Welcome to a Sailing Paradise
The Mediterranean, Aegean, and the Black Sea, as well as the Sea of Marmara, surround Turkey to the north, west and south. With over 8,333 kilometres of coastline and four seas, Turkey is a treasure chest of coves, inlets, bays and beaches from which yachtsmen can choose a different and always private anchorage each night.
The sailing paradise of Turkey is home to the Blue Voyage. This idyllic cruise means sailing with the winds, into coves and over the seas and becoming one with nature. It is also an experience of the history of man from the perspective of the sea rather than from the land, a journey which carries you to the private beach of Cleopatra, the eternal fires of Mt. Olympos and the myriad archaeological remains of ancient civilisations. For lovers of the active life, sailing in clear waters provides great opportunities for swimming, fishing, skiing, surfing and diving.
Sailing in Turkey also allows you to experience a truly enriching cultural exchange with the hospitable and gracious people of the coastal villages and towns. The tempered winds which generally blow from the west and north-west make the long summers ideal for yachting, and seem to encourage an appreciation of nature. From some of the turquoise coasts unspoilt and sheltered bays you can see mountain peaks rising to almost 3,000 meters above sea level.
Fortunately, Turkeys modern facilities and comfort have not overshadowed her ancient hospitality and slower pace of life. The pleasure of yachting in Turkey will tempt you back again and again, to explore yet another stretch of coast and to relive the luxurious ease of life on the sea.
Marinas
Yachting remains a popular activity for residents as well as visitors to Turkey. Over the past 40 years the industry has grown, and today a large number of marinas dot the coastline between Istanbul and Antalya. These provide supplies, easy access to the shore at major resorts and safe harbours, as well as often becoming local entertainment venues in themselves.
In Istanbul, yachtsmen will delight in splendid natural landscapes, open seas and magnificent sunsets, as well as a voyage through Byzantine and Ottoman history as they sail past the impressive castles, palaces and mosques. After navigating the breathtaking Bosphorus and sailing under the two enormous bridges which span Europe and Asia or meandering along the mosque-lined Golden Horn or cruising in the coves and bays of the Princes' Islands, you can return to one of the two large marinas in the area. Ataköy Marina on the European side and Kalamıs (Amiral Fahri Korutürk) Marina on the Asian side both offer 24-hour service. From the North Sea through the European interior, yachters can sail down the European channel system and the Rhine and Danube Rivers into the Black Sea harbours and to the İstanbul Boğazı and Istanbul marinas - a safe and short way to go to the Turkish Mediterranean coast and marinas. The Black Sea coast provides yachters with a lush green coastal band where the environment is protected and virginal. There are frequent coves and fishing harbours along this coast, and the weather is mild during the summer and winter.
Turkeys most established marinas lie on the southern Aegean and Mediterranean coasts at Izmir, Çesme, Kusadası, Bodrum, Datça, Bozburun, Marmaris, Göcek, Fethiye, Kalkan, KaŞ, Finike, Kemer and Antalya. In these well-equipped harbours, yachters can find the services and provisions they require. Antalya, Dalaman, Izmir and Istanbul airports provide quick links to all of Turkeys marinas; after an easy flight you can board your yacht and sail off all within a day.
Gulets: Enjoyment on Traditional Crafts
The singular design of the gullets, Turkeys indigenous sea-going vessel, blends practicality and tradition in a relaxed style that embodies a Blue Voyage. Over the years gullets have evolved from traditional crafts for fishing and transport into their present profile with a broad beam and wide deck.
Black Sea Coast, the boats are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. The number of passengers a gullet carries depends on the boats size, although most of them accommodate between eight and twelve people. These vessels offer their passengers separate accommodations, and chartering one includes services and entertainment. Modern gullets are comfortably equipped with all of the amenities of home and encourage an environment in which you are expected to do nothing but enjoy yourself. The closeness of the small group of people on board promotes an atmosphere of friendship and sharing; relations among passengers and crew tend to be relaxed and casual.
