What is a Skippered Yacht Charter in Turkey?

Why Choose a Skippered Sailing Tour Over Going Bareboat?

One of the greatest advantages of a skippered sailing tour is the freedom to relax and cherish the journey without worrying about the technicalities or formalities. You merely embark on a sailing adventure where your only task is to soak up the sun, dive into turquoise waters, and savour every coastline view in Turkey’s favourable climate, which promises long days at sea and unhurried anchorages.

In contrast, opting for a bareboat charter (a yacht without a captain) offers a unique opportunity for those who enjoy taking the helm and navigating their own course. To embark on this adventure, you will need a recognised sailing licence and proof you have some miles under your belt as a skipper to satisfy the yacht owners' confidence. This option allows you to engage with every aspect of the journey. While it requires attention to detail, from provisioning to safety checks, it also provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment and independence.

By selecting a skippered yacht charter in Turkey, you can leave these responsibilities behind and focus instead on appreciating the Mediterranean coastline, the culture, and the carefree spirit of sailing. 

Key Turkish Yacht Charter Hot Spots: For Luxury Yachts and Gulets

Turkey's major charter boat locations are Marmaris, Fethiye, Bodrum, Didim, Antalya, Göcek, Kemer, and Alanya. These regions have become hubs for skippered and crewed sailing thanks to their natural harbours. Not to mention Istanbul, a starting point for the 6th edition of the Presidential International Yacht Race that kicked off from the Bosphorus on April 23, 2025, and will continue until its last stage on October 29, 2025. According to Daily Sabah (Turkey’s nationwide publication), the event will bring together “200 yachts and over 1,500 sailors from 20 countries”.

While not part of mainstream itineraries, some yachting enthusiasts plot their course for Turkey’s northeastern edge, near the Black Sea – a region not far from Batumi, Georgia’s cosmopolitan coastal city.

Bodrum Yacht Charter: A Door to the Turkish Riviera

Many travellers begin their luxury yacht charter from the Muğla Province – which CNN authors once described as “the overlooked region of the Mediterranean.” Its prominent city, Bodrum, has long catered to the superyacht crowd, offering a variety of amenities and entertainment to enhance their cruise experience.

Milta Marina has superb facilities to host small boats and super and mega yachts in the city's heart. Yalıkavak Marina, 18.4 kilometres from Bodrum, is Turkey’s first high-capacity superyacht and Gold Anchor-award marina. Meanwhile, D-Marin Turgutreis, 20 kilometres from Bodrum, forms part of the D-Marin or the Doğuş Group’s luxury yacht marina network, operating across the Eastern Mediterranean and the Gulf region.

Bodrum’s prestige as a yachting hub was highlighted in 2024 when the legendary Christina O – once owned by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis and hosting guests such as Churchill, Marylin Monroe, and John F. Kennedy among many other celebrities – docked in the city in August. This iconic vessel is available for rent starting from €700,000 ($797,500 / £588,500) per week in summer. While in December, the Lady Moura – one of the luxury yachts in the world, valued at $210 million, property of the Mexican businessman Ricardo Salinas Pliego – graced its shores.

Bodrum gulet charters are the getaway to the Orak Island (Orak Adası) and the Black Island (Kara Ada). The Black Island tour often comprises spectacular bays, such as Meteor Bay (Meteor Koyu), Aquarius Bay (Akvaryum Koyu - Poyraz Harbour), and Rabbit Bay (Tavşan Koyu) – ideal swimming and water sports destinations.

Many travellers booking crewed charters in Turkey are drawn to the classic Blue Cruise tour from Bodrum – a slow-paced, multi-day sailing route along turquoise bays, ancient ruins, and small fishing villages, typically aboard a gullet.

Göcek Gulet Charter: The Best Boat Sailing location in Turkey

Göcek, a small neighbourhood of Fethiye in Muğla, is undoubtedly a great place to start a crewed yacht charter vacation in Turkey. It has three marinas that stand out – D-Marin Göcek Marina, Skopea Marina, and the megayacht marina in Port Azure hidden in the picturesque Bungus Bay (Bungus Koyu).

12 islands surround Göcek, boasting perfect shelters for anchorages and miles of serene gulet sailing in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas.

Notably, Göcek further cemented its status on the global yachting map by hosting the first edition of the Superyacht Show Türkiye in May 2025, amassing industry players who focused on innovation, sustainability, and the role of women in the luxury yacht sector.

Antalya Skippered Yacht Charter: Sailing Holiday in the Mediterranean

Set along the shores of the Mediterranean, Antalya lures luxury travellers for its arresting beauty and vibrant, sophisticated resort lifestyle. It is a sailboat territory with sailing centres, such as Setur Antalya Marina, a modern and well-equipped harbour home to numerous skippered sailboat charter companies. The marina allows for easy access to the city’s historic district, lively promenades, and top-tier restaurants.

