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Sailing and Navigation

Transitlog in Turkey: What It Is, Who Needs It, and How to Get It 2025

The official cruising permit required for a yacht to legally sail in a country's waters for a set period. An official record containing the vessel's and passengers' information.

If you plan a sea adventure along Turkiye’s unique coastline, one of the first and most important official terms you will encounter is the “Transitlog.” Think of it as the passport and travel ticket for you and your yacht in Turkish waters. Following the procedures correctly is vital for a smooth, enjoyable holiday. Here is everything you need to know for cruising in Turkiye.

What Is a Transitlog (Yacht Record) and Who Must Obtain It?

In simple terms, a Transitlog is an authorization document that officially records a yacht’s entry and exit to Turkish ports, movements between those ports, and the owner, crew, and guests on board. Without this document, it is not legal to navigate in Turkish territorial waters and serious penalties apply.

Who is it mandatory for?

  • All foreign-flagged yachts: Every foreign-flagged private or commercial yacht entering Turkiye must obtain a Transitlog at the first port of entry.

  • Turkish-flagged private yachts going abroad: If you plan to sail to foreign ports (e.g., Greek Islands), you must issue a Transitlog before departing Turkiye.

  • Turkish-flagged commercial yachts: All commercial yachts carrying passengers or operating charter services in Turkiye must hold a valid Transitlog throughout their operations.

e-Transitlog System and Application Process

The formerly paper-based process is now largely digital via the “e-Transitlog” system, designed to speed up procedures and simplify tracking. Applications can be made online by the yacht owner directly or via an authorized yachting agency.

Application steps

  1. Access & data entry: Log in online and enter complete details for the yacht, owner, captain, crew, and any guests. Provide general information about your planned route.

  2. Prepare required documents: Gather the documents listed below.

  3. Harbor Master & allied offices: After the online application, visit the Harbor Master’s Office at the port of entry with originals, then proceed in order to Health (Port Health), Passport Police, and Customs as required.

  4. Pay fees: Pay the Transitlog fee and any related charges.

  5. Approval & issue: After all approvals, a barcoded Transitlog is issued and must be kept on board.

Required Documents for Transitlog (Foreign-Flagged Yachts)

  • Yacht registration/ownership certificate

  • Liability insurance valid in Turkiye

  • Passports of the owner, captain, crew, and all guests

  • Captain’s license / certificate of competency

  • Power of attorney, if an agent applies on your behalf

Validity, Fees, and Important Notes

Validity period

The Transitlog is valid for one (1) year from the date of issue. If your yacht remains in Turkish waters after this period, you must renew the document at any port of entry.

Crew & guest changes

If there are changes to the crew or guest list during the validity period (someone joins or leaves), you must report and register the change at the nearest Harbor Master. Having someone on board who is not recorded on the Transitlog is not legal.

2025 Transitlog fees

The Transitlog cost includes a document fee and a variable charge based on yacht length. For 2025, the document fee for foreign-flagged yachts is approximately €70. Additional length-based charges apply (for example, around 2,600 TRY for yachts 10–15 meters, increasing with length). As fees are updated annually, confirm current amounts before applying.

Other Documents Required While in Turkish Waters

  • Valid, approved Transitlog

  • Yacht registration/flag certificate

  • Liability insurance valid in Turkiye

  • Passports for everyone on board

  • Captain’s license / competency certificate

  • Blue Card (Mavi Kart):

    Mandatory electronic system recording the delivery of bilge/black/grey water and other waste to shore-based reception facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Transitlog?
It’s the official permit that records a yacht’s entry/exit, movements between Turkish ports, and the owner/crew/guest list. Sailing without it in Turkish waters is illegal.
Who must obtain a Transitlog?
All foreign-flagged yachts entering Türkiye; Turkish-flagged private yachts before leaving for foreign ports (e.g., Greek Islands); and Turkish-flagged commercial/charter yachts during operations.
How long is it valid?
Typically one year from the issue date. If the yacht remains in Turkish waters after expiry, the Transitlog must be renewed at a port of entry.
Can I change crew or guests after it’s issued?
Yes, but all changes must be reported and registered at the nearest Harbor Master. Having unlisted persons on board is not legal.
What are the 2025 fees?
Expect a document fee of about €70 for foreign-flagged yachts plus length-based charges (e.g., ~2,600 TRY for 10–15 m). Always confirm current rates before applying.
What other documents must be on board?
Yacht registration/flag papers, liability insurance valid in Türkiye, passports for everyone on board, captain’s license, the valid Transitlog, and a Blue Card for waste delivery records.
Do I need an agent?
Not mandatory, but using an authorized yachting agency can speed up e-Transitlog filing and coordination with Harbor Master, Health, Passport Police and Customs.