If you are looking for a perfect destination for your next luxury yacht charter vacation, then Turkey might be the best option for you. Here is the expert opinion on the destination, provided by our professional broker at CharterWorld, Sally Gardner-Cochran.
Turkey offers some incredible sailing grounds, with beautiful azure waters, good steady winds and plenty of bays to enjoy. Contrary to the current situation portrayed in the media, the sailing areas and friendly people are miles away from any conflict. Flights into Istanbul are frequent and secure, with ongoing domestic connections to Bodrum and Dalaman easy to purchase, from here the ports aren’t far by taxi to embark your charter yacht. Many parts of the Turkish coastline and charter areas are quite traditional regarding buildings, with a scattering of new builds between.
Many areas are relatively Westernized, English is widely spoken, and there aren’t any real hindrances on attire, as many may think. The best way to enjoy the Turkish sailing experience has to be by traditional Gulet, usually constructed of high-quality woods, they are extremely spacious and often accommodate more guests than many modern yachts, ideal for extended families or large groups of friends.
Most luxury Gulets offer good amenities from water toys to entertainment, to cooling air conditioning for the hotter days. The immense exterior deck space, sun pads, seating and often more than one alfresco dining option, create the ideal outdoor living ambiance. A Gulet charter can be embarked from many Turkish ports, although if the Dodecanese islands are on the wish list, a charter embarking in Kos, for instance, is an option for many yachts, sailing from Greece to Turkey and back, or one way. This region offers stunning bays featuring incredible blue waters, inviting beaches and calm anchorages. Local boats with garments might pay a visit, and are happy to bargain!
Average sea temperatures range from 17 – 21° C / 60 – 63°F in the offseason such as May and up to a perfect 23 – 27° C / 74 – 80°F in the high season, which is July and August. Due to the location with the Mediterranean, the sea has a high salt content, which in turn means floating and relaxing are far easier than seas with a lower salt content. If the Gulet is not the preferred choice of luxury charter yacht, there are several great motor yachts and sailing yachts available: