Alanya, with its iconic Seljuk castle cascading down a rocky peninsula into the turquoise Mediterranean, offers a charter experience defined by history, drama, and vibrant coastal life. Opting for a motor yacht charter here elevates this experience, blending the region's rich heritage with modern speed, luxury, and unparalleled freedom. A motor yacht is your private express ticket to the best of the Turkish Riviera, allowing you to craft a dynamic itinerary that mixes ancient wonders with serene relaxation.
Advantages of a Motor Yacht Charter in Alanya
The primary advantage of a motor yacht is time. The ability to cruise at speeds of 20 knots or more transforms your holiday, turning distant attractions into easy day trips. You can explore the ancient port of Side in the morning, swim in a secluded cove in the afternoon, and be back in Alanya for dinner. Motor yachts offer supreme comfort with air-conditioned interiors, spacious sun decks, and stabilizers for a smooth ride. Their shallow draft also grants access to coves and anchorages that are off-limits to larger, deeper vessels.
Who Is It For?
- The Time-Conscious Traveller: Those who want to see and do as much as possible, valuing efficiency and minimizing travel time between destinations.
- Luxury Seekers: Guests who desire the highest levels of comfort, service, and amenities, including gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, modern entertainment systems, and a range of water toys.
- Island Hoppers & Adventurers: Individuals or groups keen on making open-water passages, such as the exciting journey from Alanya to Northern Cyprus.
- Families and Groups: A motor yacht provides a stable, secure, and comfortable platform for all ages, with easy access to the water for swimming and plenty of space for everyone to relax.
Season & Weather
Alanya's long summer season is perfectly suited for motor yacht cruising.
- May - June: Ideal conditions with warm, sunny days and comfortable sea temperatures, perfect for enjoying the expansive deck spaces.
- July - August: The hottest months, where the air-conditioned interior of your motor yacht becomes a welcome oasis. The sea is wonderfully warm.
- September - October: Superb weather continues with warm seas and fewer crowds. It's a fantastic time for a relaxed yet luxurious coastal exploration.
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Route: The Riviera Caves & Cleopatra Beach
Leave Alanya Marina and power along the stunning cliffs of the castle peninsula. Your captain will expertly guide you to the entrances of the Pirates Cave and Phosphorus Cave. Anchor in the calm waters off Cleopatra Beach for a swim and lunch served on deck. With the speed of a motor yacht, you can easily cruise further to the Ulaş beach area before heading back to the marina at sunset.
2–3 Day Route: Ancient Pamphylia Express
- Day 1: A fast cruise west from Alanya brings you to the ancient city of Side. Anchor and take the tender ashore to walk amongst the breathtaking ruins of the Temple of Apollo right on the water's edge. Enjoy the sunset and spend the night at a calm anchorage nearby.
- Day 2: In the morning, explore more of the coastline between Side and Alanya, finding a quiet bay for water sports and relaxation. Return to Alanya in the afternoon with enough time to go ashore and experience the city's vibrant evening atmosphere.
- Day 3: A final morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast and a swim near Alanya before disembarking.
1-Week Route: The Pamphylian Coast & Lycian Frontier
- Day 1: Depart Alanya and begin your westward journey, enjoying a swift cruise to an overnight anchorage near Side.
- Day 2: Explore Side's ancient harbor and ruins before continuing to the coast off Belek, ready for an inland trip to Aspendos if desired.
- Day 3: Arrive in the stunning bay of Antalya's Old City Marina (Kaleiçi). Spend the day exploring the charming, history-filled streets.
- Day 4: Cruise south from Antalya to the ancient Lycian city of Phaselis. Anchor in one of its three ancient harbors and swim over submerged ruins.
- Day 5: Continue to the beautiful, pine-clad bay of Olympos or the exclusive bay of Porto Ceneviz.
- Day 6: The return journey begins, with your yacht's speed allowing for a long, relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing at a favourite spot before cruising back towards Alanya.
- Day 7: One last breakfast at a beautiful anchorage near Alanya before returning to the marina for disembarkation.
Harbour, Transfer & Check-In
Your luxury experience starts with an easy arrival. Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP) is just 45 minutes away, making it the preferred airport. Antalya Airport (AYT) is a 2-hour drive. Your charter will begin at the modern Alanya Marina. Check-in is a seamless process, usually on a Saturday afternoon, where your crew will welcome you aboard with refreshments.
Vessel & Equipment
Motor yachts are floating villas designed for performance and pleasure.
- Performance: Twin engines provide the power to cruise efficiently, cover long distances, and even outrun changing weather.
- Luxury: Expect plush interiors, en-suite cabins, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and often a flybridge-a second, elevated deck with panoramic views.
- Amenities: A fully equipped galley, water makers, generators, and air-conditioning ensure total independence and comfort.
- Water Toys: A powerful tender for shore excursions is standard, often accompanied by gear like paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment.
Cost Components
- Charter Fee: The rental cost of the yacht, which includes the captain and crew.
- APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): Typically 30% of the charter fee, this fund covers fuel, provisions, port fees, and other variable expenses during your trip.
- Fuel: The largest component of the APA, determined by the distance traveled and cruising speed.
- Provisioning (Food & Drink): All your chosen food and beverages are purchased on your behalf.
- Port & Mooring Fees: Costs for docking in marinas other than the yacht's home port.
- Crew Gratuity: A tip of 5-15% of the charter fee is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service.
Safety, Insurance & Rules
All commercially operated motor yachts are subject to stringent safety inspections, are fully insured, and carry modern navigation and safety equipment. The professional crew, led by your experienced captain, is trained in all safety and emergency procedures, ensuring your complete peace of mind throughout the voyage.
Local Highlights
- Alanya Castle & Red Tower: A magnificent historical complex that is best appreciated from the sea, showcasing its scale and strategic power.
- Sea Caves: A series of grottoes at the base of the peninsula that make for a fun and fascinating exploration by boat.
- Cleopatra Beach: A world-renowned beach with fine sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for an afternoon anchorage.
- Ancient Side: A spectacular open-air museum with a stunning seaside Temple of Apollo, easily reachable on a day trip with a motor yacht.
- Dim River Valley: A cool, refreshing inland escape with riverside restaurants, offering a pleasant contrast to the sea.
Tips
- Plan an Efficient Itinerary: Work with your captain to leverage your yacht's speed. You can visit multiple sites in a single day without feeling rushed.
- Communicate Your Preferences: The more detail you provide on your preference sheet, the better your crew can tailor the culinary experience and daily activities to your liking.
- Trust Your Captain: The captain has expert local knowledge. They know the best, most secluded spots and can adjust the itinerary based on the day's weather for your comfort and safety.
- Pack Smart: While a motor yacht is spacious, soft luggage is always easier to store than rigid suitcases. Bring elegant resort wear for evenings ashore.
- Book in Advance: The fleet of high-quality charter motor yachts in Alanya is limited. To secure the best vessel for your dates, especially in high season, it's essential to book several months in advance.
