Those onboard superyachts in Türkiye will probably be familiar with Yalikavak Marina. This phenomenal marina now ranks among the top 10 marinas in the world, and it is the first marina in Türkiye to receive the prestigious 5 Gold Anchor Platinum rating by the British Harbour Association (TYHA). The onsite yachting and lifestyle facilities at Yalikavak are superb, so it should be no surprise that it appears as a stop on almost all superyacht itineraries.

Photo Credit: Yalikavak Marina

OVERVIEW: YALIKAVAK MARINA

Yalikavak Marina (formally Palmarina) is no stranger to awards and was voted the World’s Best Superyacht Marina in 2018, 2019, and 2022 and International Marina of the Year in 2020. Yalikavak was Türkiye’s first high-capacity superyacht marina, and as such, it quickly became the haunt for iconic yachts and their guests. Megayachts Madame Gu, Arrow, Eclipse, Voice, and Vertige have all visited the site, with many now returning each time they cruise the Turkish coast.

The marina offers 620 berths and can comfortably cater to yachts up to 140m LOA. As you would expect from a world-class facility, all the technical and maintenance services are at hand, plus the lifestyle choices onsite rival many of the premium facilities in the Med. Aside from the marina, there are several excellent hotels, first-class spa and wellness facilities, a fabulous selection of fine restaurants, and a high-end designer shopping mall.

Photo Credit: Yalikavak Marina

Yalikavak Marina Location.

The last two decades have seen the former sleepy village of Yalikavak rise from its humble fishing and sponge diving beginnings into Türkiye’s premier star-studded destination. The marina is conveniently located 18 NM from the historic town of Bodrum and a 1-hour transfer from Milas Airport (helipad access is available).

Photo Credit: Yalikavak Marina

Many of the Aegean coast’s most beautiful resorts, coves and anchorages lie within a leisurely cruise of Yalikavak. Highlights include; Gumusluk, famed for its waterfront seafood restaurants; Lucca Beach at the Mandarin Oriental, Xuma Beach Bay for its laid-back beach club and entertainment; Kucuk Kiremit Island for a swim-stop; and Cennet Bay for its crystal clear waters and beauty. If you plan to venture further afield, the Greek Island of Kos is also within easy reach (12 NM).

Photo Credit: Novikov Bodrum

First Class Shopping, Dining and Entertainment.

Most that enjoy cruising enjoy shopping, and at Yalikavak Marina Shopping Alley, there are many opportunities to give the wallet a well-deserved workout. The Alley features over 100 well-known local and designer brands, including Dior, Valentino, Prada, Chanel, Rolex, Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain, Chopard, Audemars Piguet and Hublot, to name but a few. Gucci also opened a new store this season.

Photo Credit: Prada, Yalikavak Marina

Many of the best restaurants in Türkiye can also be found at Yalikavak Marina, with dining options to suit most tastes. Novikov Italian, Novikov Helipad Lounge, Sait, Nusr-et, Zuma and Birds by Vasilchuk Bros have proved to be guest favourites, and Bagatelle Bodrum, the French restaurant and beach club, also opened this year.

Charity and Community

Yalikavak Marina takes its rise to fame on the yachting circuit seriously, and it’s good to see such a facility doing its bit for charity and the local community. Not only does the marina and its family employ over 1000 staff, but it also supports the UNICEF Turkish National Committee in its Platinum Wings program, which helps underprivileged kids across the country.

Photo Credit: Yalikavak Marina

Exhibitions and Events.

The marina at Yalikavak runs many international exhibitions and events and often appears in the press. It’s the main sponsor and host for the Turkish Yachting & Brokers Association (TYBA) charter show, the American International Game Fish Association Annual, and The Bodrum Cup, a globally recognised marine festival and sailing race.

Photo Credit: Yalikavak Marina

ADD YALIKAVAK MARINA TO YOUR ITINERARY

If you are planning your Turkish cruising itinerary and would like to add a visit to Yalikavak Marina or you’re after any provisions or yachting assistance during your time in port, please CONTACT 360° YACHTING.

Further Reading:

Cruising Essentials: A Guide to Yalikavak

Add These Locations to Your Bodrum Superyacht Cruising Itinerary

The Best Luxury Spas in Bodrum

Note: This Post was first published in June 2022 and updated in April 2023.