Antalya Yacht Charter

Antalya: The Eastern Gateway to the Lycian Coast

Antalya is not the primary mega-yacht hub of the Turkish Riviera; that distinction belongs to Bodrum or Göcek. Instead, view Antalya as a strategic operational launchpoint. Its value lies in its world-class international airport (AYT) and its position as the starting block for a one-way charter westbound along the Lycian Coast, arguably one of the most compelling cruising grounds in the Mediterranean. For clients prioritizing seamless air-to-yacht transfer and an itinerary focused on antiquity, nature, and authenticity over see-and-be-seen hotspots, Antalya is the logical entry point.

This is a charter for principals who value substance. The coastline from Antalya to Fethiye is less developed, more rugged, and steeped in history that feels raw and accessible. It’s a route that rewards both the classic Turkish Gulet experience and the comfort of a modern motor yacht, each offering a distinct operational advantage.

Operational Baseline: Marinas & Logistics

Embarkation point dictates the first 24 hours of the charter experience. The choice between Antalya city and Kemer is the first tactical decision.

Antalya Setur Marina: Located within the bustling city of Antalya itself, this marina is the most practical choice for provisioning and logistics. It’s a 30-45 minute transfer from AYT. For a complex charter with significant provisioning requirements or last-minute technical needs, starting here gives the captain and crew access to the best resources on this stretch of coast. The downside is the ambiance; it’s an urban marina. The charter doesn't truly "begin" until you've cleared the commercial port traffic and cruised for an hour or two. It’s functional, not idyllic. Berthing for yachts up to 60m is feasible, but booking for larger vessels must be done well in advance, especially in high season.

Kemer Marina: Situated approximately 60km southwest of AYT (a 60-75 minute transfer), Kemer Marina immediately places the charter in a holiday environment. It's a clean, well-run marina nestled in a purpose-built resort town at the foot of the Taurus Mountains. From a guest perspective, this is the superior starting point. Within 30 minutes of leaving the dock, you are in the first beautiful anchorage. Provisioning is adequate for top-ups, but for a full week’s APA, most supplies will be trucked in from Antalya. Kemer is the preferred embarkation point for 90% of itineraries originating in this region. It can accommodate yachts up to 50-55m, with the prime berths booked a season ahead.

Clearance & Formalities: Turkey requires a Transit Log, or cruising permit, for all foreign-flagged and many Turkish-flagged charter yachts. This is a non-negotiable legal requirement handled by the yacht’s captain and local agent. The cost is passed on to the charterer via the APA. For planning purposes, budget between €3,000 and €7,000 for a 40-60m yacht for a standard 7-day charter in 2026. The fee is calculated based on the yacht's Net Tonnage and itinerary. Importantly, VAT on the charter fee is often included for Turkish-flagged vessels, a significant financial advantage compared to EU cruising zones. Confirm this at the time of contract.

Fleet Profile: Asset Selection for the Lycian Coast

The choice of vessel fundamentally shapes this charter.

Motor Yachts: 40-60m

• Base Charter Fee (2026 Projection): €120,000 - €380,000 per week.
• APA: Standard 30-35%.
• Profile: This is the choice for comfort, speed, and amenities. A 50m motor yacht provides the volume, stability (zero-speed stabilizers are a must for some of the more open anchorages), air conditioning, and extensive water toy garage that many families and corporate groups expect. The speed advantage allows for longer passages to be covered quickly, enabling a one-way Antalya-to-Göcek itinerary without feeling rushed. This asset class offers privacy and a fully-controlled environment, ideal for clients who want to experience the coast on their own terms.

Turkish Gulets: 25-40m (Luxury Class)

• Base Charter Fee (2026 Projection): €30,000 - €90,000 per week.
• APA: Standard 25-30%.
• Profile: Do not mistake a luxury gulet for a rustic boat. The top-tier fleet offers full air conditioning, en-suite cabins, and professional crews matching any motor yacht. The value proposition is the experience. Gulets offer enormous, single-level deck spaces perfect for lounging and dining. They move at a slower pace (8-10 knots), encouraging a deeper connection with the immediate surroundings. While they have sails, most passages are conducted under motor ("motor-sailing"). A gulet charter is about embracing the "Blue Cruise" heritage—a journey of bays, swims, and long lunches. It is the most authentic way to see this coastline. The price point also represents exceptional value for the volume and experience delivered.

A Seven-Day Itinerary Framework: Kemer to Kekova & Return

This is a template. A competent captain will adjust daily based on weather and guest preference. Assumes embarkation at Kemer Marina.

