Fethiye Travel Information & Planning Guide

Turkey covers approximately 783,000 km² and has a population of ~85 million. The capital city is Ankara.

Fethiye has a population of around 170,000 people and is one of the primary sailing hubs of the Turkish Riviera.

The official language in Turkey is Turkish, although you will find many people in the marinas and tourist areas who speak excellent English.

Turkey’s population reflects a blend of Anatolian, Turkic, and various regional cultures, shaped by centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman influence.

The main religion in Turkey is predominantly Islam, with small Christian and Jewish communities.

Turkey is a presidential republic. Executive power is held by an elected president, with legislative authority in the Grand National Assembly and judicial functions overseen by an independent court system.

Turkish cuisine is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in Ottoman and Mediterranean traditions. Signature dishes include meze spreads, grilled kebabs, fresh seafood, gözleme, börek, baklava, and lokum (Turkish delight). Olive oil, yogurt, spices, and fresh produce form the foundation of many regional specialties.

Airport

• The closest airport to our Fethiye base is Dalaman Airport (DLM), located approximately 45 km (about a 50-minute drive) from Fethiye.
• Other nearby options include Antalya Airport (AYT) (~3 hours by road)

Airlines: Pegasus, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, EasyJet, and various European charter carriers.

Car Rental
Car rental companies operate at Dalaman Airport, making self-drive transfers very doable.

Taxi
Taxis are also available, though more expensive — especially for long-distance routes.

Shuttle
Shuttle buses (e.g., Havaş) run from Dalaman Airport to Fethiye; fares are very reasonable, and buses align with flight arrivals.

Bus
You can take the Mutaş line from the airport to the town of Fethiye and then take a taxi to the marina, which costs no more than 5 euros. Buses are also an option from Antalya Airport to Fethiye

The base is located approximately 45 km from Dalaman International Airport (DLM), with an estimated transfer time of around 50 minutes. As an alternative option, Antalya International Airport (AYT) is further away, with a transfer time of approximately 3 hours by road to the base.

Pre-booked Transfer
If required, the base can arrange a pre-booked transfer for you from Dalaman Airport to the base. Please contact the Pre-Travel team for assistance. The journey from Dalaman to Yacht Club Mai takes approximately 40–50 minutes.

Cost:
1-6 persons: 100€/way.
6-14 persons: 140€/way.

Car rental companies operate directly from Dalaman Airport, making self-drive transfers simple and convenient. 
International brands represented at the airport include: Avis, Budget, Europcar, etc. An international driver’s license is recommended.

Parking is available at the marina

Charter Boarding Time: Sat 5 pm

All skippers must attend a Chart Briefing, which covers all you need to know about the cruising area, use of the VHF radio, how to call for assistance, and more. A Boat Briefing will also be provided on board your yacht.

If arriving after hours, a message will be left on the front door indicating the location of your boat. The Chart Briefing and Boat Briefing will be held the following morning before departure.

• Charters must return to the base by 5pm the night before departure.
• Disembark by 8am the following morning. 

A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return, so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter’s end time. In addition to filling in forms, we also require you to bundle up the dirty laundry and leave it in the saloon, empty all cupboards and fridges of food, and throw away (recycling where possible), return snorkel gear, and ensure that the boat is handed back to The Moorings in a clean and tidy state. We reserve the right to charge for boats left less than shipshape.

Whilst waiting for your yacht, you may:

• Enjoy breakfast or lunch at one of the restaurants in the marina area.
• Enjoy a relaxing morning exploring Fethiye town.

Please Note

• We are not responsible for any requirement changes.
• All guests must bring a copy of the charter contract/invoice.
• Country entry/exit requirements are subject to change. Please check your government travel advice for the latest information before you leave: travel.state.gov.

Provisioning
Pre-ordered provisioning is NOT possible in Fethiye; however, we have plenty of local options to support you upon arrival.

Mobile phones & Wi-Fi
Check with your service provider for information about mobile coverage in this region. Using your own mobile phone in conjunction with a prepaid SIM card is also very popular and convenient. Wi-Fi is available in the marina and on the docks. Wi-Fi on board your boat is available as a pre-paid optional extra.

Music + iPods
All our boats have Bluetooth capability, and you can also bring an AUX line so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.

Electricity
The electrical service in Turkey is normally 220volts, 50Hz, in which case standard European two-pin plugs/appliances (types C and F) are fully compatible, while North American appliances will need both converters and adapters. The standard voltage on all yachts is 12volts in order to use electronic equipment that is 110v or 220v; you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter. 

For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list of Bareboat Charter Inclusions.

Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and traveling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents, so make sure to check with the embassy of the countries you plan to visit before you travel. Visit travel.state.gov for the latest information.

Please note: A valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity) is mandatory.

Visiting Greek Waters
Cruising into Greek waters is possible on selected charters; however, this must be agreed with the base prior to travel. Please note that entering Greece is subject to local regulations and a mandatory Greek. A Transit Log tax is payable by the guest. Your Vacation Planner will be happy to advise and assist with the process in advance.

Please review the sailing requirements here while planning your charter vacation.

Turkish port authorities require the base to submit all the necessary sailing qualifications, as well as the Crew List, no later than 7 days before the departure date to apply for your Transit Log (official cruising permit). To avoid any delays at the base, please ensure all pre-travel tasks have been completed via your MyAccount at least 14 days prior to your arrival.  

A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here.

A completed Sailing resume is required to ensure you have the necessary experience required to charter yourself and achieve a Level 1 rating. 

If you plan a crew change at any time during your charter, please ensure our Sales or Pre-Travel teams are notified well in advance of travel. This ensures that the base team can prepare the necessary documentation for the Turkish Coast Guard.

If any crew member joins or leaves the boat at any time other than the official start and end dates of the charter, the change of crew must be clearly indicated in the boat papers, which are signed and stamped by the Turkish Coast Guard.

NB: The Turkish port authorities have legislation in this area, and the correct crew members must always be presented correctly on the Transit Log.

Please pack using soft-sided bags, as these are easier to store on your yacht. The base has no facilities for holding luggage. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list below for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and a change of clothing in a carry-on bag
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Light-coloured, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover-up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/creams
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**)
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices.

*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt, and shorts) in your hand luggage, as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

The use of flying drones may be restricted in some areas. For current drone regulations in this destination, please visit https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-turkey/

The use of flying drones is strictly regulated in Türkiye by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM/DGCA).

• Registration: If your drone weighs 500g or more, it must be registered with the SHGM before you arrive. Foreigners typically need to apply for technical confirmation (technical compliance) to avoid having the drone seized at customs. (Please contact our sales team if you need any assistance.)
  
• Permits: For drones over 500g, you must apply for a flight permit at least 20 business days in advance via diplomatic channels.
  
• Lightweight Drones: Drones under 500g (e.g., DJI Mini series) generally do not require registration for recreational use, but they must still follow all operational rules.
  
• Operational Rules: Maximum altitude is 120 meters (400 feet).
  Maintain a distance of at least 50 meters from people and buildings.
  
  Flying over crowds, military zones, government buildings, and near airports (9km radius) is strictly prohibited.
  
  Most archaeological sites (like those in the Gulf of Fethiye) are restricted zones.
  
• Customs: Be aware that customs officers may inspect drones. Carrying the original purchase receipt and technical specifications is recommended.
  

For the most up-to-date regulations and to apply for permits, please visit the official Turkish DGCA (SHGM) website or consult UAV Coach – Drone Laws in Turkey.

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY), symbol ₺.

You can exchange money at your departure airport, at Dalaman Airport on arrival, and at exchange offices in Fethiye. ATMs are widely available throughout the town and marina area. Most restaurants, shops, and services accept major credit cards, with Visa and Mastercard being the most commonly used. American Express acceptance varies—please check with individual vendors.

While major marinas and hotels may accept Euros, you should use Lira for local markets and small village tavernas.

Please note: Bases are unable to accept cash or personal checks and cannot provide cash back on credit or debit cards.

