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Where to Start Turkey Yacht Charter: Bodrum vs Marmaris vs Fethiye

Where to Start Turkey Yacht Charter: Bodrum vs Marmaris vs Fethiye

Where to start turkey yacht charter from UK? This question comes up often. You have three great choices. Each port is different. Your pick depends on what you want.

Turkey is perfect for UK sailors. The water is crystal clear waters. The costs are low. You can see ancient ruins and swim in turquoise waters on the same trip.

Why UK Sailors Love Turkey

Turkey yacht charter trips are very popular now. British sailors love the mix of history and beaches. You can visit ancient city sites in the morning. Then swim in clear blue water in the afternoon.

The season runs from April to October. July and august are the busiest months. Many UK sailors prefer May, June, or September. The weather is still great but less crowded.

Charter a yacht in Turkey costs less than Greece or Spain. You get great value for money. The food is amazing and cheap. Local people are very friendly.

Getting to Turkey from UK

Flying to Bodrum

Bodrum has good flights from UK. You fly to Milas-Bodrum Airport. Direct flights run from London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The flight takes 4 hours.

The airport is 30 minutes from the marina. Transfer costs about £25 per person. Many yacht charters in turkey companies pick you up.

Flying to Marmaris

Marmaris uses Dalaman Airport. This airport is 90 minutes away. But it has many UK flights. You can fly from most UK cities.

Transfer costs £35-50 per person. The road goes through beautiful mountains. You see great views on the way.

Flying to Fethiye

Fethiye also uses Dalaman Airport. But it's only 45 minutes away. This makes Fethiye great for short trips. Less travel time means more sailing time.

Many UK airports have direct flights. Budget airlines offer good prices. Book early for the best deals.

Marina Facilities Comparison

Feature Bodrum Marmaris Fethiye
Boat Spaces 450 750 400
Fuel 24/7 24/7 Daily
Food Shopping Excellent Outstanding Good
Boat Repairs Full Complete Basic
Restaurants 8+ 12+ 6+
Turkey yacht charter marina facilities comparison for UK sailors

Bodrum marina with castle view showing luxury yacht charter facilities and ancient ruins

Bodrum Marina

Bodrum marina is world class. It sits next to bodrum castle. You can walk to shops and restaurants. The staff speak English well.

Fuel is always available. Boat repairs are easy to get. You can buy fresh food nearby. The marina is busy in summer. Book your space early.

Marmaris Marina

Marmaris has the biggest marina in Turkey. It holds 750 boats. The facilities are excellent. You can get any boat service here.

The town is all around the marina. Restaurants are everywhere. Shopping is great. Chartering yachts is easy here. Many companies work from Marmaris.

Fethiye Marina

Fethiye marina is smaller and quiet. It's perfect for a peaceful trip. The setting is beautiful. Mountains are all around the bay.

Services are good but limited. Basic repairs are possible. For big work, go to Marmaris. The feel is relaxed and friendly.

Marmaris marina aerial view showing Turkey's largest yacht charter facility with mountain backdrop

Sailing holidays Routes from Each Port

Bodrum: Greek island Access

Bodrum gives you access to greek island trips. Kos is 2 hours away. Rhodes is a day sail. You need papers for Greece.

Great places to visit:

  • Kos and nearby islands
  • Ancient ruins at Knidos
  • Beautiful bays on Datça Peninsula
  • Old heritage site ruins at Caunos

The sailing can be hard. Winds get strong in the afternoon. Good sailors love this area. New sailors might find it tough.

Marmaris: Protected Waters and Blue cruises

Marmaris offers great blue cruises routes. The bays are safe. Perfect for families and new sailors. You can explore without worry.

Must-see places:

  • Paradise Island day trip
  • Cleopatra Island with gold sand
  • Ekincik Bay for swimming
  • Ancient city ruins nearby

The charter experience is relaxed here. Waters are calmer than Bodrum. You can visit many islands easily.

Sailing yacht on turkey yacht charter route with crystal clear waters and perfect sailing conditions

Fethiye: Natural beauty and Swimming

Fethiye is perfect for nature lovers. The natural beauty is amazing. Every bay has great swimming. The water is always blue-green.

Top places:

  • 12 Islands boat tour route
  • Butterfly Valley (famous worldwide)
  • Ölüdeniz lagoon (picture perfect)
  • Old tombs cut into cliffs

Sailing distances are shorter. Great for relaxed holidays. You spend more time swimming and less sailing.

Ölüdeniz lagoon from Fethiye showing turquoise waters and natural beauty for yacht charter

Costs: Budget Planning

Bareboat chartering prices change between ports. Marmaris is usually cheapest. Bodrum costs more but gives Greek access. Fethiye is in the middle.

Weekly costs (busy season):

  • Bodrum: £1,700-3,400
  • Marmaris: £1,300-3,000
  • Fethiye: £1,500-3,200

Extra costs:

  • Greece papers: £130 (Bodrum only)
  • Fuel: £170-430 per week
  • Marina fees: £25-70 per night
  • Food and drinks: £300-500
  • Cleaning: £85-170

UK sailors should budget £250-425 extra per week. Turkey yacht charter costs less than most places.

Weather and Sailing

The turkish coastline has good winds. Thermal winds start around 2pm. They build through the afternoon. Perfect for sailing.

Bodrum Weather

Bodrum gets the strongest winds. They can reach 25-30 knots. Good sailors love the challenge. The sailing is exciting and fast.

Mornings are calm for swimming. Afternoons bring great sailing winds. Evenings calm down for peaceful stops.

Marmaris Weather

Marmaris is more protected. Winds are medium but steady. Perfect for learning and family trips. The bays give shelter when needed.

Sea breezes are gentle and regular. You can sail every day. Good for all skill levels.

Fethiye Weather

Fethiye has medium winds and great views. The mountains make interesting wind patterns. Usually calmer than Bodrum.

Perfect for mixed groups with different skills. Swimming is excellent every day.

Which Port Should You Pick?

Pick Bodrum If You Want:

  • Greek island day trips
  • Many ancient ruins to see
  • Top quality marina
  • Challenging sailing
  • Good nightlife

Bodrum suits good sailors. The costs are higher but worth it. You get the most varied sailing area.

Pick Marmaris If You Want:

  • Best value for money
  • Great shops and services
  • Easy, safe sailing waters
  • Active nightlife
  • Most chartering yachts to choose from

Marmaris is perfect for first-time charterers. Everything you need is there. You feel safe and supported.

Pick Fethiye If You Want:

  • Amazing natural beauty
  • Peaceful, relaxed feel
  • Shorter airport trips
  • Great swimming and snorkeling
  • Real Turkish culture

Fethiye has the most beautiful views. Perfect for couples and families. The pace is slow and stress-free.

Tips for UK Sailors

Book early for summer trips. July and august fill up fast. Try June or September for better deals. The weather is still great.

Most boat rentals include basic gear. Check what you get. You usually need:

  • Personal clothes
  • Snorkel gear (optional)
  • Beach towels
  • Sun cream and hats

UK sailing certificates help with bareboat chartering. Day Skipper or Coastal Skipper are good. Some companies want recent experience too.

Planning Your Trip

Start planning 6 months early. Look at different boat types. Bareboat chartering gives you freedom. Skippered charters give local knowledge.

Think about your group's skills. Be honest about experience. Turkish waters are safe and forgiving.

Pack light but bring essentials. You can wash clothes in all ports. You can buy forgotten items locally.

Food Shopping

All three ports have great food shopping. Fresh markets run daily. Supermarkets have international brands.

Turkish food is amazing and cheap. Try local restaurants every night. Fish is very fresh. Vegetarian food is easy to find.

Buy basics before you leave. Water, snacks, and drinks are essential. Local wines and beer are great value.

Sunset yacht charter experience in Turkey showing luxury sailing holiday atmosphere for UK travelers

Booking Your Charter experience

Book through good companies. Check insurance carefully. Read all terms. Understand damage deposits.

Most companies take online bookings. Pay deposits by card. Pay the rest when you arrive. Bring cash for extras.

Check the boat when you arrive. Note any damage right away. Take photos. This stops problems later.

Making the Most of Your Trip

Plan a rough route but stay flexible. Weather affects sailing plans. Have backup ideas for windy days. Local advice helps a lot.

Learn some Turkish words. Locals like the effort. "Teşekkür ederim" means thank you. "Merhaba" means hello.

Respect local ways and nature. Don't anchor on sea grass. Follow park rules. Leave no trace behind.

Forum Tips from Real Sailors

UK sailors in sailing holidays forums say:

For greek access: "Bodrum gives easy Greek access with proper papers. Classic boats work best for island trips."

For beginners: "Marmaris has everything new sailors need. Safe waters and great support make learning easy."

For nature: "Fethiye has unmatched views. Every bay is a swimming paradise with clear waters."

Many mention the starting points choice affects your whole trip. Pick based on your main interests.

Your Perfect Turkey yacht charter

Each port has unique benefits. Bodrum gives history and Greek access. Marmaris offers value and facilities. Fethiye delivers nature and peace.

Your choice depends on what matters most. Adventure seekers pick Bodrum. Budget sailors choose Marmaris. Nature lovers select Fethiye.

Whatever you choose, Turkey gives amazing holidays. The turkish coastline has something for everyone. Crystal clear waters, old ruins, and warm people await.

The bodrum airports and Dalaman both work well. Heritage site visits add culture to your trip. Starting points matter but all three deliver great experiences.

Book your turkey yacht charter today. The adventure starts with picking your perfect port. The clear waters and rich culture of Turkey are calling you.

References

Erhan Berber

Erhan Berber

CEO, De Yachting

Bodrum, Turkey

I have over ten years of experience in luxury yacht charters. I focus on creating amazing sailing experiences along the Turkish Riviera. As the CEO of De Yachting since 2010, I have managed many successful charters. I know Turkey's most beautiful coastal spots very well.

Areas of Expertise
Luxury Yacht Charters Turkish Riviera Greek Islands Mediterranean Routes Yacht Management Maritime Tourism

Have questions about yacht chartering?

Feel free to reach out directly

Contact Erhan

Guest Experiences

Andreas Müller
🇩🇪 Germany
Bodrum → Greek Islands → Bodrum
Family Trip 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

"Perfect blend of Turkish and Greek culture! Captain showed us amazing spots in Kos and Symi. Kids loved snorkeling at Orak Island. Chef's seafood BBQ was exceptional. A perfect mix of history and relaxation."

🇹🇷 "Türk ve Yunan kültürünün mükemmel birleşimi. Kos ve Symi'deki özel yerler, Orak Adası'nda şnorkelle yüzme deneyimi unutulmazdı."

🇩🇪 "Perfekte Mischung aus türkischer und griechischer Kultur. Besondere Orte in Kos und Symi, Schnorcheln auf der Orak-Insel."

🇫🇷 "Un mélange parfait des cultures turque et grecque. Les endroits spéciaux à Kos et Symi, la plongée sur l'île d'Orak."

Isabella & Marco Rossi
🇮🇹 Italy
Fethiye → Göcek → Fethiye
Honeymoon 💑

"Absolutely magical! The Blue Cave in Göcek was breathtaking. Crew arranged romantic dinners under the stars at Tomb Bay. Loved swimming in crystal clear waters of Cleopatra's Bath. Turkish hospitality at its finest!"

🇹🇷 "Göcek'teki Mavi Mağara muhteşemdi. Tomb Koyu'nda yıldızların altında romantik akşam yemeği ve Kleopatra Hamamı'nda yüzmek harikaydı."

🇩🇪 "Die Blaue Höhle in Göcek war atemberaubend. Romantisches Abendessen unter den Sternen in der Tomb-Bucht."

🇫🇷 "La Grotte Bleue de Göcek était époustouflante. Dîner romantique sous les étoiles à Tomb Bay."

James Wilson
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Marmaris → Gulf of Hisarönü → Marmaris
Friends Group 👥

"What a week! The bays around Selimiye were perfect for water sports. Excellent service from the crew. Fresh fish at Orhaniye village was incredible. Bencik Bay's sunset was unforgettable."

🇹🇷 "Selimiye'deki koylar su sporları için mükemmeldi. Orhaniye'de taze balık ve Bencik Koyu'nda gün batımı muhteşemdi."

🇩🇪 "Die Buchten um Selimiye waren perfekt für Wassersport. Frischer Fisch in Orhaniye und Sonnenuntergang in Bencik."

🇫🇷 "Les baies autour de Selimiye étaient parfaites pour les sports nautiques. Poisson frais à Orhaniye."

Sophie Van der Berg
🇳🇱 Netherlands
Bodrum → Gökova → Bodrum
Solo Adventure 🎒

"Amazing experience exploring Gökova's hidden coves! English Harbour was stunning, and Seven Islands were paradise. Captain knew all the secret spots. Loved learning about local history and culture."

🇹🇷 "Gökova'nın gizli koyları muhteşemdi. İngiliz Limanı ve Yedi Adalar cennet gibiydi. Yerel tarih ve kültürü keşfetmek harikaydı."

🇩🇪 "Die versteckten Buchten von Gökova waren fantastisch. Der English Harbour und die Sieben Inseln waren paradiesisch."

🇫🇷 "Les criques cachées de Gökova étaient magnifiques. Le Port Anglais et les Sept Îles étaient paradisiaques."

Michael & Sarah Thompson
🇦🇺 Australia
Bodrum → North Dodecanese → Bodrum
Couple Retreat ❤️

"Worth the long journey! Exploring Leros and Patmos was incredible. The crew's knowledge of Greek mythology enhanced our experience. Traditional Turkish breakfast was a daily highlight!"

🇹🇷 "Leros ve Patmos'u keşfetmek inanılmazdı. Mürettebatın Yunan mitolojisi bilgisi deneyimimizi zenginleştirdi."

