Sailing the Carian Coast from Marmaris
If you are looking for sunny skies, turquoise waters and tranquil bays then the southern coast of Turkey is definitely for you. Home to traditional Turkish villages, uninhabited islands and striking coves, this is a very popular area for those who like to combine splendid sailing with captivating culture. You will find numerous exciting places to explore as you sail from our base in Marmaris, passing astonishing ruins and stopping in sheltered anchorages.
The Carian Coast from Marmaris, is very rich in history. Ancient ruins take centre stage at several ports. The sailing area here is great for crews who like to combine amazing culture with natural beauty… and of course a great sail.
What’s the weather like?
You will find that Turkey is warm and sunny for a much longer period than a lot of our other destinations. A great sailing ground for early or late in the season (with average temperatures well over 25°C even in May and October). The prevailing wind along the Carian coast blows from North-North West, with an average of force 4 in the summer. In early and late season this shifts direction slightly to the west.
Beautiful bays..
There are hundreds of small islands and inlets that offer lovely anchorages with stunning views. The water is crystal clear and the beaches are covered in white sand. If you need to shake off those sea legs, these places are ideal for a snorkelling trip or a peaceful walking trail! Many of the stops here have gorgeous walks and hiking trails that will lead you through ancient ruins and to hill tops with incredible views of this striking coast.
Days 1 – 2, Arriving in Marmaris
You will begin your charter from Netsel Marmaris Marina which is only a short walk from the town centre. In the marina itself there are a large variety of bars, cafes, restaurants and shops to choose from. This is an ideal starting point to stock up on provisions before setting sail!
Marmaris
Days 3 – 5, Exploring the Carian Coast
Popular stops along the Carian Coast include pristine anchorages to enjoy with great local restaurants along the way.
A likely first stop would be Çiftlik Bay. A large bay on the north of Çiftlik Adası (island) the slopes are covered by beautiful pine and olive trees. There are a few jetties that you can tie up to and be within cork popping distance from a handful of restaurants. The setting in Çiftlik Bay is very impressive with a good atmosphere.
Another option to choose from would be Serçe Port (Limanı). Serçe Limanı is an attractive anchorage, the water is crystal clear and the surrounding slopes are covered with olive trees. This is a perfect place to drop the hook for the evening, you can even longline to the shore if preferred!
You could also pay a visit to Bozukkale. Bozukkale is a large bay, lying between points; Kale Burnu and Değirmen Burnu which indents to the north. The walls of the ancient city of Loryma surround the port. The castle walls are well camoflauged as they blend into the rocky cape. The castle’s position is almost directly opposite the ancient Greek city of Rhodes, which supports the theory that it was built by Rhodian craftsmen trying to deny harbour to enemy fleets. This also makes for a great walk once safely moored up, the view of the sunset from the top of the wall is not to be missed.
Bozburun is another fantastic place to stop. It is famous for boat building, as you head into the bay you will pass the impressive boat yards – there are hundreds of Gulets to be seen! On Tuesdays there is a street market, great sights and sounds to experience. There are numerous restaurants lining the harbour providing good food and excellent service. It is a bustling little town with magnificient sunsets to enjoy. This is also a great place for restocking your provisions and there is power and water available in the harbour.
Serce Limani
Days 6 – 8, Heading back to base
After a few days of getting to know the Carian Coast it is nearly time to head home!
Kumlubük is a great choice for your penultimate night as it’s not far from Marmaris so returning to base is easy! Kumlubük is a moon shaped large bay on the south of Asarcık point, the bay is surrounded by thickly wooded mountains. There are several restaurants with piers, water, electricity and wireless connections are available. This is also a great place for an afternoon dip in the gin clear waters.
Now it’s time to head back to your base, Marmaris. There are several shops in town giving you the perfect opportunity to pick up a few souveniers for family and friends at home. You have a number of restaurants to choose from for your final meal with plenty of bars for a nightcap before heading back to reality.
Marmaris Kumlubuku
Days 1 – 2, Arriving at Sukošan
Once you arrive at the base and have checked-in with the charter company they will show you to your yacht. Here you’ll have a briefing about the boat and then it’s over to you to relax! We advise a cold beer!
