In the sense stated above the Bodrum Cup regatta is not merely a race, but an international yacht festival.
It is run along the favorite routes of the ''Blue Voyage'', the name given to cruises in the turquoise seas of the southern coasts of Turkey, studded with hundreds of beautiful coves, rich in natural beauty and traces of more than 3,000 years of history. The racers, crews and passengers alike visit major stops along this route during the Bodrum Cup regatta.

The objective of the Bodrum Cup is to encourage and expand the use of sails among Turkey's majestic fleet of traditional wooden charter yachts known as "gulets". The forebears of gulets have cruised these waters for centuries under canvas. This also encourages the construction of better boats benefiting from modern technology and better suited for sailing.

The Bodrum Cup is reserved exclusively for wooden yachts. Modern wood,-epoxy-laminated boats are welcome. GRP or steel hulled vessels can also join, but only as non-competing participants. We want the tradition of yesterday's yachts to survive while adapting the advancements of contemporary technology.

Held annually since 1989 during every 3rd week each October, this fun event is a chance to take part in a sailing race in Turkey's wonderful southwestern waters where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. Imagine a horizon filled with sails billowing on a fleet of traditionally-built wooden yachts, sparkling blue seas parted by their bows and dolphins racing playfully along. Imagine each night in a different anchorage under a brilliant canopy of stars in merry company of other rovers. That is the essence of the Bodrum Cup Regatta; the mundane details follow: