With the summer season fast approaching, we thought we would put together our favorite sailing destinations in Turkey. 

A sailing holiday is the ultimate way to experience the beautiful coastline of the country, there are so many wonderful anchorages and bays to explore with an array of on-the-water activities as well as adventures to be had on land. 

On top of amazing destinations, Turkey offers excellent gastronomic experiences, endless culture, untouched beaches and friendly hospitality throughout its regions. It is no surprise that people keep returning to us for their charters. 

Check out our top 3 destinations: 

1. Gocek Bays 

One of our favorite areas to sail in Turkey is around the Gocek Bays, and we have a perfect 7-night sample itinerary to explore them, beginning in Fethiye. You will be spoilt for choice with the sheltered anchorages, islands and protected coves to spend tranquil days on anchor in the calm waters. 

The area is unspoilt with dramatic, rugged mountains towering over the crystal clear waters. It isn’t named the Turquoise Coast for nothing! The sailing conditions around Gocek are perfect, with usually a dominant north-westerly trade wind in the late afternoon. 

There are plenty of highlights on this itinerary. From swimming and snorkelling in one of Gocek’s best bays – Kucuk Sarsala Bay, to hiking the pine forests and enjoying the impressive long bay of Gobun. For watersports in this area, you can sail to Boynuzbuku – the ideal place to play. Ancient and cultural heritage isn’t left out here either, you can take a visit Cleopatra’s Bath at Hammam Bay. 

2. Kas to Kekova

Another one of our favourite destinations to sail in Turkey is an itinerary that explores the beautiful coastline from Kas to Kekova. 

Kas is a small historic and picturesque fishing village that is a hub for sailors and perfect for exploring. For a night in a marina, we recommend a berth in Setur Marina. There are so many great restaurants and bars to enjoy here for an evening. 

Within our 7-night sample itinerary, including Kas and Kekova, you have the option of cruising to Limanagzi Bay. This bay is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The waters in this area are very calm. 

Kekova is an island just off the coast of Kas that is a protected area and home to various ancient ruins, including the submerged city. This ancient city was destroyed by an earthquake around 2,000 years ago, and its remains can be explored underwater. With plenty of secluded bays and beaches, there are lots of options for anchorages here. 

3. Hisaronu 

Our third favourite is an itinerary that includes sailing the Hisaronu Gulf. It is a truly beautiful sailing destination located between Datca and Fethiye. 

On our 7-night sample itinerary en route to Hisaronu, you can visit the ancient city of Bozukkale and explore the castle, enjoying the panoramic views of the Bozburun peninsula. Sailing these Gulf waters is an incredible experience, especially between the bays of Selimiye a Sailor’s Paradise; keep an eye out for the resident dolphins! 

Sogut Bay is also a popular spot for sailors on this itinerary, where there are some ruins to explore, and the Octopus Restaurant is well worth a visit. 

If you are tempted to sail in Turkey this summer, get in touch with us at Most Sailing. We would be more than happy to recommend some of our top sailing yachts for charter, and help curate the ideal itinerary for you. 

Happy sailing!