When British travellers start planning a luxury Mediterranean yacht charter, the usual names come to mind first: the French and Italian Rivieras, the Greek islands, the Croatian coast. All are beautiful, but more and more experienced charterers are discovering that Turkey’s south-west coast offers something special – a combination of spectacular, unspoilt scenery, exceptionally spacious yachts, generous crews, outstanding food and, crucially, far better value than most other Mediterranean destinations. In this article we compare the main charter regions honestly and explain why Turkey has become our guests’ first choice for a luxury week at sea.
The comparison is not simply about price. A luxury charter is about how you feel during the week: how much space you have on board, how relaxed and private the anchorages are, how attentive the crew is, how good the food tastes and how easy it is to reach your yacht from home. On each of these measures, Turkey performs remarkably well, which is why so many guests who try it once return every summer.
Luxury yachts in Turkey
More Yacht for Your Money
The single biggest advantage of Turkey is the amount of yacht you get for your budget. A traditional gulet or motorsailer of 40 to 50 metres – with five or six spacious en-suite cabins, a huge sun deck, a shaded dining area for twelve and a crew of five to eight – can be chartered in Turkey for a price that, elsewhere in the Med, might secure only a much smaller motor yacht with less deck space and fewer crew. On most gulets, cruising fuel is included in the weekly price, whereas motor yachts in the Riviera, Greece or Croatia usually charge fuel, food and harbour fees through an APA of 30% to 40% on top. Harbour and mooring fees are also generally lower in Turkey, and many of the most beautiful anchorages are free.
Unspoilt Coastline and Quiet Anchorages
The Turkish coastline between Bodrum and Fethiye is extraordinarily indented, with hundreds of bays, inlets and islands – many accessible only by sea and protected from development by forested mountains. Compared with the crowded anchorages of the Côte d’Azur or the busiest Greek islands in August, the Gulf of Gökova, the Hisarönü Gulf and the Twelve Islands of Göcek feel peaceful and untouched. Ancient cities such as Knidos, Kaunos and Cedrae sit right on the water, and charming fishing villages like Selimiye and Söğüt offer genuine local hospitality. If you want variety, the Greek islands of Kos, Symi and Rhodes are only a short crossing away.
Crews, Food and Hospitality
Turkish hospitality is famous, and nowhere is it more evident than on a charter yacht. Crews are typically larger than on comparable yachts elsewhere, and many captains and chefs have worked the same coast for decades. The food is a highlight in its own right: fresh fish, grilled meats, mezze, vegetables and fruit from local markets, prepared with skill and generosity, with full-board packages that represent outstanding value. British guests often tell us that the warmth and attentiveness of the crew was the most memorable part of their holiday.
Easy Access from the UK
Bodrum (BJV) and Dalaman (DLM) airports have frequent direct flights from London and most regional UK airports throughout the season, with flight times of around four hours. Transfers to the marinas are short – around forty minutes from Bodrum airport to Bodrum marina, and around twenty-five minutes from Dalaman to Göcek – and we can arrange private VIP transfers or even a helicopter arrival. That means you can be on deck with a drink in hand on the same day you leave home.
Turkey’s finest charter yachts – on board
How the Destinations Compare
| Destination | Typical yacht type | Fuel | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey | Gulets & motorsailers, 25–55 m | Usually included on gulets | Excellent |
| Greece | Sailing yachts, catamarans, motor yachts | Usually extra | Good |
| Croatia | Sailing yachts, gulets, motor yachts | Usually extra | Good |
| French / Italian Riviera | Motor yachts | APA 30–40% | Premium |
Every destination has its charm, and we are always happy to discuss your options openly. But if you want a spacious, beautifully crewed yacht, quiet anchorages, delicious food and a holiday that represents genuine value, Turkey is very hard to beat. Explore our luxury gulet yachts, see the best luxury gulets in Bodrum or check our 2027 prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turkey cheaper than Greece for a yacht charter?
For comparable yacht sizes, Turkey generally offers better value, especially on gulets where cruising fuel is included.
Is it safe to charter in Turkey?
The south-west coast is a long-established, popular holiday region for British visitors. We recommend checking the latest UK government travel advice before travelling.
Can we include Greece in a Turkish charter?
Yes, many itineraries include nearby Greek islands with a transit log.
What is the best month?
June and September offer the ideal balance of weather, quiet bays and value.
Planning your own week at sea? Discover our yacht charter in Turkey – private gulets, motor yachts and superyachts from Bodrum, Göcek, Marmaris and Fethiye, arranged by our team since 2001.