Best Departure Ports in Turkey

Each departure port offers access to unique regions with distinct landscapes, historical significance, and nautical conditions:

• Bodrum — the southern Aegean hub, famous for its marina, nightlife, and access to ancient ruins and secret bays.
• Fethiye — ideal for exploring the Lycian coast, including Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, and dramatic cliffs.
• Göcek — renowned for luxury anchorages, quiet coves, and sheltered waters.
• Marmaris — vibrant port city, connecting travelers to the Turkish Riviera and traditional coastal villages.
• Bozburun — known for gulet construction and serene, less crowded bays.

Must-Visit Bays and Hidden Gems

Turkey’s coast is dotted with hundreds of secluded bays perfect for swimming, diving, and anchoring:

• Orak Island: Crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, snorkeling.
• Kargı Island: Tranquil anchorages, sunset views.
• Butterfly Valley: Dramatic cliffs, unique flora, untouched beach.
• Kekova: Sunken city ruins visible from the sea, perfect for historical exploration.
• Simena: Ancient Lycian tombs, charming small village.
• Selimiye: Authentic village feel, calm coves, traditional cuisine.

Typical Blue Voyage Routes

Bodrum to Datça Peninsula

This route is ideal for travelers who want to combine history, culture, and secluded beaches. Departing from Bodrum (Bodrum), the journey begins with a short cruise to Orak Island, where turquoise waters and hidden beaches invite swimming and snorkeling. Continue to Kargı Island, known for quiet anchorages and perfect sunset views. Along the way, explore the ancient city of Knidos, which offers ruins, a theater, and panoramic sea views. The route passes small fishing villages, giving travelers a chance to taste local seafood and meze in authentic tavernas. The coast features dramatic cliffs, secret bays accessible only by boat, and olive groves along the shoreline.

Fethiye to Kaş

This stretch is famous for the Lycian coast’s beauty and history. Starting in Fethiye (Fethiye), guests can anchor near Ölüdeniz Lagoon, renowned for its blue lagoon and Butterfly Valley. The journey continues to Kalkan and Kekova, where the sunken city ruins emerge from the sea, offering incredible diving and snorkeling experiences. Simena village provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Turkish life, with its small castle and quaint harbor. The route also features multiple coves and hidden beaches perfect for swimming and water sports. Throughout, travelers can explore hiking trails that offer breathtaking panoramas of the turquoise coast. Learn more about Blue Cruise routes here.

Marmaris to Bozburun and Datça

This route is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more intimate sailing experience. Departing from Marmaris (Marmaris), the cruise heads toward Bozburun Peninsula, famous for gulet construction and pristine waters. Anchor in secluded bays, enjoy onboard meals, and take short excursions to tiny villages with cobblestone streets and local markets. Continue along the coast to the Datça Peninsula, passing through uninhabited islands, hidden inlets, and beaches surrounded by pine forests. Historical ruins such as the ancient city of Knidos and small Ottoman-era settlements can be visited along the way, enriching the journey with cultural exploration. For private gulet charters, see Gulet Charter.

Göcek Archipelago Exploration

Göcek (Göcek) is home to over 12 islands and countless hidden coves. The Blue Voyage here allows guests to anchor in quiet bays like Domuz Island, Yassıca Islands, and Tersane Island. Kayaking, snorkeling, and cliff jumping are popular activities. The route also passes traditional fishing villages, offering opportunities to sample freshly caught seafood. The calm and sheltered waters make this an ideal route for families and those seeking a relaxed cruise without long daily sailing distances. Explore Blue Cruise Routes for more details.

Fethiye to Gökova Bay

This route covers some of the most scenic and less crowded areas of the Turkish coast. Guests can explore Gemiler Island, famous for its Byzantine ruins and hiking trails. Other highlights include Sandima Island, small uninhabited bays, and the medieval castle of Marmaris from a distance. The cruise offers a combination of historical sightseeing, beach relaxation, and water-based activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. Private motor yacht charters are available: Motor Yacht Charter.

Extended Itinerary — Bodrum, Kos, Rhodes, Symi

For travelers interested in combining Turkey and Greece, this extended Blue Voyage route begins in Bodrum and includes day trips or overnight stops in Kos, Rhodes, and Symi. Guests can explore Greek historical sites, colorful ports, and traditional tavernas while still enjoying the Turkish coastline. The route blends two cultures and multiple culinary traditions, providing a rich and varied experience for those seeking both adventure and comfort on a single journey. Learn more about Yacht Holidays and planning tips.

