Göcek Yacht Charter Guide

Once a quiet fishing village where it is said that Icarus landed after his doomed flight, today Göcek is a hive of activity. Surrounded by mountains and a beautiful archipelago, the town is a magnet for sailors. Six modern marinas host charter yachts, and many hotels, restaurants, and shops have sprung up, laying threads of glamour through the sleepy town. A luxury yacht charter to Göcek Bay is the ideal way to explore the many islands within it, where you will find countless deserted beaches that can only be reached by boat. The sheltered marinas look out across unobstructed views of green hills as the height of buildings in the town is restricted to maintain the stunning panorama. A private yacht vacation to Göcek will take you to incredible islands, stunning beaches, and traditional towns with a touch of elegance. Set in a private bay, it is easy to see why this place is fast becoming a favourite of the elite.

Best Time To Visit: The hot season runs from June to September, with little rain or wind throughout the summer making it ideal sailing.

Key Cruising Areas: The five islands of the Yassica Adalari archipelago are beautiful to sail around and provide safe and sheltered swimming. There is also excellent sailing to be found in the gulf around the Twelve Islands of Fethiye.

Don’t Miss: It is said that the island of Saytanli Ada was the home of the devil. When he couldn’t get into heaven, this island was the closest he could find on Earth. Sail around the Yassica Islands, where pine-covered hills rise from warm, shallow waters, and see why this may be the closest to heaven on earth.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The marinas offer many options for fine dining and elegant waterfront bars. Owned by the well-known restaurateur Omer Salur, Omer’s place is located in the D-marin marina offering stunning views. Order Omer’s speciality mezze platter and enjoy in the traditional way with a glass of Raki.

Best Local Dish: Amigo’s is a floating restaurant, accessible only by boat. Take your tender out and be greeted by the owner, who will chat to you as waiters bring you the bread from village bakeries and a traditional stew of wild boar.

Local Culture: There are some stunning ancient Roman and Lycian ruins that lie along the coastline. The ruins of Cleopatra’s Baths in Manastir Bay sit half-submerged in crystal clear waters, in an idyllic anchorage surrounded by pine trees. Follow with a sail to Tomb Bay to see Lycian Tombs hewn into the rock face.

Best Beach: The twelve islands are mostly uninhabited and so the many white-sand beaches that are dotted along their coasts have the feel of a desert island. Take your pick from the many secluded beaches and come ashore to relax.

IYC recommends: Sail out to Aquarium Bay in the gulf to spend a pleasant few hours snorkeling in the azure waters. Appropriately named, the area teems with fish. While you freshen up in the comfort of your private yacht, the crew will sail round to Kizilada Island where you can enjoy a dinner in the Lighthouse restaurant prepared from locally sourced ingredients and with spectacular views of the sunset over the islands.