Bedri Rahmi Bay (Gocek): The Fish on the Rock & History's Secret

The spiritual capital of the Blue Cruise culture, fitting art and nature into the same frame on Gocek's 12 Islands route: Bedri Rahmi Bay.

Named "Taşyaka" on old maps, this bay hosted a visitor who changed its destiny in 1974. Famous painter and poet Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu admired this place during a Blue Cruise and drew the "Symbol of the Blue Voyage" on a rock. Since that day, this stop on Gocek yacht charter routes is not just a swimming break, but a point of "standing in homage" for sailors.

Here is what you need to know about this most famous bay of Gocek before steering your boat:

1. Where is That Famous "Fish" Painting?

When you enter the bay, you will see everyone taking pictures of a large rock on the northern slope.
The Story: In 1974, when Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu came here by boat, he drew a fish figure on this massive rock piece.
The Secret: This is not just a fish. When you look closely, 6 different animal figures (elephant, monkey, octopus, etc.) are hidden inside the fish. The artist immortalized the fertility of nature in a single figure.
Ritual: Passing right in front of the rock with the fish painting and saluting this heritage is a Gocek tradition.

2. Lycian Rock Tombs: View from the Top

The bay has a connection not only with art but also with ancient history. When you look carefully at the slope, you see rock tombs from the Lycian period hidden among the trees.
The Climb: If you get off the boat and climb to these tombs via the path (about 15-20 minutes), you will encounter a magnificent view laying the entire Gocek gulf under your feet.

3. "Bitter Water" Source and Supply

Bedri Rahmi Bay has been a strategic point where sailors "resupply water" since the past. There is a natural fresh water source (spring) coming out from among the rocks inside the bay. Since the water is a bit calcareous, it is used for showers and cleaning rather than drinking.

4. How is the Sea and Nature?

This is one of the bays where "Green approaches the sea the most". Pine and olive trees almost touch the water.
Sea: The water is emerald green and dark blue. It is usually very calm and does not receive wind.
Ground: The coastline is small pebbles and stony. Therefore, the water is very clear and does not get muddy.

5. Are There Facilities?

Yes. There are shabby but delicious restaurants in the bay with wooden piers where boats can moor. After the daily tour boats withdraw, a romantic atmosphere is created in the restaurants on the pier in the evenings, illuminated only by the light of the stars.

Bedri Rahmi Bay FAQ

• Is there land access to the bay?
  No. There is no official vehicle road descending to Bedri Rahmi Bay. It is reached only by sea.
• Is there an entrance fee?
  The bay is open to the public, free of charge. However, if you want to tie up to the restaurant pier, you may need to use the restaurant service.
• Is the fish painting erased?
  No, although it fades over time, it is restored to its original state by volunteer artists periodically.
• When is the most crowded time?
  The bay is very crowded between 13:00 - 16:00.