7 DAYS IN TURKEY

Bodrum is one of Turkey’s premier yachting bases located at the entrance to the Gulf of Gökova. The town’s vibrant marina scene sits alongside the dramatic Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller and today housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, making it a rewarding place to begin a charter. After boarding and briefings, your crew will position the yacht for a gentle start, with the option to cruise to nearby islets such as Karaada for a first swim in clear waters. The afternoon sets the rhythm: easy cruising, early anchoring, and time on deck before deeper exploration begins. Overnight cruise toward Çökertme or adjacent Gökova anchorage.

Çökertme Bay sits on the northern side of the Gulf of Gökova and is a well known stop on traditional blue cruises from Bodrum. The bay is favoured for its calm water and scenic backdrop of hill and forest, and restaurants ashore offer genuine local flavours. A morning arrival allows for a relaxed swim off the yacht and an easy tender run to shore, where you can stretch your legs and engage with the bay’s tranquil character. The afternoon is ideal for water time and long onboard meals before evening settles quietly. Anchor the night in Çökertme Bay.

English Harbour, locally known as İngiliz Limanı, is one of the Gulf’s classic protected anchorages, named for its association with British naval history in the region. The bay’s calm water and surrounding greenery make it a comfortable stop for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking along short forest paths ashore. Arriving mid-morning gives you the whole afternoon to relax on board, explore the small coves by tender, or stroll along the shore before dinner at anchor. Anchor the night in English Harbour.

Sedir Island, commonly called Cleopatra Island, is a highlight of many Gökova Blue Cruises. According to local lore, the island’s distinctive golden sands are said to have been a gift from Marc Antony to Cleopatra, and while that remains legend, the beach’s fine grains and turquoise water are striking. Tender ashore can combine swimming with a short cultural walk or exploration of ancient ruins. The nearby Karacasöğüt village adds an authentic Turkish coastal touch. With the late afternoon light and calm water here, this stop is among the most evocative of the itinerary. Anchor the night near Cleopatra Island or Karacasöğüt.

The Seven Islands region, known locally as Yedi Adalar, is a cluster of small islets and coves that provide excellent protection and varied anchorages. Traditionally part of Bodrum to Gökova blue cruises, these islands are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and long tender excursions in crystal waters. Anchor in Kufre Bay or a nearby cove, allowing the evening to unfold around uninterrupted water activities or a quiet dinner on deck with a view of the verdant hillsides. Anchor the night among the Seven Islands.

Depending on wind, weather, and preference, mid-itinerary anchorages such as Akbük Bay or Tuzla Bay can be swapped in. These options feature calm water, pine backdrops, and a slightly more secluded feel while still providing excellent swimming and scenic value. Akbük Bay is recognised for its tranquillity and simple towns ashore, while Tuzla Bay offers another water-focused day with ease of access. Anchor the night in your chosen peaceful bay.

The return to Bodrum closes the loop with a short coastal passage that keeps the rhythm calm and direct. After a last swim stop en route if conditions allow, your captain will time the approach to arrive in Bodrum’s marina or anchorage area with plenty of daylight left for disembarkation. Arrivals here are typically smooth, supported by Bodrum’s well established yacht infrastructure and clear harbour access.