Gökkaya Körfezi Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Gökkaya Körfezi has 2 distinct anchoring zones, each with different depth, holding, and exposure characteristics. Choose the zone that matches your boat size and the expected overnight conditions.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Gökkaya Körfezi is primarily sand and mud with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 8–25m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (175m chain at 25m 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, Mantus, Delta. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Gökkaya Körfezi are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to SW winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 65m radius before going below for the night.65m in the main inner bay section — water is deep, use good scope (7:1 minimum). The fjord-like geometry provides outstanding protection from most directions. SW is the only real exposure point, and the bay's depth limits swell penetration significantly. One of the best overnight anchorages in the entire Kekova region.

April–October. Very quiet even in peak season — the lack of facilities and road access keeps it from becoming overcrowded. Best storm refuge in the entire Kaş-Kekova area. May–June and September–October offer ideal conditions.

Navigation Hazards

• Very deep water in the inner bay (up to 30m in places) — use plenty of chain and ensure you are anchoring in the shallower edges (8–15m)
• SW exposure at the bay mouth — rarely a problem inside due to bay depth, but confirm forecast before settling for the night
• No facilities whatsoever — carry all provisions, fuel, and water before entering
• Remote location — nearest assistance is Üçağız (3nm) or Kaş (12nm)

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Maximum stay: 11 days
• Restrictions: No anchoring within 50m of the Lycian rock tombs visible on the cliff faces. Respect the archaeological site — no climbing on the ruins.

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: Üçağız village (3nm)
• Restaurant: None — nearest provisions at Üçağız village (3nm)
• Provisions: None on site — Üçağız village (3nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Go to the innermost section for maximum shelter — the further in, the calmer the conditions
2. Gökkaya is the bolt-hole of choice for experienced Lycian coast sailors when serious weather threatens
3. Kayaking and dinghy exploration of the bay edges reveals Lycian rock tombs, ruins, and deserted coves
4. Crystal-clear water with excellent snorkelling along the rocky bay margins
5. Completely dark at night — outstanding stargazing in one of the least light-polluted areas of Turkey