Best Turkey cruises and areas to visit
Cruises in Turkey can hop seamlessly from one beauty spot to the next, so you don’t have to miss the best of the amazing Turkish coastline. Small ship cruises mean you can be tucking into a delicious traditional meal on the streets of Marmaris one day and exploring the ancient ruins of Lycia the next.
Blue Cruise
A Blue Cruise is Turkey’s signature small-ship sailing experience, traditionally taken aboard a wooden gulet along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. These cruises combine leisurely days at sea with time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, village visits, and open-air meals prepared with fresh local ingredients. Whether sailing between Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Göcek, or Kekova, a Blue Cruise captures the essence of coastal Turkey: ancient ruins, hidden bays, warm hospitality, and a slow rhythm shaped by wind, water, and sunshine.
Bodrum
The city of Bodrum is a port on Turkey's southwest coast, near Muğla province, and it is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The modern-day port has an exciting and diverse culture, evident in its many cruises that head out onto the water, where you can enjoy breathtaking views. It has been called "the most beautiful place in Asia" because of its rich history and because it is home to one of the seven wonders of the world - The Mausoleum of Halicarnassos, which holds some impressive temples.
Dalyan
The main town of Dalyan is along the riverside with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The town is a popular destination for visitors who enjoy its lively atmosphere and the nearby ruins of Kaunos. Visitors can spend hours exploring the city's ruins and take in the spectacular tombs carved into the rock faces along the Dalyan River. Another of the best-known beaches in southern Turkey is Iztuzu Beach in Dalyan, known not only for swimming but also as a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. It is worth noting that while the beach is open to the public during the day, it is closed from eight in the evening to protect these turtles and their nests.
Kekova
Close to the stunning resorts of Kas and Kalkan, the sunken ruins of Kekova are a perfect stop-off on a small ship cruise. Many will stop off overnight thanks to the ideal water conditions and the chance to see the remains of a true sunken city. The ruins can be seen from your small ship cruise or sea kayak, which lets you get up close and enjoy paddling around this lovely coastline.
Marmaris
Small-ship cruises in Marmaris offer an intimate and enchanting way to explore the Turkish Riviera's stunning coastlines and crystal-clear waters. This picturesque port city, nestled between rugged mountains and the azure sea, is the perfect gateway to the Aegean's hidden gems. Guests can look forward to discovering secluded bays, ancient ruins, and charming islands, all while enjoying the warm Turkish hospitality. The blend of cultural experiences, from traditional Turkish baths to vibrant bazaars, along with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking in tranquil coves, makes Marmaris an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion on their small-ship cruise.
Göcek
Göcek is one of Turkey’s most elegant small-ship cruising hubs, known for its marina-lined waterfront, forested islands, and easy access to the sheltered bays of the Turquoise Coast. Cruises from Göcek often focus on short hops between secluded anchorages, quiet beaches, and scenic swimming stops, making the experience feel intimate and relaxed. With its calm waters, refined harbor atmosphere, and proximity to highlights such as the Yassica Islands and Dalyan, Göcek is ideal for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic introduction to Turkey by sea.
The Gulf of Gökova
Small-ship cruises in the Gulf of Gökova reveal one of Turkey’s most scenic sailing regions, where pine-cloaked hills drop into calm turquoise water and quiet coves feel tailor-made for anchoring overnight. Departing often from Bodrum or nearby harbors, these cruises explore sheltered bays, tiny islands, swimming spots, and historic coastal settlements at an unhurried pace. The region is especially suited to gulets and boutique yachts, offering a classic blend of sun-drenched decks, fresh Aegean cuisine, and peaceful evenings beneath clear Mediterranean skies.
Yassica Islands
Within the Fethiye Gulf are the five islands that make up the tiny archipelago of Yassica. The islands are close together and are believed to have once been joined, as indicated by ancient ruins beneath the water. It is worth snorkeling around these ruins, as they are one of the few not protected by a ban on swimmers. For those who prefer to explore terrestrial history, there are also Byzantine-period ruins on the island of Haci Halil.
Best time to cruise in Turkey
The best time to cruise to Turkey depends on your interests, budget, and tolerance for heat. The summer months, June to August, are hot and can be slightly humid, though less so along the coast, where a sea breeze helps keep the evenings cool. Spring is an excellent time to take a small-ship cruise in Turkey, as the weather is generally sunny and warm, but not as hot as in the summer, making it a good time for historical visits and hiking. Autumn is perfect if you enjoy some heat and want warm waters. The water temperature remains high during the summer, but the nights are not as hot and humid as in summer.
Getting to Turkey
Turkey has several international airports along its coastline, the largest of which are in Marmaris and Antalya. These airports have direct flights from major European airports, and seasonal flights are also available to smaller airports at Dalyan and Bodrum. For those traveling further afield, flying directly to Istanbul International Airport and then to the coastal airports from there is possible. Once you are in Turkey, minibusses and private taxis are reasonably easy to use, and hiring a car is inexpensive; however, the roads can be chaotic and sometimes dangerous.
