book2sail-turkish riviera

Private Boat Holidays of a Lifetime in Turkey

Turkey, a giant sweeping down from Asia, come to rest at the Eastern basin of the Mediterranean. As influences from the far eastern borders of the country come to play with the warmth of the south of Europe, the country’s Mediterranean coasts are an oasis of natural wealth and beauty for any sailor. As boat chartering in Turkey becomes ever more popular, we’re here today to tell you why it has quickly become one of our favourite sailing spots.

boat hire marmaris turkey
book2sail-girl sailing turkey

source: seascape-sail.com

When we think about Turkey, our mind is often drawn to Istanbul, a definite business hub and interesting destination to witness the clash of cultures. But Turkey is so much more than that. It is endless stretches of immaculate coasts, pebbled coves and sandy beaches. A place where the dense forest comes to dip its toes in the turquoise sea and where history is very much present in the ruins which crown the cliffs.

book2sail-visit turkey on a boat

source: Strel Swimming

This is why we would only dream of visiting Turkey on a boat: seen from the sea, the giant is really one charming bay next to another, peppered by scores of secret coves and blessed by mild weather and excellent harbours.

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The Turquoise Coast

Every boat holiday in Turkey should commence and end around the Turquoise Coast, stretching from Çeşme to Alanya. While the gorgeous sea will be enough to entice you to remain there indefinitely, the cities hugging the coast are all worth a visit. The Bay of Marmaris is an endless stretch of sandy beach with more to do then you’ll have time for. Indulge in a seafood dish after your exhausting water activities in one of the many restaurants which dot the bay. Find one hidden bay amongst numerous along the coast, much like the one at Hayitbuku and dive in the clear sea. You’ll be forgiven for believing you’ve turned into a sea-nymph.

book2sail-fethiye turkey 1

source: CharterWorld

The silence, enriched by the sounds of nature, will only aid the charmingly deceptive time-machine you’ll feel you’ve fallen into. At the Bay of Manastir, you can swim in relics believed to have been Cleopatra’s baths while at Fethiye, you can walk up to a ghost town. Evacuated by the people living there in the 1920s due to a change of laws, your skin will prickle as you take in the scene. The humbling and somewhat retrospectively sad experience will be well worth it though.

book2sail-bodrum turkey

source: Luxury travel. Exclusive offers.

For the history buffs, a stop at Bodrum is a must. The castle built by the Knights Hospitaller houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology today. Even from outside, as you circle it on your sailing boat, the castle’s impressive walls are a sight to behold.  The castle later turned Mosque, is also grounds for peacocks to roam freely, calling each other across the ancient walls. But Bodrum is also a hub for party-goers and some of the best clubs in the country are found here. So don’t forget to pack your glitzy party shoes if you’re sailing the Turkish coast.

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source: Ist Travel

There’s much to do and even more to see around the Turkish Riviera. It is a veritable playground for sailors who will always find a new nook to steer their ship in. It is, after all, a giant which has come to sleep at the edge of the Mediterranean.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.