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Turkey Gulet Cruise Review (& Everything You Need to Know!)

Planning a trip to Turkey and want to explore the Turkish Riviera by gulet? In this Turkey gulet cruise review, I share all about my experience on a luxury gulet cruise in Turkey and everything you need to know about planning your own gulet cruise along the Turkish Riviera!

A few years ago, I did a week-long gulet cruise along the Dalmatian coast in Croatia . While planning that trip, I learned that gulet cruises are also very popular in Turkey — where the gulet boat is originally from! 

And last summer, I was able to experience a wonderful week on a gulet boat on the beautiful Turkish Riviera on my very first visit to Turkey.

Here’s my full Turkey gulet cruise review, plus what you need to know about chartering a gulet on the Turkish Riviera!

What is a Gulet?

A gulet is a type of traditional wooden sailing vessel that originated in Turkey and is commonly used for leisure cruising in the Mediterranean Sea.

They typically range in size from 45 to 115 feet in length and have two or three masts, although some larger ones may have four or more.

Gulets are designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing sailing experience, with spacious decks for sunbathing and dining, as well as cabins for sleeping and private bathrooms. They often have a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other support staff to cater to passengers’ needs.

Also, gulets are typically made of wood and have a distinctive shape with a wide, rounded hull and a flat bottom. Usually, they are fitted with both engines and sails and can be propelled by either. 

Popular for cruising along the coastlines of Turkey, Greece, Croatia, and other Mediterranean countries, gulet yachts are often chartered by groups of friends or families for vacation trips.

About the Turkish Riviera

The Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean that is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and picturesque towns and villages. The region encompasses the provinces of Antalya, Muğla, and Aydin and is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers.

The section of coastline that is considered the Turkish Riviera is quite big — starting roughly from Çeşme (near Izmir) in the west, all the way east to the city of Antalya. To give you a sense of how large the Turkish Riviera area spans, it would take you about 10 hours to drive if you took the coastal roads!

It’s known for its turquoise waters (hence the name!), charming towns, historical sites, stunning natural landscapes, and islands that dot the coast.  

Some of the islands off the coast — called the Dodecanese islands — are actually Greek islands (like Kos and Rhodes) so you could easily visit both Turkey and Greece in one trip!

Popular Destinations on the Turkish Riviera

The size of the Turkish Riviera can be a bit overwhelming if it’s your first time planning a visit!  Let’s break down some of the best places to visit on the Turkish Riviera:

The largest city on the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is known for its historic old town, known as Kaleiçi, which is filled with narrow streets, traditional architecture, and historic landmarks such as the ancient Hadrian’s Gate . The Antalya region is also known for its gorgeous beaches and is a popular destination for gulet trips!

Often said to be one of the most charming towns, Kas (also written Kaş) is in the Antalya region but is about 3 hours from the city of Antalya. One of the main attractions of Kas is its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a perfect location for outdoor activities like swimming, diving, and hiking.

The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and beaches and has a beautiful harbor, making it an ideal base for exploring. The famous Blue Lagoon , located in the nearby Oludeniz beach, is a must-see attraction and a great place to relax and swim in the clear blue waters. The area is also known for its ancient sites and ruins, the most famous of which is the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos, which dates back to the 5th century BC. 

Another popular province on the Turkish Riviera, Mugla is known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and turquoise waters. Bodrum is one of the most famous towns in Mugla and is renowned for its marina, castle, nightlife, luxurious hotels and trendy beach clubs. Marmaris , another popular destination in Mugla, is famous for its long sandy beaches, bustling marina, and picturesque old town.

While Aydin is a less well-known province on the Turkish Riviera, it’s still worth a visit. It is home to the ancient city of Ephesus , which is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The province also has plenty of pretty beaches and quaint coastal towns like Alacati .

While these are some of the major destinations on the Turkish Riviera (especially for gulet trips), there are countless other little towns and things to do on the coast. I’ll go into more detail on what we did with our week-long trip below!

Why Charter a Gulet Cruise in Turkey?

Chartering a gulet in Turkey is a popular way to explore the beautiful coastline and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea — because of this, it’s been nicknamed the Blue Voyage. There are several benefits to traveling by gulet that make it an appealing option for many:

Ease & Convenience: Since you’re on a boat, you won’t have to do any driving or planning logistics to get from one destination to the next. You just sit back, relax, and you’re already at your next fabulous destination! Generally, gulet trips have a pre-planned itinerary so you won’t need to stress about what’s next on the agenda. Also, since you’ll have many of your meals onboard prepared by your friendly crew, it takes the planning work out of where to eat.

Water Activities: Honestly, this is probably my favorite thing about being on a gulet and it’s a real benefit if you’re a pisces and love being in the water like me! I love being able to just jump in the water and go for a swim at any point in the day. There’s also typically plenty of water sports on board like snorkeling, paddle-boarding, kayaking, diving, jet ski, and tubing.

Large Groups: Gulet boats are generally pretty large so they can sleep quite a few people. This makes it a great way to travel with private groups like a large gathering of family or group of friends. Plus, when you’re all on one boat, you get plenty of quality time together!

Budget: There are definitely some luxurious gulet boats that you can splurge on… but, often times, Turkish gulets can be a pretty affordable way to travel. When you add up hotel rooms, car rentals, travel and dining costs, chartering a gulet can sometimes cost less than your typical trip! This is especially true when you’re splitting the costs with a large group.

How to Charter a Turkey Gulet Cruise

With a quick Google search, you’ll see that there are plenty of private gulet charter companies out there — Blue Cruise and Goolets are popular ones (just to name a few!). It’s best to reach out to a couple of highly-rated charter companies with your trip requirements and see what gulet charters they can offer you.

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning a gulet cruise in Turkey:

Choosing your gulet: There are many gulets available for charter in Turkey, ranging in size from small vessels that can accommodate a few people to larger boats that can hold up to 20 or more passengers. When choosing your gulet, consider factors such as the size of your group, your budget, and your itinerary. 

When selecting a gulet boat, some of the things you may want to consider are:

• Build & refit years: some gulets can look brand new while others may be in dire need of a refit!
• Speed: this often impacts the route as with faster boats, you can cover more ground.
• Air-conditioning: Some boats have A/C that works great, some boats have A/C that is just on for a few hours a day, and some don’t have A/C at all… which can be brutal for sleeping on those hot summer nights!

Water-sports : It’s good to know if the boat is equipped with paddle boards, kayaks, snorkels, etc. or if there is an additional charge to have these on board.

Crew: Most gulets come with a professional crew that includes a captain, chef, and other support staff. The crew members will take care of everything from navigating the boat to preparing meals, allowing you to relax and enjoy your cruise.

I would also recommend asking your charter company if they have worked with the captain of the gulet in the past and what you can expect. I think it can be helpful to know if your group will be communicating with the captain directly and if he/she is flexible with itineraries!

Cost: The cost of chartering a gulet in Turkey can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the boat, the length of your trip, and the level of service you require. Be sure to discuss your budget with your gulet charter company to find a boat and itinerary that works for you.

Planning your itinerary: Turkey has a wealth of stunning destinations along its coast, from bustling cities to remote coves and islands. When planning your itinerary, consider the places you want to visit, the length of your trip, and the activities you want to do, such as swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites. Will you want your itinerary to be one way or round-trip? Will your departure and destination ports be near airports that you can fly in and out of? All great things to consider while planning your itinerary!

Anchoring vs. Marinas: Will the gulet be anchored in a secluded bay overnight or parked at a marina… or a bit of both? Depending on your preference, it’s a good question to ask before you finalize your trip!

The Best Time for a Turkey Gulet Cruise

Summer is definitely the peak season for cruising along the Turkish Riviera. The weather is sunny and hot — temps often get up to 95° F in July and August!

The shoulder seasons of May to June and September are an ideal time to visit because the weather is still warm but there aren’t quite as many crowds as in high season. Temperatures are still in the 80s during the day but can dip down to the 60s at night so you may need a light sweater.

I visited in mid-September and couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was warm and sunny (but not too hot!) and the sea was perfectly refreshing. Along the coast, the towns were still bustling but we didn’t have any issues crowds!

Dining on a Gulet Boat

Dining experiences on gulet boats will vary based on the boat, the chef, and your group size — since making meals for smaller groups can be more customizable than feeding a large group. Typically, the chef is local to the country where the charter takes place so guests can expect authentic cuisine and fresh, local ingredients.

