What is the best time of year to charter a yacht in Fethiye?

The season runs from May to October. May, June, and September offer ideal weather with fewer crowds and perfect conditions for sailing. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, perfect for those who love swimming in warm seas and a vibrant atmosphere.

Is Fethiye a good starting point for a first-time charter?

Absolutely. Fethiye offers a huge variety of routes, from short, sheltered trips to the nearby Göcek islands to more adventurous week-long voyages to Kekova. The presence of many calm, protected bays makes it very suitable for beginners and families.

Can we visit Butterfly Valley and Ölüdeniz with our chartered yacht?

Yes. Visiting by private yacht is the best way to experience these iconic locations. You can anchor off Ölüdeniz to enjoy the view away from the crowded beach and motor into the entrance of Butterfly Valley. Note that large yachts may not be able to dock inside the valley itself.

What is the typical Fethiye Blue Cruise route?

The most classic and beloved one-week route is Fethiye-Kekova-Fethiye. This itinerary includes highlights like Ölüdeniz, Gemiler Island, Kaş, and the Sunken City of Kekova, offering a perfect mix of nature, history, and charming towns.

What's the difference between starting in Fethiye versus Göcek?

Fethiye is a vibrant town offering access to a wider cruising area, including the historical sites towards Kekova. Göcek is a smaller, more intimate village focused almost exclusively on yachting within its own stunning bay of countless islands and coves.

How are food and drinks managed on the boat?

For crewed charters, you will typically create a preference list in advance. The crew then purchases all provisions on your behalf, and the cost is deducted from your Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA). You can also bring your own preferred snacks or drinks.

Is it possible to go paragliding in Ölüdeniz during our trip?

Yes, it's a popular activity. This can be arranged with your captain. The boat can anchor nearby while you take a shuttle to the launch site on Babadağ mountain for an unforgettable flight over the Blue Lagoon.

Are the historical sites easily accessible from the sea?

Many of them are. Gemiler (St. Nicholas) Island is an open-air museum you anchor right next to. The Sunken City of Kekova is viewed directly from the boat, and you can anchor near Kaleköy to walk up to its medieval castle.

Yacht/Boat Charter in Fethiye

Fethiye is not just a destination; it's the legendary starting line for Turkey's most celebrated Blue Cruise adventures. Nestled around a vast, sheltered bay and watched over by ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffsides, the town is a vibrant blend of history, nature, and modern marina life. To set sail from Fethiye is to open a storybook of turquoise coves, sunken cities, and landscapes so beautiful they feel mythical.

Advantages of Chartering a Yacht in Fethiye

Fethiye's strategic location is its greatest asset. It serves as the perfect gateway to two distinct yet equally magnificent cruising grounds: the tranquil, island-dotted Bay of Göcek to the west, and the historically rich, dramatic coastline stretching east to Kaş and Kekova. This provides incredible itinerary flexibility. The area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, numerous well-protected anchorages, and a seamless blend of natural wonders with profound archaeological sites.

Who Is It Suitable For?

History & Archaeology Enthusiasts: Those eager to sail over the sunken city of Kekova, explore the Byzantine ruins on Gemiler Island, and see Lycian sarcophagi scattered across the coastline.
Nature Lovers & Hikers: Individuals who dream of anchoring in Butterfly Valley, swimming in the electric blue waters of Cold Water Bay, and walking parts of the historic Lycian Way trail accessible from the coast.
Families and Mixed Groups: The calm, protected waters in many of the bays provide safe and enjoyable swimming and water sports conditions for all ages.
Adventurers & Photographers: Anyone looking to paraglide over the world-famous Ölüdeniz lagoon, dive in crystal-clear waters, and capture photos of some of the Mediterranean's most iconic landscapes.

Season & Weather

The charter season in Fethiye runs from May through October, offering a long window of superb holiday weather.

May - June: The landscape is at its most green and vibrant. Air temperatures are pleasant (22-28°C), and the sea is refreshingly cool. It's a fantastic time for active exploring without the peak summer heat.
July - August: This is the height of summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and the sea at its warmest. Days are hot and sunny, perfect for endless swimming, though reliable afternoon breezes (the Meltemi) offer a welcome coolness.
September - October: Often considered the best time to sail. The intense heat of summer subsides, the sea remains wonderfully warm, and the crowds begin to thin, leaving the bays and anchorages wonderfully serene.

Sample Itineraries

1-Day Route: The Gems of Fethiye Bay

Depart from Fethiye's Ece Marina and head to Turunç Pınarı, a beautiful pine-clad bay for a first swim. Continue towards the iconic Ölüdeniz to anchor offshore and marvel at the Blue Lagoon's colours. Depending on conditions, cruise past Butterfly Valley to see the dramatic gorge from the sea before ending the day at Gemiler (St. Nicholas) Island to explore the ruins and watch a breathtaking sunset before returning.

