Turkish Marina sector sailing faster than the wind

Every year, boat owners from around the world flock to marinas in Turkey and for good reasons. With four seas and 7200 kilometres of coastline, the most remarkable aspect of Turkey's sailing industry is the vast number of marinas and sailing routes. There is ample opportunity for exploration from the inland Marmara Sea to western Turkey's Aegean Sea to the southern Mediterranean. The two most prominent players in the Turkish marina game are Setur Marina, owned by Fortune 500 company Koc Holding, and D-Marin, owned by Turkish conglomerate Dogus Holding. Between them, they offer world class marinas for avid sailors.

Overall, Turkey’s sailing popularity is growing thanks to the sailing routes and marinas. Forty-eight million Europeans participate in marine activities and visit marinas annually- including 36 million yachties. Each year upwards of 100,000 yachts visit the Mediterranean. However, this is changing with mega investment into the country's marinas and general marine infrastructure. As wealth increases in major Turkish centres such as Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya and other southern regions, more and more of Turkey's middle and upper classes are becoming interested in boating and yacht marinas. The sale of leisure boats and waterfront property within Turkey has also increased. So, in this article, we will uncover…

• Popular sailing routes of Aegean and Mediterranean Turkey
• The best marinas in Turkey?
• Why do people buy property near marinas?
• Further reading about islands and the Turkish Riviera.

Blue Waters, Sailing Routes and Yacht Marinas in Turkey

Kusadasi to Bodrum: For thousands of years, vessels have traversed the southern Turkish coast, leaving rich legacies and striking ruins. The Dilek Peninsula National Park has several beautifully peaceful coves and bays south of Kusadasi. But also stop to drive the short distance and visit the ancient remains of Priene, Miletus and Didyma. Some people find the gulf so beautiful they don't venture any further, preferring to sail the four large bays and endless coves and inlets.

Bodrum to Marmaris: Turkey's original tourist destination, is the liveliest spot on the coast. This seat of ancient Halicarnassus is now the premier destination of international jet setters and Turkey's nouveau riche. Do visit Bodrum Castle, near the harbour. From Bodrum, head out along the Gokova Gulf. This is a pretty route in Turkey's waters, with backdrops of mountains and pines; stops at Sedir Island's incredible beach to laze on the sand and look over the Kiran Mountains.

Traverse the island's southwest coast, known as the Bay of Sixty-Six Inlets. From Sedir Island, head into Hisaronu Gulf, home to the Datca Peninsula and ancient Knidos. That was built for Aphrodite and is today one of Turkey's loveliest resorts. As you leave, you'll reach the Bozburun Peninsula, where you'll see yet more ruins - this time Loryma, only accessible by boat. Your last stop before Marmaris will be Turunc natural harbour.

Marmaris to Fethiye: Surrounded by pine-clad hills which drop to white sand and blue sea, Marmaris is a great place to stock up on provisions and replenish your vessel. After leaving Marmaris, head to Ekincik, a peaceful, authentic Turkish centre. Southeast of Ekincik, explore the Dalyan Delta, identifiable by the long, golden sandy beach. There are numerous waterways to examine here and spot the endangered Caretta turtle in this protected area.

Leaving Delikli Island, arrive at Sarigerme, where sailors like to anchor at Baba Island, a peaceful spot with a sandy beach. Next up is Gocek, known for stunning pine forests and top marinas. The gulf is full of pretty islands and exciting coves, and many sailors spend a few weeks exploring this coastline. On the tip of the bay, see the ancient ruins of Arymaxa, and on Tersane Island, encounter relics of a Byzantine shipyard. From Gocek, it's just a hop, skip and jump to Fethiye.

Fethiye to Antalya:  The cruise usually starts in Fethiye, a coastal town known for its stunning bays, clear turquoise waters, and historical sites. From Fethiye, the cruise follows a scenic route along the Mediterranean coastline, passing through various picturesque stops before reaching Antalya. The specific itinerary varies depending on cruise operator and duration. However, common stops along include Oludeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kalkan and Kas, Demre and the Ancient City of Myra, Olympos and Cirali, and Phaselis.

