Türkiye’s vast coastline is blessed with many picture-perfect towns and beaches, but the Gulf of Gokova (Kerme) is the most indented, meaning its nooks and crannies hide some of the best bays and anchorages. This 100 km long narrow gulf lies on the Aegean, between the Bodrum and Datca peninsulas, and is idyllic. Here you find islands steeped in legend, the ruins of ancient ports and cities plus a bay so beautiful that Queen Cleopatra is said to have had sand shipped there from Egypt.

The Gulf of Gokova is certainly a sailing and superyacht playground -and for a good reason. This stretch is where the forest and mountains tumble to the shores, and the vibrant green and blue waters meet, making for the most beautiful seascapes and vistas. See below 360° Yachting’s mini-guide to a few of Gokova’s highlights to help you plot your trip, and don’t forget to CONTACT US for a tailor-made itinerary.

CLEOPATRA ISLAND & BEACH (SEDIR ISLAND)

Sedir Island is best known as Cleopatra Island and widely considered one of the most beautiful locations on the Turkish coast. To the northwest of the island is its famous beach set in mesmerising waters where its depths are crystal clear.

Legend would suggest that the famous Roman commander Marc Anthony and Queen Cleopatra were so taken with the bay and beach that they organised sand to be shipped from Egypt – each grain a perfect bead-like sphere. This sand ignites under a flame and can only be found in Egypt, Sedir Island and Crete, so there may be some truth to the tale. Today, the beach is protected, and no sand or seashells can be taken from its shores. Understandably, this beach is popular during the day, so visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the day-trippers.

KARACASOGUT (SOGUT BAY)

Most that cruise around Gokova stop-off at Karacasogut, with its fabulous forest-backed bay, waterfall, cave and ancient settlement – it is a spectacular location.

At first glance, you would be forgiven for thinking the location is nothing out of the ordinary – yes beautiful – but similar to other bays with a small marina, a couple of local restaurants, a minimarket and a sailing school – but the main highlights are hidden. For the adventurous, a guided tour can be arranged to discover the local cave, waterfall with its natural pool, explore the ruins of Ancient Euthena and Amnistos, or escape into nature with a walk in the forest.

DEGIRMENBUKU BAY

As the largest bay in Gokova, it’s almost always possible to find a nice spot to rest up and take lunch or enjoy a swim stop. Opposite Kos, the views are great, and the sea usually clear and inviting. The area is known for its beauty, flora and fauna, so the setting ideal to spend time with the toys onboard or simply relax, take lunch and soak in the area’s beauty.

HIRSIZ BAY

Hirsiz Bay offers convenient shelter from all but the south winds, so a decent location should the conditions require it. It’s an attractive bay with a sandy bottom that’s also an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing.

ENGLISH HARBOUR (CANAK BAY)

English Harbour is another famous bay in Gokova and shaped almost like a sling-shot. It’s so-called as it was reportedly used as a secret shelter by a British navy vessel during the World War. Stop-off for swimming, paddle boarding and relaxation as the waters offer a calm and tranquil retreat and the pine forest and mountains a beautiful backdrop.

CAMLI HARBOUR

Camli Harbour is located on the southern side of the Capa Burnu and Camli Island. With a capacity for over 30 yachts, its pier becomes popular during high season with short-stay blue cruisers and day-trippers exploring the coast, plus a ferry also departs for Bodrum during the summer months. A couple of little markets selling essentials and a local cafe/restaurant is on-site, and there’s easy road access to local areas should you wish to come ashore. Reasonable shelter can be found to the west of the bay.

THE SEVEN ISLANDS (YEDI ADALAR)

Between Teke Burnu and Taneli Burun, just off the coast, lie what is known as the Seven Islands (although there are actually only five and two inlets). These are a delight and add real character to the coast, but careful navigation should be employed by bigger yachts due to rocks and shallow waters – please ASK US for assistance if cruising the area.

The islands range in size, with Kucuk (little) island as the smallest, and nearby Zeytinli, Uzum, Martili and Gollu not much bigger. The coves in this area offer several secluded beaches and possible picnic locations, all best explored by tender. Some coves to the east of the islands provide postcard settings and all-around shelter – ASK US FOR INFO.

PLANNING TO CRUISE THE GULF OF GOKOVA?

We have mentioned just a few of the beautiful bays and anchorages on offer in the Gulf of Gokova, there are many more. If you are planning to cruise this area of Türkiye, please GET IN TOUCH and let 360° Yachting assist you with a tailor-made itinerary and any provisions you need for your trip.