Sailing along Turkish Riviera
Boats for rent in: Turkish Riviera
Turkish Riviera - Sail along "Turquoise Coast"
Turkish Riviera is a easy to sail, ideal for beginners and less experienced yacht charter crews.
- Good infrastructure
- Modern Marinas
- Ideal weather conditions
- Easy navigation
- Sailing Season: April to October
Sailing Destinations
For those who love fishing, surfing and diving, Turkey's coasts offer endless opportunities. From the Lycia coasts near Marmaris to the fishing grounds around Antalya and Cesme, each location boasts a rich marine life, ensuring a memorable experience for every marine adventure enthusiasts.
The best places to sail:
- Manavgat - One of the town's most famous attractions, these stunning waterfalls are a natural wonder, offering a picturesque setting and a refreshing environment. Manavgat is also famous for its large, vibrant bazaar, where visitors can find a variety of goods from traditional Turkish textiles to local delicacies.
- Konyaaltı - This is one of Antalya's most famous beaches, known for its long stretch of pebbles and crystal-clear waters, backed by the breathtaking Taurus Mountains. Near Konyaaltı, there is "Antalya Aquarium", one of the biggest in the world, offering an impressive display of marine life and a long underwater tunnel.
- Anamur - The area around Anamur is known for its banana plantations. The unique microclimate of this region makes it suitable for growing these fruits, which are somewhat of a rarity in Turkey. A nearby town, Bozyazı is known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood restaurants. It’s a great place to experience local culture and relax by the sea.
Sailing Conditions
The Turkish Mediterranean coast offers uncomplicated sailing with no significant navigational challenges. The visibility here is generally clear, and the waters are well-protected, making for a smooth sailing experience. Anchorage points are conveniently close to each other, ensuring relaxed voyages. During summer, sailors can expect the Meltemi wind, averaging speeds of 3-4 Bft, primarily blowing from the north between mid-June and mid-September, bringing cool, low-humidity air. However, caution is advised in July and August when the Meltemi can intensify to 5-7 Bft, potentially creating more challenging sailing conditions
The waters of the Turkish Riviera are known for being well-protected, which contributes to generally calm sea conditions. This is particularly beneficial for less experienced sailors or those looking for a more relaxed sailing experience. The absence of strong currents and the moderate wave heights make this region a preferred destination for family sailing trips and those new to sailing.
Moorings, Marinas and Harbours
The sailing infrastructure here is well-developed, with excellent marinas like Celebi Marina in Antalya, Setur Marina in Finike, and Kemer Marina, all equipped with necessary facilities. This idyllic area offers a blend of ancient ruins, golden beaches, and warm, turquoise waters, making it a perfect start for yacht charters and a haven for maritime adventures.
The port cities of Kuşadası and Söke, along with the rapidly developing holiday town of Didim in the northern neighboring province of Aydın, are renowned for their excellent hospitality and attractions. Notably, Aydın is also the site of the ancient Temple of Apollo, a historical landmark that is a must-visit for travelers.
Sailing Routes Turkish Riviera
From Marmaris to Fethiye: Sail along the coast and combine culture with a beach holiday. You can begin your sailing holiday along the Turkish Mediterranean coast at Marmaris, where you will be able to collect the boat and do any last minute preparations. You can sail from Marmaris to Ekinicik, with stop at the My Marina to plan a trip to nearby Caunos.
How to get there - Airports in Turkish Riviera
The Turkish Riviera, stretching along the southwestern coast of Turkey, is served by several key airports. These airports facilitate easy access to various popular destinations along the Riviera. Here's a list of some of the main airports along the Turkish Riviera:
- Antalya Airport (AYT): Located in Antalya, this is one of the major airports on the Turkish Riviera, offering international and domestic flights. It serves as a gateway to the eastern part of the Riviera.
- Dalaman Airport (DLM): Situated near the town of Dalaman, this airport is well-placed for accessing southwestern resorts like Marmaris, Fethiye, and the surrounding areas.
- Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV): This airport serves the Bodrum Peninsula, providing access to one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Turkish Riviera.
- Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP): Located closer to the eastern end of the Riviera, near Alanya, this airport is relatively smaller but convenient for accessing the easternmost resorts.
- İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB): While technically not on the Turkish Riviera, it's in close proximity and serves the northern area of the Aegean coast, providing access to areas like Çeşme and Kuşadası.
Climate & Weather in Turkish Riviera
For sailors navigating the Turkish Riviera, expect a long and favorable sailing season under a typical Mediterranean climate. The season starts in April and extends through to late October or early November. Spring and autumn are pleasantly warm, ideal for sailing. Summers are characterized by long, hot days with minimal rainfall, and temperatures typically range from 27 to 33 °C, offering sunny and optimal conditions for sailing, while also providing a respite from the heat on the water. The sea remains warm enough for swimming even in November, with water temperatures around 20 °C. Winters are mild, with average temperatures hovering between 12 to 17 °C.
Summer months present near-perfect sailing conditions. However, sailors should exercise caution during spring and autumn, as dangerous southeast winds, notably the Lodos, can arise and disrupt the otherwise calm bays. It's advisable to constantly monitor the barometer during these seasons and seek safe harbor promptly if a southern storm is forecasted. Regularly checking weather and wind forecasts is crucial during these transitional periods to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.