Domuz Çukuru Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor in 6–7m along the SE shoreline of the channel between the islet and the mainland. The islet provides shelter from NW meltemi. Rocky patches — seek clean sand before setting. Wild and undeveloped.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Domuz Çukuru is primarily sand and rock with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 6–7m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (49m chain at 7m depth).
2. Drop into the wind or current and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back — do not allow chain to pile on the anchor.
3. Set firmly in reverse. Apply moderate throttle astern for 30–60 seconds. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Take a GPS bearing. Note your position once set and compare to the scope calculator to confirm you have adequate chain for the depth.

Recommended anchor types for this bottom: Rocna, Delta. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Domuz Çukuru are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to E and SE winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 50m radius before going below for the night.50m in the SE channel anchorage. The islet provides good meltemi protection but the E/SE exposure means this is not an all-weather anchorage. A transitional or short-passage stop rather than a primary overnight.

May–October in settled NW conditions. Light use — the proximity to Datça town makes it more convenient for overflow than as a primary destination.

Navigation Hazards

• Rocky patches throughout the channel — probe carefully with the depth sounder at slow speed
• E/SE exposure makes this unsuitable in easterly conditions
• Very basic stop — no assistance available; carry full safety equipment
• The channel can be tight — good chartwork and careful manoeuvring needed

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: Rocky patches throughout — check depth sounder carefully. The islet may be privately owned — do not land. SEPA area — anchor in sand, avoid Posidonia.

For a full overview of Turkish anchoring rules, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Datça town (3nm)
• Restaurant: None — nearest provisions at Datça town (3nm)
• Provisions: None on site — Datça town (3nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Good short overnight alternative when Datça town harbour is full
2. A quiet lunch stop when transiting between Datça town and the western bays
3. Check position carefully on the chart — the peninsula coastline has several similar-looking small bays
4. Self-sufficiency is essential — Datça town is only 3nm east if you need anything