Tipping in Turkey is customary and appreciated. In restaurants, cafés, and upscale venues, a tip of 10–15% is typical for good service. For exceptional service, leaving up to 20% is welcomed. Small tips are also common for taxis, porters, and other service providers.

A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter, subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.

Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our Travel Advice Information. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov.

Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However, local rules, flag systems, currents, and where swimming may be permitted can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets, and Diver Down flags are all available on board.

Children

• Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.
• Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by or in the water.
• Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended.
• Get in the water with them; it is easier to keep an eye on them, as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children, but are not a substitute for supervision.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted.
• Beware of dangerous currents; these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.
• Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth, and marine life.
• Never swim where a sign says not to, e.g., in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.
• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

Look out for others

• Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party, and use the snorkel vests provided.
• Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty, raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.
  

Do not overestimate your ability

Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.

Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.

All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests, & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use of this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat on board. If you have any questions, feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing.

We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base, so we highly recommend that if you are traveling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them. Please note that, in accordance with Turkish regulations, any life jackets used must be SOLAS-approved and non-inflatable. 

Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck.

Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.

The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

The Moorings, Fethiye
Fethiye Yacht Club Mai
Karagözler, Fevzi Çakmak Cd. No:38
48300
Fethiye/Muğla
Türkiye

Monday–Sunday: 9am – 6.30pm

Turkey operates on Türkiye Time (TRT), UTC/GMT +3 hours year-round (Turkey does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Fethiye’s marina complex is one of the most modern and well-equipped along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, offering excellent access to the bays and islands of the Gulf of Fethiye. With full-service amenities and a protected harbor setting, it provides everything you need for a comfortable and convenient start to your charter.

Facilities include:

• Access to beaches and waterfront walking paths
• 24-hour security
• Wi-Fi
• Restrooms & showers
• Fuel dock
• On-site restaurants & cafés
• Nearby supermarkets & provisioning options
• Chandlery & marine services
• Laundry services
• ATM and currency exchange nearby
• Taxi & transfer services
• Waste collection & recycling points

There is a fuel dock located within the marina, close to The Moorings base for easy refueling before return.

Level 1 

• At least 5 days or 100 miles as skipper on an equivalent-sized yacht 
• Level 1 destinations offer the easiest, most forgiving sailing, ideal for novices and less experienced sailors. Lazy line mooring, line-of-sight navigation, and calm conditions mean you won’t sail outside your comfort zone. 

Experience levels are based on sailing conditions and the length of passages within your chosen sailing area. Learn more about sailing qualifications and requirements.

A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here – but you must also demonstrate that you have the necessary experience and ability.  

Please ensure you have completed a Sailing resume to ensure you have the necessary experience required. If our base staff are not confident in your ability when you arrive, they will arrange for a The Moorings skipper to travel with you – at your own expense

Please note that skippers are available in this destination. If you are taking a bareboat charter with a skipper, you will NOT be required to hold any sailing certification.

The skipper’s time is booked from 12:00 noon to 12:00 noon in 24-hour periods. If you have reserved a skipper for the first day of your charter and have a 4:00pm start, the skipper will use this time to ensure that they are happy with all aspects of the yacht and will be at the base to meet you upon your arrival.

The skipper is responsible for the safety of the yacht at all times. The skipper is not permitted to dive with you, nor leave the vessel overnight. They must conduct a safety brief with you before leaving the dock, regardless of the duration of their contract with you.

A Friendly Skipper can be arranged for the first day of your charter to help you get acquainted with your yacht and the destination for a stress-free start

This skipper is required to give you a thorough briefing on all aspects of the yacht and dinghy, in addition to assisting you with planning an itinerary for the trip and advising you on how to contact the base, the return to base procedures, and the emergency assistance procedures.

The skipper will give you a full chart briefing during his time with you on the yacht. It is also suggested that you make it clear exactly what you want to cover…anchoring, docking, etc.

The skipper’s food or beverages are not included and are the responsibility of the client. It is suggested that you discuss this on the first day with the skipper and establish whether you will give the skipper cash for meals, whether you have included them in your provisioning, or whether you will accommodate them as part of the group for meals ashore. The skipper must have their own cabin.

