The Best Boat Rentals in Antalya

Prices vary by boat size, season, and whether you book a private charter or join a shared tour. As a simple guide, shared day trips typically run about $30–$60 per person, private motor yachts for a half day often range from $300–$800, and full‑day private charters commonly fall between $600–$1,500, with luxury yachts costing more. Most prices include a licensed captain, fuel for standard routes, safety gear, and basic refreshments like water or tea; many gulet day trips also include lunch. Extras can include hotel transfers, premium beverages, special routes that require additional fuel, water toys, and crew gratuities.

You’ll find modern motor yachts for small groups, classic wooden gulets for relaxing full‑day cruises, spacious catamarans for smooth sailing, and RIBs or cruisers for faster coastline hops. If you want sunbathing space and a shaded lounge, a gulet or motor yacht is ideal; if you prefer quiet sailing and wide decks, look for a catamaran; if you’re chasing waterfalls and bays in a shorter window, a swift motorboat works well.

Most visitors choose captained charters because local skippers handle navigation, anchoring, and swim stops at the best coves. Self‑operated (bareboat) options are limited and typically require proof of boating competency such as an ICC or an equivalent national license, plus a security deposit and documented experience. If you’re unsure, booking with a captain is the smoothest path and usually the same or only slightly more than going bareboat once insurance and deposits are considered.

Common departure points include Kaleiçi Marina (the Old Town Harbor) in the city center and the Antalya Fishing Harbor in Liman, which is convenient for reaching Konyaaltı and Sıçan Island. Many full‑day cruises to ancient bays and beaches start from Kemer Turkiz Marina to the southwest, while specialty trips to places like Suluada Island typically depart from Adrasan Harbor. Your booking confirmation will specify the exact meeting point and whether hotel pickup is available.

Typical routes glide beneath the dramatic Falez cliffs, past Konyaaltı Beach with Taurus Mountain backdrops, and out to swim coves near Sıçan (Rat) Island and Çaltıcak. Many cruises head toward Kemer for postcard bays and the ruins of Phaselis, while shorter city trips often visit the Lower Düden Waterfall, which cascades straight into the Mediterranean. On lucky days you might spot sea turtles near Çıralı–Olympos and playful dolphins in the Gulf of Antalya.

If you book a captained charter, no license is required—your skipper is fully qualified. For the limited bareboat options, operators generally ask for proof of competence such as an ICC or an equivalent certificate (for sail or power as applicable), government ID, and a damage deposit. Requirements can vary by vessel and insurer, so confirm specifics during the booking process.

Yes, families with children are welcome on most boats, and charters carry life jackets for all guests. If you’re traveling with infants or toddlers, let your captain know ages and weights in advance so the correct child‑sized PFDs are ready. Boats typically provide shaded seating, ladders for easy swim access, and first‑aid kits; bring hats, reef‑safe sunscreen, and snacks your kids enjoy to keep everyone comfortable between swim stops.

Most private charters allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages, and many offer catered menus featuring Turkish meze, grilled fish or chicken, and fresh salads. Alcohol is usually permitted for adults on private trips, though glass on deck may be restricted; coolers are fine, and ice is often provided or can be requested. On shared tours, outside food policies vary—check your booking details so there are no surprises at boarding.

Some skippers allow small, well‑behaved dogs on private charters, while most shared tours do not accept pets. Always request approval in advance, and consider your pet’s comfort in summer heat. If permitted, bring a non‑slip mat, fresh water bowl, and plan shade breaks; be mindful that certain swim stops use ladders that pets may find difficult.

Antalya enjoys a calm Mediterranean climate, but captains continually monitor marine forecasts for wind, swell, and visibility. If conditions become unsafe, your skipper may adjust the route to more sheltered bays or recommend rescheduling; if the operator cancels for weather, you can typically choose a new date or receive a refund according to the charter’s policy. Light rain alone does not always cancel a trip, but strong winds or storms will, especially near the cliffs and open‑water passages.

Absolutely. Private yachts and gulets are perfect for celebrations, with comfortable lounges, sunbeds, Bluetooth sound systems, and space for cakes, decorations, and photos against cliff and waterfall backdrops. Tell your captain the occasion and guest count so they can recommend the right boat, plan calm swim coves, arrange extras like a celebratory dessert or sparkling drinks, and suggest golden‑hour or sunset timings for the best light.

The peak boating season runs June through September when the sea is warmest and days are long; May and October offer great conditions with fewer crowds, while November to April brings cooler temps and occasional rain. Weekends and sunset slots sell out first in July–August, along with school holiday periods and Turkish national or religious holidays such as Bayram weeks and Republic Day on October 29. For the calmest seas and easiest parking, choose weekday mornings; for dramatic colors and cooler breezes, target late‑afternoon to sunset and book a couple of weeks ahead in high season.

Three standout options are a blue‑water cruise to Suluada Island from Adrasan for its Caribbean‑like coves, a history‑rich route to the ancient harbors and beaches of Phaselis near Kemer, and a Kekova day trip from Demre to see the famed sunken city and glass‑clear bays. Each offers sheltered swimming, photogenic ruins or rock formations, and relaxed lunch stops, making them ideal centerpieces for a vacation itinerary.