Days 1 – 2, Arriving in Marmaris
After arriving in Marmaris and checking into your yacht, you are free to enjoy an evening exploring all that Marmaris town has to offer. In the marina itself there are a large variety of bars, cafes, restaurants and shops to choose from. This is an ideal starting point to stock up on provisions before setting sail!
Marmaris
Days 3 – 5, Exploring the Carian Coast
Popular stops along the Carian Coast include pristine anchorages to enjoy with great local restaurants along the way.
A likely first stop would be Çiftlik Bay. A large bay on the north of Çiftlik Adası (island) the slopes are covered by beautiful pine and olive trees. There are a few jetties that you can tie up to and be within cork popping distance from a handful of restaurants. The setting in Çiftlik Bay is very impressive with a good atmosphere.
Another option to choose from would be Serçe Port (Limanı). Serçe Limanı is an attractive anchorage, the water is crystal clear and the surrounding slopes are covered with olive trees. This is a perfect place to drop the hook for the evening, you can even longline to the shore if preferred!
Bozburun is another fantastic place to stop. It is famous for boat building, as you head into the bay you will pass the impressive boat yards – there are hundreds of Gulets to be seen! On Tuesdays there is a street market, great sights and sounds to experience. There are numerous restaurants lining the harbour providing good food and excellent service. It is a bustling little town with magnificient sunsets to enjoy. This is also a great place for restocking your provisions and there is power and water available in the harbour.
Serce Limani
Days 6 – 8, Exploring the gulf of Hisarönü
Dirsek Bükü is one of the most enchanting places in the Hisarönü gulf with clear water and great shelter. The prevailing wind has a welcome cooling effect in summer and is fantastic for sailing. There is a cosy restaurant with a quay that provides good food and service. An absolute must-see in our books!
Orhaniye bay’s shores are densely wooded by pine trees making for an incredibly sheltered port. In the middle part, is an island with a castle on it, this island is called Kale Adası. There are a range of mooring options here including a pontoon with water and electricity, freeswinging in the bay or long lining to the shore. There is a restaurant in the bay if you would like to step off the boat for the evening.
Another bay worth visiting is Selimiye Koyu, a large bay in the gulf. There are number of places to anchor, but the floating pier by village is the preferred mooring choice. It is a pretty village in attractive surroundings, all kinds fruit and vegetables including delicious almonds can be found. The locals are sincere, hospitable and friendly. When you stroll around the authentic village lifestyle is evident.
Days 9 – 12, Coastal cruising
A likely next port of call is Datça. This town lies on the west of Uzunca Ada Light. All provisions can be obtained in Datça it is particularly well known for fish, almonds and honey. There are nice restaurants and bars around the port, providing excellent hospitality and don’t forget that the local market is on Saturdays! The area around Datça bay is a hot spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Another popular stop is Söğüt Port. are provided by two piers of restaurants and a slipway. The longer wooden pier has berthing capacity up to 22 boats, an attendant helps you to tie up. Water and electricity are available. Octopus restaurant provides excellent food and service and the settings are impressive at night.
You could also pay a visit to Bozukkale. Bozukkale is a large bay, lying between points; Kale Burnu and Değirmen Burnu which indents to the north. The walls of the ancient city of Loryma surround the port. The castle walls are well camoflauged as they blend into the rocky cape. The castle’s position is almost directly opposite the ancient Greek city of Rhodes, which supports the theory that it was built by Rhodian craftsmen trying to deny harbour to enemy fleets. This also makes for a great walk once safely moored up, the view of the sunset from the top of the wall is not to be missed.
Days 13 – 15, Heading back to base
Kumlubük is a great choice for your penultimate night as it’s not far from Marmaris so returning to base is easy! Kumlubük is a moon shaped large bay on the south of Asarcık point, the bay is surrounded by thickly wooded mountains. There are several restaurants with piers, water, electricity and wireless connections are available. This is also a great place for an afternoon dip in the gin clear waters.
Now it’s time to head back to your base, Marmaris. There are several shops in town giving you the perfect opportunity to pick up a few souveniers for family and friends at home. You have a number of restaurants to choose from for your final meal with plenty of bars for a nightcap before heading back to reality.
Marmaris Kumlubuku