It is the customer’s responsibility to get a Friendly Skipper back to the base. If you’d prefer not to come back to the base, you must pay for your skipper’s traveling expenses (ferry, taxi, etc.)

A gratuity is expected and is typically given to the skipper at the end of the charter. The amount is entirely at your discretion.

Learn more about hiring a skipper for your Turkey yacht charter.

Skipper & Crew’s required paperwork
We must have all of the following details in advance:

• Upload a copy of your valid sailing license.
• You must bring any sailing certificates or sailing qualifications with you. You will not be able to sail without these papers.
• Full name per passport (include middle name)
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Nationality and passport number/ID card number for every member of your crew so that your boat papers can be prepared

Please be aware of protected areas and marine parks, where entry may require permits or fees for your yacht.

Your local chart briefing at the base will cover all restricted zones, anchoring rules, and any seasonal considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Night sailing is not permitted – you must be moored at least one hour before sunset.

It is strictly forbidden to sail alone; we require a minimum of two persons on board.

All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing.

Sailing along the Fethiye coastline is relatively easy, with many sheltered bays, calm waters, and sandy or pebbly bottoms ideal for anchoring. Before setting off on your charter, it is recommended to register your itinerary with the harbor master and provide details of all crew and passengers.

Recommended anchorages for your yacht charter in Turkey:

• Karacaören Bay – A peaceful bay with turquoise waters and a sandy seabed, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Sarsala Bay – Sheltered, scenic anchorage with calm waters and nearby forested hills.
• Göcek Bay & Islands – Numerous coves offering private anchorages, clear water, and beautiful surroundings.
• Wall Bay – Ideal for a quiet stop, swimming, and sunset views.
• Kapi Creek – A tranquil anchorage with excellent protection from wind, perfect for overnight stays.

These anchorages provide safe and scenic stops along your route, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

There are several excellent hotel options within walking distance of the Fethiye marina area, offering comfort, convenience, and easy access to The Moorings base:

Yacht Boutique Hotel – A charming hotel with panoramic sea views, a pool terrace, and easy access to the waterfront promenade.

Yacht Classic Hotel – A stylish waterfront hotel featuring modern rooms, pools, spa facilities, and on-site dining overlooking the marina.
Ece Saray Marina Resort – Located directly within the marina complex, this resort-style property offers sea-view rooms, a swimming pool, restaurants, and wellness facilities.

Alesta Yacht Hotel – A boutique hotel just steps from the marina, known for its comfortable rooms, rooftop restaurant, and relaxing spa.

There are several excellent hotel options within walking distance of the Fethiye marina area, offering comfort, convenience, and easy access to The Moorings base:

Yacht Boutique Hotel – A charming hotel with panoramic sea views, a pool terrace, and easy access to the waterfront promenade.

Yacht Classic Hotel – A stylish waterfront hotel featuring modern rooms, pools, spa facilities, and on-site dining overlooking the marina.
Ece Saray Marina Resort – Located directly within the marina complex, this resort-style property offers sea-view rooms, a swimming pool, restaurants, and wellness facilities.

Alesta Yacht Hotel – A boutique hotel just steps from the marina, known for its comfortable rooms, rooftop restaurant, and relaxing spa.

Fethiye offers a wide variety of dining options, many located directly along the waterfront:

• Mori Restaurant (at Yacht Classic Hotel) – Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood in a beautiful seaside setting.
• Ece Saray Marina Restaurants – A selection of international and Turkish menus within the marina complex.
• Alesta Rooftop Restaurant – A refined dining experience overlooking the harbor.
• Fethiye Harbour Restaurants – Numerous cafés, meyhanes (traditional taverns), and seafood restaurants line the marina promenade, perfect for local specialties like meze, grilled fish, and kebabs.

Café and Coffee Shops
Several coffee shops and bakeries are located around the marina for quick bites and refreshments.

Letoon Hospital (Private Clinic & Hospital) – Located a short drive from the marina, offering 24/7 emergency services, general practitioners, and English-speaking medical staff.

