Sailing in Turkey – Practical Tips

Marinas

There are some new, beautiful marinas with all modern facilities along the coast. Port fees vary and are of the same level as at home.

Transit log

A so-called "Transit log" = sailing permit is issued locally on the basis of the crew lists and papers we have already sent to the base. Locally, approx. €110 for this permit per boat. Our staff at the base handle all the paperwork, transit logs, transfer etc.

Permissions

For all changes in crew and especially skipper en route, this must be entered in the boat's "Transit log". Sailing between the Turkish coasts and the Greek islands is only possible by prior agreement with the base staff. Our advice: "Don't do it" - it takes a lot of time with "paperwork" - especially with the Greek port authorities - and it's not exactly cheap either.

Anchoring

You can easily find the nicest anchorages in the many bays, and in many places a Turkish family has established a small restaurant. For those interested in archaeology, there are many ruins, mosaics, burial chambers, theaters and temples, etc. from a bygone era to explore on the small islands and along the coast.

Trash

There are plenty of waste containers at the quayside in all ports. In Turkey, people are very careful about pollution of harbors and coasts, and large fines can be imposed for carelessness.

Toilet conditions

All marinas have nice shower/toilet facilities. There are not always toilet seats. For the sake of the sewage systems, it is customary to put toilet paper in a bucket next to the toilet - not in the toilet.

Holding tank

Remember to only empty the holding tank at sea. In Turkey, there is a lot of evidence about the marine environment, and the authorities are very strict about pollution.

Provisioning

It will be a good idea to be ahead of the game with provisions for a few days out on the islands. In many places, the shops are closed for lunch.

Currency

New Turkish Lira. Check daily rate. Euros, pounds and dollars and also DKK. ATMs are found on almost every street corner.

Weather and wind

Weather forecasts with weather maps are available at all marina offices. The wind typically comes from NW-W and follows the coast around, 6-12 m/s. Never sail into/out of a Turkish bay for players. In the bays, there are often strong downwinds from the mountains, and it is normal with wind jumps of 180 degrees.

Most of the time it is windless in the morning. Therefore, it may be a good idea to start early. At lunchtime the wind increases, then decreases again in the evening. When anchoring under high mountains, strong downwinds can occur - also at night.

Holiday tips:

Customs

The Turks are Muslims. Local women cover their necks and shoulders. Bare legs are frowned upon at the mosque (applies to both men and women). However, the norms are more relaxed in the tourist spots. Men should try a trip to the barber in the marketplace or bazaar. It can be quite amusing to watch, and includes a massage.

Restaurant

There are often waiters trying to draw the guests into the kitchen or the counter, where you can see their products, and at first it seems annoying to us Danes. But it is actually an excellent custom to look at the food before deciding - and a no is accepted.

At the more humble LOKANTA's, where the locals themselves live, you eat excellent and cheap - also out in the countryside. The food, especially the nicest stews, is chosen based on a look in the pots or on the counter. If you are sailing in smaller bays, there may be a fragile bridge where a Turkish family likes to cook for the boat and its crew. Ask what they can offer and make an agreement on a price first and a time for the meal that they prepare just for you. We have had the most delicious stews prepared in an earthen oven and in the morning freshly baked bread.

Dolmus/taxi

Dolmus minibuses run a regular route between the city center and the hotel areas or along the coastal promenade. Typically, it only costs a very small amount - regardless of distance. You line up along the road, or possibly at a stop, and the dolmus then runs when there is a need for it, and is filled up along the route. Very cozy and Turkish.

Taxis run at a fixed meter price with an additional charge in the evening. Remember to have the taxi meter switched on, or to agree a fixed price in advance!

The bazaar, marketplace and supermarket

Food items are generally at fixed prices. Everything else, especially carpets, can be negotiated, and a lot of mint tea, lemon tea or coffee must be drunk before the "right" price for both parties is agreed upon.