Daily Anchoring Recommendations

• Morning: Short sailing to a new bay for swimming and snorkeling.
• Midday: Lunch onboard or at a coastal taverna.
• Afternoon: Explore nearby ruins, small villages, or hiking trails.
• Evening: Anchor in a secluded cove, enjoy sunset cocktails, and dine onboard.
• Night: Overnight anchorage in calm waters, often with only the sounds of the sea.

These routes are fully customizable based on weather conditions, guest preferences, and local recommendations from experienced captains. They balance sailing distances with time for relaxation, exploration, and local experiences, ensuring every Blue Voyage is unique. For tailored itineraries, check Charter a Yacht.

Choosing Your Vessel

• Gulet: Traditional wooden yacht with spacious decks. (Gulet Charter)
• Motor Yacht: Modern luxury, speed, comfort. (Motor Yacht Charter)
• Trawler: Long-range, stable, ideal for extended cruises. (Trawler Charter)

Sample 7-Night Itinerary

Day 1 — Bodrum to Orak Island

Morning departure, afternoon swim, and sunset on deck.

Day 2 — Orak Island to Kargı Island

Explore hidden bays and snorkel in turquoise waters.

Day 3 — Kargı Island to Datça

Shore excursions, local markets, village exploration.

Day 4 — Datça to Knidos

Visit ancient ruins, panoramic sunset, overnight anchor.

Day 5 — Knidos to Bozburun

Peaceful anchorages, evening onboard dining.

Day 6 — Bozburun leisure day

Optional hiking, swimming, culinary experiences onboard.

Day 7 — Return to Bodrum

Scenic cruise, docking, disembarkation, and farewell.

Onboard Life & Cuisine

• Breakfast: fresh bread, eggs, olives, cheese, fruits.
• Lunch: mezze, seafood, salads, light meals.
• Dinner: grilled fish or meat, vegetables, local desserts.
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, diving.

Safety & Practical Advice

• Experienced captain and crew.
• Life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits.
• Check weather and route before departure.
• Travel insurance and emergency contacts recommended.

Planning Your Blue Voyage

• Confirm yacht type, departure port, and itinerary.
• Book in advance for peak season.
• Prepare personal items, documents, and crew requests.
• Verify visa requirements if needed.

Why Turkey’s Blue Voyage?

From hidden bays and pristine beaches to historical ruins and local culinary delights, the Blue Voyage offers an immersive coastal experience. Tailored itineraries, professional crews, and luxurious vessels ensure comfort and adventure for every traveler.

Learn more and plan your trip via Blue Cruise Turkey and Gulet Charter.

Choosing Your Vessel

• Gulet: Traditional wooden yacht with spacious decks. (Gulet Charter)
• Motor Yacht: Modern luxury, speed, comfort. (Motor Yacht Charter)
• Trawler: Long-range, stable, ideal for extended cruises. (Trawler Charter)

 Sample 7-Night Itinerary

Day 1 — Bodrum to Orak Island

Morning departure, afternoon swim, and sunset on deck.

Day 2 — Orak Island to Kargı Island

Explore hidden bays and snorkel in turquoise waters.

Day 3 — Kargı Island to Datça

Shore excursions, local markets, village exploration.

Day 4 — Datça to Knidos

Visit ancient ruins, panoramic sunset, overnight anchor.

Day 5 — Knidos to Bozburun

Peaceful anchorages, evening onboard dining.

Day 6 — Bozburun leisure day

Optional hiking, swimming, culinary experiences onboard.

Day 7 — Return to Bodrum

Scenic cruise, docking, disembarkation, and farewell.

Onboard Life & Cuisine

• Breakfast: fresh bread, eggs, olives, cheese, fruits.
• Lunch: mezze, seafood, salads, light meals.
• Dinner: grilled fish or meat, vegetables, local desserts.
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, diving.

Safety & Practical Advice

• Experienced captain and crew.
• Life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits.
• Check weather and route before departure.
• Travel insurance and emergency contacts recommended.

Planning Your Blue Voyage

• Confirm yacht type, departure port, and itinerary.
• Book in advance for peak season.
• Prepare personal items, documents, and crew requests.
• Verify visa requirements if needed.

Why Turkey’s Blue Voyage?

From hidden bays and pristine beaches to historical ruins and local culinary delights, the Blue Voyage offers an immersive coastal experience. Tailored itineraries, professional crews, and luxurious vessels ensure comfort and adventure for every traveler.

Learn more and plan your trip via Blue Cruise Turkey and Gulet Charter.