Full Description & Details
Molla Ibrahim, also known as Kargili Bay, is a small anchorage on the southern shore of the Gulf of Gokova, in the Bodrum area of Turkey's Turquoise Coast. The bay sits against low, pine-covered hills and opens to the gulf's deep blue water. It is a quiet spot, suited to a peaceful stop rather than a busy harbour, with clear shallows close to shore for swimming. The anchorage is sheltered, and the seabed is sandy, giving reliable holding for an overnight stay.
There are no marina berths here; vessels anchor in the bay. The sandy bottom provides good holding, and the sheltered position makes it a comfortable overnight anchorage in settled conditions. The bay is spacious enough for a catamaran to swing at anchor with room to spare, and a shallow draught allows you to tuck in closer to shore than most monohulls. Depth varies, but anchoring in about 7 metres of clear water is typical in the area.
Facilities are minimal. There is no fuel dock, no water, and no shore power; this is a pure anchorage. The main attraction is ashore: a short walk from the shore leads to the cove of Kisebuku, where the remains of Byzantine monasteries can be visited. The Turkish name Kisebuku comes from the word for church, reflecting these ruins. For supplies, services, and restaurants, the nearest town is Bodrum, a short sail away, with its castle, museum, and bazaar.
Best visited in the summer cruising season, when the gulf's waters are calm and the afternoon breeze is manageable. The anchorage is exposed to open water, so check the forecast and be ready to move if strong winds are expected. There are no known restrictions on anchoring or overnight stays. The bay is a regular stop on local blue cruise itineraries, so expect company in high season, but it remains a quiet, scenic place to spend the night.
How to get there
Molla Ibrahim lies on the southern shore of the Gulf of Gokova, roughly 25 minutes by boat from Karacasogut and a short sail from Bodrum. Approach from the gulf, heading into the bay with the pine-covered hills as a backdrop. There is no marked channel and no harbour entrance; simply pick a spot clear of other anchored yachts and let go in sandy bottom.
No VHF channel is published for the anchorage. Land access is by dinghy to the shore, where a short walk leads to the Byzantine ruins at Kisebuku. The nearest airport is at Bodrum, about 25 minutes from Karacasogut by road, and the village of Karacasogut is a small settlement with limited services.
Formalities are minimal for a day or overnight stop; check in with Turkish authorities if arriving from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Molla Ibrahim a good anchorage for an overnight stay?
Yes, Molla Ibrahim is sheltered with a sandy seabed, making it a reliable overnight anchorage in settled conditions.
What is the holding like at Molla Ibrahim?
The seabed at Molla Ibrahim is sandy, providing good holding for anchors.
Are there any facilities at Molla Ibrahim anchorage?
No, Molla Ibrahim has no marina facilities; it is a pure anchorage with no fuel, water, or shore power.
What can I see near Molla Ibrahim?
A short walk from the shore at Molla Ibrahim leads to Kisebuku cove, where Byzantine ruins can be visited.
How do I get to Molla Ibrahim from Bodrum?
Molla Ibrahim is a short sail from Bodrum, located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Gokova.
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