Lokman Hekim Esnaf Hospital – Another reputable private hospital close to central Fethiye, providing comprehensive care and walk-in services.

Emergency services are available throughout the region, and taxis can easily transport guests to nearby clinics or hospitals when needed

For your convenience, several supermarkets and local markets are located near the Fethiye marina, offering fresh produce, meats, dairy, beverages, and other essentials for your charter.

Supermarkets:

• Migros Fethiye – Large supermarket with a wide selection of groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables, and international products.
• CarrefourSA Fethiye – Well-stocked supermarket offering fresh produce, bakery items, and household goods.
• Şok & BİM Discount Stores – Convenient for quick essentials and local snacks.

Local Markets:

• Fethiye Marina Market – Small market located within walking distance of the marina, ideal for fresh produce, bread, and specialty items.
• Fethiye Wednesday Market (Çarşamba Pazarı) – One of the largest weekly markets in the region, offering fruits, vegetables, spices, textiles, and local products.

Specialty Stores:
Local bakeries, fishmongers, and delicatessens are scattered along the marina and town center for freshly baked bread, seafood, and regional delicacies. These provisioning options make it easy to stock your yacht with everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable sailing vacation along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

Soriana: https://www.soriana.com/

The marina and surrounding Fethiye area offer a wealth of experiences both on and off the water. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, this is a destination where adventure, history, and relaxation come together.

Interesting Sites
As our base is located in Fethiye, a city with roots in the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos dating back to the 5th century BC, you are surrounded by millennia of history and breathtaking natural beauty.

Walking distance from Yacht Club Mai:

• Lycian Rock Tombs (Amyntas Tomb): The most iconic landmark of Fethiye. These grand tombs are carved directly into the cliffside overlooking the town (20-minute walk/5-minute taxi).
• Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur): A charming area of narrow streets filled with shops selling spices, Turkish delight, textiles, and local crafts (10-minute walk).
• Fethiye Fish Market: A ”must-visit” local experience. Buy fresh seafood from the central stalls and have one of the surrounding restaurants cook it for you (12-minute walk).
• Ancient Telmessos Theater: Recently restored, this Roman-era theater is located right near the harbor (10-minute walk).
• Fethiye Promenade: A beautiful seaside walkway right outside the marina, lined with excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.
• Fethiye Museum: Housing incredible artifacts from the Lycian, Greek, and Roman periods discovered in the surrounding ancient cities (15-minute walk).

A short taxi or boat ride away:

• Kayaköy (The Ghost Village): An abandoned Greek village that now serves as a powerful open-air museum and a poignant historical site.
• Ölüdeniz & The Blue Lagoon: One of the most photographed beaches in the world, famous for paragliding and turquoise waters.
• Saklıkent Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world, perfect for a day trip before or after your charter.
• Tlos: One of the most important ancient Lycian cities, known for its impressive rock tombs, fortress ruins, and panoramic views across the Xanthos Valley. 
• Kaunos: An ancient city near Dalyan, famous for its dramatic cliff-carved Lycian tombs and well-preserved theater overlooking the river delta. 
• Kekova Sunken City: Explore this fascinating, partially submerged ancient settlement by boat or kayak and see the ruins of Lycian houses beneath the clear turquoise waters. 
• Gemiler Island: An important Byzantine archaeological site with church ruins, scenic hiking paths, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. 
• Lycian Way: One of the world’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, winding through mountains, forests, and dramatic Mediterranean coastal scenery. 

All this, and more, is waiting for you in Fethiye, on the turquoise shores of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

For your convenience, you can add water toys to your charter before arrival at the base. They will be waiting on your boat upon arrival. You are able to rent these at the base, but please keep in mind that we have limited availability. For more information, please view our water sports options.

Scuba diving
Scuba diving is incredible in this destination; this is not something the base can organise for you. Please do your own research to organise with a local tour operator upon arrival. 

