There are few better ways to discover the Turkish coast than from the deck of a crewed catamaran. Starting in Fethiye, a week on the water takes you through a spectacular mix of turquoise bays, pine-covered islands, ancient ruins and tiny waterfront restaurants – with the freedom to change the plan whenever somewhere looks too good to leave.
Unlike some Mediterranean sailing destinations, Turkey is as much about the bays and anchorages as the towns. The Gulf of Fethiye and Göcek is a wonderfully sheltered cruising area, packed with secluded coves and islands, making it ideal for a relaxed catamaran holiday.
Day 1 – Fethiye to Göcek
After boarding in Fethiye, start with an easy afternoon cruise towards the Göcek Islands. Stop for your first swim in the clear turquoise water before settling into a peaceful anchorage for your first night.
There is no need to go far. The idea is to slip immediately into the rhythm of a Turkish Blue Cruise: lunch on deck, swimming straight from the boat and drinks as the sun sets.
Day 2 – Göcek and the Twelve Islands
Spend the day exploring the islands and bays around Göcek. Yassıca Islands are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, while Tersane Island offers the chance to explore the remains of an old Ottoman shipyard.
With a crew looking after everything, there is no reason to rush. Find a beautiful bay, drop anchor and stay until you feel like moving on.
Day 3 – Cleopatra’s Bath and Wall Bay
Cruise through the spectacular Göcek archipelago to Cleopatra’s Bath, where the remains of ancient ruins lie beneath the water. Continue to Wall Bay, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and forested hills.
This is quintessential Turkey: warm water, ancient history and a tiny restaurant where dinner can be enjoyed beside the boat.
Day 4 – Fethiye to Ölüdeniz and Gemiler Island
Head south towards Ölüdeniz, one of Turkey’s most famous coastal landscapes. After a morning swim, continue to Gemiler Island, where Byzantine ruins are scattered across the hillside.
Climb to the top towards sunset and the views become spectacular, stretching back across the Lycian coast.
Day 5 – The Lycian Coast
Now turn east, following the rugged coastline towards Kalkan. This is the longer sailing day, but it is also when you really appreciate having a catamaran and professional crew. Set the sails, settle into the cockpit and watch the dramatic Lycian coastline unfold.
Arrive in Kalkan for the evening, with its whitewashed houses, harbour and famous rooftop restaurants.
Day 6 – Back towards Fethiye
Begin the journey back west, stopping wherever the crew find the best conditions. A secluded cove, a deserted beach or a restaurant accessible only from the water can easily become the highlight of the day.
There is no pressure to follow a rigid itinerary. That is the beauty of a private charter.
Day 7 – Fethiye
Enjoy a final breakfast and swim before making the short cruise back to Fethiye.
What makes a Turkish crewed catamaran charter so special is the combination of freedom and service. You can wake up in a different bay every morning, swim before breakfast, enjoy lunch prepared on board and finish the day with dinner overlooking the water.
For a week away, it is hard to imagine a better combination: spectacular scenery, warm seas, ancient history, exceptional food and just enough sailing to make the journey part of the adventure.
Fethiye is not simply the starting point. It is the gateway to one of the Mediterranean’s great cruising holidays.