This year marked the 6th annual TYBA Charter Show, held in the beautiful D-Marin in Göcek, Türkiye. YATCO was invited to join as a media sponsor, and that gave us a unique opportunity to really see how much effort the TYBA association puts into this event—not just in logistics, but in building real connections across the industry.
From the vessels on display and the warm hospitality, to a full lineup of networking events and pre- and post-show Fam Trips, this wasn’t just another yacht show. It felt like a real celebration of what the Turkish charter market has to offer.
A Spotlight on Turkish Yachts
The selection of yachts this year was truly something special. From classic Turkish gulets to modern motor yachts and catamarans, there was something for every kind of taste.
A few of the yachts in particular stood out for their own unique attributes:
- ALFA NERO – The biggest yacht at the show, measuring 81.3m complete with an infinity pool, state-of-the-art interior, and a chef who won second prize in the competition of yachts above 35m. A must-see yacht for any serious food lover.
- YAZZ – With her stunning interior and great layout, 55.98m beautiful gulet, YAZZ left a strong first impression. Bonus points: their crew won the Chef’s Cocktail Competition, so if you’re into cocktails, this is your boat. She also comes equipped with a full-time DJ onboard making this yacht a top pick for sundowners around the beautiful coastline of the Turkish Riviera!
- BURKUT – We unofficially named this one the “Fendi yacht” thanks to its stylish décor. Between the Fendi pieces, the piano, poker table, spa, and sauna—this 49.9m yacht blends glamour and comfort effortlessly.
- KING OF THE SEA – Freshly delivered in 2025 by Turk Yacht this 47m motor sailer is your go to vessel for a glamourous event on the water. She would be the perfect boat for celebrating a wedding or that special event in your life.
- GOOD LIFE – This 39 m stylish gulet is the ultimate combination of luxury and comfort. She is packed with toys, cruising under the Greek flag and has an award-winning chef – sounds like the perfect recipe for a good life onboard!
- JAFE TICA – The last motor yacht built by Dragos Yachts, this 35.37m yacht is a perfect example of clever design. Thanks to her full beam, she feels much larger and spacious than her overall length.
- SUREYYA – Another eye-catching motor sailer! She was fully rebuilt from the hull upward and is pure luxury at 33m in length with practical touches everywhere you look. The crew truly make the yacht experience with their fun and happy dispositions, welcoming each guest onboard.
Seminars to Complement the TYBA Charter Show
One of the most insightful moments came during a seminar comparing the TYBA and MYBA charter contracts—an increasingly important topic as the Turkish charter market grows in prominence. TYBA board members offered a detailed breakdown of the key legal and practical differences between the two, shedding light on why the TYBA contract is gaining traction among local stakeholders.
While the MYBA contract remains the most widely used internationally and offers a standardized legal framework, it is also known for its rigidity. Recognizing these challenges, TYBA developed its own contract, which is specifically tailored to the needs of the Turkish charter market. Key differentiators include:
- Cancellations: Owners can cancel with reduced compensation penalties. If the yacht fails to be delivered, charterers are entitled to full refunds and damages.
- Breakdowns: Any technical failure lasting over 24 hours allows charterers to cancel without further liability.
- Payment Structure: The TYBA contract permits three installments, offering more flexibility for both owners and charter clients (compared to the two required under MYBA).
- Jurisdiction: All disputes are resolved under Turkish law and courts, significantly reducing legal friction for local operators.
- Language & Access: The contract is published in both English and Turkish, and while currently only corporate members of TYBA can use it, the association is actively exploring individual membership options for brokers, charter managers, and other professionals wishing to benefit from this more adaptable legal framework.
In a landscape where legal precision and operational flexibility are crucial, the TYBA contract is positioning itself as a compelling alternative to MYBA—especially for charters originating in or focused on Türkiye. As Turkish yachting continues to mature, this tailored approach could further solidify the region’s autonomy and professionalism in the global charter market.
Fam Trip – The Perfect Ending with Lasting Memories
After five packed days at the show, we had one more adventure: a Fam Trip aboard Gulet ELARA 1, organized by DE-Yachting.
With 12 cabins and incredible space inside and out, the 42m gulet was more than comfortable—but it was the crew that truly made the experience unforgettable. If you are looking for a taste of home whilst at sea, ELARA 1 is the boat for you. A cozy atmosphere, delicious food and sweet crew creating memorable experience—she would be the perfect boat for families and groups of friends.
We cruised from Göcek to Fethiye, exploring hidden bays, soaking in the scenery, and enjoying the peace that only the Turkish coast can offer—green hills, blue sea, and calm skies.
We also had the chance to attend a seminar by the Mediterranean Conservation Society, where we learned more about the environmental challenges the region is facing, like climate-driven fish migration and overfishing—and what’s being done to protect it.
TYBA Charter Show – Final Thoughts
TYBA Charter Show 2025 reminded us that yacht shows don’t have to be all business. When done right, they’re also about people, learning, and shared experiences that unite the yachting industry around the world. We left Göcek not just impressed by the yachts, but inspired by the energy, professionalism, and hospitality of everyone involved. As the Turkish Riviera has so much to offer, the TYBA Charter Show organizers have taken the strategic decision to have the annual gathering at a new place every few years to allow visitors to experience the beauty and facilities of a new area. Therefore, the seventh annual TYBA Charter Show will be held in beautiful Marmaris in 2026.
See you next year!
Edita Vasiljevic – Head of Charter
Gabby Yanakieva – International Sales and Customer Success
