Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
7-Day Bodrum Sailing Itinerary | Turkey’s Aegean Coast at its Mystical Best
Set sail on a journey where luxury meets legacy along Bodrum’s fabled coastline. Glide through sapphire waters that lap against sun-drenched beaches and ancient ruins, remnants of the Halicarnassus of old. Moor in vibrant harbors teeming with charm, then indulge in fresh-caught seafood under starlit skies. Whether you crave the thrill of open-water sailing or the serenity of secluded coves, a Bodrum yacht charter blends modern elegance with timeless Aegean beauty.
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Bodrum Sailing Itinerary | Navigation
Predictable winds, sheltered anchorages, and clearly marked channels. |
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Bodrum Sailing Itinerary | Family Friendly
Short hops, calm waters, and welcoming stops with family facilities. |
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Bodrum Sailing Itinerary | Diving & Snorkeling
Limited reef systems but crystal-clear waters for casual exploration. |
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Bodrum Sailing Itinerary | Eating Ashore
Charming tavernas, fresh seafood, and accessible marina-side dining. |
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| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Cruising | May – Oct |
| Avg. Temp | 25°C (77°F) |
| Prevailing Wind | NW to WNW (gentle to moderate breezes) |
| Time Zone | TRT (UTC +3) |
| Language | Turkish |
| Currency | Turkish Lira (TRY) |
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Is Bodrum expensive for a sailing holiday?
While Bodrum is no longer a hidden gem, it remains exceptional value compared to Western Mediterranean destinations. You’ll find a wide range of yachts, from affordable bareboats to luxurious crewed options. See our full guide to how much a yacht charter costs.
Is Bodrum easy to get to?
Yes — Bodrum is well-connected via Milas-Bodrum Airport with seasonal flights from major European hubs. From the airport, Bodrum Marina is just a 35-minute taxi ride, meaning you can be onboard and sailing the same day you arrive.
What currency is used in Bodrum?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY), although many tourist-facing services also accept Euros. ATMs are widely available and most businesses in Bodrum’s marinas and resorts accept international credit cards.
Do I need a sailing licence in Turkey?
To skipper a yacht yourself in Turkey, most charter companies require an ICC or RYA Day Skipper licence. Some flexibility exists, but it’s best to be prepared. Explore our full guide on what qualifications are needed to charter a yacht.
How many nautical miles is a 7-day Bodrum sailing itinerary?
The SailChecker Bodrum itinerary covers roughly 100–120 nautical miles, depending on your chosen anchorages and detours. It’s a relaxed route designed for scenic cruising with plenty of time for stops and swims.
What’s the best time to sail in Bodrum?
The sailing season in Bodrum runs from May to October, with July and August being the hottest and most popular months. For quieter anchorages and ideal winds, consider June or September. Discover more tips in our when to sail guide.
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Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
The Aegean Reimagined: A Bodrum Sailing Itinerary That Delivers
Once known for cut-price charters, Bodrum has evolved into one of the most rewarding yacht charter destinations in the Mediterranean. This Bodrum sailing itinerary explores Turkey’s unspoiled southwest Aegean coast — a place where slow, restorative travel comes naturally. Since the pandemic, travellers have rediscovered their appetite for space, nature, and authentic connection — and this region offers all three in generous measure.
From pine-fringed bays to ancient harbours and traditional fishing villages, this is the Turkish Aegean at its most alluring. Along the way, you’ll swim in warm, clear waters, dine in family-run tavernas, and explore quiet coves known only to local sailors. It’s not the budget sailing holiday it once was — but for those seeking a deeper kind of luxury, a Bodrum yacht charter still offers exceptional value.
Our Guide to Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
From Bodrum our Bodrum Sailing Itinerary proceeds to the ancient city of Cnidus, Yedi Adalari, English Harbour, Akbuk and finally Cokertme before ending our Bodrum Sailing Itinerary back in the lively city.
This itinerary showcases all kinds of environments from the lively city of Bodrum to historic sites, peaceful secluded bays and crystal clear waters.
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Getting There – How to Reach Bodrum
Flying is the easiest way to start your Bodrum sailing itinerary. Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV) welcomes seasonal direct flights from major cities across Europe. From the airport, it’s just a 35–40 minute taxi or transfer to the marina — the perfect jumping-off point for your Turkish Aegean adventure.
