Seasonal Charter Guide: When and Where to Sail

Why Bodrum is Turkey's Premier Sailing Destination

Bodrum sits at the heart of Turkey's most spectacular sailing territory. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Aegean, backed by the Bodrum Castle, and positioned at the entrance to the legendary Gökova Gulf, it is the natural starting point for any sailing adventure along the Turkish Riviera.

This guide covers everything you need to know to plan a successful Bodrum sailing holiday — from the best seasons and wind conditions to recommended routes, must-visit anchorages, and practical tips for charterers.

Sailing Seasons in Bodrum

High Season — July & August
Peak sailing conditions with guaranteed sunshine and warm water (25–27°C). The Meltemi wind blows consistently from the north-west, typically Force 3–5. Anchorages are busier and prices higher, but the weather is virtually guaranteed.

Mid Season — June & September (Recommended)
Our top recommendation. Excellent sailing winds, fewer crowds, and prices 15–20% lower than peak season. Water remains warm (22–24°C) and weather is highly reliable.

Shoulder Season — May & October
Great value — prices up to 35% lower. Weather is generally good but more variable. Spring brings wildflowers to the hillsides; autumn offers calmer seas and golden light. Excellent for experienced sailors.

Low Season — April & November
Significant discounts and almost empty anchorages. Weather is less predictable and some restaurants may be closed. Recommended only for experienced sailors comfortable with variable conditions.

Understanding the Meltemi Wind

The Meltemi (also called Etesian) is a north-westerly wind that defines sailing in the Aegean:

• Onset: Usually begins around mid-June
• Peak: July–August
• Strength: Typically Force 3–5 (15–25 knots), occasionally Force 6–7 in stronger periods
• Pattern: Builds during the afternoon (14:00–15:00), eases in the evening
• Strategy: Plan morning departures and aim to arrive at your anchorage before the afternoon wind builds

The Meltemi is the sailor's friend — consistent, predictable, and perfect for making good miles. However, new charterers should be prepared for choppy conditions in exposed waters during the afternoon.

Bodrum Marina & Departure Points

Bodrum Marina (Milta Bodrum Marina)
The main charter base. Full facilities — fuel, water, electricity, Wi-Fi, provisioning, restaurants, and 24-hour security. Most charter boats depart Saturday at 16:00 and return the following Saturday by 09:00.

Turgutreis Marina
On the western tip of the Bodrum Peninsula. A popular alternative start point offering shorter passages into the Gökova Gulf.

Güllük
Quieter and less touristy than Bodrum. Good option for those beginning an eastward journey towards Marmaris.

Recommended Sailing Routes from Bodrum

Route 1: Gökova Gulf Classic (7 days, Easy)

The most popular route for first-time charterers from Bodrum. Sheltered waters, well-marked passages, and the most beautiful anchorages in the region.

Day 1 — Bodrum → Orak Island (6 nm): Snorkelling, swimming, overnight in sheltered bay.
Day 2 — Orak → Çökertme (12 nm): Village bread, ancient Cedrae ruins, crystal bay.
Day 3 — Çökertme → English Harbour (8 nm): Byzantine monastery ruins, excellent swimming.
Day 4 — English Harbour → Cleopatra's Bay (10 nm): The legendary beach. Visit ancient Cedrae amphitheatre.
Day 5 — Cleopatra's Bay → Yedi Adalar (15 nm): Archipelago, complete seclusion.
Day 6 — Yedi Adalar → Longöz Bay (12 nm): Pine forests, the most beautiful anchorage in Gökova.
Day 7 — Longöz → Bodrum (25 nm): Morning swim, sail home.

Total: ~90 nautical miles | Difficulty: Easy

Route 2: Datça Peninsula (7 days, Intermediate)

For those wanting more open-sea sailing and fewer other boats. More dramatic scenery and quieter anchorages.

Bodrum → Kara Ada → Palamutbükü → Knidos → Datça → Bozburun → Selimiye → Bodrum

Total: ~130 nautical miles | Difficulty: Intermediate

Route 3: Bodrum to Marmaris (14 days, All levels)

The ultimate Turkish Riviera experience. Combines Gökova Gulf highlights with the Marmaris region, including Ekincik, Dalyan, and Göcek.

Total: ~250 nautical miles | Best for extended holidays and larger groups

Must-Visit Anchorages

Cleopatra's Bay (Sedir Island): One of the most beautiful and historically significant spots in the Aegean. The golden sand was supposedly imported from Egypt for Cleopatra's bath. Now a protected site — swimming only from the beach, no anchoring on the sand.

Longöz Bay: Our favourite anchorage in Gökova Gulf. Pine trees reach the water's edge, the bay is deep and sheltered, and in the evenings it glows with reflected light. Often empty even in high season.

Knidos: An ancient city at the tip of the Datça Peninsula with the ruins of a temple to Aphrodite. Dramatic setting, excellent taverna, unforgettable sunset.

English Harbour: Named for the British Royal Navy who sheltered here. Crystal water, Byzantine ruins on the hill above, and a small restaurant with simple, excellent food.

Provisioning Tips

• Stock up in Bodrum before departure — the widest supermarket choice
• Bodrum Market (Çarşı): Traditional market on Tuesday and Friday mornings — fresh produce, olives, cheese, and spices
• Diesel: Available at Bodrum marina and most main stops; carry extra in Jerricans for remote anchorages
• Ice: Available at most marinas and fishing villages; essential in summer

Ready to sail Bodrum? Let's plan your perfect itinerary.

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