Day 1: Embarkation & Phaselis Guests arrive at AYT, transfer to Kemer Marina. Welcome aboard, safety briefing. A short, one-hour cruise south to the stunning bay of Phaselis. Anchor in one of the three natural harbors. The main attraction is the extensive Greco-Roman ruins of the ancient port city, easily accessible by tender or a short swim to the beach. The ruins—including a theater, aqueduct, and agora—are uniquely set within a pine forest. Dinner is served at anchor with the illuminated ruins as a backdrop.

Day 2: The Mystique of Olympos & Çıralı A morning cruise to the long bay of Çıralı. This is a dual-purpose stop. By tender, guests can go ashore to explore the ruins of Olympos, another Lycian league city hidden in a lush, overgrown river valley. It has a more bohemian, wild feel than Phaselis. In the evening, the objective is the Chimaera (Yanartaş). A short taxi ride from Çıralı beach leads to the site of natural, eternal flames issuing from the rocky hillside—the mythological fire-breathing monster. It’s most impressive after sunset. Anchor off Çıralı beach for the night. This is a protected area for nesting Caretta Caretta sea turtles, so anchoring is managed carefully.

Day 3: Passage to Kekova Roads This day involves a longer passage of 3-4 hours, heading southeast towards the protected waters of Kekova. The destination is the vast, island-sheltered bay system known as Kekova Roads. The afternoon is for swimming and water sports in a secluded cove like Gökkaya. Here, you'll find the infamous "Smuggler's Inn," a rustic floating bar accessible only by boat. It’s a quirky, optional stop for a sundowner, more for the novelty than the luxury. A quiet anchorage in a neighboring bay provides the perfect setting for the evening.

Day 4: The Sunken City & Kaleköy The centerpiece of the Lycian charter. A slow morning cruise along the northern shore of Kekova Island, directly over the partially submerged ruins of the ancient Lycian settlement of Simena, destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. Regulations prohibit swimming directly over the main site, but the view from the deck is clear and fascinating—foundations, staircases, and walls are visible just below the surface. Afterward, the yacht anchors off Kaleköy, the modern village on the site of ancient Simena. This charming village is inaccessible by road. Guests take the tender ashore to hike up to the Crusader castle that dominates the peninsula. The castle offers a commanding 360-degree view of the entire Kekova region. Lunch ashore at a simple, excellent waterfront restaurant like Hassan's Restaurant is highly recommended for authentic, fresh-caught fish.

Day 5: The Port of Kaş A 90-minute cruise brings the charter to Kaş, the most sophisticated and vibrant town on this coastline. It’s the "St. Tropez of the Lycian Coast," a hub of boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, and high-quality artisan shops. The yacht can anchor in the large bay just outside the harbor or, for smaller vessels, secure a berth in the marina. This is the ideal stop for an evening ashore, allowing guests to explore the Lycian rock tombs embedded in the cliffs above the town and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the harbor.

Day 6: Relaxation & Water Sports in a Secluded Bay After the activity of Kaş, a day of pure relaxation is in order. The captain will find a quiet, picturesque anchorage, perhaps near the small islands off Kalkan or in the stunning Firnaz Bay. This day is dedicated to the yacht's amenities: jet skis, seabobs, paddleboards, or simply reading a book on the sundeck. It’s the final full day to soak in the tranquility of the Turkish coast before the return journey.

Day 7: Return Cruise & Disembarkation An early start for the 5-6 hour cruise back towards Kemer. A final lunch is served at anchor in a bay near the "Three Islands" (Üç Adalar), a popular dive spot. The yacht proceeds to Kemer Marina for a late afternoon or following morning disembarkation, allowing for a seamless transfer back to Antalya Airport (AYT).

The Financial & Seasonal Brief

• Weather Window: The season runs reliably from May through October.
  • May/June & September/October: The prime months. Air and sea temperatures are pleasant (22-28°C), and crowds are thinner.
  • July/August: Peak season. It is hot (30-40°C+), and anchorages are at their busiest. Pricing is at its peak. Book 12-18 months in advance for choice assets.
• Charter Fee: As outlined above, ranging from €30k/week for a quality gulet to €380k+/week for a high-spec 60m motor yacht.
• APA: Budget 30-35%. Fuel is the largest component for motor yachts. For gulets, food and beverage will be the larger share. Any unused funds are returned to the client.
• Transit Log: €3,000 - €7,000+, depending on the vessel. A mandatory cost.
• Crew Gratuity: Discretionary, but 10-20% of the base charter fee is the industry standard for good service, typically paid in cash to the captain at the charter's conclusion.