2–3 Day Route: A Taste of the Göcek Islands

Day 1: Set sail from Fethiye and cruise into the sheltered Bay of Göcek. Spend the afternoon swimming and island-hopping around the Yassıca Islands. Find a calm anchorage for the night in a secluded spot like Bedri Rahmi Bay.
Day 2: Explore more of the Göcek islands, such as Tersane (Shipyard) Island with its underwater ruins, followed by a stop at the uniquely beautiful Cleopatra's Bath (Hamam Bay).
Day 3: Enjoy a final morning swim and breakfast before a leisurely sail back to Fethiye, stopping at one last cove like Boncuklu Bay en route.

1-Week Route: The Classic Fethiye to Kekova Voyage

Day 1: Embark in Fethiye and settle in. A short cruise to a quiet nearby bay for dinner and your first night under the stars.
Day 2: Cruise to Ölüdeniz and Gemiler Island. Spend the afternoon exploring the island's ruins and enjoy the sunset from the summit.
Day 3: A longer sailing day takes you east past the Seven Capes to the charming harbour town of Kalkan, with an option to visit Kaş in the afternoon.
Day 4: Arrive in the protected Kekova region. Anchor in the beautiful bay of Üçağız and explore the area by dinghy.
Day 5: Cruise silently over the Sunken City of Simena. Afterwards, go ashore at Kaleköy to hike up to its Crusader castle for panoramic views.
Day 6: Begin your journey west, enjoying swimming and lunch in quiet bays like Yağlıca or Aperlai.
Day 7: One last day of pure relaxation. Enjoy a final swim stop at a beautiful spot like Cold Water Bay before your final evening sail back into Fethiye's port.

Harbour, Transfer & Check-In

The primary airport for Fethiye is Dalaman Airport (DLM), located approximately a 45-minute drive away. Transfers are easily arranged. Most charters start from the well-equipped Ece Marina or the town's municipal harbour, both of which are central and offer excellent facilities. Standard check-in for weekly charters is on Saturday afternoon, typically between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Yacht & Equipment

Fethiye is the heartland of traditional Turkish boat building, making it the perfect place to charter a variety of vessels.

Gulets: These spacious, comfortable wooden yachts are the soul of the Blue Cruise. With full crews (captain, chef, deckhands), they are ideal for larger groups and families wanting a relaxed, fully catered holiday.
Motor Yachts: For those seeking speed, luxury, and the ability to cover more ground, a motor yacht is a perfect choice to quickly hop between Fethiye, Kaş, and Kalkan.
Sailing Yachts & Catamarans: The reliable afternoon winds make this area a sailor's delight. These yachts offer a more intimate and hands-on connection to the sea, with catamarans providing exceptional stability and deck space.

Cost Items

Your charter costs will be composed of several key elements. Note that specific prices are not listed, as they vary greatly by boat and season.

Charter Fee: The base cost of hiring the yacht and, if applicable, its crew.
Fuel: A significant cost for motor yachts, more moderate for gulets and sailing yachts.
Provisions (Food & Drink): Often managed through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA).
Mooring & Harbour Fees: Charges for docking in municipal ports or private marinas.
APA / Security Deposit: An APA is a prepayment to cover variable expenses. A security deposit is standard for bareboat charters.
Crew Gratuity: A tip for the crew (usually 5-15% of the base charter fee) is customary for good service.

Safety, Insurance & Rules

All commercially registered charter yachts in Turkey are subject to strict safety regulations, are fully insured, and carry all required safety equipment. Your captain is the ultimate authority regarding the safety of the vessel and its passengers; their decisions on the itinerary based on weather conditions are final. Be aware of protected areas where anchoring or swimming may be restricted to preserve natural and historical sites.

Local Highlights

Ölüdeniz & Blue Lagoon: A world-famous beach with breathtaking colours, best appreciated from the deck of your private yacht.
Kayaköy: Known as the "Ghost Village," this abandoned Greek town is a hauntingly beautiful and poignant place to explore.
Gemiler (St. Nicholas) Island: A treasure trove of Byzantine ruins, including churches and covered walkways, offering spectacular sunset views.
Sunken City of Kekova: An ancient Lycian city, partially submerged by an earthquake, which you can cruise directly over in crystal-clear waters.
Saklıkent Gorge: While an inland trip, it's an accessible and spectacular excursion from Fethiye to walk through one of Europe's deepest canyons.
Fethiye's Lycian Rock Tombs: The magnificent Tomb of Amyntas, carved into the cliff face directly above the town, is a must-see.

Tips

Embrace Flexibility: While it's great to have a plan, the beauty of a private charter is the freedom to change it. If you discover a cove you love, stay longer. Your captain will always have excellent alternative suggestions based on the day's weather.
Pack Smart: Use soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases for easy storage on the boat. Include light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings, especially in the spring and autumn.
Water Shoes are a Must: Many of the most beautiful beaches are pebbly, and water shoes are invaluable for comfortably exploring rocky coves and archaeological sites.
Book Excursions: Don't hesitate to plan for an on-shore activity like paragliding in Ölüdeniz or a traditional Turkish bath (hamam) in Fethiye. Your crew can help you arrange it.
Stay Connected (or Not): While most coastal areas have mobile signal and many boats offer Wi-Fi, there will be beautiful, remote bays where you are completely offline. Embrace these moments of digital detox.