One of the best parts about our gulet boat experience was getting to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in stunning settings all along the coast!

My Turkey Gulet Cruise

For our group of six people, we chartered a 30-meter gulet with 5 cabins for 7 nights beginning in Gocek and ending in Bodrum. However, a few weeks before our trip, the charter company let us know that there was an issue with our gulet boat and it was no longer available. Instead, we got upgraded to a 36-meter gulet, named Babylon with a crew of 6… so, definitely not the worst news to be upgraded to a bigger boat!

We let our charter company know our preferences for our meals and itinerary – we wanted to prioritize secluded swimming coves with just a few “must visit” spots. Once we had everything planned out, we were ready to set sail!

Destination Highlights from the Turkey Gulet Cruise

Since our gulet cruise began in Gocek and ended in Bodrum, we flew into Dalaman Airport which was just 25 minutes from Gocek, and out of Milas–Bodrum Airport.

Over the next seven days, we were able to experience some of the best places on the Turkish Riviera including quaint towns, stunning beaches and picturesque islands.

Here are some of the top destination highlights from my Turkey gulet cruise!

Gocek (written Göcek in Turkey, and pronounced go-chek) is a beautiful town located on the south coast of Turkey, about half an hour from Fethiye. It is situated between the Mediterranean and the Taurus Mountains and is known for its crystal-clear waters, and charming marina.

Since we arrived in Gocek the night before our gulet trip, we were able to explore the town’s bustling marina.

Gocek’s marina can accommodate over 700 boats so it’s a popular destination for boaters from all over the world!

The town has tons of restaurants to chose from with a range of delicious Turkish and international cuisines. And, there are lots of shops so you can grab any last minute items you may need for your trip — from swimsuits and clothing to towels and pool floats! Plus, there are plenty of grocery markets and wine shops so you can stock up on anything you’ll need for the boat.

Gocek Hotels

Looking for the best hotels in Gocek? Here are my top picks!

• D Resort Gocek : If you have some time to spend at your hotel in Gocek (a least a day or two!), this luxury hotel is an excellent pick! With a gorgeous beach club, swimming pool, and spa, you’re guaranteed to have a luxurious and relaxing time at D Resort Gocek.
• Hotel Marina Bay Göcek : Just planning a quick stay in Gocek before your gulet trip? Hotel Marina Bay Göcek is a great and convenient option that’s right on the marina! Guests loved the comfortable, well-appointed rooms and the view of the marina from the balconies.
• Rixos Premium Göcek : I really wanted to stay here after I came across some photos of their stunning beach club on Instagram! However, they were fully booked and required a minimum 2 night stay. (Their minimum stay varies based on time of year though, so it could still be worth looking into for your trip!). This luxury hotel is all-inclusive and features a private beach, making it a great option for families or groups to enjoy Gocek for a few nights.

Dalyan is a small town situated on the banks of the Dalyan River, which flows into the Mediterranean sea. The town is very picturesque with sweeping river views and stunning mountains in the backdrop!

And, Dalyan offers plenty of things to do. One of the most famous sights is the Lycian rock tombs that are carved into the cliffs overlooking the town. Nearby, visitors can bathe themselves in mud that is said to have therapeutic properties for the skin — I know my skin felt buttery soft afterwards!

Since we were coming from the gulet boat, our crew organized a private river cruise for us on the Dalyan River. Our little river boat picked us up directly from our gulet and we got to stop at Iztusu Beach on the way, which is a protected nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.

Once in Daylan, we had a great day taking in the views, exploring the town, and soaking in the mud baths. We also had a wonderful lunch at La Boheme , where we met the friendly owner and got to dine with views of the Lycian rock tombs!

The Bozburun Peninsula is a fairly untouched and rugged region that is home to stunningly beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and little islands. The area is perfect for hiking, swimming, and exploring, and offers sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands. On the other hand, the small town of Bozburun is a popular starting point for the “Blue Cruise,” a traditional Turkish sailing adventure that takes visitors along the coast of the Aegean Sea, stopping at different towns and islands along the way.

We opted to spend the day near a little island off the coast of Bozburun and had a fabulous time snorkeling, swimming, paddle-boarding and relaxing. We loved this area for it’s incredibly clear and calm waters!

D Maris Bay

D Maris Bay is a luxury resort located on the Datça Peninsula in southwestern Turkey, near the town of Marmaris. It is situated on a hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea, and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and islands.

→ Book a Stay at D Maris Bay

The mega resort is also home to a yacht club, spa, and several beach clubs and world-renowned restaurants.

The resort’s flagship restaurant, Nusr-Et Steakhouse, is famous for its high-quality meat dishes (and is owned by internet personality, Salt Bae!), while the Zuma Beach Club offers Japanese and Asian fusion cuisine, and Manos serves traditional Greek food by the sea.

We made a reservation at La Guérite, a restaurant and beach club serving French and Mediterranean cuisine that also has locations in France.

The restaurant has a buzzy vibe with a DJ and cabanas along the beach. We absolutely loved the beautiful beach, delicious food (hello, truffle pasta!), and overall fun atmosphere.

Similar to Bozburun, Datca (written Datça in Turkey, and pronounced daht-cha) is both a small town and a peninsula. The area is known for its unspoiled beauty, with lovely beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged hillsides covered in pine forests. Datca also has a rich history, dating back to ancient times. The town is located near the ruins of Knidos, an important center of trade and culture in ancient Greece, and there are several other ancient sites in the area, including Loryma and Kastabos.

The charming town of Datca is home to seaside restaurants, shopping, and weekly markets where locals sell fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs to take home.

Kara Ada Island

Kara Ada is a small island located off the coast of Bodrum, one of the most popular resort towns in southwestern Turkey. The island feels very untouched since there isn’t much development on it (unlike nearby Bodrum!) and it offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling.

We spent the day in Aquarius Bay which is honestly one of the most beautiful bays we saw. The bay had such crystal clear water that it felt more like a swimming pool than the sea!

Bodrum is a large resort town on the Turkish Riviera that is known for its history, natural beauty, beach clubs, nightlife, and shopping.

The town is home to the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as several other ancient sites, including the Bodrum Castle, which was built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century.

Bodrum is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. The town is particularly popular with younger crowds, who come to party and dance until the early hours of the morning.

For those looking for more of a relaxing visit (like me!), there are a number of resorts outside of the hustle and bustle that offer private beach clubs, spas and restaurants.

Bodrum Hotels

Looking for the best hotels in Bodrum, Turkey? From small boutique hotels to sprawling resorts, Bodrum has a range of accommodations both in the center of town and on the coast of the Aegean Sea.

• The Bodrum EDITION : A stylish and contemporary luxury hotel overlooking Yalikavak Bay, offering a range of amenities including a private beach club, multiple restaurants and bars, and a spa with a Turkish hammam.
• METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum : METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum is a contemporary beachfront resort and is one of the top rated hotels in the area. It features a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, lots of dining options, and incredible sea views!
• MGallery The Bodrum Hotel Yalikavak : This modern boutique hotel located in Yalikavak has luxurious accommodations, a private beach, an infinity pool, a spa, and beautiful sea views.
• Mandarin Oriental : A luxurious resort offering panoramic sea views, a gorgeous private beach club, and a range of amenities including restaurants, spa, fitness center, and tennis courts. I absolutely loved my stay here and would highly recommend it for a luxury getaway!
• Mare Deluxe Residence : This modern beachfront hotel located near Kucukbuk Beach offers stylish rooms, a private beach area, multiple pools, and a range of dining options.
• Lujo Hotel A`la Carte All Inclusive : A luxury all-inclusive resort located in Guvercinlik, home to a private beach, multiple pools, water sports activities, a spa, and several restaurants.
• Swissôtel Resort Bodrum Beach : This beachfront resort is located in Turgutreis, Bodrum and has a stylish, modern design, as well as a private beach, multiple pools (both indoor and outdoor!), and a spa. The marina is about a 30 minute walk from the hotel making it a good option for those who want to be outside of the hustle and bustle!
• Radisson Collection Hotel, Bodrum : Located in Akyarlar, this hotel is uniquely positioned between the mountains, the beach, and a small harbor — and offers views of all three! Plus, guests can expect modern accommodations, a private beach, multiple pools (indoor and outdoor), and a spa with a Turkish hammam.
• Prive Hotel Bodrum – Adult Only : Located 20 minutes’ walk from the center of Bodrum , this hotel is known for its contemporary accommodations, stunning sea views, and friendly service.
• Casa Nonna Bodrum : Just 10 minutes from the city center, Casa Nonna is a chic boutique hotel exclusively for adults. Some of the highlights of this hotel are the infinity pool with panoramic sea views and the Turkish hammam at the spa!
• Costa Maya Bodrum : With trendy decor, spacious rooms, and an outdoor pool and sundeck, you can’t beat Costa Maya for a budget stay just 5 minutes’ walk from the marina.
• Asmin Hotel Bodrum : Located in the heart of Bodrum, Asmin Hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a friendly, welcoming staff.
• Roas Hotel : This hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, peaceful location surrounded my nature, and beautiful sea views. Plus, it’s just a 7-minute walk to Bitez Beach!
• Su Hotel – Bodrum : Guests love that Su Hotel is close the harbor in Bodrum but still feels secluded. And, the hotel features well-designed rooms, an outdoor pool, and friendly service.
• Costa Bitezhan Hotel – All Inclusive : Located at the seafront of Bitez, Costa Bitezhan Hotel has its own private beach with sun loungers, we well as a pool and Turkish hammam!

Tips for Visiting the Turkish Riviera on a Gulet Cruise

After spending a week on a gulet boat, I have a couple of tips to make your trip as smooth as possible:

Bring cash: You’ll want to bring some cash to tip your crew at the end of your trip. We found that there were a few ATMs throughout our stops but definitely not many so I’d recommend coming prepared!

Cell Service: Some boats have WiFi on board but I’ve found that it can be very spotty. Also, there were some areas where we found we didn’t have any cell service so we weren’t able to access the internet. I would recommend downloading music playlists and kindle books in advance. Or you could disconnect completely and pack physical books, games, etc to keep you entertained during downtown on the boat!

My Turkey Gulet Cruise Review

Overall, I absolutely loved spending a week onboard a gulet boat to explore the Turkish Riviera and would highly recommend it.

Turkey’s incredible natural beauty surpassed my expectations and I loved how, being on a boat, we were able to explore secluded coves and hidden islands that we otherwise would probably never get to visit! Spending our days swimming, snorkeling and paddle-boarding was a highlight for me — as I love being in the water.

One thing that did surprise me was how remote and untouched much of the coastline was. Most of the towns we visited were sleepy yet quaint (expect for Bodrum and Gocek!). While this was a positive for me — I felt like we got to disconnect and enjoy nature — it may not be for those who prefer an action packed trip.

If you’re looking for a relaxing week to spend with friends over good food and wine, with plenty of sunshine, swimming, and the unmatched beauty of the the Turkish Riviera… then this could be the perfect trip for you!

What to Pack for the Turkish Riviera

That’s a wrap on my Turkey gulet cruise review! Still have questions about chartering a gulet in Turkey? Let me know in the comments!

→ Tips for Exploring Croatia by Gulet

Reader interactions.

09/07/2023 at 12:28 pm

Thanks for all this great info! What is the boat company you used? Thanks so much

09/20/2023 at 1:52 pm

Absolutely! We used Barbaros Yachting 🙂

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Gulet Cruises in Turkey

Sail on azure blue seas with waters just meters away from your cabin, it's easy to see why a gulet holiday in Turkey is hard to pass. With 6 gulet cruise adventures ranging from 4 days to 15 days, you'll escape the crowds by gliding on this wooden yacht.

6 Turkey gulet cruise packages with 15 reviews

Turquoise Blue - Fethiye / Kekova / Fethiye

The boat wat trip was excellent but I ws seriously overcharged by Fez (by about £100 ) for the return trasfers to/from the airport. I will therefore noy use this company again

Fethiye-Kekova-Fethiye Blue Cruise

Olympos - Fethiye Blue Cruise (Cabin Charter)

Turkish Sailing (8 Days) (including Bodrum)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Blue Lagoons

This blue journey on the gulet has been absolutly fabulous. While sailing with great people and a super crew you enjoy all the amazing colours of the sea. Beeing on the water for a week was an awesome experience that I will never forget! I can highly recommend this Trip to everyone out there!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Family Turkey Coastal Active Adventure and Cruise

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Travel Styles

• Turkey Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

• Deutsch: Türkei Gulet Reise Rundreisen
• Français: Turquie : Circuits gulet 2024/2025
• Español: Goleta Circuitos en Turquía
• Nederlands: Gulet Rondreizen in Turkije

• The Ultimate Guide to Turkey’s Gulet Cruise Holidays: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the ultimate guide to Turkey’s gulet holidays! If you’re dreaming of a unique and memorable vacation, then a gulet cruise in Turkey is the perfect choice. From the stunning turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the charming coastal towns and ancient ruins, Turkey offers a truly remarkable experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable gulet cruise holiday in Turkey. From choosing the right gulet and understanding the different routes and itineraries to exploring the must-visit destinations and indulging in the delicious local cuisine, we have you covered.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, our expert tips and recommendations will ensure that you make the most of your time on board. Discover the best time to go, what to pack, and how to book your Gulet cruise with confidence.

So, get ready to set sail on a breathtaking adventure along the Turkish coast and discover the beauty and wonder that awaits you on a Gulet cruise holiday. Let’s make your dreams of exploring Turkey’s hidden gems a reality!

What is a Gulet?

A Gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden sailing yacht that is designed explicitly for cruising along the beautiful Turkish coast. These vessels are known for their elegant design, spacious interiors, and comfortable accommodations. Gulets typically range in size from 15 to 40 meters and can accommodate anywhere from 6 to 20 passengers.

Gulets are built with a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern amenities, offering a perfect blend of authenticity and comfort. Each Gulet is unique in terms of design and layout. Still, they generally feature cosy cabins with en-suite bathrooms, a spacious deck for sunbathing and dining, and a fully equipped kitchen where the onboard chef prepares delicious meals.

The beauty of a gulet lies in its ability to provide an intimate and personalized cruising experience. Unlike larger cruise ships, gulets can access smaller and more secluded bays and coves, allowing passengers to explore hidden gems inaccessible to other vessels. With their friendly and experienced crew, gulets offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel at home throughout your journey.

Why choose a gulet cruise holiday in Turkey ?

Turkey is a country of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for a Gulet cruise holiday. Here are some compelling reasons why you should choose Turkey for your next cruising adventure:

• Stunning landscapes: Turkey boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. From the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean to the rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, the Turkish coast offers a mesmerizing backdrop for your gulet cruise.
• Historical treasures: Turkey is home to countless historical sites and ancient ruins. Imagine exploring the ruins of Ephesus, walking through the ancient city of Knidos, or visiting the iconic rock tombs in Dalyan. A Gulet cruise in Turkey allows you to immerse yourself in history and witness the wonders of the past up close.
• Delicious cuisine: Turkish cuisine is renowned for its flavours and variety. On a Gulet cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to savour traditional Turkish dishes prepared by talented onboard chefs. Indulge in mouthwatering mezes, freshly caught seafood, and delectable desserts while enjoying the stunning views of the Turkish coastline.
• Warm hospitality: Turkish people are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. From the moment you step on board your Gulet, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and attentive service. The crew members will go above and beyond to ensure that your needs are met and that you have a memorable experience.
• Flexibility and freedom: Unlike traditional cruises, gulet cruises offer a high level of flexibility and freedom. You can choose your own itinerary, decide how long you want to stay in each destination, and even request special activities or excursions. This level of customization allows you to tailor your cruise to your preferences and make the most of your time in Turkey.

Types of gulet cruise holidays

When it comes to Gulet cruise holidays in Turkey, there are various types of cruises to choose from, each catering to different preferences and interests. Here are some of the most popular types of Gulet cruises:

1. Relaxation cruises: If your goal is to unwind, relax, and soak up the sun, a relaxation cruise is perfect for you. These cruises focus on leisurely sailing, swimming in secluded bays, and enjoying the tranquillity of the Turkish coast. You’ll have plenty of downtime to read a book, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views.

