Turkish sailing Itinerary

Below are several options for getting to Turkey:

1. Direct Flights to Istanbul or Antalya: Look for direct flights from major US cities to Istanbul or Antalya. These cities have well-connected international airports with regular flights from the US. Turkish Airlines and other major carriers often offer daily flights.

2. Choose Istanbul or Antalya as Your Entry Point: Istanbul and Antalya are the two main entry points to Turkey. If you're planning to sail on the western coast (Bodrum, Dalaman, or Izmir), Istanbul might be a better option. For the southern coast (Antalya region), consider landing directly in Antalya.

3. Domestic Flights to Coastal Cities: From Istanbul or Antalya, take a domestic flight to Bodrum, Dalaman, Izmir, or Ankara. These coastal cities have airports with regular connections to the main entry points. Domestic flights in Turkey are relatively short and convenient.

4. Alternative Airports: While Istanbul and Antalya are the most common entry points, you can also check for direct flights to other airports like Izmir or Dalaman if available. This might save you some transfer time.

TIP **Check Seasonal Flight Options**: Flight availability and prices might vary depending on the season. Be flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals.

Remember to check the latest travel guidelines and visa requirements for Turkey before your departure. With some careful planning and flexibility, you'll be all set for a fantastic sailing vacation along Turkey's beautiful coast!

Turkey is a popular destination for yacht vacations, and it offers numerous marinas along its beautiful coastline. Some of the most common and well-known marinas for boarding a yacht for a vacation in Turkey include:

1. Bodrum Marina (Bodrum): Located on the Aegean coast, Bodrum is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant nightlife, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. Bodrum Marina is well-equipped and offers a wide range of services for yachts and their guests.

2. Marmaris Yacht Marina (Marmaris): Marmaris is another popular coastal town on the Aegean coast. The Marmaris Yacht Marina is a modern marina with excellent facilities and is a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding regions.

3. Gocek Marinas (Gocek): Gocek is a picturesque town in the Mediterranean region, famous for its stunning bays and islands. There are multiple marinas in Gocek, such as Gocek Village Port, Gocek Club Marina, and D-Marin Gocek, offering various services for yacht charters.

4. Fethiye Ece Marina (Fethiye): Fethiye is a charming coastal town known for its turquoise waters and historical sites. The Fethiye Ece Marina is a well-known marina with comprehensive facilities for yachts and sailors.

5. Kas Marina (Kas): Kas is a delightful town on the Mediterranean coast, known for its crystal-clear waters and ancient ruins. The Kas Marina provides a welcoming stop for yacht travelers.

6. Antalya Free Zone Marina (Antalya): Antalya is a major city on the Mediterranean coast with a rich history. The Antalya Free Zone Marina is one of the largest marinas in the area, offering various services and amenities for yacht enthusiasts.

7. Istanbul Marinas (Istanbul): Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is unique as it straddles both Europe and Asia. There are several marinas in and around Istanbul, such as Ataköy Marina, Kalamış & Fenerbahçe Marinas, and Setur Kalamis & Fenerbahce Marina, where you can start your yacht vacation with the blend of history and modernity.

Please note that once you choose your yacht, your itinerary will determine your starting point. Your charter expert and crew will guide you every step of the way!

The currency used in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). It is advisable to exchange some of your US dollars or Euros to Turkish lira before traveling to Turkey. While many places in Turkey, especially tourist areas and large cities, may accept US dollars or euros, you'll generally get a better exchange rate and find it more convenient to use the local currency.

You can exchange your US dollars to Turkish lira at banks, exchange offices (known as "döviz bürosu"), or even at the airport- although the exchange rates may be high at the later. It's a good idea to have some local currency on hand for expenses like transportation, small purchases, and tips.

The official language spoken in Turkey is Turkish. It is the most widely spoken language in the country and serves as the medium of instruction in schools, official communication, and most aspects of daily life.

As for the percentage of people who speak English in Turkey, it's estimated that around 20-30% of the population have some level of proficiency in English. English is taught as a mandatory foreign language in Turkish schools, but the level of proficiency can vary widely based on individual exposure, education, and practice. Major cities and tourist destinations often have a higher percentage of English speakers compared to more rural or remote areas. Once aboard your yacht in Turkey, your crew will be proficient in English.

Turkey, situated between Europe and Asia, is often associated with various cultural influences. While it shares some geographical proximity with the Middle East, it differs significantly from countries like Iran where a strict dress code is enforced for women. In Turkey, particularly evident upon arrival in Istanbul, the local population's welcoming and open demeanor is apparent. Female travelers have the freedom to dress according to their personal preference without constraints. Despite being predominantly Muslim, wearing a headscarf is not mandatory by law, and many younger individuals have chosen not to adhere to traditional religious practices.