A highlight for many yachters is Suluada Island (Watery Island), nicknamed the Turkish Maldives for its white sands and clear waters. This uninhabited island is a must-stop on any Antalya cruise itinerary.

Marmaris Boat Charter: Yachtsmen’s Favourite Bases

Setur Netsel Marmaris Marina, home to GMM Yachting, and Marmaris Marina, where SK Yachting operates, are among the reputable charter providers with a quality fleet of vessels from Jeanneau, Dufour, and Kats.

Marmaris continues to grow in popularity among holidaymakers who love to dream on a boat. They can imagine themselves in the fantasy world of Avatar: The Way of Water, where they spend time sailing the waters of the Hisarönü and Yeşilova Gulfs and exploring incredible vistas.

In early 2025, Turkish media were burning with headlines about the 162.5-metre/533.13ft superyacht Eclipse, owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, docking in Marmaris. The event underscores the marina’s capacity to accommodate yachts of any size, including some of the world’s largest megayachts.

After a day at sea, many travellers enjoy stepping ashore for authentic Turkish experiences, such as sampling seafood by the marina, visiting a traditional steam bath, or a local museum.

Popular Yachts for Luxury Skippered Yachting in Turkey

Some of Turkey's most popular yachts for skippered chartering are the Azimut 55, Lagoon 55, Beneteau Oceanis 50, and traditional gulets like Queen Lila and Prenses Lila. Among the most expensive yachts to charter are Renaissance, Kismet, and Flying Fox, which cost around 3 million per week.

Motor Yachts

Designed for speed and style, models like the Azimut (17 m/55.77ft, 6 guests), Princess 56 (18 m/59ft,6-8 guests), and Fairline Squadron 59 (18 m/59ft, 6 guests) are an excellent choice for small groups who value modern design and fast cruising.

Sailing Yachts

For those drawn to wind and tradition, the Jeanneau 53 (16 m/52.49 ft, 10 guests) and Beneteau Oceanis 50 (15 m/49.21 ft, 8-10 guests), with smooth handling and generous cockpit space, are precisely made for relaxed coastal journeys.

Gulet Vessels

These classic Turkish wooden vessels, such as Queen Lila, Dear Lila, and Prenses Lila, with spacious decks and multiple cabins, will satisfy larger groups wanting a culturally rooted experience along the Aegean.

Catamarans

Top choices for stability and comfort include the Lagoon 55 and Fountain Pajot Alegra 67, accommodating expansive living areas and smooth sailing.

What Is Included in Your Skippered Yacht Charter?

Skippered yacht charters in Turkey offer a wide spectrum of activities, and the onboard amenities scale dramatically with size.

Mini & Small Yachts (9-15 meters/29.52 ft-49.21 ft)

Couples and intimate groups like these compact yachts, typically featuring 2 to 3 cabins, one or two bathrooms, and simple comforts like A/C, a BBQ grill, and snorkelling gear. Some even squeeze in the sauna or outdoor shower. It can be compared to a boutique hotel but in the sea. A yacht like the Mecca Bucks (14.63 metres/48ft) has three cabins and can host up to six guests.

Mid-size & Large Yachts (24-30 metres/78.74’-98.42’)

Great for families or friend groups (8-10 people) who want space without excess. Expect multiple en-suite cabins, a galley, a kitchen, indoor and outdoor areas, and crew accommodations separated for privacy. These charters often include sunbathing decks, water toys, and a salon for evening gatherings under the stars.

Superyachts (30-40 metres/98.42’-131.23’)

Here, guests are sailing in serious style. With space for 10-12 guests, you'll have 4-5 staterooms with luxurious bathing suites, a sky lounge, a gym, a jacuzzi, and multiple decks for dining and unwinding.

Flagship yachts (50-60 metres/164’-196.85’)

In addition to the upscale interior, guests enjoy a fleet of water toys – jet skis, sea boats, banana boats, windsurfing boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and diving gear. There's usually a full-beam master suite, cinema room, wellness area, multiple dining settings, and a helipad.

Giga yachts (100+ metres/328+ feet)

These floating masterpieces are reserved for the elite few at no expense. Imagine multiple VIP staterooms, private elevators, helipads, dedicated spas, medical suits, cigar lounges, fine art collections, and even submarines. For example, the 180-metre (590 ft) Azzam, the world's longest yacht, showcases 18 guest suites and 30 personnel cabins.

No matter the vessel size, a skippered yacht charter involves a licensed captain responsible for yacht navigation, safety, and general operation. In most cases, additional staff members handle housekeeping, meal preparation, and onboard services.