2. Adventure cruises: For the more adventurous souls, an adventure cruise offers a combination of thrilling activities and exploration. From snorkelling and diving in vibrant underwater ecosystems to hiking ancient trails and exploring hidden caves, these cruises are designed to satisfy your thirst for adventure.

3. Cultural cruises: If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Turkey, a cultural cruise is the perfect choice. These cruises focus on visiting historical sites, exploring traditional villages, and engaging with the local culture. You’ll have the opportunity to attend local festivals, participate in traditional cooking classes, and interact with the friendly locals.

No matter what type of Gulet cruise you choose, you can expect a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The combination of luxurious accommodations, personalized service, and breathtaking scenery will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Popular destinations for gulet charter in Turkey

Turkey offers a plethora of stunning destinations to explore during your Gulet cruise. Here are some of the most popular destinations that should be on your itinerary:

1. Fethiye: Located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, Fethiye is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and historical sites. Visit the picturesque Oludeniz Beach, explore the ancient Lycian Rock Tombs, or hike the famous Lycian Way trail for breathtaking views of the coastline.

2. Bodrum: Bodrum is a trendy and lively resort town that offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. Explore the imposing Bodrum Castle, visit the ancient city of Halicarnassus, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife and shopping scene. Bodrum is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Greek islands.

3. Marmaris: Marmaris is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and bustling bazaars. Take a stroll along the picturesque Marmaris Marina, visit the historic Marmaris Castle, or simply relax on the sandy beaches and soak up the sun.

4. Kas: Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Kas is a charming coastal town that offers a laid-back and authentic atmosphere. Explore the charming cobbled streets, visit the ancient theatre, or take a boat trip to the nearby Kekova Island to see the sunken city.

These are just a few examples of the many incredible destinations you can explore during your Gulet cruise in Turkey. Each destination offers its own unique charm and attractions, ensuring that you’ll never run out of places to discover.

Planning your gulet cruise itinerary

Planning your Gulet cruise itinerary is an exciting part of the journey. Here are some factors to consider when planning your itinerary:

1. Duration: Decide how long you want your gulet cruise to be. Whether you have a week or two or even longer, you can find a cruise that fits your desired timeframe.

2. Destinations: Choose the destinations you want to visit during your cruise. Consider the activities and attractions available in each destination and choose the ones that align with your interests.

3. Route: Gulet cruises in Turkey offer various routes depending on your preferences. Some cruises focus on the western coast, while others explore the eastern coast. Research the different routes available and choose the one that covers the destinations you want to visit.

4. Activities: Consider the activities you want to experience during your cruise. Whether it’s swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing on deck, make sure your itinerary includes the activities that will make your cruise memorable.

5. Special requests: If you have any special requests or interests, such as celebrating a special occasion or engaging in a specific activity, communicate them with the cruise operator in advance. They will do their best to accommodate your requests and ensure that your cruise is tailored to your preferences.

Planning your Gulet cruise itinerary requires careful consideration of your preferences and interests. Take the time to research and explore the options available to ensure that your itinerary includes all the highlights that you don’t want to miss.

What to expect on a gulet cruise

A Gulet cruise in Turkey offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Here’s what you can expect during your Gulet cruise:

1. Comfortable accommodations: Gulets provide cosy and comfortable accommodations. Each cabin is equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and ample storage space. You can expect a good night’s sleep and all the necessary amenities to make your stay comfortable.

2. Delicious cuisine: Food is an integral part of a gulet cruise experience. Onboard chefs prepare delicious meals using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. From traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine, you’ll be treated to a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds.

3. Relaxation and leisure: Gulet cruises are all about relaxation and leisure. Whether you choose to sunbathe on deck, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoy the stunning views, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

4. Exploration and activities: Gulet cruises offer a wide range of activities and excursions. From visiting historical sites and exploring ancient ruins to snorkelling, diving, and water sports, there’s something for everyone. The crew will ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience during your time on board.

5. Warm and attentive service: The crew members on a gulet cruise are dedicated to providing exceptional service. From the captain to the chef and the deckhands, everyone is committed to ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The crew will go above and beyond to meet your needs and make you feel welcome.

A Gulet cruise is a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and luxury. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore historical sites, or indulge in delicious cuisine, a gulet cruise in Turkey offers something for every traveller.

Tips for a memorable Gulet cruise experience

To make the most of your gulet cruise experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Pack wisely: Pack light and bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Remember to bring a beach towel and any personal items you may need.

2. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated during your cruise, especially when spending time under the sun. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly to ensure you stay hydrated throughout your journey.

3. Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Turkey can vary depending on the season. Check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and a waterproof jacket in case of rain.

4. Bring cash: While most Gulet cruises include meals and some activities, it’s a good idea to bring some cash for additional expenses, such as drinks, souvenirs, and tips for the crew.

5. Disconnect and enjoy: Take this opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Put your phone away, enjoy the stunning views, and engage with your fellow passengers and crew members. This is your chance to relax and unwind truly.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your gulet cruise experience is memorable and enjoyable. Embrace the unique atmosphere, soak up the beauty of the Turkish coast, and create lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

How to book a gulet cruise in Turkey

Booking a Gulet cruise in Turkey is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Research: Start by researching different gulet cruise operators and the types of cruises they offer. Read reviews, compare prices, and consider the itineraries and destinations covered.

2. Contact operators: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, contact the cruise operators directly to inquire about availability, prices, and any additional information you may need. Ask about the specific Gulets they have available and the services and amenities included.

3. Choose your cruise: Based on your research and conversations with the operators, choose the cruise that best fits your preferences and budget. Consider the itinerary, the size and amenities of the Gulet, and any special requests you may have.

4. Book your cruise: Once you’ve made your decision, confirm your booking by providing the necessary information and paying the required deposit. Make sure to read and understand the terms and conditions of the booking before finalizing.

5. Prepare for your cruise: As your cruise date approaches, make sure to prepare accordingly. Pack your bags, double-check your travel documents, and inform the cruise operator of any special requests or dietary restrictions.

Booking a gulet cruise in Turkey is an exciting process that allows you to tailor your experience to your preferences. Take the time to research and choose a cruise that matches your expectations, and soon, you’ll be embarking on a remarkable journey along the Turkish coast.

A gulet cruise holiday in Turkey offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From exploring historical sites and enjoying delicious cuisine to relaxing on deck and swimming in crystal-clear waters, a Gulet cruise allows you to discover the beauty and wonder of the Turkish coast in style and comfort.

In this ultimate guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know to plan your gulet cruise holiday in Turkey. From understanding what a gulet is and why Turkey is the perfect destination to choosing the right cruise, exploring popular destinations, and booking your cruise with confidence, we’ve provided you with all the information you need to make your dreams of a Gulet cruise a reality.

So, start planning your adventure today, and get ready to set sail on a breathtaking journey along Turkey’s stunning coastline. Indulge in the beauty, history, and culture that Turkey has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your gulet cruise holiday awaits!

October 11, 2023

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Turkish Travel Blog

Turkish People, Culture, History, and Places inTurkey

How to Prepare for Gulet Cruising in Turkey

Sitting on the balcony of my hotel room in hilly Kalkan, I stared at the panoramic view of the bay. The sun was slipping down behind the horizon and while I fully appreciated the amazing landscape view in front of me, my thoughts were still firmly focused on memories of my last week gulet cruising in Turkey. I had hooked up with My Blue Cruise , a yachting and gulet company operating on the Mediterranean coast of Fethiye, to attend one of their Blue Voyage routes from Fethiye to Olympos.

In the past, I have spent a lot of time around boats, whether it was disastrously attempting sea kayaking in Kekova or lounging around on day time trips out of Altinkum. However, they have always been day adventures and this was my first time, spending overnight at sea.

Upon my return, a friend asked how my trip was. After what seemed like ages, the only response, I could give, was that I had found my utopia.

Termed by Wikipedia as “a state of mind or imaginary place, where everything is perfect”, I still felt in a state of disbelief.

My trip had taken place at the right time, in the right place, with superb company, quality service and a perfect introduction into viewing the Mediterranean coast of Turkey from sea not land. It was one of those experiences that left me with an overall sense of being blessed in life.

The Turkish Riviera and Blue Voyage Routes

The Turkish Riviera is not as highly promoted as its counterpart in France, yet it has one bigger advantage. While the French Riviera is generally limited to the rich, famous and elite members of society, the Turkish Riviera caters for everyone from budget holiday makers to billionaires.

