bays line either side ideal for lunchtime stops. A short stroll or dinghy ride from your mooring will take you to the local campsite with freshwater pool and small provisioning store.
Datca
Sail to the south of the Gulf of Gokova around the Datca peninsular to popular, little Datca town. The island is joined to the mainland by a thin causeway splits the harbor into north and south and due to its popularity in the height of summer it's a good idea to get there early. The town offers restaurants, bars, and shops, with buses running regularly into Marmaris.
Orhaniye
At the far east of the Gulf of Hisaronu lays Orhaniye, a picturesque bay with a modern marina. The village of Orhaniye is about a mile and a half inland and well worth the walk for a view of traditional Turkish village life. The small island in the middle of the bay is home to a ruined fort and a climb to the summit provides a beautiful panoramic view.
Gocek Base
One of the easiest places to sail around the world is the Turkish coast, departing from Gocek. Tranquil bays, gentle winds, and fishing villages typify the area. Sightseers will enjoy the choice of Turkish baths, a gorge hike, ancient tombs, and underwater ruins.
Cruising Notes
Gocek
The town of Göcek lies in a wooded bay at the northern end of Skopea Liman, and is conveniently close to the airport. With its surrounding steep pine clad hills and islands it provides a beautiful haven from all but the strongest south and southwesterly winds. The Sunsail yachts are moored across the water from Göcek Town in Club Marina. The Marina offers a wide range of facilities including restaurants, bars. There is a regular ferry service running between the Marina and Skopea Marina (Göcek Town) - free of charge for Sunsail clients.
The facilities in the town are great making it an excellent place to stock up before or after your charter. The town has quickly grown from a small fishing village to popular yacht charter base. Many of the shops in the town will deliver to your yacht.
Fethiye
As you head out of Göcek on your yacht the first port of call for many is normally Fethiye. On your approach you'll pass through the navigable channel to the west of Fethiye Adasi so keep your eyes out for the prominent rock tombs visible in the cliffs above the town. Also overlooked by a medieval fortress, Fethiye is a large town with many amenities. Turkish baths is a must for anyone who has never had the experience!
Karacaoren
The local reef is excellent for spending a few hours under the waves. Sail further down the coast and you'll reach the Seven Capes, infamous for the strong winds that blow off their craggy tops - it’s advisable to stay a good two to three miles off shore when passing.
Kaljan
If you are looking for a peaceful anchorage, a visit to Kalkan is a must. This pretty town is an excellent base for heading out to explore the ruins of Xanthos, Patara, and Letoon, and the seven-mile beach at Patara. Expect a spectacular sail as you head from here to Kas with sheer cliffs plunging into the sea lining the coastline.
Kekova Roads
If you have the time make sure you stop off at Kekova Roads, the channel of water running between the mainland and the island of Kekova. This sheltered sailing area is 6 miles long and offers many beautiful anchorages and fascinating ruins to explore.
Orhaniye Base
Sailing in Orhaniye
From the base at Orhaniye, cast off and explore ancient ruins. The Lycian coast boasts an eclectic mix of culture and history. This beautiful sailing area is also famed for its great sailing with plenty of sunshine, good winds and welcoming waves. The base sits just 20 minutes from thriving Marmaris, perfect for a lively night. This cosmopolitan town has numerous bars, restaurants and shops.
Cruising Notes
Sailing from Orhaniye allows to you explore the best sailing areas that these Turkish waters have has to offer. Head down to Paradise Bay where the crystal clear waters reflect all tones of blue and the aquarium sea is home to all kinds of fish and sea life. Further down the coast, is a stunning bay only accessible by boat and home to a solitary restaurant renowned for its jumbo garlic prawns!
Further round this peninsular is Bozburun, once the centre for Turkish sponge fishing, today this small port boasts a strong wooden boat building industry. Sogut is a large attractive bay at the Eastern end of the Gulf of Symi. Here, the ruins of an ancient fortress lie on the Southern shore of the little cove in the North West of the bay.
As you head back to your yacht keeps your eyes peeled for loggerhead turtles. The long sandy beach at the mouth of the river is a conservation area for wildlife and one of only two Mediterranean breeding grounds for this species.
Wind speed between 10-20 knots daily. Generally still at night, the breeze builds during the day and peaks in the afternoons. July and August have the strongest winds. The prevailing wind direction is northwest, so you will be reaching in this area, making for nice sailing
All travel arrangements provided by TRAVEL AWAY INC, TICO 1891374       TICO authorized travel company