Located on the south-western coast of Turkey, looking towards the Mediterranean Sea, Fethiye lies safely in the arms of the Taurus Mountain Range. This settlement was in ancient times known as Telmessos, a rich port that was an important centre of trade in the Mediterranean. Throughout the long history of the city, it served many foreign and domestic masters. Before Alexander the Great began his conquest of Asia Minor from Telmessos, this city was ruled by Lycians who governed a system that some historians like to call the "first democracy" - a system similar to the Greek city-state governorship, with the exception of the states being governed by an elected president. Today, Fethiye is a cosmopolitan centre for nautical tourism, famous for golden beaches, rich history and cultural heritage. The natural bay in which a modern marina is built is an ideal location to charter a yacht and start exploring the surrounding islands.
Why choose Fethiye?
The foothills of the Taurus chain stand between Fethiye and the mountain, whilst the sea provides a colourful foreground. Known as the Turquoise Coast, this part of Turkey provides some of the best sailing spots in the Mediterranean. Forests of pine and cedar grow undisturbed near the golden sand beaches. Yachts and boats gently cruise on the glistening surface of the water, with the relentless sun proving ideal for those wanting a bronze tan. The coast around Fethiye is filled with quiet coves with underwater cave systems, making them a heaven for diving and snorkelling. The town itself, while living in the shadow of ancient heritage and glorious history, is a modern coastal tourist hub, with all the commodities of globalization.
What to do and see on your yacht charter in Fethiye, Turkey?
The town of Fethiye offers many interesting things to experience. The old town, called Paspatur, contains many cafes and restaurants, as well as plenty of souvenirs shops, selling Turkish rugs, water pipes, beachwear and other things one would need on vacation. Also, not to be missed is the "Umbrella Street", a local attraction where umbrellas hang over the heads of people walking by. This colourful street hosts many restaurants and cafes where Turkish pastries, coffee and tea are always made fresh and tasty. The Fethiye Museum, in the old town, houses numerous artefacts from when Lycians ruled these lands. Past the old town, in the direction of the harbour, there is an ancient amphitheatre, built by the Romans when this province was incorporated into the Roman Empire. The vicinity of Fethiye is full of interesting sights to see and things to experience. For instance, Lycian sites are the most numerous, but the most astounding is Tomb of Amyntas, the last resting place of a powerful Lycian ruler cut deep into the rock. Just south of Fethiye lie the ruins of the Lycian city of Pinara, containing more than 900 rock tombs and houses. Xanthos, which was the capital of ancient Lycia and is today protected by UNESCO, features many fine mosaics, a theatre, an agora and an acropolis. There is also Kaya Köy, known in the past as Levissi, a 'ghost town' abandoned because of the population exchange agreement that was signed by the Turkish and Greek governments in 1923., when all the populace was moved from their homes to Greece. The beaches around Fethiye are numerous and diverse. Butterfly Valley features a lovely beach, nestled between two very steep cliffs. Patar boasts one of the longest strips of sand in Turkey and because this ground was a city millennia ago, ancient ruins lie scattered next to the beach. Trumping all others is Turkey's most famous beach, located not even 20 kilometres from Fethiye. Ölüdeniz Lagoon or more commonly known as "the Blue Lagoon" is a beach located south of Fethiye, with a sandbar separating the lagoon from the Mediterranean Sea. Other beaches lie scattered around numerous bays around Fethiye. Aksazlar Bay, Samanlık Bay, Kuleli and Gemiler Bay, all offer marvellous atmospheres with sea, sun and sand. In Saklikent Gorge willing participants can trek alongside a swift river, as well as enjoy canyoning and rafting, whilst Mt. Baba, commanding the inland scenery, offers ideal launching spot for paragliding adventures.
Sailing season - When to charter in Fethiye?
Fethiye enjoys the advantages of a Mediterranean climate, meaning dry and hot summers with wet and windy winters. In May, before the peak of the summer season, considerable rainfall can occur. From June to late September, Fethiye can be really hot. The summer air temperatures are known to climb well above 35 degrees Celsius, particularly between July and August. In October, after the summer has ended and before the winter winds arrive, it is common to experience a significant increase in rainfall. The best time to visit would be in Spring or Autumn, because the temperatures are mild, but you are trading high temperatures for a higher chance of rain. The early berth prices are also well beyond what they charge in the summer - best to book accommodations and charters in advance. Sailing in any part of the year is possible in Fethiye, but for an experienced captain.