Transitlog (Entry-Exit Document)
We manage the complete transit log process in Turkey — all documentation required for foreign-flagged vessels to navigate Turkish territorial waters.
A Transit Log is mandatory for any foreign-flagged yacht cruising legally in Turkish waters. Yacht Assist handles the entire process on the captain's behalf — first issue, annual renewal, every port check-in and check-out, and urgent support when a schedule changes at short notice.
What is a Transit Log?
The Transit Log is the official document declaring a foreign-flagged yacht's point of entry into Turkey, her cruising plan and the ports she will call at. It functions as the vessel's legal identity in Turkish waters: where she is, where she is going and who is on board are all tracked through it. It is valid for one year and must be renewed each season.
The document is issued against the yacht's cruise in Turkey, not against the vessel in the abstract. That is why it must be updated whenever the route, the ports of call or the crew and guest list change.
Why it is mandatory
Cruising without a valid Transit Log exposes the owner to substantial fines and the risk of the vessel being detained. It also creates practical problems: most marinas ask for the Transit Log at check-in, and fuel supply and official procedures depend on it. Remaining in Turkish waters after the document has expired is a separate violation in its own right.
Who needs one?
The Transit Log applies to foreign-flagged vessels. Turkish-flagged yachts follow a different set of entry, exit and port procedures, which we also manage. Send us the yacht's flag and how she is used — private or commercial — and we will confirm exactly which document applies.
What is included?
- Issue of a new Transit Log
- Annual renewal
- Port check-in and check-out declarations
- Route planning and notification to the authorities
- Processing crew and guest list changes
- Coordination with customs, immigration police and the harbour master
- Urgent Transit Log support
- Official representation on the captain's behalf
Which documents are required?
- The yacht's registration and flag documentation
- The captain's certificate of competency
- Crew and guest passport details
- The previous Transit Log, where one exists
Requirements vary slightly by port of entry and by the vessel's situation, so we confirm the exact list for your yacht before filing.
How the process works
Once we have the yacht's flag and documentation, we prepare the application at the port of entry and handle customs, immigration and harbour master procedures on your behalf. At every change of port we update the required declarations so the document stays valid. The bureaucratic load stays entirely with us and you stay focused on the route.
Why Yacht Assist
Our Marmaris-based team has been processing Transit Logs at Turkey's main yachting ports for years. Direct working relationships with local harbour masters and customs directorates mean filings clear quickly, even at the height of the season. For departure ports outside Turkey you can also draw on our overseas representation network.
For a fuller walkthrough, read our guide on the Transit Log in Turkey. See our full range of services or get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Transit Log in Turkey?
It is the official cruising permit declaring a foreign-flagged yacht's point of entry, cruising plan and ports of call. It acts as the vessel's legal identity in Turkish waters and is valid for one year.
How long is a Transit Log valid?
One year. It must be renewed for each cruising season, and remaining in Turkish waters after expiry is a separate violation.
Do Turkish-flagged yachts need a Transit Log?
No. The Transit Log applies to foreign-flagged vessels. Turkish-flagged yachts follow different entry and exit procedures, which we also handle.
Which documents do I need for a Transit Log?
Typically the yacht's registration and flag documents, the captain's certificate of competency, crew and guest passport details and the previous Transit Log where one exists. We confirm the exact list for your port of entry.
How long does the process take?
When the documents and the vessel's position are ready, most filings clear the same day.
What happens if I cruise without one?
You risk substantial fines and detention of the vessel. You will also have practical difficulties, as most marinas require the Transit Log at check-in and it affects fuel supply and official procedures.
Does the document need updating if my route or guest list changes?
Yes. The document is issued against the yacht's cruise in Turkey, so declarations must be updated when the route, ports of call or the crew and guest list change. We handle those updates for you.
Can I renew while the yacht is already in Turkey?
Yes. We process annual renewals while the vessel is in Turkish waters, and starting before expiry removes the risk of a gap.