Guide5 March 2026· 6 min read
Sailing Charter Guide: From Beginner to Advanced
What you need to know before chartering a sailing boat: licences, boat types, best routes and safety tips.
Sailing charter offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking both adrenaline and harmony with nature. Moving by the power of the wind, exploring Turkey's bays without depending on an engine — in this guide we explain what you need to know before chartering a sailing boat.
Licence Requirements
An official licence is required to sail in Turkey. Accepted documents:
- Turkish VHF Radio Operator Certificate + Yachting Certificate (YB): For domestic sailors
- ICC (International Certificate of Competence): International competence certificate
- RYA Day Skipper or Coastal Skipper: British competence certificate
If you have no licence, choose a skippered charter rather than a bareboat hire.
Types of Sailing Boats
- Monohull: Classic sailing experience. 9–14 metres, 4–8 people. More economical.
- Catamaran: Twin-hulled, wide deck. Can access shallow waters, high cruising comfort.
- Gulet sailing boat: Motor-assisted traditional Turkish sailing vessel. Sailing experience + gulet comfort.
2026 Turkey Sailing Charter Prices
- Bavaria 34 (4 people, bareboat): €900–€1,500/week
- Beneteau Oceanis 45 (6–8 people): €1,800–€2,800/week
- Jeanneau 54 (8–10 people): €2,500–€4,000/week
- Catamaran Lagoon 380 (6–8 people): €3,500–€5,500/week
Best Sailing Routes
- Göcek – Fethiye: Sheltered bays, light meltemi. Ideal for beginners.
- Marmaris – Datça: Regular meltemi, exciting sailing. Intermediate level.
- İzmir – Çeşme – Samos: Open sea experience and Greek islands. Advanced level.
Safety Tips
- Life jackets for everyone are a legal requirement
- Learn to use a VHF radio; the emergency channel is 16
- Monitor weather apps (Windy, PredictWind)
- Check seabed charts before anchoring
- If not planning night sailing, enter harbour before 17:00