Travel agencies can arrange charters and fixed tours for a specific group of people or for you individually. Unlike cruises on large ocean liners, on a gullet you can explore the secluded and often deserted bays and coves of the coastline. The small harbours and settlements offer an intimate view of coastal life which large ships cannot replicate authentically. In many ways a gullet is like a full-service hotel where every room has a sea view and the scenery charges constantly.
Bare-Boat Charter and Flotilla Cruises: What a Way to Rough It!
Bare-boat charter has recently been introduced as another form of yacht hire in Turkey. The charters are undertaken by representatives who are responsible for putting the passengers on board, looking after them and seeing that they return safely to port. Maintenance crews keep these yachts in optimum condition, but it is the people who undertake the charter themselves who crew the boat. Of course, an experienced skipper accompanies the vessel, but once on board the people who undertake the charter perform all of the tasks - the handling of the sails, the seaman's chores, meal preparation and housekeeping. For those who want to escape all kitchen duties on their holiday, there is at least one restaurant at every anchorage; eating out remains an option.
The more adventurous and experienced sailors can charter and pilot smaller (9 to 10 meter) motor yachts. Before setting sail, bare-boat companies generally brief their clients on the navigational characteristics of the environment, meteorological conditions, where and how to restock provisions, how to act in an emergency and any other pertinent information.
Flotilla sailing, or sailing with a group of yachts led by one boat, is another great adventure on the sea. Although an experienced sailor skippers the lead boat, the navigation of each individual boat is left to its crew.
Sailing Etaps:
From İzmir to Kuşadası: Like Homer's Odyssey
Known in Turkish as "Beautiful Izmir", the city lies at the head of a long and narrow gulf furrowed by ships and yachts. The climate is mild, and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breezes temper the sun's heat. Behind the palm-lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains. A cosmopolitan and lively city, galleries, theatres and cultural events give Izmir its special vibrancy. The original settlement was established in the third millennium B.C. and represented the most advanced culture in western Anatolia at that time. Over the years this thriving city and the surrounding area had come under the sovereignty of the Hittites, Ionians, Lydians, Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans.
Levent Marina provides an excellent place to begin a yachting adventure. Sailing in and around the beautiful Gulf of Izmir will prepare voyagers for the wonderful sites that lie ahead. At Urla İskelesi, the small islands that dot the coast will certainly charm you. Beautiful beaches and excellent moorings with swimming, snorkelling and diving are all available in the area.
From Urla Iskelesi sail on to the Karaburun Peninsula. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels, tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water. Voyage out of the Gulf of Izmir around the Karaburun Peninsula to the Çeşme Peninsula, a spit of land lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Çeşme, meaning 'fountain', derives its name from the many sources of water found in the area. A l4th century Genoese fortress, restored and enlarged by the Ottomans in the l6th century, dominates the small port of Çeşme. Around Çeşme, the large Altın Yunus Setur Marina complex and the berthing places of Ilıca and Dalyan are all noted for their safety. In town, the l6th century caravanserai built by Süleyman the Magnificent near the fortress, has been converted into a hotel. Excellent shopping - the finest quality carpets, leather goods, as well as souvenir items are available. At night, a lively, fun atmosphere pervades, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars and discos along the promenade. In July, Çeşme's International Song Contest attracts world famous performers who add glamour and excitement to the town. The thermal baths in the area, along with the natural springs found right off the coast and which mix with the sea water in Ilıca Bay, provide soothing relaxation.
Southeast of Çeşme, beautiful bays offer splendid scenery and tranquil night moorings in complete safety from the winds and waves. Soon you will arrive at Sığacık, where a picturesque marina rests beneath fortifications that date from the Genoese period. From here, the antique site of Teos, noted for its Temple of Dionysus, the god of wine, is conveniently close. It is also an excellent area in which to sample some of Turkey's superb wines.
The Kuşadası Gulf opens to the south and south-east with some of the most enticing beaches, bays and coves on the Aegean coast.
Sailing From Kuşadası to Bodrum: St. John's Heritage Rediscovered
Kuşadası is today a major holiday resort centre. During the summer months it teems with swimmers, fishermen, sun-lovers and sightseers. Once known as Scala Nova, the town boasts wonderful seafood restaurants, cafes, beautiful parks and superb beaches. The shopping is also famous; everything from beads and bangles to leather, jewellery and carpets is on offer.
