What paperwork do I need to charter in Turkey?

The Turkish coast between Bodrum, Marmaris, Göcek and Fethiye is one of the most popular charter areas in the eastern Mediterranean, and a short flight from most of northern Europe. Unlike Croatia or Italy, though, you are leaving the European Union. Which document gets each person into the country, and how long it must still be valid, depends on nationality. British sailors will find the current rules in the FCDO travel advice; crew with other passports should check with their own foreign ministry, and all of that before you book rather than the night before the flight.

The boat's side is handled by the charter company. The yacht normally flies the Turkish flag, and its registration, safety equipment records and insurance papers are aboard. What the base needs from you is the passport details of everyone sailing, often weeks in advance, because the crew list is registered with the authorities. From the skipper it wants a certificate of competence for coastal waters; the ICC and the RYA Day Skipper or Yachtmaster are widely accepted, an inland ticket is not. A VHF operator's certificate such as the SRC is often expected from at least one person aboard. Get the base to confirm in writing which certificates it accepts for the boat you have booked.

Two things catch crews out. First, many Greek islands are close enough to see, but nipping across is a border crossing that needs clearing out and in, and many charter contracts rule it out or allow it only with the base's consent. Second, in some coastal regions there is a record of where you have your holding tank pumped out, and the base explains how it works at check in. Beyond the paperwork, remember that damage you cause to other people or boats with a chartered yacht is your personal liability. Many skippers carry their own skipper's liability cover for that reason, and it belongs in the document folder.

Worth remembering

Settle entry rules and accepted certificates before you book, not on the quay.