During the Blue Voyage cruise, there are ample opportunities to swim in secluded bays, snorkelling, sunbathing, and enjoy the natural coastline beauty. Some cruises also offer water sports activities, like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Additionally, explore historical sites and taste local Turkish food. The duration of a Fethiye to Antalya Blue Voyage cruise can range from a few days to a week or more, allowing ample time to explore the stops. More about Fethiye to Antalya Sailing cruises.

Turkey's best Yacht Marinas

Yalikavak Marina

After a multi-million-dollar investment by the Pamali Group, the former Port Yalikavak Marina is now the best in Aegean, Turkey. This marina transformed Yalikavak and wider Bodrum with technical equipment and upmarket facilities. Amenities include berths for over 620 boats and yachts, with a maximum capacity of 135 metres. Yalikavak Marina also provides electricity, water, fuel, waste disposal, and 24-hour security services.

Palmarina Bodrum features stunning design and modern architecture, a promenade with luxury retail shops, and high-end choice of restaurants and bars, creating an upscale environment for visitors. Yalikavak Marina also hosts various entertainment activities, including music concerts, art exhibitions, fashion shows, and yacht festivals. These events attract locals and international visitors, making Palmarina Bodrum a hub of activity and excitement.

Palmarina Bodrum offers exclusive services, including a yacht club, sailing school, diving centre for water sports and activities, yacht brokerage and maintenance services. Nearby attractions include ancient Myndos, the Palmarina Shopping Village, and luxury resorts and hotels. Palmarina Bodrum (Yalikavak Marina) is a premier destination for yacht owners seeking luxurious marina experiences on the Bodrum Peninsula. More about Yalikavak in Bodrum – Turkey.

Boat Owners in Gocek D-Marin

This sophisticated and upmarket marina is just a few minutes from Gocek Centre and offers everything from top services to top meals at waterfront restaurants. D-Marin Gocek is a well-known marina complex that offers state-of-the-art facilities. The marina features many berths, luxury amenities, restaurants, shops, decent restaurants, and even a spa. Gocek Marina hosts international events and has gained popularity among boat owners. Gocek does have three other marinas, including Skopea Marina, that accommodates 50 berths. Find out more about the sailing world in Gocek.

Fethiye Ece Marina on the Mediterranean Coast

Fethiye Ece Marina, in southern Turkey, sits in Fethiye, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches. Fethiye Marina provides facilities to accommodate boaters and yachting enthusiasts, including electricity, water, fuel, and Wi-Fi services to visitors. There are also various amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurants and bars.

Fethiye Ece Marina is near several popular attractions like Oludeniz Beach, Butterfly Valley, Saklikent Gorge, and the ancient ruins of Telmessos. Ece Saray Marina also hosts various events, including sailing regattas, boat shows, and cultural festivals. Why everyone loves Fethiye in Turkey.

Kusadasi Setur Marina on Turkey's Aegean Coast

Kusadasi Marina in Aegean, Turkey, is just a few minutes’ walk from the bustling city centre of Kusadasi and blue flag beaches. Yacht owners will find themselves immersed in luxury here. Setur Marina Kusadasi offers plenty of options for food and entertainment, and restaurants onsite range from casual eateries to upscale fine dining. Kusadasi Marina provides mooring and berthing services for various boats, including sailboats, motorboats, and yachts. It has over 450 berths with varying sizes, capable of accommodating vessels up to 100 metres long. The jewel in the crown, however, is the close proximity to Ephesus ancient ruins, one of Turkey's top visited tourist attractions.