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Weather – When to Sail the Turkish Aegean
Bodrum enjoys a long sailing season from April to November. Expect dry heat and consistent northerly winds in summer, with sea temperatures rising to 26°C. In shoulder months like May and October, milder days and quieter anchorages offer a more relaxed charter experience. For current conditions, check Bodrum’s weather forecast.
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Mooring – Where to Stay Along the Coast
This itinerary blends modern marina stops with wild, pine-scented anchorages. Bodrum’s own marina is well-equipped, while places like Çökertme and English Harbour offer simple pontoons or scenic bays to drop anchor. There’s always shelter nearby — whether you’re seeking still water or somewhere to step ashore for dinner.
Our Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
Explore the Turkish Aegean Coast With Our 7-day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bodrum – Where East Meets West
Settle in beneath the minarets and masts of Bodrum’s twin harbours, with time to explore the castle or sip raki by the waterfront.
Distance: 0 NM (Start Point)
Mooring: Milta Bodrum Marina
Highlights: Bodrum Castle, Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, vibrant nightlife
Overview: Begin your journey in the bustling town of Bodrum, renowned for its rich history and lively atmosphere. Explore the iconic Bodrum Castle and the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. The town offers a plethora of restaurants, shops, and bars, perfect for stocking up and enjoying your first evening.
Recommended Activities: Sightseeing, shopping, dining, and experiencing the local nightlife.
Day 2: To Cnidus – Sailing in the Wake of the Ancients
Bodrum → Cnidus 23NM | Cruise past dramatic headlands to reach the ruins of Cnidus, once a thriving city of philosophers, sculptures, and sailors.
Distance: ~25 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 5 hours
Mooring: Anchorage at Knidos Harbour
Highlights: Ancient city ruins, Temple of Aphrodite, remote and peaceful setting
Set sail early from Bodrum and head west along the peninsula toward the legendary ruins of Knidos, a once-thriving city of the Hellenistic world. Located at the junction of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, Knidos is a breathtaking natural amphitheatre of history and sea. Anchor in the horseshoe bay, where remnants of the agora, theatre, and temples surround you onshore.
This is more than a mooring — it’s a step back in time. Swim in crystal-clear waters, stroll through millennia-old streets, and enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by the ghosts of an ancient civilisation.
Recommended Activities: Exploring the ruins, photography, wild swimming, dining at the seasonal harbour taverna.
Day 3: To Yedi Adalari – Into the Pine-Scented Isles
Cnidus → Yedi Adalari 32NM | Weave between the ‘Seven Islands,’ anchoring in turquoise bays fringed with forested hills and the scent of wild thyme.
Distance: ~20 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 4 hours
Mooring: Protected anchorages among the islands
Highlights: Forested islets, snorkelling, swimming, peaceful overnight anchorage
After soaking in the history of Knidos, sail southeast into the Gulf of Gökova towards Yedi Adalar, or the “Seven Islands.” This unspoiled cluster of pine-covered islets is a favourite among sailors for its secluded anchorages, flat waters, and tranquil surroundings.
This is a day for slowing down. Drop anchor behind one of the forested coves, snorkel over seagrass beds, or paddle ashore to explore tiny beaches shaded by trees. With no major settlements nearby, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy a night under the stars.
Recommended Activities: Snorkelling, paddleboarding, swimming, relaxing at anchor, exploring ashore by tender.
Day 4: To English Harbour – Hidden Coves & Calm Waters
Yedi Adalari → English Harbour 15NM | A secluded bay steeped in wartime history and natural beauty, perfect for snorkelling, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding.
Distance: ~10 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 2 hours
Mooring: Anchorage in English Harbour inlet
Highlights: Forested fjord-like cove, WWII naval history, calm swimming waters
Today’s short hop takes you deeper into the Gulf of Gökova to English Harbour (İngiliz Limanı), a deeply indented bay fringed by pine forest. Its name dates back to World War II, when British torpedo boats reportedly used the inlet as a hiding place — and its stillness remains just as valuable to sailors today.
