Turquoise Coast sailing itinerary
Map of the best ports and anchorages
Best anchorages in Turquoise Coast
(Add an anchorage)Always choose the safest spot with a live ranking of your favorite anchorages in Turquoise Coast. Try zooming in to avoid seaweed fields, then tick to start your list of favourites.
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The bay offers good holding with a mix of sandy and rocky bottoms, so be prepared to use anchor line… Read more about this listing
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The bay offers good holding with a sandy seabed, making it a reliable choice for anchorage. Depths v… Read more about this listing
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I’ve dropped anchor near the base of the castle a few times, and each time, the view of the illumina… Read more about this listing
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The bay is a large, bustling area where you can anchor securely in sandy conditions at depths rangin… Read more about this listing
Best ports and marinas in Turquoise Coast
(Add a port)Find a berth for the night with a live ranking of your favorite harbors in Turquoise Coast, keeping an eye on the tide and weather forecast. You can also participate by sharing a missing phone number or VHF channel when possible.
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The streets have a friendly buzz. Cafés serve up strong coffee and the small market stalls offer a v… Read more about this listing
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Effective wind protection and cleanliness. The marina benefits from its proximity to Izmir’s public … Read more about this listing
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Upon arrival, I was impressed by the warm welcome from the staff, who made the check-in process smoo… Read more about this listing
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Milta Bodrum Marina is a well-equipped, modern marina, but it comes with a high price tag. If you’re… Read more about this listing
Turquoise Coast sailing itinerary
Izmir
We’re heading south from Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city. Named Smyrna in antiquity, the city was founded by the Greeks, rebuilt by Alexander the Great, taken over by the Romans, before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th century.
Visit
The hilltop Kadifekale, or Velvet Castle, built during Alexander’s reign in the 3rd century BC and still standing. And the Roman Agora of Smyrna, an ancient marketplace that has transformed into an open-air museum.
Transport
Izmir Airport (ADB), conveniently situated 15km from the center.
Warning
Anchoring in Alacati Bay is forbidden by the regulation issued by Izmir Port Authority. That include all the bay of Izmir.
Best ports and anchorages in Izmir
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Effective wind protection and cleanliness. The marina benefits from its proximity to Izmir’s public ... Read more about this listing
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Upon arrival, I was impressed by the warm welcome from the staff, who made the check-in process smoo... Read more about this listing
Didim
Here, vendors proudly display their colourful wares, from spices to handmade crafts, adding a touch of joy to the streets. The town’s seaside promenade is charming in the evening, with cosy cafes and restaurants.
Visit
At the heart of Didim lies the magnificent Temple of Apollo. Feel a connection to the past wandering through its majestic columns, as if the whispers of ancient priests still echo through the stones.
Hiking
Find the trail through the rolling hills, where olive groves and citrus orchards paint the scenery with vibrant colours. You might even stumble upon another hidden archaeological site.
Don’t miss
The people of Didim! They are perhaps its greatest asset. Their hospitality is legendary. Sipping tea or exploring the town, you’ll find the locals always ready with a smile and a story.
Best ports and anchorages in Didim
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I’ve found D-Marin Didim to be a clean and well-managed marina with solid facilities. The marina off... Read more about this listing
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Anchorage with sandy and algae-covered seabeds that hold well in 6-8 meters of water. I anchored a b... Read more about this listing
Bodrum
Bodrum is a premier yachting destination in Turkey, boasting four marinas and a large boatyard. But the old Bodrum harbour is dedicated to commercial gulets. Several anchorages are also available.
Visit
Bodrum’s waterfront castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century using marble and stones from the collapsed Mausoleum, now houses the exceptional Museum of Underwater Archaeology, considered one of the world’s premier of its kind.
Things to do
ART Hill, a creative space founded by the painter and sculptor Ender Guzey, presents contemporary art and occasional music performances. The exhibitions here are exceptional in quality, showcasing Guzey’s dynamic works alongside other prominent artists. Located 15 km east of Bodrum, it can be challenging to find and is not accessible by public transport, but the tranquil setting and the cultural richness of the exhibits make the journey well worth the effort.
Best ports and anchorages in Bodrum
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Anchoring is generally easy, with plenty of space in the bay, though the area near the castle can be... Read more about this listing
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Milta Bodrum Marina is a well-equipped, modern marina, but it comes with a high price tag. If you’re... Read more about this listing
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I’ve dropped anchor near the base of the castle a few times, and each time, the view of the illumina... Read more about this listing
knidos
Knidos, renowned for its medical school, was a major center of medical knowledge and practice in antiquity. The legendary mathematician Eudoxus established an observatory here. His work in astronomy and mathematics was groundbreaking, and the remnants of his observatory still evoke a sense of intellectual curiosity and discovery. In Homer, the war ships en route to Troy take a break in this ancient harbour.
Visit
The Temple of Aphrodite, one of the city’s most iconic structures, was home to Praxiteles’ renowned statue of the goddess.
Hiking
Hiking trails will take you to endless fields of wildflowers, the medical school was here for a reason.
Shopping
Local artisans sell handmade crafts and souvenirs, from woven textiles to pottery.
Best ports and anchorages in Knidos
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The approach was smooth, though you’ll want to keep an eye on the winds—they can be a bit tricky, es... Read more about this listing
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The hike to the lighthouse offers stunning views, especially at sunset. Facilities here are basic—th... Read more about this listing
Bozburun
In a serene corner, Bozburun offers a charming retreat. This small fishing village, with its traditional boat-building heritage, is renowned for its handcrafted wooden gulets.
Visit
These boatyards are still functional today, and a visit allows you to witness the meticulous process of boat-building, from the selection of wood to the final touches that ensure each vessel’s seaworthiness.
Hiking
A short stroll from the village will lead you to the surrounding hills, covered in pine forests and wildflower. Stumble upon hidden coves and beaches for a peaceful swim or a quiet picnic.
Shopping
Vendors showcases an array of fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and local cheeses.
Best ports and anchorages in Bozburun
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Reasonable mooring rates, water and electricity, though these come at an additional cost. Osman’s re... Read more about this listing
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Yesilova is a beautiful and well-sheltered anchorage, especially around Bozburun, which offers excel... Read more about this listing
Marmaris
The town’s strategic location made it a key player in maritime trade and military campaigns throughout the centuries. The famous Greek-Ottoman admiral, Barbarossa Hayreddin Pasha, used the port as a base for his naval fleet in the 16th century. The lively marina is a focal point of modern Marmaris, lined with stylish cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Visit
The majestic Castle, built by the Ionians, today housing the Museum.
Hiking
The Marmaris National Park offers breathtaking hiking trails, and is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Shopping
Marmaris Grand Bazaar offers everything from handmade crafts and textiles to spices and sweets, where aggling with the vendors is just part of the experience.
Party
Marmaris’ nightlife is legendary, with Bar Street at its epicenter. After the sun sets, the town comes alive again; clubs, bars, and live music offer something for everyone, ensuring that the party lasts well into the night.
Don’t miss
A visit to the nearby Dalyan River and its famous mud baths.
Best ports and anchorages in Marmaris
(Add a spot)
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The bay offers good holding with a mix of sandy and rocky bottoms, so be prepared to use anchor line... Read more about this listing
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The bay offers good holding with a sandy seabed, making it a reliable choice for anchorage. Depths v... Read more about this listing
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The streets have a friendly buzz. Cafés serve up strong coffee and the small market stalls offer a v... Read more about this listing
Fethiye
The Taurus Mountains offers to Fethiye a scenic backdrop. Its old town is a maze of narrow streets with traditional Turkish houses, shops, and cozy cafes.
Visit
The famous Tomb of Amyntas, one of the numerous ancient rock tombs carved into the cliffs, overlooking the town.
Hiking
The Lycian Way, a long-distance hiking trail, begins here through stunning coastal and mountainous landscapes. Or 50km away, explore Saklıkent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Turkey. It’s a refreshing escape on hot days. You can hike along the wooden walkways, bath in its cool waters, and marvel at the 300m towering rock walls.
Beach
The most visited spots near Fethiye is Ölüdeniz, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Best ports and anchorages in Fethiye
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The bay offers good holding with a mix of sandy and rocky bottoms, so be prepared to use anchor line... Read more about this listing
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The marina is considered on the expensive side, with fees sometimes described as unreasonably high. ... Read more about this listing
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Anchoring here can be a bit of a mixed bag. Many boats anchor in the bay, so it’s crucial to follow ... Read more about this listing
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