Introduction
Gocek is a small coastal town located in the Fethiye district of Mugla province in southwestern Turkey. It is situated on the Gulf of Fethiye and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Today, Gocek is a popular destination for yachting and sailing enthusiasts, thanks to its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and favorable weather conditions.
The Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route is a popular itinerary among sailors and yachters who wish to explore the breathtaking beauty of this region. The route covers a distance of approximately 65 nautical miles and typically takes 7 days to complete. The itinerary includes visits to some of the most picturesque bays and coves in the region, such as Cleopatra Bay, Bedri Rahmi Bay, and the Yassica Islands.
Along the way, sailors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, as well as exploring the historical sites and landmarks that dot the coastline. With its stunning natural scenery, warm hospitality, and fantastic sailing conditions, the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the best of Turkey’s coastal beauty.
Kapidag
The first stop of your sailing holiday that departs from Gocek will be Kapidag, located on the edge of Ancient Caria and Lycia. The Kapidag peninsula boasts crystal clear waters, tranquil bays and pristine nature. Enjoy a serene breakfast among stunning views before moving on to Karacaoren.
Kapidag is a picturesque peninsula located on the edge of Ancient Caria and Lycia and serves as the first stop on the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route. This stunning location is known for its crystal-clear waters, tranquil bays, and pristine natural beauty, making it the perfect place to kickstart your sailing holiday.
Visitors to Kapidag can enjoy a serene breakfast surrounded by breathtaking views of the peninsula’s rugged coastline and turquoise waters. The area is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with plenty of secluded bays and coves to explore. The peaceful surroundings also make it a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
As you sail away from Kapidag, the next stop on the route is Karacaoren, another beautiful location that offers stunning natural scenery and a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Located on the Gulf of Fethiye, Karacaoren is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Overall, Kapidag is a must-visit destination along the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route, offering visitors the chance to experience the best of Turkey’s natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Fethiye- Karacaoren- Gemiler Island
In Karacaoren, natural underwater springs mean the water is refreshingly cool, a welcome reprise from long days in the sun. After enjoying the turquoise waters and the sheltered bays of the island the cruise will continue on to Oludeniz. Oludeniz offers one of the best paragliding sites in the world with a take-off point almost 2000m above sea level. This spot is also ideal for swimming in crystal clear bays, and diving in warm and calm waters, with an abundance of marine life and even underwater archeological sites. The cruise will then continue on to Gemiler Island, where it will overnight and then set sail to Butterfly Valley at sunrise.
Butterfly Valley – Ekincik
Only reachable by boat, Butterfly Valley is an untouched paradise that takes its name from the many variations of butterfly species in the area. Located on Turkey’s famous Lycian Way, the 86,000 sqm natural habitat was named a preservation area by the government in order to protect the butterflies and local flora. It’s for this reason that the valley has been able to remain a remote and protected oasis, with tourists stopping on yachts from Oludeniz, and staying longer only if they’re willing to stay in tents or bungalows under the stars. This hidden treasure is perfect for nature hikes under waterfalls, swims in turquoise waters, and just relaxing in a serene spot where time seems to standstill. Later on, in Ekincik, which is an important breeding ground for sea turtles, the cruise will stop for a dinner with a backdrop of delightful views and to stay overnight. From there it will be en route to Baba Island, the next stop of the sailing holiday route.
Baba Island
Baba Island is located across Sarigerme, and this is the perfect spot to anchor overnight after dinner. From here, Sarigerme can be reached by boat or even just by swimming over. This spot is also ideal for diving, surfing, sailing or canoeing, and Roman Cemetery ruins can also be visited. Next up on your route is Batik Bay.
Baba Island is a small and picturesque island located across from Sarigerme, along the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route. It is a popular spot for boaters and sailors to anchor overnight, particularly after enjoying a delicious dinner on board.
Aside from its stunning natural beauty, Baba Island also offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. The island’s clear waters are perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling, with a variety of marine life to discover. Sailing, surfing, and canoeing are also popular activities, with the island’s calm and sheltered waters providing ideal conditions for water sports.
For those interested in history, Baba Island is also home to the ruins of a Roman Cemetery, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island’s ancient past. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn more about the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.
From Baba Island, visitors can easily reach Sarigerme by boat or even by swimming over. Sarigerme is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and excellent restaurants and cafes.
Next up on the sailing route is Batik Bay, another stunning location that offers breathtaking natural scenery and a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Overall, Baba Island is a must-visit destination along the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route, offering something for everyone, from history buffs to water sports enthusiasts.
Cleopatra’s Bath
One of the ultimate favorite stops of private charter yachts, Cleopatra’s Bath is the stuff of dreams, with crystal clear waters and golden sandy beaches in a lush green setting, and what’s more, the location comes with a mesmerizing story. Legend has it that Marc Anthony built a Roman Bath here for his queen Cleopatra as a wedding gift. According to the tale, the golden sands were imported from Egypt and the spot was chosen for the natural thermal springs. Cleopatra is said to have visited on her honeymoon with Marc Anthony, in around 40BC. The sea here is supposedly rich in minerals that benefit the skin, and visitors may bathe in the remarkable waters just as Cleopatra might have, over 2000 years ago. After anchoring nearby, visitors may explore the island and the ancient ruins, as well as the sunken ruins of the hammam. Next, the yacht will depart to Dip Bay.
Dip Bay
As the final stop of this route, Dip Bay offers tranquil surroundings and an opportunity to enjoy the last moments with the sea, the sun and glorious nature. After staying the night here the trip comes to an end back in Gocek.
Dip Bay is a beautiful and secluded bay located at the southern end of the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route. Surrounded by lush green hills and crystal-clear waters, Dip Bay offers a tranquil and peaceful environment for those looking to relax and unwind.
As the final stop on the sailing route, Dip Bay is the perfect place to soak up the last moments of the trip, enjoying the stunning natural scenery, the warm Mediterranean sun, and the refreshing sea breeze. Visitors to Dip Bay can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the calm waters, as well as sunbathing on the pristine beach.
In addition to its natural beauty, Dip Bay also offers excellent facilities for boaters and sailors, including a marina and mooring facilities. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, serving delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
After spending the night in Dip Bay, the sailing route comes to an end back in Gocek, where visitors can disembark and explore the town’s vibrant streets, markets, and cultural attractions. Overall, Dip Bay is a perfect end to the Gocek Fethiye Gocek sailing route, offering a peaceful and picturesque final stop before returning to civilization.