The Turkish Riviera is also nicknamed the “Turquoise coast” and it stretches from the Northern Aegean near Istanbul, right around the coastline to Antalya on the Mediterranean coast. Within this area, set routes and courses, called “Mavi Yolculuklar,” ( Blue Voyage routes) are sold at budget prices, ensuring this tourism concept caters for everyone.

The Fisherman of Halicarnassus

Credit for the Blue Voyage routes mainly belongs with the “Fisherman of Halicarnassus,” who was Cevat Sakir Kabaagaçli , a writer exiled to the Bodrum peninsula in 1925.

Determined to make the most of his confinement, he spent many weeks exploring the coastline using traditional gulet boats.

At the time, these vessels were mainly used for sponge diving and fishing but due to the works and promotion by Cevat, crowds flocked to the Bodrum peninsula requesting to spend nights at sea, so the boats adapted to accommodate tourists.

Along with a friend called Arzu Erhat, Cevat penned a book about his experiences and the Turkish Riviera was born.

What to Expect when Gulet Cruising in Turkey

The boat had four double cabins with private en-suite. Although they were spacious, immaculately clean and maintained, we didn’t use them. Preferring to sleep on deck, there is something surreal about starring at the stars above you and the gentle sound of Mediterranean waves lapping against the boat, but more delights were to come.

One morning I woke up early, but everyone else was still sleeping. I sat on the gang plank to smoke a cigarette and watch the sunrise but noticed a head bobbing in and out of the water. It was too round to be a dolphin and I had never heard of seals in this area.

The figure kept coming closer to the boat and it transpired our early morning visitor was a Caretta Caretta turtle. Also known as the loggerhead turtle, an adult make can grow to as much as 135 kilograms but unfortunately, this species is on the endangered list.

At other times, the motorised dingy boat would take us ashore to explore coastal resorts and historical sites and on my last night on the boat, we used the water taxi to get to the nearest bar. The whole lifestyle was quite surreal, and I did struggle with returning back to normality. My advice is don’t plan any activities for at least 24 hours after the trip because my body really did feel like there was not an ounce of energy left in it.

What to Pack for Gulet Cruising in Turkey

Pack lightly for gulet cruising in Turkey because wardrobe space is limited. During the day, you need…

• Swimming costume
• Swimming towel
• Shorts and T-shirt for shore excursions
• Suitable footwear. My flip-flops drastically let me down when I was exploring the ancient ruins of Gemiler and Simena castle, so definitely invest in some good footwear.
• For evenings, we stayed on the boat so casual clothing is just required for dinner.

Beauty Products

• Sun cream and body moisturizer are essential
• The sun and salt water drastically affected the condition of my hair but luckily I had some wonderful products from Avon including intense conditioner and detangling spray.
• For evening time, I wore light make up such as lipstick and mascara. There was no need for a full face of make-up, since the sun kissed look hits you almost immediately.

I also figured this was a good time to catch up on some reading and luckily, I had packed a copy of Ayses trail, a book about the history of the Lycian way and a woman’s determination to complete the 516 kilometre walk. It was a fitting read since I was sailing part of the Lycian way instead of walking it. (Review is to follow shortly)

Private or Charter

Private charter when gulet cruising in Turkey is cost effective if you have a large group of friends, or are happy to pay extra for the privacy. Otherwise, cabin charter is an extremely cheap option.

Although I was traveling alone, other people on the boat were two solo male travellers, a couple and three young friends from Australia. We explored ruins together and often indulged in good hearted conversation. It is an excellent way to meet new people.

Typically, the larger boats holding 12 cabins or more are used as party boats, especially on the Fethiye to Olympos route which is popular with young backpackers touring Turkey. If you do not want a party boat, stipulate this when booking with the cruise supplier.       

Average Costs and Prices of Extras

My four day – three night cruise was taken in high season, when the price is just 225 euros including food. Extras to pay for include…

• Transport fees to get there
• Drinks on board the boat
• Entrance fees into historical sites
• Extra activities such as paragliding or Jet skiing

Equipment and Internet Access

Apart from my mobile phone and DSLR camera, the only piece of equipment that I wish I had was an underwater camera. Other passengers had them and the results of their pictures were stunning. I had Internet access on my mobile phone and in certain areas; other passengers could access the boat’s Wi-Fi.My honest advice, is to use your phone and iPad to update Facebook and then disconnect. The beauty of gulet cruising in Turkey is to soak up the natural beauty of  the country. Don’t miss it all by being glued to the Internet.

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A Quick Guide to Budget Gulet Sailing in Turkey for Backpackers

You won’t find a better way to explore Turkey’s Turquoise Coast than from the decks of a gulet (a traditional wooden boat). But did you know you can experience a blue cruise like this on a backpacker’s budget? You can sail the stunning Turkish Riviera from Fethiye to Olympos on a 4-day cabin charter from just $260. That’s crazy cheap.

Imagine this…

Watching a display of shooting stars as you drift off to sleep, no noise but the waves lapping against the side of the boat. Waking up to the sunrise in a secluded cove, to the smell of pine and herbs and honey. Padding barefoot along the deck, bracing yourself for a dive into water that sparkles like gemstones. Afterwards, you plot the day’s adventures over a breakfast spread of tomato, cheese, cucumber, olives, coffee, bread, and jams.

The catch? For the cheapest prices, you’ll have to share a boat and can expect the facilities to be basic. Oh, but it’s worth it though.

Read on to discover why.

WHY TAKE A FETHIYE-OLYMPOS BLUE CRUISE

I used to be scared of the sea .  One of my first memories is of being on a ferry aged 3, afraid to go anywhere near the guardrail. My mind boggled at how anyone could think boats were safe.

A gulet cruise in Turkey converted me.

It was an ex’s idea. We were in Fethiye , heading for Olympos on the Turquoise Coast on the south-west of the country. A backpacker’s haven with treehouses and beach-side ruins, it has drawn hippy types for decades.

The scenic coastal route to Olympos would take a few days and a few buses. But in Fethiye, we discovered that a 3-night cabin charter on gulet cruise could take us along the same route.

This stretch of coastline isn’t the easiest to explore by road. Many of the villages and bays along this coast were inaccessible to road traffic until the 1970s and, despite the new highways, there are still many parts that are difficult to access by car or public transport.

What better than to drift lazily between them on a boat?

A cabin charter is where you rent a room on a boat with other travellers (I use the word ‘room’ loosely). Once I learned the price, I was sold. With food and accommodation costs factored in, it wasn’t much more expensive than making our own way there.

Any fears I had of water were quickly dispelled once I strapped on a snorkel mask and jumped into those crystal clear turquoise seas. The food was as good as a restaurant, but with a much better view.

It wasn’t long before I was a convert to travelling by boat.

Related read : Top 10 Bluest Waters in the Mediterranean

WHAT IS A BLUE CRUISE?

Gulet sailing in Turkey refers to a type of  sailing charter in this southwestern corner of Turkey, typically week-long liveaboard trips along the stretch of coast from Bodrum to Antalya with an emphasis on enjoying the nature as much as the sights and towns.

Gulet cruises in Turkey are also commonly referred to as a ‘ blue cruise ‘ or ‘ blue voyage ‘. Same thing.

The gulet cruise industry is popularly credited to Cevat Sakir – the Fisherman of Halicarnassus  – a writer who was exiled to Bodrum in 1925.

He fell in love with the simplicity of life and beauty of the area, often taking his literary friends out on sponge-diving boats when they visited. Several books were published about these trips, and before long fishing boats had been converted for the tourists seeking the same experience.

WHAT IS A GULET?

A gulet is a type of traditional Turkish wooden motor sailing vessel, originally used for fishing and sponging. If you’re wondering how to say ‘gulet’, it’s pronounced more like ‘goo-let’ than ‘gull-et’.

Although gulets do have sails, you can expect to motor cruise most of the time. Since gulets became popular for charters, adaptations have been made to the design to make it more comfortable for living aboard but less suitable for sailing. They have roomy decks with plenty of space for al fresco dining and sunbathing, and are wide and stable vessels.

The downside of motor cruising is the engine noise. And if you’re looking to learn how to sail, this is not the trip for you.

But if you want to experience life at sea for a few days and explore the coast by boat then gulet sailing in Turkey is great fun and great value. Turkey isn’t the only place in the Mediterranean you can gulet cruise; similar vessels have cropped up in Croatia and Montenegro, but this stretch of coast is the spiritual home.

Related read : Heading to the Turquoise Coast? Check out our interview with local blog Slow Travel Guide on making the most of this beautiful region.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON A CABIN CHARTER

Most boats offering cabin charters have around 12 passengers and 3 crew, although some party boats cram on more than that. Your meals are provided on the boat and there’s ample room on deck for lounging around, sunbathing, playing cards. A bimini provides shade and protection from the sun. You’ll spend most nights at anchor, hanging out with your fellow passengers, although there are opportunities to link up with other boats if you feel like it (particularly at the infamous Pirate Bay disco). It’s a great way to travel for singles, although you find plenty of couples and friends on the cabin charters too.

The cabins on budget boats are tiny and unlikely to have (working) A/C, meaning it’s more comfortable to sleep on a mattress on deck. If privacy/air-conditioning/showers are more your style then check out more expensive voyages with higher spec boats.

Typical stops between Fethiye and Olympos include:

• Butterfly Valley

Other hubs where you can start/finish a gulet cruise are:

• Rhodes (for Greek islands)

HOW MUCH DOES A GULET CRUISE COST?

So you think sailing’s just for the super-rich? That’s what I thought too. Having grown up inland with no particular interest or experience of watersports, I’d never given sailing a moment’s consideration. I assumed that it was out of my budget and didn’t see the appeal.

Until I tried it.

Cabin charters are the best way to try sailing on a budget

• Cabin charters are shared trips where you rent a cabin rather than the whole boat
• Itineraries tend to be fixed
• It’s a great way to meet people if you’re travelling solo
• Worried about sharing a small space with strangers? Gulets are spacious compared to standard cruising yachts

What’s a typical price for a gulet cruise?

The cheapest rates I’ve seen online for 2018 are around the  € 200 mark for the 4-day Fethiye-Olympos route, which tends to be the cheapest option. The higher the price, the better the facilities on the boat. 7-day itineraries start at around €3 00 .

When comparing operators it’s wise to check what’s included. Some allow you to bring your own booze, which can make a difference to your budget if you’re bringing the party spirit. Otherwise alcoholic drinks are sold on board.

BOOKING A CABIN CHARTER ON A GULET

If you’re travelling in peak season (July/August) you should consider booking in advance in order to secure the itinerary/boat that you’re after. That said, there is plenty of competition so it’s not strictly necessary.

The benefits of booking when you’re already in Turkey are that you’ll be able to compare operators, get a sense of the other passengers and crew, and potentially negotiate a lower price—particularly in shoulder season or if you’re travelling solo and hope to avoid paying the dreaded single supplement.

Some people like to party more than others, so talk to the operators to find the boat that’s the right fit for you. Find out who else has booked, make sure you know what’s included in the cost, and don’t forget to check out online reviews.

Things to bear in mind:

• You will be sharing a small space and basic facilities with strangers
• Expect to sleep on deck under the stars, it’s too hot in the cabins unless you’re splurging on a luxury boat with A/C
• Hangovers at sea are an awful thing

Speaking of hangovers . . .

How to avoid a party boat, if that’s not your scene:

• The cheaper the voyage, the more likely it will be full of party animals who have lined the freezer with booze
• Particularly so in the university holidays – July/August
• Fethiye-Olympos (and the reverse) tends to be the cheapest route and most popular with backpackers and young travellers
• Check the ages of other passengers when booking

I loved the gulet cruise experience so much that I brought a group of friends back the following year.

It wasn’t my last sailing experience either, since then I’ve gone on to sail on a tall ship around the Balearics , crewed on a classic yacht, and been a volunteer crew member on the Phoenician Ship Expedition around Africa.

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Sailing in Turkey: A Guide to a Gulet Cruise Along the Turquoise Coast

Sailing in Turkey along it’s Turquoise Coast is a magical way to spend a holiday in this beautiful country.

Stretching from the bustling port of Fethiye, to the resort town of Antalya, this coastline has been dubbed the Turquoise Coast for its twinkly blue warm seas. Backed by mountain ranges for almost its entire length, their slopes drop precipitously down to quaint fishing villages and the coastal highway which twists and turns with the coast. Lush pine forest, sandy beaches and sheer cliffs add drama, and the hundreds of tiny secluded coves and bays are tucked away, only accessible by water.

The most popular way to explore the Turquoise coast is by sailing, and the traditional wooden gulet cruise boat is a fantastic and authentic way to do this.

If you’re looking to spend long, lazy days onboard a typical Turkish boat, with glorious weather to boot, then a sailing trip in Turkey is for you. I recently spent three nights on board a gulet, sailing from Fethiye to Olympus, near Antalya with Alaturka Cruises enjoying a sailing trip along the Turquoise coast, on the route often referred to as the ‘blue cruise’. I tucked into delicious fresh seafood, explored ancient ruins, enjoyed drinks in lively fishing ports and jumped into the warm, calm seas for three days, and it was just brilliant. So here’s my guide to the Turquoise Coast, including how to choose a company to sail in Turkey with and what to do in each port of call. Enjoy reading and have fun planning your own sailing trip to Turkey!

Sailing in Turkey – Essential Things To Know

How to get to the Turquoise Coast

Depending on which direction you want to sail in, you need to fly to Fethiye or Antalya. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus both fly domestically from Istanbul and several other Turkish destinations to these seaside ports. You can also reach these towns by bus or train, which you can read more about in my guide to using public transport in Turkey.

From the UK or other European destinations, in the summer months (April to October), many airlines fly to Fethiye or Antalya and you should be able to catch a good deal.

When is the best time to go sailing in Turkey

For prime weather conditions, the peak summer season from May to September is best. In these months, the crowds do swell but the weather is best and you can almost guarantee long, sunny, hoy days – perfect for sailing trips in Turkey!

How to choose a company for a Turkey sailing trip

It might seem a little overwhelming as so many companies offer gulet cruises in Turkey. For two day or longer trips, I would definitely recommend Alaturka Cruises . I found them online in advance of my visit. Not only did they have excellent reviews online, but their email support beforehand was brilliant. The price was great value and the dates worked perfectly for my two week Turkey itinerary .

The gulet boat that we sailed the Turquoise Coast on was really well-maintained and well-sized for the number of passengers on board. It was so hot during our sailing trip in late August that they recommended we slept out under the stars on deck. We slept on these comfy sun-loungers and it was amazing sleeping with a warm breeze. The crew with Alaturka were fantastic. They were really attentive and fun, but not overbearing at all. We had a crew of three Turkish guys who took such great care of us and gave us great tips and suggestions. I joined the gulet cruise as a solo female traveller and didn’t feel uncomfortable once.

The other passengers were from all over the world – including a family from Saudi Arabia, a couple from South Africa and the US, a few other Brits and Americans. Everyone got on so well and the atmosphere was brilliant. With Alaturka, you could also rent your own private gulet cruise boat or yacht with crew if you had your own big group.

What to pack for a sailing holiday

Depending on the company you go with, it’s unlikely you’d need to bring any bedding or towels. However, you will need lots of suntan lotion, swimwear and hats. The sun can be very strong and there may only be a certain amount of shade onboard. The gulet boats normally have quite a few inflatables and they’re nearly always full board.

Every sailing company will have its own policy for alcohol on board. Our gulet cruise with Alaturka offered a self-service bar with an honesty tab, therefore we didn’t need to bring our own alcohol on board.

I would recommend one or two evening outfits for the nights you dock in or near a port for the option to go out in the evening.

Where to stay before or after the sailing trip

The main sailing routes are Fethiye to Olympus, or the other way round.

Fethiye offers many accommodation options. One of the best luxury hotels is the Club Tuana, you can check rates here .

Otherwise you can find hundreds of other options covering all price ranges on Booking.com here .

In Olympus, there is the very unusual offering of treehouses in this amazing valley town.

Some of the best options include:

• Turkmen Treehouses
• Kadir’s Treetop Houses
• Olympus Deep Green Bungalows

Towns to visit along the Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Although it was the starting point to my gulet cruise in Turkey, Fethiye was possibly my least favourite town along the coastline. The town has experienced some mass overdevelopment in the past few decades and I imagine much of its charm has been lost.

