Linger Longer: The Turquoise Coast
Sheltered Coves, Warm Seas and Unhurried Days Along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast
Introduction
The Turquoise Coast is one of Turkey’s most alluring sailing grounds — a serene world of pine-clad islands, ancient ruins and crystal-clear bays. Sailing from Göcek to Fethiye and back through secluded anchorages, this voyage blends Lycian heritage, natural beauty and warm Turkish hospitality in one of the eastern Mediterranean’s most graceful cruising areas.
Turquoise Coast Sailing Itinerary
Total distance 56 nautical miles · average 1–2 hours sailing daily
Day 1 — Göcek
Nestled among forested hills, Göcek is a yachting haven with stylish marinas, waterfront cafés, and boutique shops. Its calm atmosphere and sheltered bays make it a perfect embarkation point for exploring the Turquoise Coast.
Day 2 - Tersane Island
Once home to a Byzantine-era settlement and Ottoman shipyard, Tersane Island offers a blend of history and tranquillity. Anchor in its quiet bays, swim in turquoise waters, and wander among ruins that whisper of centuries past.
Day 3 - Fethiye
A lively harbour town with a rich Lycian heritage, Fethiye blends modern bustle with ancient history. Visit the rock-cut tombs high above town, explore the vibrant bazaar, or enjoy waterfront dining as yachts line the quays beneath pine-covered hills.
Day 4 - Cold Water Bay
Cold Water Bay is a hidden gem accessible only by boat, where cool spring water seeps into the sea. The sheltered cove is ideal for swimming, while trails lead up to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy — a poignant reminder of the region’s layered history.
Day 5 - Kapi Creek
Tucked into the Göcek bays, Kapi Creek is a sailor’s favourite. Its sheltered waters and pine-clad hills offer peace and beauty, while a rustic waterside restaurant serves fresh seafood. Anchor here for a perfect evening beneath a star-filled Turkish sky.
Day 6 - Sarsala Bay
Sarsala Bay is a pine-fringed inlet of calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Ashore, shaded trails climb to viewpoints with sweeping vistas of the Göcek islands. It is a quintessential Turquoise Coast anchorage — serene, scenic, and welcoming.
Day 7 - Göcek (Return)
Return to Göcek for a final coffee on the waterfront promenade or a leisurely browse through boutique shops. Reflect on a week of sunlit harbours, quiet coves, and timeless ruins along Turkey’s sparkling Turquoise Coast.
Optional Onshore Experiences
Enhance your voyage with hand-picked experiences ashore, blending the region’s rich culture with its celebrated cuisine.
Cultural Moments
Fethiye Tombs: Visit the Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs above the town, offering insight into ancient history and panoramic harbour views.
Kayaköy Village: Hike to the abandoned Greek village near Cold Water Bay, where roofless houses and chapels tell a poignant story of shared pasts.
Tersane Island: Wander among Byzantine and Ottoman ruins on Tersane, once a shipyard, now a tranquil isle of hidden bays and ancient echoes.
Cuisine Journeys
Kapi Creek Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at the rustic waterside restaurant, where pine-fringed hills frame a serene anchorage under starlit skies.
Fethiye Meze: Savour traditional Turkish meze in harbour tavernas, surrounded by the buzz of markets and the glow of yachts at sunset.
Göcek Markets: Sample olives, cheeses, and honey in Göcek’s lively market, where local produce reflects the region’s Mediterranean spirit.
View the Elysian Experience
Continue Your Journey
Explore the yachts selected for this itinerary, or view the sailing route in more detail.
