The Best Boat Rentals in Antalya

Most private motor yachts in Antalya start around $200–$400 per hour for groups of 8–12 with a captain, coastal fuel, soft drinks or tea, and swim stops included. Larger party-style boats and premium yachts that take 20–35 guests typically run $400–$800 per hour. Full-day private charters commonly range from about $1,200 to $2,500 depending on size, season, and route, while luxury mega-yachts can cost several thousand dollars per day. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, shared sightseeing boat tours usually cost roughly $30–$70 per person and often include lunch and nonalcoholic drinks. Extras like hotel transfers, premium menus, alcohol, longer routes, and water toys are usually add-ons—confirm what’s included when you inquire.

You’ll find a wide mix: modern motor yachts for small and mid-sized groups, classic wooden gulets for that quintessential Turkish Riviera vibe, sailing yachts for those who like to move under canvas, and larger sightseeing boats for half-day cliff-and-waterfall cruises. Most trip planners choose a captained motor yacht or gulet for the best blend of comfort, shade, deck space, and easy access to swim coves.

If you book with a professional captain, you don’t need a license—this is the simplest option for most visitors. For self-operated (bareboat) rentals, Turkey generally expects proof of competence such as an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent national license. Turkish residents often use the Amatör Denizci Belgesi (ADB). Requirements can vary by vessel and operator, so if you plan to skipper yourself, share your licenses and experience during the booking inquiry to confirm eligibility.

The most common departure is Kaleiçi Marina (the Old City Harbor) below Antalya’s historic walls, convenient to the Old Town hotels and sights. Many private yachts also embark from Setur Antalya Marina in the Büyük Liman/Konyaaltı area, which has full marina services and easy access by taxi. For routes toward Phaselis and the Kemer bays, departures often use Kemer Marina to shorten cruising time. Day trips to Suluada typically start from Adrasan Harbor, about 1.5–2 hours by road from the city center.

Along Antalya Bay you’ll cruise beneath the city’s famous Falez cliffs, pass the Old Harbor and skyline of Kaleiçi, and often continue east to the Lower Düden Waterfall where the river plunges straight into the Mediterranean. West of the city, you’ll take in Konyaaltı Beach backed by the Taurus Mountains and can stop for swims near Sıçan (Rat) Island. Farther along the coast from Kemer, popular stops include the pine-fringed bays and Roman harbors of Phaselis, where you can swim over ruins in crystal-clear water.

Yes—most charters in Antalya are family-friendly. Boats carry life jackets and safety equipment, and many offer shaded seating, ladders for easy swim access, and freshwater showers. If you’re bringing young children, request child-size life jackets when you book and share ages and headcounts so the crew can prepare. For infants and toddlers, pack hats, sun-protective clothing, and any specialty flotation you prefer.

On private charters, bringing your own snacks and drinks is usually welcome, and many crews are happy to chill your beverages and set up a simple service. A lot of Antalya trips include tea, coffee, soft drinks, and sometimes a light lunch; alcohol may be available to purchase or you can BYO on private trips. Shared tours tend to have set menus and usually don’t allow outside food or alcohol. Always confirm policies, especially for glass bottles and hard liquor.

Pet policies vary by boat. Shared group tours typically do not allow pets. Some private yachts will accept small, well-behaved dogs by advance request, often asking you to bring a mat or carrier and to keep pets off soft furnishings. If traveling with a pet, mention breed and size when you inquire so the owner can confirm suitability.

Sea conditions are generally calm from May through October with hot, dry weather; mornings are typically the smoothest for cruising and swimming. From November to March, rain and wind are more likely and some trips don’t operate daily. Operators monitor forecasts and will reschedule or refund if weather makes it unsafe to go. Many tours offer free changes or cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, while private yacht policies can vary—check the listing before you book.

Peak boating season runs from late May through October, with July and August the busiest and hottest months. Antalya doesn’t observe U.S. boating holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July; instead, expect extra demand during Turkish public holidays and Bayram weeks, as well as European school holidays in summer. For quieter marinas and better rates, consider May–June or September–October, book weekdays over weekends when possible, and choose a morning departure for calmer seas and cooler temperatures.

Absolutely. Private yachts commonly host birthdays, proposals, family reunions, and bachelorette celebrations. Crews can customize routes to the Lower Düden Waterfall or to scenic swim coves, arrange celebration cakes, set menus, decorations, and music, and help with photographer referrals. Share your headcount, preferred vibe, and any must-have moments when you inquire so the captain can tailor the plan.

For most trip planners, a captained charter is the most seamless option—your skipper handles navigation, anchoring, and local swim spots so you can focus on guests and timing. If you’re set on driving yourself, plan ahead to provide an ICC or equivalent license, and choose a boat and route that match your experience level. Either way, locking in date, departure marina, guest count, and food and drink preferences early will make the rest of the planning effortless.

Yes, with a little logistics. The famed “Turkish Maldives” at Suluada is typically visited on all-day boat tours departing Adrasan Harbor, about 1.5–2 hours by road from Antalya; many operators include round-trip transfers. The Kekova region—known for its sunken ruins, Simena Castle, and glassy coves—usually departs from Üçağız/Demre, roughly 2.5–3 hours by road from the city. For both, you can book a standard group tour with transfers or arrange a private yacht plus ground transport for a fully bespoke experience.