Please note: For bareboat charters (where no staff from The Moorings are onboard the yacht) charterers are permitted to dive from the yacht. The Moorings does not provide such activities so you should ensure that any third parties that you engage with in order to dive should be through reputable and third-party operators. Any diving activities are fully undertaken at your own risk, and The Moorings shall have no responsibility or liability in connection with your participation in any diving activities, irrespective of whether this takes place from the yacht or an alternative location during your charter. Diving is not permitted under any circumstances where there is any skipper or other crew onboard the yacht which is provided by The Moorings.

Snorkeling
The Moorings has a range of fins available in various sizes. You will find them in cockpit lockers in each yacht. We do have limited children’s sizes; we recommend bringing your own to avoid disappointment. Please note that we do not provide snorkeling masks or snorkels on board. Please feel free to bring your own.  

Please Note:

• One person should remain out of the water, keeping watch over the others in the water
• When diving and snorkeling, the diving flag and buoy should be deployed and visible to all passing nearby
• Swim vests should be worn at all times whilst snorkeling

Fishing Licenses & Regulations:

• Recreational fishing in Turkish coastal waters generally does not require a permit for personal use when fishing from a boat within territorial waters.
• Certain protected species (like bluefin tuna or groupers during spawning season) are restricted, and seasonal rules may apply. Always check local regulations before fishing.

Fishing Equipment:
There are local tackle shops and charters near Fethiye Marina where you can rent rods, reels, and other equipment.

Fethiye enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The surrounding mountains help protect the bay, creating calm waters ideal for sailing.

Best time for sailing: May to October is the high season, with warm, sunny days, average temperatures between 25–32°C (77–90°F), and calm seas.

• Summer: Expect hot days, temperatures around 30–32°C (86–90°F), and warm sea temperatures for swimming. Light to moderate afternoon breezes typically blow from the west or southwest, perfect for sailing.
• Winter: Mild and pleasant, with average temperatures of 15–20°C (59–68°F). Some rainy days occur between November and February, but sailing is still possible in protected bays.
• Storms: Tropical storms do not affect the Mediterranean coast, so sailing conditions are generally safe year-round.

The Fethiye and Göcek sailing area is well-protected by surrounding mountains and islands, creating calm waters ideal for cruising. Unlike the northern Aegean, the Meltemi wind does not affect this region. Sailing conditions are generally safe year-round, with summer offering the most consistent and enjoyable winds for day sails and overnight anchoring. 

Summer (May–October): 
During summer, typical winds are light to moderate, usually blowing from the west or southwest. Afternoon breezes are common and can reach 8–15 knots, making conditions ideal for casual cruising. The many sheltered bays and coves provide protection from stronger gusts, allowing comfortable anchoring and safe overnight stops throughout the region. 

Winter (November–April): 
In winter, winds are generally lighter and less predictable. Occasionally, stronger northerly or northeasterly winds may occur, but most days remain calm, allowing sailing in protected bays even during cooler months. Rain is more frequent in this period, and local thunderstorms can happen but are typically short-lived.

When you arrive at the Fethiye base, the team will provide you with a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, including wind forecasts, sea conditions, and any local advisories to ensure safe and enjoyable sailing.  

Local harbor offices receive regular weather reports, making them one of the most reliable sources of up-to-date meteorological information. On your VHF (use Ch16 to make initial contact), you can monitor weather transmissions and navigation warnings on the designated channels. 

Additionally, you can check the internet: 

Windy.com or Windfinder.com

Tidal variation along the Turkish Mediterranean coast is minimal, usually less than 0.5 meters.
Currents are generally weak, but be aware of local effects near narrow straits or river mouths.
Your base briefing will include tide tables and anchoring guidance for your specific itinerary.

At The Moorings, we’re passionate about preserving the beauty of the oceans we explore. Through Our OCEAN Promise, we’re working to reduce our environmental footprint and support the communities that make each destination so special. From more responsible operations to cleaner cruising practices, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.

You can make a difference too. Before you depart, pack a reusable water bottle, choose to support local businesses, and anchor mindfully to help protect the waters we all enjoy. Small choices make a big impact.

Learn more about Our OCEAN Promise