🇩🇪 "Die Erkundung von Leros und Patmos war unglaublich. Traditionelles türkisches Frühstück war ein tägliches Highlight."

🇫🇷 "L'exploration de Leros et Patmos était incroyable. Le petit-déjeuner turc traditionnel était un moment fort quotidien."

Hans & Eva Schmidt
🇩🇪 Germany
Göcek → Marmaris → Göcek
Special Occasion 🎉

"Perfect 30th anniversary celebration! Loved exploring Dalyan River and the ancient ruins. Swimming in Ekincik was amazing. Chef prepared outstanding Turkish mezzes. Will definitely return!"

🇹🇷 "Dalyan Nehri'ni ve antik kalıntıları keşfetmek harikaydı. Ekincik'te yüzmek ve şefin hazırladığı Türk mezeleri muhteşemdi."

🇩🇪 "Die Erkundung des Dalyan-Flusses und der antiken Ruinen war wunderbar. Schwimmen in Ekincik und türkische Mezze waren fantastisch."

🇫🇷 "L'exploration de la rivière Dalyan et des ruines antiques était merveilleuse. La baignade à Ekincik et les mezzés turcs étaient fantastiques."

Robert Anderson
🇺🇸 United States
Bodrum → Hisarönü → Bodrum
Business Group 💼

"Outstanding corporate retreat! Perfect mix of work and relaxation. The yacht's amenities were top-notch for our meetings. Evening stops at local restaurants were fantastic. Team loved every moment!"

🇹🇷 "Mükemmel bir iş retreat'i. Yatın toplantı olanakları üst düzeydi. Yerel restoranlardaki akşam molalarımız harikaydı."

🇩🇪 "Perfekter Firmenausflug. Die Yacht-Einrichtungen waren erstklassig. Die Abendstopps in lokalen Restaurants waren fantastisch."

🇫🇷 "Retraite d'entreprise parfaite. Les installations du yacht étaient excellentes. Les arrêts du soir aux restaurants locaux étaient fantastiques."

Emma & David Hughes
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Fethiye → Kekova → Fethiye
Family Trip 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

"The sunken city of Kekova amazed our children! Loved kayaking over ancient ruins. BBQ in Butterfly Valley was special. Captain's knowledge of Lycian history made it educational and fun!"

🇹🇷 "Kekova'daki batık şehir çocuklarımızı büyüledi. Kelebek Vadisi'ndeki BBQ ve kaptanın Likya tarihi bilgisi harikaydı."

🇩🇪 "Die versunkene Stadt von Kekova hat unsere Kinder begeistert. BBQ im Schmetterlingstal und die Lykische Geschichte waren fantastisch."

🇫🇷 "La ville engloutie de Kekova a émerveillé nos enfants. Le BBQ dans la Vallée des Papillons et l'histoire lycienne étaient fantastiques."

Antoine & Marie Dubois
🇫🇷 France
Marmaris → Fethiye → Marmaris
Couple Retreat ❤️

"Magnifique experience! The tranquil waters of Turunç Bay were perfect for paddleboarding. Loved exploring Ölüdeniz's Blue Lagoon. Chef's Turkish-French fusion dishes were outstanding!"

🇹🇷 "Turunç Koyu'nun sakin suları paddle board için mükemmeldi. Ölüdeniz'in Mavi Lagünü ve şefin Türk-Fransız füzyon yemekleri harikaydı."

🇩🇪 "Die ruhigen Gewässer der Turunç-Bucht waren perfekt zum Paddeln. Die Blaue Lagune von Ölüdeniz war wunderschön."

🇫🇷 "Les eaux calmes de la baie de Turunç étaient parfaites pour le paddle. Le Lagon Bleu d'Ölüdeniz était magnifique."

Lars & Ingrid Johansson
🇸🇪 Sweden
Göcek → Göcek Bays → Göcek
Friends Group 👥

"12 Islands tour exceeded expectations! Wall Bay was perfect for diving. Appreciated the eco-friendly approach of the crew. Traditional Turkish night in Yassıca Islands was the highlight!"

🇹🇷 "12 Adalar turu beklentilerimizi aştı. Wall Bay'de dalış ve Yassıca Adaları'ndaki geleneksel Türk gecesi muhteşemdi."

🇩🇪 "Die 12-Inseln-Tour übertraf alle Erwartungen. Tauchen in der Wall Bay und türkischer Abend auf den Yassıca-Inseln waren super."

🇫🇷 "La tournée des 12 îles a dépassé nos attentes. La plongée à Wall Bay et la soirée turque aux îles Yassıca étaient superbes."

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