The Kuşadası Turban Marina is one of the best-equipped marinas in Turkey, providing wintering for boats both afloat and on shore. Scuba diving has become very popular. Nightlife is renowned along the coast with excellent bars, jazz clubs, discos and cabarets that promise evenings filled with excitement, entertainment and possibly a little romance.
Not far from Kuşadası, the ancient site of Ephesus, an important city of antiquity, remains a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple, rebuilt several times, dates in its latest form from the third century B.C. and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The ancient theatre has found new life as a major concert venue. Nearby is the site of St. John's Basilica and the reputed last home of the Virgin Mary.
South of Kuşadası, the unbelievably beautiful waters of the Dilek Peninsula National Park welcome yachtsmen into its serene inlets and coves.
Between Kuşadası's southern shores and Pamukkale lies the valley of the Menderes River (the Meander), where several ancient civilisations built major settlements, including Priene, Milet, Didyma (Didim), Aphrodisias and Hierapolis (Pamukkale).
The Temple of Apollo at Didim was one of the most sacred places of antiquity. Many times looted and burned, the sanctuary still impresses with its elegant beauty. Not far from this archaeological site, the beautiful beach of Altınkum tempts all visitors and offers a great opportunity for sailing, swimming and relaxation. It is the last stop before entering the Güllük Gulf.
This gulf can provide a whole vacation in itself with four large natural bays and numerous coves and inlets. The whole area has excellent moorings, and scuba divers will be particularly interested in exploring these waters. The fisherman's village of Güllük has a pretty port and numerous guest-houses and small hotels. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kıyıkışlacık (Iassos). As you sail out of this beautiful gulf, the Bodrum Peninsula welcomes you.
Sailing From Bodrum to Marmaris: Blessed with the Love of Aphrodite
Bodrum, on the north shore of the Guff of Gökova, was the home of the first "Blue Voyager", Cevat Şakir Kabaağaç or the "Fisherman of Halikarnas". It is the undisputed "hot-spot" of the Aegean Coast. This swinging, singing, dancing town, with its bohemian atmosphere, gathers together Turkeys artists, intellectuals and lovers of the good life.
An impressive medieval castle built by the Knights of Rhodes guards the entrance to Bodrum's dazzling blue bay, in which the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas meet. The Bodrum Castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, Bodrum is the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of King Mausolus's Tomb (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.
The yearly throng of visitors has encouraged small entrepreneurs who have made shopping in Bodrum a delight. Souvenirs abound, and on certain streets local artists gather to sell their works - works that come in all forms.
The Bodrum Turban Marina is one of the loveliest and best-equipped marinas in the region.
A yachting tour of the Gulf of Gökova starts in Bodrum. The translucent and deep waters of the Gulf on the southern shore of the Bodrum Peninsula vary from the darkest blue to the palest turquoise, and the coastline is thickly wooded with every hue of green. In the evening, the sea reflects the mountains silhouetted against the setting sun, while at night it shimmers with phosphorescence.
One of the best anchorage is the splendidly scenic Akbük, hidden behind a forested promontory. The excellent cozy restaurants are as good a reason as any to linger for a tasty meal after an afternoon of snorkelling and diving. Sedir Island (ancient Cedrai) boasts an incredible beach with fine sand composed of fossils, and a splendid view of the Kıran mountains across the bay.
As you sail along the island's south-western coast, forests stretch out to meet the deep inlets of the bays. The jagged coastline, known as the Bay of Sixty-Six Inlets, seems to have emerged from the oft-told tales of pirates.
The waters of the Gulf of Hisarönü lap the breathtaking shores that hold the legacy of both ancient and modern civilisations. At the end of the Datça Peninsula stands the ancient Carian city of Knidos, described by Strabo as "a city that was built for the most beautiful of goddesses, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful of peninsulas." Famous as a centre of art and culture in the fourth century B.C., the city had two harbours: one on the Aegean and the other on the Mediterranean. The remains of a circular temple dedicated to the goddess of love overlook remains of the two harbours; the arcade way was built of white marble heart-shaped columns. The legendary Aphrodite of Praxiteles statue, reputedly one of the most beautiful sculptures of antiquity, once graced this temple.
The town of Datça has become a popular stopover for yachtsmen, and offers many colourful seafood restaurants, pubs and discotheques.
In the Gulf of Hisarönü is the peaceful Keçi Bükü Bay; the Bay Marina is rich in natural beauty: the surrounding mountains and forests, and the long "Kızkumu" (sunken 'pier'), a natural sand formation. Leaving the Gulf of Hisarönü: hidden away in its own exclusive inlet is the town of Bozburun, famous as one of the gullet-building centres of Turkey. Loryma, at the tip of the Bozburun Peninsula where the ruins of the ancient harbour and castle remain, can only be reached by boat. Kumlubük, a turquoise paradise, lies on the southern side of the bay; on the north side, above the water, stands the ancient Rhodian city of Amos. At Turunç a natural harbour opens out into a wide expanse of spectacular blue water. The next port is Marmaris.
Sailing From Marmaris to Fethiye: In the Steps of St. Pacil
Marmaris Bay resembles a calm lake and offers ideal mooring for yachts. Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the l6th century, Süleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built on a hill just behind the harbour; today, its remains house the Marmaris Museum. Pine forests cover the mountains which surround Marmaris; on shore a white line of sand and rock separates green from blue. The beach areas sparkle, and provide visitors with a perfect opportunity to dive, snorkel and swim in relaxing conditions.
Yachts and boats decorate the coast of this lovely tourist centre where thousands converge to enjoy a fun-filled, self-indulgent holiday. Those who surf and water-ski will thrill at the conditions in Marmaris. Energetic entertainment at a lively bar, or dancing until dawn at a sophisticated discotheque can end an ideal day.
There are many good buys in Marmaris's boutiques, colourful bazaars and markets. You can find excellent leather and suede goods, copper and brassware, jewellery, and objects carved of onyx. Turkish carpets, textiles and embroidery make good handcrafted souvenirs, and the locally produced pine-scented honey called çam balı is superb.
The Marmaris Netsel Marina, one of the largest and best-equipped marinas in Turkey, and the Marmaris Albatros Marina, one of the best for wintering and maintaining yachts, make Marmaris an excellent starting point for the Blue Voyage tour of the Aegean Coast. In May, the Marmaris Yacht Charter Show provides an opportunity to meet the captains and their crews. With plenty of provisions aboard, you set sail in the craft of your choice and languidly explore the spectacular beauty of southern Turkey.
At Ekincik, a delightful yacht-mooring, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this area and the friendly hospitality of its people.
Delikli Island lies right off the coast, south-east of Ekincik. Yachtsmen enjoy a change of pace when they anchor at the island and take a smaller craft excursion into the Dalyan Delta. The Delta, with a long, golden, sandy beach at its mouth, is a nature-conservation area, and a refuge for sea turtles (caretta caretta) and blue crabs. At a bend in the river, high on the cliff face above the fascinating ancient harbour-city of Caunos, magnificent tombs were carved into the rock. From Delikli Island, sailing south-east, you arrive at Sarıgerme with its pleasant holiday complexes, nestled in cozy pine forests. Yachtsmen will want to anchor at Baba Island, across from the pristine sandy beaches.
The Gulf of Göcek, with the friendly Club Marina set in a beautiful pine forest, is one of the Mediterranean's best sailing spots. Dotted with islands and indented with many coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The ruins of Arymexa, an ancient city at the southern tip of the gulf, lie at the edge of the azure waters. Opposite on Tersane Island, stand Byzantine ruins, including those of the ancient shipyards. From the Gulf of Göcek sail on into Fethiye.
From Fethiye to Kaş: A Lycian Dream (Sailing Etap A: Dolphin's Playground)
The secrets of the ancient gods of mythology still lie hidden in the secluded coves and bays around the Gulf of Fethiye. This is truly paradise for those who want to sail through history. The resort town of Fethiye has an important marina and overlooks a beautiful bay strewn with islands.
Above the town, called Telmessos in antiquity, numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. Explore the Belceğiz Bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon (Ölü Deniz), where the calm, crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. On Gemiler Island, Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines.
Go ashore at Kınık (65 km from Fethiye) where the ruins of Xanthos, the ancient Lycian capital, lie in a splendid natural setting. At the holy Lycian centre of Letoon, three temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar gods of mythology, await the intrepid tourist. Mythology records that Apollo was born at Patara, a principal harbour of ancient Lycia, south of Letoon and Xanthos. The ruins are of course numerous and fascinating. Its 22 kilometres of pure white sand stretch as far as the eye can see, making it a natural choice for all types of beach sports.
A short sail to the east brings you to Kalkan, a lovely small hilltop town that overlooks a tiny bay. Narrow, winding streets lined with souvenir shops lead down to the charming marina. Every morning, boats busily take tourists to one of the nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets, it is Kalkan style to meet on the roof-terraces for a drink before dinner, and enjoy the comings and goings of the yachts, the business of the marina and the panoramic view.
From Kaş to Antalya: A Lycian Dream (Sailing Etap B: Coast of Light)
Like most towns on the Lycian coast Kaş lies wedged between mountains and sea. Kaş, once ancient Antiphellus, still exhibits a few remains of the old settlement. An ancient theatre on Kaş's long peninsula is within walking distance of the town.
ekova, "home of the sun", is an island an hour from Dalyanağzı by sea, as well as the name of a whole ensemble of picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient cities. These bays provide natural harbours in all seasons, and yachtsmen particularly enjoy exploring the unspoilt landscapes. Along the northern shore of Kekova Island, at Apollonia, earthquakes have disturbed the land causing some of the ancient houses to sink under the clear water, creating a sunken city. Kaleköy Castle (ancient Simena) offers a bird's-eye view of the bays, inlets, islands and colourful yachts sailing peacefully on the glassy water. The colours in a Van Gogh painting, blue skies, orange sunsets, starry, starry nights, peace and tranquillity, playful dolphins, mythological mysteries, and the sparkling sea - Kekova provides all this and more.
At Demre (Kale), the ancient Myra, (25 km west of Finike), many splendidly carved rock tombs overlook the magnificent Roman theatre. St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) was the bishop of this Mediterranean city during the fourth century and died here in 342. An official entry-port, Finike is surrounded by citrus trees and gardens. Thirty-two kilometres from the Finike Marina lie the remains of the beautiful and ancient Lycian city of Arikanda. This excursion inland, a mountain trek, rewards you with superb views, fabulous ruins and fresh mountain air.
Slipping around the Kırlangıç Peninsula brings you into the Gulf of Antalya. The first sight you come to is the ancient city of Olympos, on the southern side of Mt. Tahtalı (Mt. Olympos). Oleander and laurel bushes shade the Olympos Valley, which you can approach by land as well as by sea. Nearby at Yanartaş (at a height of 300 meters), according to mythology, the Lycian hero Bellerophon, mounted on his winged horse Pegasus slew the fire-breathing monster, Chimaera. Gas which seeps from the earth burns brightly at night. The Byzantines also considered this place a religious area.
Alexander the Great's favourite winter resort was at Phaselis, the famous ancient commercial harbour north of Olympos. South of the harbour, look up at Mt. Tahtalı for a spectacular view. Sail on to Kemer, a resort town carefully designed to blend in with the surrounding scenery, that offers an ideal environment for a wonderful holiday. The fully equipped Kemer Turban Marina has facilities for all activities so that yachtsmen can enjoy the unspoilt bays and beaches south of the town. Shoppers will delight at the wonderful range of high quality souvenirs. April is the month of the colourful Kemer Carnival. Also in the spring are the yacht races between Kemer and Girne in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Sailing around this coast towards Antalya will give you a glimpse of some of Turkeys most modern and luxurious holiday villages. Antalya, Turkey's principal holiday resort city on the Mediterranean, embodies the contrast between the majestic coastline of beaches and rocky coves, and the towering Taurus Mountains. The ancient Attaleia, named after King Attalus II of Pergamon, Antalya was founded in the 2nd century B.C. Today palm-lined boulevards, beautiful parks, historical buildings, monuments, museums and the picturesque old quarter Kaleiçi, (with the Kaleiçi Turban Marina) blend together to create an ideal holiday atmosphere. The Antalya Marina and Leisure Centre, which has won several awards, is considered one of the most beautiful marinas in Turkey; Setur Marina, the other marina in Antalya, is, on the other hand, quiet and peaceful; but both welcome you after your unforgettable voyage in the turquoise paradise of Turkey's water.
Some Regulations Concerning the Use of Foreign-Owned Yachts in Turkish Waters and Leaving Them in Turkish Marinas
ENTRY
Yachts entering or leaving Turkey shall make their entry or departure at frontier ports.
Ports of entry along the Turkish coast are listed below:
Trabzon, Giresun, Ordu, Samsun, Hopa, Rize, Sinop, Zonguldak, Tekirdağ, Istanbul, Çanakkale, Bandırma, Akçay, Ayvalık, Dikili, Izmir, Çeşme, Kuşadası, Didim (Söke), Güllük, Bodrum, Datça, Marmaris, Fethiye, Kaş, Finike, Kemer, Antalya, Alanya, Anamur, Taşucu, Mersin, İskenderun.
Formalities concerning the documentation of the yachts departing from the last port of call or entering port or mooring-place for winter lay-up shall be carried out at the port of departure or winter mooring place.
Upon entry into Turkish Territorial Waters, the foreign yacht will be recorded in the yacht owners' or captains' passport by the customs authorities. This record should be cancelled by the customs authorities upon departure for foreign ports or when leaving the yachts for winter lay-up in Marinas.
IMPORTING YACHT PARTS
Foreign yacht-owners can import duty-free spare parts and equipment for use on their yachts under customs authority control.
These spare parts and equipment will be recorded in the inventory of the yacht.
For detailed information please contact the marina management.
ARTICLE 40. CRUISING
- Both Turkish and foreign yachts are required to have authorisation on their "Transit Log" only from the harbour-master while sailing between Turkish ports.
- If leaving for or returning from foreign ports, Turkish and foreign yachts are required to complete the full clearance procedure with the customs, health and passport police authorities.
- Yacht owners or captains must surrender their transit to the harbour-master when the cruise is completed.
ARTICLE 46. LEAVING YACHTS IN TURKISH MARINAS
- Foreigners may leave their yachts in Turkey at a licensed yacht harbour or yacht docking area for the purpose of storage, maintenance or repair, for a period of 2 years, and may leave the country using any form of transportation they choose.
- In such cases, arrangements should be made to take the documentation supplied by the yacht harbour (i.e. contract copy and letter of authorisation), to the relevant regional customs office.
- Yacht owners may leave their yachts for longer periods, up to 5 years, provided that the yacht sails from the harbour at least once every 2 years. (R is not necessary to leave Turkish waters).
- At the end of 5 years, the Ministry of Tourism has the right to extend the permitted duration of stay.
ARTICLE 47. USE OF FOREIGN YACHTS IN TURKISH WATERS
- Foreignbwned private yachts are permitted to sail in Turkish waters and into Turkish harbours from a foreign port, provided that the owner is on board.
- Yachts owned jointly or owned by yacht clubs or associations can be sailed with any one of four nominated joint-owners.
- Turkish or foreign private yacht owners may have foreign or Turkish guests on board for the purpose of travel, sport and leisure as long as there is no commercial undertaking.
TRANSIT LOG - YACHT REGISTRATION FORM
The Transit Log is a permit to sail in Turkish water and to enter Turkish ports. Formalities are completed on this form at the first port of entry.
Validity: 3 months
Cost: $ 25 U.S. for foreign yachts
The Transit Log will be cancelled under the following circumstances:
- After 3 months
- Departure for foreign ports
- For charter yachts, at the end of the cruise
- Replacement of the person who has completed the Transit Log
- When new crew join the yacht
- When the yacht owner or captain leave the yacht in a marina for laying up under any of these circumstances, a new Transit Log will be required.
NEW REGULATIONS FOR TAX-FREE DIESEL FUEL FOR FOREIGN YACHTS
Foreign-registered yachts may obtain tax-free diesel fuel subject to the conditions set out below:
- Tax free fuel will be available for use only in foreign yachts and will be obtainable only from marinas and shipyards licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Tourism.
- The owner of the yachts may be Turkish or foreign but must be a person having a permanent place of residence outside of Turkey.
- The yacht may be brought to Turkey with the owner or may be brought two months earlier or later than the owner's arrival in Turkey.
- The yacht may receive tax-free fuel only in the presence of the owner.
USE OF VEHICLES BY FOREIGN YACHTSMEN
- Foreign yachtsmen are allowed to use their foreign-registered vehicles in Turkey for 6 months in any one year. At the end of 6 months their vehicles must be taken out of the country.
- If the yacht owner or captain takes over the yacht, their vehicles must be put into the marina customs bond under the responsibility of the marina.
- The vehicles may be left in bond for up to 4 months. Before expiry, an application may be made to the chief customs authorities of the district for an extension of this period for a further 2 months.
- Regulation No.120 dated July 12,1985 states that foreign yacht owners cannot keep their yachts and their vehicles on their passports at the same time. It is advisable that on entering Turkey, the yacht owner's wife or friends have the vehicle recorded in their passport.
STAYING IN TURKEY FOR FOREIGN YACHTSMEN
Regulations for foreign yachtsmen wishing to stay in Turkey differ depending upon the nationality involved. Yachtsmen may obtain a visa from the Turkish embassy or consulate in their country, or upon entry to Turkey.
Yachtsmen who enter Turkey without a visa:
- If they are from South Africa, a 21-day visa is obtainable for tourism purposes free of charge.
- If they are from England (5 pounds), Ireland (5 pounds), Austria (150 Sch.), Italy ($ 5 U.S.), visas are valid for 3 months (a 3-month visa will be given on entry).
- From other Western European and North American countries, yachtsmen will be issued a 3-month visa free of charge.
Yachtsmen who wish to stay in Turkey for more than 3 months, should apply for renewal of their visa to the district centre office before the expiry date of their visa.
If a renewal is required for longer than 3 months, the district centre office will have to obtain confirmation from Ankara before it can be issued. (There may be a delay of up to 2 months to receive this renewal).
If yachtsmen leave Turkey for a foreign port and later return, a 3-month visa will automatically be issued.
Yacht Berthing Places Under the Direction of Local Municipalities:
| ÇANAKKALE | Yacht Berthing Place Kayserili Ahmet Paşa Cad. Hükümet Konağı karşısı, Kordonboyu, Çanakkale Tel: (286) 212 84 53 Fax: (286) 217 08 48 |
| AYVALIK | Eşref Jale Yacht Berthing Place 150 Evler Armutçukmevkii Kırlangıç Fab. Yanı, Ayvalık Tel: (266) 312 27 40 Fax: (266) 312 24 70 |
| URLA | Yacht Berthing Place Urla İskelesi, İzmir Tel : (232) 75410 07 |
| FOÇA | Yacht Berthing Place Foça Limanı, İzmir Tel : (232) 81215 77 |
| SIGACIK | Teos Marina Yacht Berthing Place Sığacık, Seferihisar, İzmir Tel: (232) 745 70 32 Fax: (232) 743 34 65 |
| DATÇA | Yacht Berthing Place Datça, Muğla Tel : (252) 712 30 98 Fax : (252) 712 39 20 |
| FETHİYE | Yacht Berthing Place Kordon Mevkii,48300 Fethiye, Muğla Tel: (252) 614 35 39 Fax: (252) 614 67 92 |
| KALKAN | Yacht Berthing Place Kalkan, Antalya Tel: (242) 844 32 04 Fax: (242) 844 32 03 |
| KAŞ | Yacht Berthing Place Kaş, Antalya Tel: (242) 83610 23 - 83610 20 Fax: (242) 83610 30 |
| FİNİKE | Yacht Berthing Place Finike, Antalya Tel: (242) 855 11 02 Fax: (242) 855 32 25 |