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Sailing to Turquoise Coast
A map of the best ports and anchorages

Live ranking of your favorite ports and anchorages in Turquoise Coast: leave reviews, share your best photos, or add a new spot you’ve discovered. Join the discussion on Turkey Sailing Group for the latest news.

Most popular anchorages in Turquoise Coast

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Most popular ports and marinas in Turquoise Coast

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Turquoise Coast sailing itinerary

Under a hazy sky, two ferries glide across the waters, with a bustling cityscape and majestic mountains in the backdrop.

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.

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Izmir

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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.

Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Temple_of_Apollo_at_Didim.jpg">Hamed Kholdi</a>

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Didim

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Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bodrum_Castle_(2017).jpg">Serhio Magpie</a>

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.

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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.

Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Knidos_Temple_of_Aphrodite_95_014.jpg">Dosseman</a>

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Knidos

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Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bozburun_Peninsula.jpg">Arif Sipahi</a>

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.

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Bozburun

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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.

Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marmaris_harbor_(aerial_view),_Mu%C4%9Fla_Province,_southwest_Turkey,_Mediterranean.jpg">Mstyslav Chernov</a>

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Marmaris

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Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fethiye,_Butterfly_Valley.jpg">Andrew Otto</a>

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.

Your favorite ports and anchorages in Fethiye

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