Turkey – New Regulations for Accommodation on Charter Boats (2026 Update)

The Turkish Port Authorities have introduced new rules regarding how guest capacity is determined on charter yachts operating in Turkish waters.

The regulation specifically addresses the use of communal areas for overnight accommodation and directly affects how maximum guest capacity is calculated.

This update is mandatory nationwide and applies to all yachts, regardless of flag or charter type.

What Has Changed?

Under the new port authority decision, salon (saloon) areas — traditionally used on many boats to accommodate extra guests — can no longer be used as sleeping spaces. Only designated cabins are permitted for guest accommodation.

As a result, the maximum guest capacity for many boats has been reduced by 1–2 persons.

In previous years, convertible saloons (where the dining table transforms into a berth) were commonly counted toward total guest capacity. This is no longer permitted.

The change mainly affects:

• monohulls
• some catamarans equipped with convertible saloons

Examples

• A 4-cabin Bavaria Cruiser 46 that previously had a capacity of 9 guests is now officially limited to 8 guests.
• A 3-cabin yacht that previously accommodated 7 guests is now limited to 6 guests.

Similar reductions apply across other yacht models depending on their cabin configuration.

If a yacht previously relied on a convertible saloon berth to reach its maximum capacity, that berth can no longer be counted.

Who Does This Regulation Affect?

This regulation applies to all yachts operating in Turkish waters, including:

• Bareboat charters
• Skippered charters
• Crewed yachts

Compliance is required during:

• port inspections
• check-in procedures

Does it Affect Existing Bookings?

Short answer: yes.

For already confirmed reservations:

• Guest numbers may need to be reviewed and adjusted
• Charter companies may request updated crew lists
• If a booking exceeds the newly permitted capacity, guests must:
  • reduce the number of guests onboard, or
  • upgrade to a larger yacht

We strongly recommend reviewing all Turkey bookings — especially peak season charters — to ensure compliance with the updated rules.

Planning a Yacht Charter in Turkey

Turkey remains one of the most popular Mediterranean sailing destinations, with cruising areas such as:

• Fethiye
• Göcek
• Bodrum
• Marmaris

New bookings

When booking a yacht in Turkey, always indicate the total number of guests onboard.

Guest capacity must now strictly correspond to the number of designated cabins.

Existing reservations

If you have already reserved a yacht and your group size exceeds the updated limit, please contact your booking manager as soon as possible to review available options.

Explore Available Yachts

👉 Yacht Charter in Turkey

👉 Bareboat Charter Turkey

👉 Skippered Yacht Charter Turkey

Compliance and Support

At 12 Knots, we continuously monitor regulatory updates to ensure that our listings remain accurate and compliant.

If you have questions regarding your upcoming Turkey charter, our team will be happy to assist.