Selimiye is the epitome of Aegean chic-a tranquil, sophisticated village nestled in a perfectly calm bay. Pairing this serene destination with the power, speed, and luxury of a motor yacht creates the ultimate Turkish Riviera experience. A motor yacht charter transforms the stunning Hisarönü Gulf into your private playground, allowing you to glide effortlessly from bustling marinas to this peaceful sanctuary, enjoying every moment in supreme comfort and style.
The Advantages of Visiting Selimiye by Motor Yacht
The primary advantage is time and luxury. A motor yacht shrinks distances, making the beautiful journey from a major port like Marmaris to the secluded bay of Selimiye a short, exhilarating ride. This speed provides unparalleled flexibility: explore a remote cove in the morning, enjoy lunch at Selimiye’s finest restaurant, and watch the sunset from another village like Bozburun, all in a single day. Furthermore, motor yachts offer amenities such as air-conditioning, spacious sun decks, and stabilization systems that provide a smooth and luxurious base from which to enjoy this exclusive corner of the Aegean.
Who Is It For?
- The Luxury Seeker: For those who equate holidays with comfort, style, and impeccable service, a crewed motor yacht is the definitive way to experience the sophisticated charm of Selimiye.
- The Time-Conscious Traveller: Professionals and families who have limited holiday time but want to experience the best of the region without compromise will appreciate the efficiency and range of a motor yacht.
- The Gourmet Enthusiast: For travellers who want to sample the best restaurants across the peninsula, a motor yacht provides the speed to hop from a famed seafood spot in Selimiye one night to a hidden gem in Datça the next.
- Social Groups: Friends looking for a stylish and fun getaway will love the spacious decks, entertainment systems, and water toys that come with a modern motor yacht.
Season & Weather
The prime season for a motor yacht trip to Selimiye is from May to October.
- May - June: Ideal conditions with warm, sunny days and comfortable temperatures. The region is lush and green, and the village retains a quiet charm.
- July - August: The hottest and most vibrant months. A motor yacht’s air-conditioned interiors offer a cool respite from the midday heat, and its speed allows you to find your own private swimming spot away from the crowds.
- September - October: A truly golden time. The sea is at its warmest, and the summer buzz gives way to a serene atmosphere. The weather is perfect for enjoying the spacious sun decks.
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Route: The Selimiye Luxury Escape
Depart from Marmaris in the morning for a high-speed cruise along the coast. Stop at Dirsekbükü cove for a refreshing swim and some fun with the water toys. Continue to Selimiye, mooring at a pre-booked restaurant jetty. Enjoy a long, exquisite lunch and a stroll through the village's boutiques. In the late afternoon, cruise back to Marmaris, arriving in time for sunset cocktails.
2–3 Day Route: The Hisarönü Express
- Day 1: Leave Marmaris and head directly to Selimiye. Spend the afternoon enjoying the bay, then indulge in a gourmet dinner ashore.
- Day 2: In the morning, make the quick hop to the traditional village of Bozburun. After exploring, cruise to the ancient ruins of Loryma (Bozukkale) for an afternoon of history and swimming in its vast, protected bay.
- Day 3: Enjoy a final morning swim before a swift and comfortable cruise back to your home port in Marmaris.
1-Week Route: The Ultimate Peninsula Tour
- Day 1: Depart Marmaris, arriving in Selimiye for your first evening.
- Day 2: Explore the coves around Selimiye before a fast cruise to the town of Datça. Explore the town and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
- Day 3: A full-day excursion to the magnificent ancient city of Knidos at the very tip of the peninsula.
- Day 4: Cruise back along the coast to the tranquil village of Bozburun.
- Day 5: Head east to Ekincik Bay, the gateway to the Dalyan River.
- Day 6: Take a river boat excursion to see the Lycian Tombs of Kaunos and İztuzu Beach.
- Day 7: A final, relaxing cruise back to Marmaris, stopping for one last swim in a beautiful cove.
Harbour, Transfer & Check-in
Selimiye is a premier destination, not a departure port. Luxury motor yacht charters typically commence from world-class marinas in Marmaris (Netsel Marina, Yacht Marina) or Bodrum (Yalıkavak Marina). The most convenient airport is Dalaman (DLM) for Marmaris (90-min transfer) or Milas-Bodrum (BJV) for Bodrum (45-min transfer). Check-in is a seamless process, usually scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
Vessel & Equipment
Modern motor yachts are designed for performance and pleasure:
- Performance: Cruising speeds of 20+ knots allow for fast and efficient travel between destinations.
- Luxury: Expect plush interiors, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, en-suite cabins, and professional crew service.
- Outdoor Living: Expansive flybridges, sunbathing pads, and alfresco dining areas are standard.
- Amenities: Air-conditioning is essential for summer comfort, and many yachts are equipped with an exciting array of water toys like Seabobs, paddleboards, and tenders for exploring.
Cost Components
- Charter Fee: The hire of the yacht and its professional crew.
- APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): An upfront budget (typically 30% of the charter fee) to cover variable expenses. Fuel is the largest component of the APA for a motor yacht.
- Provisioning: All food and beverages.
- Mooring Fees: Costs for docking in private marinas.
- Crew Gratuity: A discretionary tip of 5-15% to thank the crew for their excellent service.
Safety, Insurance & Rules
All commercially chartered motor yachts are rigorously maintained, fully insured, and comply with the highest international safety standards. In tranquil bays like Selimiye, it is standard practice for captains to operate at slow, respectful speeds to ensure the comfort and safety of all swimmers and boats.
Local Highlights
- Selimiye's Waterfront: The main event-a beautifully curated stretch of exceptional restaurants, chic cafes, and artisan boutiques.
- Bozburun: A nearby, even quieter village with a rich boat-building heritage and an authentic, laid-back charm.
- Dirsekbükü Cove: A deep, protected inlet with exceptionally clear water, a favorite stop for a quiet swim.
- Ancient Hydas: A short hike from Selimiye village leads to ancient castle walls and tombs with panoramic views of the bay.
- Kızkumu Beach in Orhaniye: A unique natural sandbar that lets you "walk on water" far out into the bay, just a short cruise from Selimiye.
Tips
- Leverage Your Speed: Use your yacht's speed to visit popular spots early in the morning before day-tripper boats arrive, ensuring a more private experience.
- Book Jetties in Advance: Selimiye's best restaurants are in high demand. Have your captain or agent reserve a mooring spot and a table well in advance, especially in July and August.
- Use the Tender: Your yacht's tender (small motorboat) is perfect for exploring the shallowest parts of coves or for making quick, convenient trips ashore without moving the main yacht.
- Trust Your Captain: The local knowledge of your captain is invaluable. They know the best, most secluded anchorages and the quietest times to visit popular sites.