Turkish Coast by Motor Yacht – A Blue Cruise With Power and Elegance
- Feb 2, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 30
Turkish coastline is full of secrets best uncovered from the sea. If comfort, speed, and luxury of a motor yacht is something you usually choose for your vacation, then the Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter fleet has something nice to offer. Let’s explore together what your options are, what to expect, and how to plan an adventure experiencing Turkey’s dazzling coastline from the deck of a sleek, crewed motor yacht.
ABOUT: Turkey’s coastline is a seamless blend of culture, nature, and understated elegance. Traveling by motor yacht here allows you to explore vibrant towns, peaceful anchorages, and even hop over to nearby Greek islands—all at your own pace. Unlike gulets or sailing yachts, motor yachts offer a fast and comfortable journey, allowing you to see more in less time, and enjoy a hotel-like experience on board.
Most luxury motor yachts available for charter in Turkey are based in Bodrum or other ports like Marmaris and Gocek. This means you can begin your charter right where the beauty starts—without the need for costly relocation fees. However, the Turkish charter fleet of motor yachts is way smaller than in places like the South of France, Greece or Italy. Therefore, it's best to book in advance to secure the right yacht our of a small fleet.
While private motor yachts are plentiful in Turkey, the number of licensed motor vessels available for charter is limited. So if you’re looking for specific brands like Benetti or Ferretti, be prepared—there may only be a few in the entire region.
Still, the yachts that are available are modern, well-kept, often owned by passionate individuals or families, and operated by professional Turkish crews who are known for their warmth, hospitality, and dedication.
WHT CHOOSE TURKEY FOR YOUR MOTOR YACHT VACATION?
Cultural richness: from Ottoman palaces to ancient ruins and vibrant bazaars, each stop is a story waiting to be lived.
Turquoise coastlines: secluded bays, pine-scented coves, and azure waters perfect for anchoring and swimming.
Excellent marinas: Bodrum, Gocek, Marmaris, and Fethiye all offer world-class marinas and services.
Easy access to Greece: many guests love combining Turkish coast with the Dodecanese Islands (Kos, Symi, Rhodes). Just note that islands like Mykonos are much farther and not ideal for a one-week itinerary. Also the weather will dictate its rules - if you do wish to visit Cyclades from Turkey in July and August this may be not possible or highly not advised due to strong winds.
Delicious cuisine: onboard or on land, Turkey offers some of the most flavorful Mediterranean dishes.
Flexible itineraries: motor yachts allow you to tailor your route daily—no set plans, no rushing, just your dream unfolding on water.
GO motor yacht with amazing beach club - one of the most chartered yachts in Turkey
WHAT IS A BLUE CRUISE AND WHY IT'S SO SPECIAL IN TURKEY?
A Blue Cruise is not just a yacht vacation — it’s a soul-soothing journey along some of the most unspoiled and mythical coastlines in the world. Originating in Turkey, the term refers to leisurely sailing along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, where pine-clad hills meet turquoise bays and ancient ruins rest just steps from the sea. Traditionally done on wooden gulets, today the Blue Cruise can also be experienced on modern luxury motor yachts offering the same connection to nature and history, but with greater speed, space, and sophistication.
From charming fishing villages and secluded coves to ancient Lycian cities and stylish beach clubs, the Turkish coast offers something for every traveler. Whether you seek total relaxation, culinary discovery, or cultural exploration, this journey invites you to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with what matters most.
SAMPLE ITINERARY FOR A MOTOR YACHT CHARTER IN TURKEY
1. Bodrum to Gocek (7 days): Start in Bodrum, explore the Gulf of Gokova, then cruise south to pretty Datça, the mystical Dalyan River, and end in quiet charming Gocek, passing countless idyllic anchorages.
2. Bodrum to Bodrum via Greek Dodecanese (7 days): Combine the best of both worlds. Stop at Kos, Symi, and Nisyros before returning to Turkey’s Bozburun Peninsula and the serene bays near Orhaniye and Selimiye. This itinerary is amazing but would require some significant extra fees for customs, clearance, agency fees, island harbor fees, and so on.
WHAT'S USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE CHARTER FEE OF A MOTOR YACHT:
Use of the yacht and its equipment
Professional crew (captain, chef, steward/hostess, deckhand)
Standard cleaning and maintenance
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED (AND IT IS PAID VIA A.P.A BALANCE)
Fuel consumption (for cruising, generators, tender, water toys)
Food and drinks (as per your preference sheet)
Port and marina fees
Customs fees if you travel to Greece with a yacht
Crew gratuity (usually 10–15% of charter fee)
WHO IS THIS EXPERIENCE FOR?
Motor yacht enthusiasts who love speed and comfort
Family holidays with space, flexibility, and water toys
Luxury lovers looking for high-end services in a new setting
Couples or groups seeking romantic sunsets or lively nights
Explorers curious about the rich history and food of this region
RENTING A MOTOR YACHT IN TURKEY IS SUITABLE FOR:
Family-friendly charters: safe, spacious, and fun for all ages
Romantic escapes: secluded bays, candlelit dinners, private spa moments
Culinary cruises: fresh seafood, private chef, wine pairings onboard
Adventure seekers: water sports, scuba diving, historic ruins, hiking
Wellness retreats: yoga decks, spa services, detox menus
EXAMPLES OF MOTOR YACHTS AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER IN TURKEY:
Names below are clickable - they are of the charter motor yachts displayed above
ILLUSION II Motor Yacht: 40m long, 6 cabins for 12 guests, price per week from €145,000 per week plus VAT and expenses
MORNING STAR Yacht: 36,5m long, 5 cabins for 10 guests, price per week from €115,000 per week plus VAT and expenses
GO Motor Yacht: 35m long, 5 cabins for 10 guests, price per week from €65,000 per week plus VAT and expenses
FX Motor Yacht: 38m long, 5 cabins for 10 guests, price per week from €120,000 per week plus VAT and expenses
BY CF Trawler 24m long, 4 cabins for 9 guests, price per week from €18,000 per week plus VAT and expenses
DEEP WATER Motor Yacht 39,2m long, 5 cabins for 10 guests, price per week from €87,500 per week plus VAT and expenses
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING THE CHARTER
The best time to charter is between May and October, with July and August being the peak months. Turkey has the longest charter season in the Mediterranean; first week of November is still good for a pleasant cruise.
Unlike gulets, motor yachts operate under APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). This means the charter fee covers the yacht and crew, and extras like fuel, food, drinks, marina fees, and tips are paid from your APA deposit for the charter expenses (the amount is typically 30-40% of the base fee).
Most yachts cruise at a comfortable speed of 10–15 knots, letting you see much more than slower traditional vessels.
Whether you’re dreaming of anchoring in a quiet cove under the stars or arriving in style to a lively beach club, Turkey has something special to offer to motor yacht lovers. The fleet may be more limited than in some other destinations, but it’s rich in heart, authenticity, and service. And with the right charter expert guiding you—you can have an unforgettable, luxurious, and beautiful journey along one of the world’s most magical coastlines.
Ready to explore? I’d love to help you choose the right yacht and itinerary.
EXPLORE OTHER YACHT CHARTER ROUTES
Curious to see more of Turkey by sea?
Dreaming of glamorous ports and iconic coastlines?