What to Know Before You Book a Crewed Yacht in Turkey

If you are considering a crewed yacht charter in Turkey, one of the most important things to keep in mind is availability – especially when it comes to large vessels.

A review of charter platforms such as BoatAround, Viravira, Ramses Yachting, Click&Boat, Mirya Yachting, and Lotus Yacht shows that chartering yachts in the 24-30 metre range is generally straightforward, with many options available across Turkey’s coast. Boats as small as 20 metres are widely accessible and well-suited for skippered holidays.

However, larger yachts over 30 metres/98.42 ft are far less common. For example, as of May 1, 2025, Click&Boat lists only a handful of 32–43-meter/104.98 ft-141 ft yachts in different parts of Muğla Province and just one 50-meter option/164 ft – the King of the Sea in Bodrum.

This limited availability means that early booking is essential, particularly for high-season travel. To secure the yacht size and configuration you prefer, it’s best to book at least three, if not six, months in advance. Last-minute bookings, especially for yachts over 30 metres, are unlikely to succeed during peak months.

Can You Book a One-Day Skippered Yacht Tour?

Absolutely! While skippered yacht charters are often booked for multi-day sailing tours, one-day yacht charter selections are also available in major sailing hubs like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye. These shorter trips work for cruise guests, couples on a quick escape, or travellers who don’t wish to commit to a full-week itinerary. Routes cover scenic bays, swimming stops, and lunch on board.

In fact, many first-time guests book a single-day yacht charter before opting for a longer Turkey cruise holiday.

How Much Does a Skippered Charter in Turkey Coast?

On average, daily skippered charter rates in Turkey range from $172 to $13,430 (€155 to €12,100 - £130 to £10,160), while mediate weekly rates fall between $1,204 and $94,000 (€1,100 to €84,600 - £910 to £71,130).

Prices vary based on the vessel type, size, season, charter length, and onboard luxury level. Gulets and sailing yachts are generally more affordable, while catamarans and motor yachts can command premium rates, particularly during high season.

Most prices listed reflect only the base charter fee, and extra costs are common. These may include fuel (for motor yachts), food and beverages, port and marina fees, 5-15% crew gratuities, and VAT where applicable.

Reviewing the charter agreement is highly recommended to understand what's included in the package.

Tips to Secure a Budget-Friendly Charter

A skippered yacht holiday in Turkey doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Here are some practical ways to make your charter more affordable:

• Book in the Low Season – Chartering in May, early June, or late September can substantially reduce the cost while still rewarding visitors with warm weather and calm seas.
• Choose an Older Yacht – Yachts a few years older are often well-maintained but come at a lower rate. Companies like Mıknatıs Yachting in Marmaris, E.G.G. in Göcek, and BBS Yachting in Fethiye surprise their clientele with excellent deals on such vessels.
• Look for Seasonal Discounts – Some charter providers announce early bookings or last-minute discounts.
• Consider Less Touristed Locations – Popular hubs like Bodrum and Marmaris can be more expensive. Going to quieter regions like Finike or Ayvalık can offer better value with the same access to Turkey’s stunning coastline.

What Skippers in Turkey Want You to Know

Skippers in Turkey want you to understand a few things about ensuring a luxury yacht escape. First, building a smooth, respectful connection with your crew is important. Local skippers say mutual understanding is one of the biggest keys to a great trip.

Furthermore, they appreciate it when guests are upfront about their preferences – whether it is food, pace, or planned activities, so they can tailor their journey to fit. Trust is also important. If the skipper changes the course due to weather or timing, it’s usually for everyone’s safety and comfort.

A little etiquette goes a long way: greeting the crew politely, wearing boat shoes, and tipping (5-10%) at the end are all part of good manners on board.

And don’t be shy – ask questions. Most skippers have years sailing these waters and love sharing their favourite coves, quiet anchorages, or spots to grab the best food. The more you engage, the more memorable the journey becomes.

Exploring Turkey’s Coastal Highlights

Skippered yachting in Turkey is a way to see the country from a new, salt-swept perspective, either from gulets tracing ancient trade routes or modern catamarans gliding into quiet coves. Many of them follow coastlines that once formed part of the maritime branch of the Silk Road, where merchants, spices, and ideas moved between East and West. From Bodrum to Antalya, the ruins of ancient ports, Lycian tombs, and Roman harbours bear silent witness to Turkey’s rich legacy as a crossroads of civilizations.

We hope this guide helps sea adventurers understand what to expect from a charter experience in Turkey.

As the yachting scene in Turkey continues to grow and evolve, so will the information we share. We invite you to return as we expand our insights – and who knows, one day, we may be part of your next voyage along the Aegean and Mediterranean shores.