The north side of Datca will lead you to the sweet summer shores of Mersincik Bay. Blessed with abundantly clear blue waters and flanked by velvet green forests, this inviting anchor spot is a must for those sailing the coastline and the azul waters of Turkey. A sandy seabed and shallow ledges leading into the depths mark Mersincik as prime bathing territory and a charming spot to kick back for the day as you picnic on the yellow sands and splash in the sea. Those feeling a little more active can pick up the Carian Trail and disappear into the enchanted world of Turkey’s majestic nature scene. As a protected little cove backed by lush greenery, the breeze here is soft and sweet, and the Greek Island of Kos is a short sail away, enticing charter guests to come and play.
Providing an immersive experience of an ancient empire, Knidos is an intriguing escape where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet. With a sheltered port of striking cobalt blue, charter guests can admire the ancient architecture of an agora, theatre, odeum and several temples dedicated to the Greek gods. From all angles, these stoic stone structures gaze out across the ocean onto pine-tufted cliffs and the cloudless sky beyond. Situated off the western tip of the Datća Peninsula, the area is known for its olive, almond and fruit trees and for being home to a colony of the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal. For awe-inspiring sunset views, guests can take a hike up to the Knidos Lighthouse, which casts a striking silhouette over the bay below.
Palamutbuku is celebrated for having one of the best beaches on the dreamy Datca Peninsula. Backed by mountains and brimming with bright flowers, which give it a sweet eternal spring vibe, and close to the ruins of Knidos, charter guests will adore this anchorage. A slow pace of life on these shores means there's little stress on the day, leaving you free to snorkel, swim, and sample the catch of the day for dinner. With the historic Knidos and Old Datca close by, you can have a beautiful blend of beach and ancient culture.
Aktur Bay is famed as one of the best beaches in Turkey, and with so many contenders, that's no easy feat. Slopes fragrant with pine trees tumble to meet the sea between the sunny shores of Datca and Kurucabuk. Aktur Bay played an important role in Turkish history by being a defensive spot to hold off the Persians. The legacy has left a long tunnel that created a small island between the Gulfs. For years, Aktur has been hailed the most beautiful bay, and with its gulp-worthy fresh air, pristine waters, and sweet winds blowing gently to make way for watersports, charter guests will adore it.
The Datça peninsula is a gem along Turkey's coastline - scattered with the ruins of ancient empires, with emerald green hills that mirror the blue of the Aegean. This unspoilt stretch of coastline was, according to legend, created by Zeus, the God of the Sky and Light. With its vast number of natural bays, olive groves, and deserted beaches this unspoilt area is a treat for chartering. Another highlight of this stunning region, and well worth an excursion, are the ancient Greek ruins of Knidos. Once you have trekked the local ruins, Datca town itself is the place to enjoy fabulous seafood and meze dishes along with local wines.
Sweet Selimiye is one of the many highlights of Marmaris. Straddling the line between summer playground and chilled out fishing village, this delightful Turkish spot has retained every inch of its natural charm. Think blue sea vistas, a glut of sunbathing spots, fragrant green pines, a tapestry of bays and a handful of boutique hotels and restaurants. Days are spent swimming, snorkelling in the clear waters, dining on fresh fish and traditional suppers, and simply soaking up the serenity. For those who want to explore a little further, you can head to the tumbling Turgut Waterfall. For charter guests craving a slice of peaceful and laid back village life free from the buzz of heady nightlife and throngs of tourists, Selimiye is a soft remedy for the soul.
Dirsekbuku Bay is an enchanting spot between the Gulf in the Aegean and the Gulf of Hisonaru and is a popular anchorage for those sailing the sweet shores from Bodrum to Marmaris. With its sheltered bays and scattered small island slips, Dirsekbuku Bay is a stunning slice of calm. A hallmark of Turkish harmony, this bay is famed for long sandy sweeps, surrounding greenery, and mirror-like waters that allow you to gaze into a garden of colorful corals. Diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all pleasurable pursuits on these shores. With so much nature on your doorstep, charter guests can bird watch, buy local handicrafts in the villages, and enjoy the nature tracks that pass through the thick-cut forests.
Bozburun is a picturesque Turkish destination in the southwest of the country, which has become increasingly popular in recent years with superyachters. With its rocky shores, pleasant waters and numerous coves, the area is perfect for discovering Turkey's beautiful and unspoiled nature. There are also a number of bays and small islands to explore, providing peaceful secluded anchorages. The remote atmosphere allows visitors to experience the traditional villages and culture, making it a truly serene escape for those seeking to get away from it all. Bozburun is also famed for its water sports, snorkelling and boat trips, ideal for those looking for outdoor activities.
With its ancient citadel and antiquated beauty, Bozukkale is a must for anyone sailing the Turquoise Coast. Bozukkale once went by the name of Loryma, but its name now translates to the Turkish for 'broken castle' because of its rich ruins dating back to 700 BC. Visiting the impressive former fortress, you can see thick stone walls, look-out towers, and bastions designed to blend with the rocky surroundings seamlessly. Bozzukklae is a popular sailing spot despite it being off the beaten track. It offers an alluring port of call for those wanting to witness history set against a jaw-dropping backdrop of blues and greens. Dolphins can often be seen frolicking in these waters, and the bay is also home to some impressively large sea turtles.
A beautiful village close to Marmaris, Ciftlik Bay is blessed with abundant nature, clear turquoise waters, and great options for those who love scuba diving. Sun junkies will delight in the bay itself; with its blue-green shades, pine-clad hills, and classic Mediterranean shades, hours can be spent swimming, sunbathing, and splashing around with your yacht water toys. Charter guests looking to stay close to Ciftlik for longer than an afternoon can arrange a dive at the nearby Gebekse Bay or hike to the ancient church in Gebekse for sweeping views out to sea. With a collection of charming eateries, this is also a good lunch spot for tasting Turkey's famous mezze.
Between Marmaris and Dalyan, lies Ekincik, a tranquil paradise is the ideal spot to soak in the fascinating surroundings without any distractions. The wild, pine covered bay of Kurkculer has a lovely, long stretch of beach to enjoy an afternoon of sunrays. This is an ideal place to leave your boat and visit the fascinating ancient ruins of Kaunos which date back to 400 BC.
Situated 50km from Fethiye lies the remains of Cleopatra's baths - legend has it built by Marc Antony as a wedding gift to Cleopatra, and with it, golden sands imported from Egypt. These impressive baths were built here because of the thermal waters stemming from a volcanic crater nearby. Whether or not you'll be swimming amongst such legends is debatable, but one thing is for sure: you will be swimming in clean, crystal-clear waters, which is why Turkey is so enviably famous.
This popular, luxury yachting destination is one of the greatest places to sail. Göcek is a vibrant resort town, yet has managed to avoid the excess of overdevelopment, maintaining its authentic charm. It is a favorite watering hole of celebrities, with its lively bars and restaurants along the promenade. This charming town is home to a permanent population of only around 4,500 and is the ideal spot from where you can visit many of the region's famous cultural and historical sites such as Kaunos, Telmessos, Xanthos, Letoon and Patara. Göcek itself has one beach, however sailing further out to the 12 islands, you will find a swimming and snorkeling paradise, with their impeccably clean water, pine forests and beautiful beaches.