I don’t know why, but before I arrived, it seemed to think Fethiye was going to be a quaint village so I was even more disappointed. That being said, it is the starting point for many sailing trips in Turkey so you don’t necessarily need to spend too long there. Its harbour is pretty beautiful but I didn’t particularly like the surrounding streets and restaurant areas.

Some of the key attractions in and around Fethiye include the ancient city of Kadyanda and the abandoned ancient Greek village of Kaya Köyü.

Butterfly Valley

The first stop for many boats departing from Fethiye is the famed Butterfly Valley. This beautiful secluded cove is only reached by boat.

Its important to know that this beach isn’t sand, but instead, lots of tiny sharp rocks – really painful.

The beach sits at the entrance to a vast canyon, where there is also a cool off-the-radar back-to-basics campsite and a low-key bar and restaurants offering a cool hippy chilled vibe.

It’s called Butterfly Valley as it’s home to a butterfly farm, were there’s a huge diverse range of butterflies. August (when I visited) was not the season to see the butterflies, but the ones I did see were very colourful.

Ölüdeniz is one of the most famous beaches in Europe. This stunning beach is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful, so I was really excited to dock here.

It really is a beautiful stretch, but as with many gorgeous beaches around the world, it certainly draws crowds and is pretty touristy.

One of the most popular activities to do in Ölüdeniz, and even in Turkey is paragliding. You can arrange this through your gulet cruise organisers, when you arrive in Ölüdeniz or in advance through GetYourguide. Book your paragliding jump here!

No matter which company you pick to go paragliding with, the experience is the same.

You depart from the centre of Ölüdeniz in a minibus with all of the paragliding kits and crew on board.

It’s one very long and perilous drive to the top of Babadag Mountain. I wondered a few times if the van was genuinely road-worthy enough, but we made it.

Ölüdeniz is one of the highest commercial locations in the world where you can paraglide. Together with the breathtaking views and consistently good weather, it is also one of the best places in the world to paraglide.

Once you reach the top, it takes no more than five minutes to jump into the gear and attach the parachute. You run down a short runway with your paragliding guide before, bam, you’re in the air.

We flew straight through the clouds, which was much like a warmer shower, before swerving sharply and emerging into the most spectacular view.

I was really impressed with my guide who I felt really wanted to make it an epic experience for me. He was very keen on making sure we tons of awesome photos and videos, and he really worked the ropes to create a stomach twisting experience. It was amazing!

Aside from paragliding, Ölüdeniz is also the starting point for the Lycian Trail, one of Turkey’s most iconic hiking routes.

In Ölüdeniz, there are also some great bars and cafes to enjoy some time in if you don’t feel like paragliding.

The beautiful harbour town of Kaş has a lot to offer and is a great town to visit along the Turquoise Coast. Its charming laneways are lined with interesting boutique stores, cute cafes, lively beach bars and metres of tumbling bougainvillea.

This area is also known for fantastic diving and many dive operators run trips straight from Kaş. Our boat trip with Alaturka permitted enough time to spend the afternoon diving, which was great.

We enjoyed fantastic cocktails at Mumi Cafe Beach. This beach bar had had an awesome atmosphere during the day, and I would highly recommend.

On the day we were in Kaş, it so happened to be Victory Day in Turkey. This meant that the evening was absolutely pumping. Hundreds of Turks had travelled from all over the country to revel in the town. It was an amazing experience as a tourist.

The next stop along the coast is Kekova, and the magnificent Sunken City here – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kekova is home to incredible underwater ruins that were submerged following an earthquake. This area was once a prominent town in the Byzantine and Lycian eras, but is now completely deserted, except for a handful of goats.

This is a no walk, no diving zone. But many boats do sail past each day slowly to take in the incredible site. You can see rooms, staircases and doorways above the sea level, as well as make out pathways and more rooms under the water level. Luckily the water is completely translucent, and is one of the most unusual sites I have ever seen.

Kaleköy and Simena Castle

Along the Turquoise Coast, this tiny, traditional village was one of my favourite spots. Visiting this tiny hillside hamlet was like a step back in time. The ancient Simena Castle is located at the top of the village and is well worth a visit. It takes around 10 minutes of hiking through the tiny village and up into the hill. At the top, you’ll find the old fortress, once a notable Lycian settlement. Here you will find an incredible panoramic vista over the Gokkaya bay. The heat can be particularly intense here and despite it being quite a short hike, we ran out of water.

The tiny laneways of the village are lined with local women (and children) selling their homemade souvenirs. They were not pushy at all and I bought several lovely bracelets here.

Lastly, the final spot along the Turquoise Coast to visit (or first if you’re doing this route in reverse) is the hippie town of Olympos.

An odd mix of travellers descend on this incredibly beautiful town, nestled in a canyon and surrounded by fragrant forest. It has a tucked away beach and an atmosphere that’s really quite unique. Visitors stay in ‘treehouses’, and the bars are leafy, basic and so, so chilled. If have the time, this is a great place to finish the trip and spend a few extra nights.

So that concludes my guide to sailing in Turkey and exploring the Turquoise Coast by traditional gulet boat. I hope this guide is useful. both for choosing a tour company and find out about the ports. As mentioned, this route is often referred to as ‘the blue cruise’.

If you’re considering a longer trip, you might find my  two-week Turkey itinerary  here useful. I’ve also written guides to  Bodrum ,   Pamukkale ,  Ephesus , Istanbul  and  Cappadocia  here.

Have you sailed along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast? I’d love to hear if so. Drop a comment below, and if you’ve enjoyed this post, feel free to share using the below links!

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit to the Turquoise Coast in Turkey was entirely paid for by myself . There was no involvement from the tourism board or any local gulet companies. This is an independent guide to sailing in Turkey.

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The Turkish coastline you visited looks stunning. I would love to do a boat ride around here. 🙂 Looks like you had a whale of time especially swimming in the water.

Your pictures are amazing I had to look at them twice! What an experience that must have been, I never knew Turkey was so breath taking. The paragliding… Wow! I really enjoyed your post looks like a great future vacation.

My hubs is currently standing over my shoulder absolutely drooling at the thought of being able to do this kind of sailing. Those views are so magnificent what a lovely way to travel, peaceful, quiet and so beautiful.

Tehe, looks like you guys should definitely go and visit then 🙂

wow what a fabulous adventure! I would love to sail somewhere one day! I can’t believe I haven’t heard about Olu Deniz before ! Looks like a really nice beach! Your photos are amazing, I love the one of your jump especially ! So beautiful!

Picturesque coasts like those make it hard to leave the ship and explore. I could stare at that all day. But thankfully you pointed out numerous amazing things to do. I would thoroughly enjoy the paragliding. There is something about going through clouds that gives you an incredible feeling.

Turkey has always been one of the best countries I have visited until now, and can visit it many more times :), your pictures are just so amazing which makes me pack my bag and go to Turkey right away 🙂

Those are some amazing towns – Kas specially. It reminds me of a smaller town in Nepal called Bandipur with its cobbled pathways and bougainvillea. The water here is terrific, I definitely think that it is the best way to explore this coastline. Glad you shared your views on the same.

P.S: I love the pics

Really? I should definitely look into visiting there too!! 🙂 And thanks for your kind words about my photos!

This place is unbelievably beautiful. I’d book a trip here tomorrow if I could. The water looks so refreshing. I love beaches, I could stay here forever and not get bored for sure. The food looks really delicious as well. Definitely adding to my bucket list.

Eek, I’d also book a return trip back here tomorrow if I could! Thanks for your kind comment 🙂

The Turkish coastline seems so ethereal. The views, especially the sunset ones, are really breathtaking. I am sure it was a blissful experience cruising along on the turquoise coast of Turkey. The Olu Deniz beach looks gorgeous and the paragliding looks really exciting.

Hi Sandy! Yes, truly breathtaking! Thanks for your kind words!

Wow this sailing trip around turkey coast was stunningly beautiful. And added bonus the paragliding adventure love to do the sailing trip one day- another list added ti my bucket.

Awesome, glad to hear this post has inspired you! It is a truly beautiful coastline!

This is a really nice post. Thanks for sharing.

Great photos it makes me want to pack up and go now!!! I get sea sick so always worried about being on a boat on the ocean. Was it always calm?