Didim D-Marin – Gold Anchors in Aegean Turkey

Didim D-Marin is an upmarket marina in the beautiful Aegean Coast town of Didim. With over 500 berths for boats up to 60m, this marina's modern amenities include a 24-hour security service, an array of restaurants, a hotel and swimming pool onsite, technical assistance and complete port services. The excellent aspect of Didim marina is that you can dock in and then take a short drive to the historical trio of the Apollo temple, Miletus and Priene ancient city ruins. All three can be explored in a day, and then at night, you can dine in an exclusive restaurant overlooking the marina.

Milta Marina Bodrum in Aegean Turkey

One luxurious marina in Turkey is Milta Bodrum. With modern design and state-of-the-art facilities, this is a premier yacht haven in Turkey. Milta Marina sits near some stunning beaches, offering several swimming opportunities, snorkelling and other water activities. There are also many restaurants nearby offering delicious Turkish cuisine! Milta Bodrum Marina is in Bodrum, overlooking the picturesque Bodrum Castle and the vibrant waterfront area. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 37.0323° N latitude and 27.4215° E longitude. The marina is also home to the Bodrum Yacht Club, which organises various social and sporting events, including regattas, sailing races, and cultural activities. The yacht club is also the best place to eat in Bodrum.

Marti Marina in Marmaris

Yacht owners looking for a marina that offers style and substance, look no further than Marti Marina in Marmaris. Located on Turkey's picturesque Turquoise Coast, this sophisticated facility is perfect for sailors who want to make the most of this stunning corner of Turkey.

Marti Marina is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The marina accommodates a sailboat up to 60m, with 400 berths, technical services, and a yacht club. Plus, Marti Marina is within driving distance of top attractions like Dalyan and Kaunos. With the perfect combination of convenience and luxury, yacht owners have the perfect place to dock their sailboats.

Port Alacati Marina

Port Alacati Marina in the Cesme district of Aegean, Turkey, sits approximately 80 kilometres west of Izmir city. The marina provides berths for boats and yachts of various sizes, along with amenities such as electricity, water, fuelling stations, waste disposal facilities, 24-hour security and CCTV surveillance for safety.

Port Alacati Marina's amenities include modern shower and toilet facilities, laundry services, Wi-Fi connectivity, parking spaces, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Alacati's charming town centre, with boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional Turkish architecture, is within walking distance.

About Sailing in the Black Sea Region of Turkey

The Black Sea region of Turkey is home to several marinas that cater to boating and yachting owners. However, due to the weather and geographical layout, sailing isn't as popular on the Black Sea coast as in the Aegean and Mediterranean. If you decide to cruise the stretch of coastline, marinas are in Samsun, Trabzon, Giresun, and Sinop.

Invest in Marina Property

If you are passionate about boating or yachting, having your own property lets you immerse yourself in the boating community and enjoy convenient access to the water. Marina properties in Turkey, especially those in sought-after coastal areas or popular tourist destinations, tend to hold their value well over time. Real estate in waterfront locations is often in high demand, and the scarcity of available waterfront land contributes to long-term appreciation and potential for capital gains.

Property is always valuable addition for individuals or businesses looking to diversify their investment portfolio. The property provides an alternative asset class that complements other investments, potentially offering steady income and potential appreciation. If you want to purchase a property near a marina in Turkey, browse our portfolio here. Or contact us and agent with an agent about the world of sailing homes in Turkey.

Also About Turkey

Islands in Turkey: Sailing to the islands of Turkey is an enchanting experience that transports you to a world of natural beauty, rich history, and turquoise waters. As you embark on your journey, the gentle breeze fills the sails, guiding your vessel through the glistening Aegean or Mediterranean Sea. The coastline comes alive with a tapestry of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden coves. Along the way, you encounter a myriad of islands, each with its own allure.

The Turkish Riviera: The Turkish Riviera boasts a captivating blend of scenic landscapes, hidden coves, and picturesque harbours, making it a sailor's paradise. Crystal-clear turquoise waters invite you to dive in and explore an underwater world teeming with colourful marine life. The region's moderate winds provide ideal conditions for sailing, ensuring a smooth and exhilarating journey as you navigate between the marinas in Turkey.