The Bodrum Schooner is a type of vessel that developed specifically in the Bodrum district of Muğla Province. It holds an important place in the maritime tradition of the region. These boats, designed with a rounded scoop-shaped stern and a violin-shaped bow, were historically used for cargo transportation, fishing, and sponge diving. Today, they are closely associated with “Blue Cruises” and have become synonymous with tourism activities. Characterized by its production methods, materials used, and design processes, the Bodrum Schooner is registered as a geographical indication with a reputation linked to its regional origin.

Technical Features and Hull Structure

The distinctive technical feature of the Bodrum Schooner is its rounded scoop-shaped stern and violin-shaped bow. They are usually rigged with two masts, the larger one located at the stern and the smaller one at the bow. Their lengths vary between 15 and 50 meters, which leads to differences in the number of cabins, passenger capacity, and interior layouts.

Although cruising is primarily powered by an engine, their heavy and stable hull design allows for sailing in harsh weather conditions. Unlike lightweight sailing yachts designed for sports, Bodrum Schooners' keel height is kept short. The longitudinal weight along the keel makes it easier to approach shores and shallow waters. Thanks to their long keel type, they maintain course stability in the strong winds of the Mediterranean, provide maneuverability, and prevent excessive drifting caused by wind impact.

Design Process and Certification

The production of a Bodrum Schooner begins with a design phase shaped by user needs, expectations, and technical requirements. After the preliminary design is completed, engineering studies are carried out in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. The construction of the vessel is carried out in compliance with Turkish Loydu rules and is certified under ISO 9001 and CE standards.

During the design process, criteria such as the intended use of the vessel, passenger capacity, certification preferences, and sailing performance are determined. Based on these criteria, the construction materials and production methods are selected, followed by detailed project planning and technical calculations.

^{Keel, Frames, and Stays of the Bodrum Schooner (Turkish Patent)}

Production Methods and Materials Used

Bodrum Schooners can be built from wood, steel, or composite materials. For wooden vessels, traditional carvel planking or laminated methods are preferred. In steel schooners, welding techniques are used, while in composite schooners, hand lay-up, vacuum bagging, or vacuum infusion techniques are applied.

The construction of wooden Bodrum Schooners typically begins with the installation of the keel, stem, and sternpost, followed by the assembly of frames, stringers, and beams. Once the structural assembly is completed, hull planking, deck, and superstructure construction are carried out. In traditionally built boats, the hull is planked with a single layer, whereas laminated construction may involve two or more layers depending on the vessel size. After these stages, the main and auxiliary engines, mechanical systems, deck equipment, sail and rigging systems, as well as interior and exterior furnishings are installed, followed by painting and varnishing.

This production process requires the expertise and experience of highly skilled craftsmen. As long as the materials and methods remain true to the vessel’s characteristic form, alternative construction techniques may be applied.

Inspection Mechanism and Implementation Principles

The production of Bodrum Schooners and the use of the geographical indication are supervised under the coordination of the Bodrum Chamber of Commerce. The inspection authority consists of one expert representative each from the Bodrum Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber of Shipping, and Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University. Regular inspections are carried out annually, with additional inspections conducted when necessary or in response to complaints.

Inspection criteria include the presence of the characteristic features of a Bodrum Schooner, compliance with the prescribed production methods, and the correct use of the geographical indication emblem. During the inspection process, public institutions, private organizations, or independent experts may be consulted if required. The registering institution has the legal authority to initiate proceedings for the protection of rights.