Surrounded by steep hills and thick woodland, this natural anchorage offers excellent shelter and a sense of seclusion. Spend the afternoon swimming, paddleboarding, or hiking the wooded trails ashore. With no towns or facilities nearby, the peace is part of the charm — ideal for a lazy onboard dinner at anchor.
Recommended Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, hiking, photography, onboard dining.
Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
The Ideal Area for Every Level of Sailing Experience
Day 5 To Akbük – Rustic Shores and Quiet Beauty
English Harbour → Akbuk 12NM |
An off-the-beaten-path anchorage with laid-back charm, home to clear shallows and unpretentious seaside tavernas.
Distance: ~12 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 2.5 hours
Mooring: Anchorage in Akbük Bay (Akbük Koyu)
Highlights: Calm waters, green hillsides, rustic tavernas
Leave the stillness of English Harbour behind and sail east to Akbük Bay, a broad inlet nestled beneath forested hills. Though there are several bays called Akbük along Turkey’s coast, this one — between Ören and Akyaka — offers a peaceful atmosphere, clear waters, and a handful of simple seaside restaurants.
Anchor in the sheltered bay and take a dip in the calm, shallow waters. Ashore, stroll the pebble beach or relax under the shade of pine trees with a long, lazy lunch. Facilities are modest but welcoming — the focus here is tranquillity, not luxury.
Recommended Activities: Swimming, beach walks, long lunches at local tavernas, relaxing at anchor.
Day 6: To Çökertme – A Bay Made for Sunset
Akbuk → Cokertme 19NM | Enjoy a leisurely sail and drop anchor in this painterly bay where hills rise gently from the sea and dinner comes with music.
Distance: ~14 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 3 hours
Mooring: Anchorage or jetty mooring at Çökertme Bay
Highlights: Friendly local tavernas, protected anchorage, Turkish village charm
Today’s route takes you along the north shore of the Gulf of Gökova to Çökertme Bay, a popular overnight stop for yachts heading back toward Bodrum. Sheltered from prevailing winds, this wide bay offers good holding and a welcoming shoreline dotted with family-run tavernas.
The village itself is laid-back and low-key, ideal for a relaxed evening. Many of the restaurants offer free mooring in exchange for dining, and some even host live Turkish music after dinner. It’s a perfect place to enjoy grilled fish, mezes, and a sunset drink with fellow sailors.
Recommended Activities: Swimming, dining ashore, relaxing with live music, provisioning from local shops.
Day 7: Return to Bodrum – One Last Look at the Horizon
Cokertme → Bodrum 19NM | Day 7 | A final morning swim, a slow sail home, and time to reflect on a week of sunlit seas and Aegean discovery.
Distance: ~20 NM Sailing Time: Approx. 4 hours
Mooring: Milta Bodrum Marina
Highlights: Final swim stop, farewell dinner, castle views at sunset
On your final day, sail west from Çökertme back toward Bodrum, allowing time for a midday swim stop at one of the coves along the coast — Küfre or Kargı Bay make excellent choices. With consistent winds and open water, it’s an ideal leg to enjoy a final stretch of proper sailing.
Return to Milta Bodrum Marina in the afternoon and take the opportunity to explore anything you missed at the start of the trip. Perhaps revisit the harbourfront or enjoy a sunset drink with views of Bodrum Castle. It’s the perfect setting to reflect on the week and start planning your next sailing adventure.
Recommended Activities: Final swim stop en route, sunset walk in Bodrum, farewell dinner at the marina.
Indicative Yachts and Prices
Bodrum Sailing Itinerary
*All prices are per boat, for one week. For more yacht options and exact prices, please contact us info@sailchecker.com
Athena 38: Prices from £ 1,730
Oceanis 45: Prices from £ 2,385
Gulet Biliz: Prices from £ 7,847
Jeanneau 53: Prices from £ 3,555
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Great family vacation.
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Great service from Kate.Informative and looked for the best value for our family. Very good customer service on this side and in Greece. Great boat and skipper...
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Coronavirus pandemic support has been brilliant!During the Coronavirus pandemic, Kate and her colleagues at Sailchecker have performed brilliantly. They have been considerate and highly efficient in re-organising our Turkey charter and also provided lots of assistance in getting our Yacht Security Deposit insurance policy transferred to match our revised charter dates.
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