Bays and Islands You Can Explore When Renting a Boat in Göcek

Possessing the world's most prestigious marinas and the most sheltered bay structure, Göcek is the most strategic point not only in Turkey but also in the Mediterranean for yacht chartering. However, renting the right boat is not enough for a perfect blue cruise; plotting the right route and knowing which bay to anchor in and when is the main factor determining the quality of your holiday.

As Limancepte, with our 10 years of experience, it is certain that; even if your captain suggests routes, knowing the points you want to go to in advance as a conscious charter customer allows you to use your holiday time most efficiently. Since Göcek Bay consists of many bays and islands close to each other, it offers the opportunity to see maximum places while keeping fuel costs to a minimum.

Here are 6 locations that stand out with their technical and geographical features that you should add to your route in a boat holiday departing from Göcek:

1. Yassica Islands: A Natural Pool Experience

Yassica Islands, which have become the symbol of Göcek Bay, consist of 5 small and large islands and are the safest point especially for families with children and guests who do not know how to swim with their shallow sea. The natural lagoons formed between the islands offer a swimming experience in pool calmness, completely away from currents.

When to Go? Our advice to our guests renting private boats is to visit Yassica either very early in the morning (before 09:00) or in the evening (after 17:00). Since there are no facilities on the islands, it is one of the most romantic spots in the bay to watch the sunset calmly.

2. Bedri Rahmi Bay (Tasyaka): Meeting of History and Art

Formerly known as Tasyaka, it took its current name from the fish picture drawn on a rock by the famous painter Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu in 1974. You shouldn't see this bay just as an artistic stop; when you look carefully at the slopes, you can see rock tombs (Krynessos) from the Lycian period.

Technical Advantage: Being geographically closed to northern winds makes this a safe overnight spot for boats. You can go ashore and take a walk among the olive trees and resupply from the fresh water source on the pier.

3. Cleopatra's Bath Bay (Sunken Bath)

This is the most important point where you should not dive without a snorkel on your boat holiday. The ruins you will see just under the water in the southwest of the bay belong to a monastery. Swimming over these structures submerged as a result of tectonic movements is the most mystical experience of the Göcek route.

Tip: The bay is covered with pine trees and the sea bottom is sandy. Since it is very popular, you can escape the crowd a bit by asking your captain to anchor here during lunch hours.

4. Sarsala Bay: For Those Seeking Comfort and Beach

While there are no beaches in most Göcek bays, Sarsala Bay has a long and stony beach. It is separated into two: Big and Small Sarsala.

Suggestion: Big Sarsala is crowded due to road access. For our private boat charter customers, Small Sarsala, which is only accessible by sea, offers a more isolated and special experience. It is a favorite for overnight stays thanks to its wind-free structure.

5. Gobun Bay: A Gourmet Break

Located at the entrance of Göcek Bay, Gobun is a bay with a very narrow entrance. Being between two high hills makes it the most sheltered area of the bay against harsh winds and waves (swell).

Feature: The most distinctive feature distinguishing Gobun is the restaurant on land. Even if you have a cook on your boat, you can enjoy Aegean cuisine and socialize by having dinner here. Also, the path leading to the top of the hill offers a magnificent panoramic view.

6. Aquarium Bay (Domuz Island): Crystal Clarity

The reason why this region between Domuz Island and Tersane Island is called "Aquarium" is that sand grains on the sea floor can be seen even at a depth of 20-30 meters. Thanks to its glass-like water, the shadow of the boat hits the sea floor.

Note: This place is usually open to a light breeze. It is a visual feast that you should add to your route for cooling off during the hottest hours of the day, swimming breaks, and coffee enjoyment rather than staying overnight.