Positioned at the westernmost tip of the vibrant Bodrum Peninsula, Turgutreis is a sailor's gateway to adventure. Famed for its breathtaking sunsets and its prime location just a stone's throw from the Greek Dodecanese islands, it’s a starting point that promises a holiday of diverse discovery. To explore this dynamic region, the catamaran stands out as the ultimate vessel, perfectly blending the thrill of harnessing the Aegean winds with the supreme comfort and stability of a spacious floating villa.
Advantages of a Catamaran Charter in Turgutreis
In a region renowned for its brilliant sailing winds, the design of a catamaran offers unparalleled advantages.
- Stability and Comfort: Turgutreis is the heartland of the Meltemi wind. A catamaran's twin-hull design provides incredible stability, sailing flat without the significant heeling (tilting) of a monohull. This creates a level, comfortable, and stress-free experience, both under sail and at anchor.
- Expansive Living Space: A catamaran offers a wealth of space. The iconic forward trampoline is a favourite spot for sunbathing and dolphin-watching, while the vast, single-level cockpit and saloon area becomes the social heart of your holiday.
- The Perfect Island-Hopping Platform: The stability, speed, and comfort make a catamaran the ideal choice for open-water crossings to the nearby Greek islands of Kos and Kalymnos, turning the journey itself into a pleasurable experience.
- Access to Secluded Spots: With a shallower draft than most monohulls, a catamaran can often anchor in more secluded bays and get closer to beautiful beaches, opening up a wider range of possibilities for your itinerary.
WHO IS IT SUITABLE FOR?
- Families with Children: The stable, wide decks provide a secure environment for children. The trampoline is a natural playground, and the dual stern steps offer safe and easy access to the sea for swimming.
- First-Time Sailors and Guests Prone to Seasickness: The gentle motion and minimal tilting of a catamaran make it the perfect introduction to a sailing holiday. The enhanced stability dramatically reduces the likelihood of seasickness.
- Groups of Friends: With cabins located in separate hulls for privacy and enormous communal areas for socializing, catamarans are perfectly designed for groups wanting to share a memorable holiday.
- Sailors Who Prioritize Comfort: For those who love the feeling of being powered by the wind but prefer the comfort of a level living space, a catamaran delivers the best of both worlds-exhilarating sailing without compromising on luxury.
SAMPLE 1-WEEK ITINERARY: The Classic Turkey & Dodecanese Route
- Day 1: Arrive at the world-class D-Marin in Turgutreis. After your check-in and briefing, enjoy a short, relaxed sail to anchor for the night in the nearby bay of Kadıkalesi.
- Day 2: A beautiful morning sail across the channel to Kos, Greece. The catamaran's stable platform makes the crossing a delight. Clear customs and spend the afternoon exploring the historic town, with its medieval castle and the famous Tree of Hippocrates.
- Day 3: Sail to the rugged island of Kalymnos, renowned for its sponge-diving heritage. Anchor in the stunning, fjord-like bay of Vathy, surrounded by citrus groves.
- Day 4: Explore more of Kalymnos, or enjoy a short hop to the tranquil island of Pserimos for a perfect swim and lunch stop in its crystal-clear waters.
- Day 5: Enjoy a fantastic downwind sail back to the Turkish coast. Clear customs and anchor for the evening in the magical bay of Gümüşlük, famous for its waterfront fish restaurants set amidst ancient ruins.
- Day 6: Discover the beautiful bays on the south of the Bodrum Peninsula, such as Aspat and Karaincir. Use your catamaran's shallow draft to find the perfect spot close to the beach.
- Day 7: A final leisurely breakfast and morning swim before a pleasant sail back to Turgutreis Marina for disembarkation.
MARINA, TRANSFER & CHECK-IN
Your charter will begin at D-Marin Turgutreis, a premium marina with a full range of services and amenities. The main international gateway is Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), located about a 60-minute scenic drive away. Check-in is typically a smooth process on Saturday afternoons, with a comprehensive briefing provided by the charter company.
BOAT & EQUIPMENT
The catamaran is a masterpiece of functional design for leisure sailing:
- The Foredeck Trampoline: More than just a feature, it's a lifestyle-your front-row seat to the sea, perfect for sunbathing, reading, or watching the world sail by.
- Panoramic Saloon: The indoor living area is surrounded by large windows, offering 360-degree views and seamlessly connecting with the outdoor cockpit to create one vast, open-plan social space.
- Twin Engines: Set wide apart, these make maneuvering in tight spaces like marinas remarkably easy and intuitive.
COST BREAKDOWN
- The weekly charter fee for the catamaran.
- Transitlog (Turkish sailing permit).
- Optional extras like a skipper, gennaker, or stand-up paddleboard.
- A mandatory 'charter pack' which usually includes end cleaning, bed linen, and towels.
- A refundable security deposit to cover any potential damages.
- Variable costs: fuel, water, and mooring fees at private marinas.
- Official customs and port fees if you choose to visit the Greek islands.
SAFETY, INSURANCE & RULES
All charter catamarans are fully insured and equipped to high safety standards. For a bareboat charter, you must hold a valid sailing license and have sufficient practical experience. If you plan to visit Greece, you must inform your charter company in advance so they can prepare the necessary official boat papers. All guests must carry their passports.
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
- Kos and Kalymnos: The ability to easily visit these authentic Greek islands is the number one reason to start your charter in Turgutreis.
- Gümüşlük: A bohemian and historic village built on the ancient city of Myndos. A must-visit for its unique atmosphere and superb seafood.
- The Meltemi Wind: Experience the thrill of true Aegean sailing on a vessel that is perfectly designed to harness this famous wind with comfort and grace.
- Spectacular Sunsets: Turgutreis is famous for its sunsets. There is no better place to watch one than from the wide, stable deck of your own catamaran.
- The Southern Peninsula Bays: Discover a chain of beautiful coves and beaches like Aspat, Akyarlar, and Karaincir, offering excellent shelter and clear waters.
TIPS
- Book in Advance: Catamarans are the most popular charter choice for families and groups, and the fleet is limited. To secure the best boat for your dates, booking 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended.
- The Perfect Choice for Newcomers: If you are introducing friends or family to sailing for the first time, the stability and comfort of a catamaran will ensure they have an amazing and positive experience.
- Use the Space: A catamaran's size allows for better provisioning. Stock up on supplies at the large supermarkets in Turgutreis before you depart.
- Plan for Greece: Confirm all passport and visa requirements for your nationality long before your trip. Having some Euros in cash for small tavernas and shops on the islands is also a good idea.
- Relax and Enjoy the Platform: A catamaran is more than just a boat; it's a destination in itself. Take time to simply enjoy the space-read a book on the trampoline, host a sunset cocktail party, and use the easy-access sterns for frequent, refreshing swims.