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Sailing in Turkey: A Complete Guide to a Gulet Cruise Along the Turkish Riviera

• Holiday In Turkey

Sailing in Turkey , along the stunning Turquoise coastlines is the best way to spend a week in this beautiful country. Stretching from the vibrant port of Fethiye to the famous resort town of Antalya, this coastline has been named the Turquoise Coast or Turkish Riviera for its cristal clear blue seas. The coastline is backed by mountain ranges for all the way along, Abundant pine forests, stunning sandy beaches, and sheer cliffs make the picturesque scenery, and dozens of pristine bays are hidden, only accessible by boat. In the last 2 decades, Turkey sailing became very popular in the world and the traditional Turkish-made gulet cruise boat is a fabulous and the most authentic way to do it. If you’re looking for long, lazy days onboard a traditional Turkish gulet boat , with glorious weather, stunning swim stops, and mouth-watering local foods, then a Turkey sailing trip is just for you. There are amazing sailing itineraries from 3 nights to 7 nights between Fethiye and Olympos   offered by GoTurkeySail company. You can dig in delicious Turkish food, explore ancient ruins, enjoy drinks in lively small resort towns, and jump into the clearest water on the Turkey sailing tours . So here’s a complete guide to the Turquoise Coast, including how to choose a company to sail in Turkey with and what to do in each port of call. Enjoy reading and have fun planning your own sail Turkey trip How to get to the Turkish Riviera? Depending on which route you are planning to sail, you need to have a flight to either Dalaman or Antalya airports. There are many airlines that have domestic flights from Istanbul and many other major cities to these resort towns. You can also get to these towns by bus. If you combine your holiday with some of the Greek islands, then a ferry is also an option between Rhodes and Fethiye. There are more than 50 flights from the Uk and other European counties to those airports in the summer season that you can get really good deals with early planning. When is the best time to go sailing in Turkey? For the best weather and sea conditions, the summer season from early May to late September is the best. In these months, the crowds flock into these towns but the weather is best and you can guarantee long, sunny, hot days that perfect for sailing trips in Turkey ! How to choose a company for a Turkey sailing trip? We are sure you might get a little overwhelmed as there are so many companies that offer blue cruise or Turkey sailing tours . But as an expert on sailing and also being local in the area, Go Turkey sail offers amazing curated sailing tours that have a variety of options from 3 days to 8 days on its web www.goturkeysail.com . Not only it has excellent reviews online, but its customer care service during the booking process is brilliant. The prices offered online are great value. The guaranteed departures work perfectly for anyone to choose the traveling dates easily. The traditional gulets that Go Turkey sail uses for blue cruise holidays are all well-maintained, good size for 16 passengers. The crew is passionate, very organized, fun-loving, and friendliest young mates. It may get really hot especially in July and August so you may enjoy sleeping out on the deck under the stars. There are a lot of comfortable sun-loungers on the deck where you can have amazing sleeping with nice Mediterranean breeze. One of the great things about Turkey sailing tours is making life long friendships with people from all over the world onboard. The sailing tours offered by Go Turkey sail perfectly designed for solo travelers as well. An average of Go Turkey Sail’s passengers are %50 solo travelers. If you have your own group of friends or family, you can also charter one of these amazing gulets privately for yourself. What to pack for a sailing holiday? It is a good idea to bring your beach towels however the bath towels are provided by Go Turkey sail. You will need sunscreen, swimwear, and hats. The sun can be very strong especially in July and august however there is a certain amount of shade on board. Our gulets have quite a few inflatables and snorkeling gears share but it is always more hygienic to bring yours. We offer a full bar on board with an honesty tab system and drinks are reasonably priced therefore we kindly request not to bring any drinks on board. One or two evening outfits recommended for the nights when you dock in a port for a lovely night out Where to stay before or after the sailing trip? The main sailing hubs are Fethiye and Olympos , or the other way round. Fethiye offers a variety of accommodation options from luxury hotels to guesthouses. If you are on a budget, you can find dozens of hostels all-around Fethiye. In Olympos, there is an unusual offering of treehouses in this amazing seaside town. Some of the best options include: • Turkmen Treehouses • Kadir’s Treetop Houses • Olympus Deep Green Bungalows

Towns to visit along the Turquoise coast on Our Sailing tours Fethiye Both thrilling and tranquil, this is one of the resort towns in the Turkish Riviera that you will return to again and again. As being one of the most popular destinations on the Turkish Riviera, Fethiye is also the largest town in Muğla province, is the meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Fethiye is one of the biggest ancient cities in Lycian civilization which is also known as Telmessos. Today, Fethiye is one of the main hubs on the Turkish Turquoise coast where famous Turkey sailing trips start or end. Turkey sail is also known as blue cruises Turkey or Blue voyages Turkey . Every year Fethiye accommodates thousands of Turkish gulets as well as private yachts and superyachts in her 2 huge harbors. People from all over the world are choosing Fethiye for their sailing holidays in Turkey . Fethiye with her stunning bays and coves all around offers amazing stops for travelers with Turkish-made traditional gulets . The turquoise water in the tranquil bays is passionately loved by all sea enthusiasts. As soon as you start your blue cruise holiday in Fethiye you will start enjoying the vibrant turquoise sea against the hills. Butterfly Valley Located about 25 km West of Fethiye, Butterfly Valley is the first destination on our blue cruise holidays which is an exceptional earthly paradise. It boasts a natural setting with no establishment. Butterfly Valley is a valley of 2 large looming mountains that drop straight into the turquoise waters down below. The beach has become a popular spot for backpackers from all over the world to come over and stay at the campsite That’s why you may often see tents pitched and plenty of people lazing about along the beach. There no land access to Butterfly Valley, however, it is accessible only by boat. Butterfly valley is also a place where all the blue cruise tours stop on their route to Kekova .

Oludeniz / Blue Lagoon Oludeniz, also known as the blue lagoon, is definitely one of the most famous beaches in Europe. This stunning beach is voted as the most beautiful beach in Europe twice. It really is a beautiful stretch, but as with many gorgeous beaches around the world, it certainly attracts crowds and is pretty touristy. One of the most popular activities to do in Blue Lagoon is paragliding! Every year, over 60.000 people from all over the world come to Oludeniz for a jump-off baba mountain which makes it no 1 spot in the world. We can help you to arrange a jump-off during your blue cruise holiday You depart from the center of Olu deniz in a minibus with all of the paragliding kits and crew on board. Oludeniz is also the starting point for the Lycian Way, one of Turkey’s most iconic hiking trails. In Oludeniz , there are also some great bars and cafes to enjoy some time in if you don’t feel like paragliding. Kaş Kaş means eyebrow in the Turkish language and when you check the map of the area, you can easily understand why. Kaş is a picture-perfect town on the Turkish Mediterranean coasts. If you are after a warm Mediterranean atmosphere you are definitely at the right place. Kaş has all the right elements in hand; phenomenal sea view, narrow cobblestone streets with whitewashed houses, tempting restaurants and cafés, and bougainvillea of course. And while this is quite enough to be felt in love with, we can also add pretty beaches, and a picturesque harbor to complete the Mediterranean vibe. This area is also known for fantastic diving and many dive operators run trips straight from Kaş. You will have enough time in the town to try out Scuba diving as an optional tour on our Turkey sailing trip . You can enjoy fantastic cocktails at Mumi Cafe Beach which is 200 meters away from the harbor. This beach bar has an awesome atmosphere during the day, and we would highly recommend it. Kekova The next stop along the coast is Kekova, Kekova has a unique historical attraction which is lying under the water today; the famous Sunken City. Once It was a huge port city to both Lycian and Roman civilizations, the ancient city was mostly abandoned by inhabitants when an earthquake happened in the 2nd century AD which resulted in most of the city was sink into the water. The city is mostly submerged, however you can still see underwater ruins on the shores thanks to the clearest water of the Turkish Mediterranean. In some places on the island, some defensive walls and ruins from basilicas with some rock tombs are still visible This is a no walk, no diving zone since it is an archaeological site But many boats do sail past every day slowly to take in the incredible sight. You can see rooms, staircases, and doorways above the sea level, as well as make out pathways and more rooms under the water level. Luckily the water is completely transparent, Kaleköy and Simena Castle Simena Castle, also known in Turkish as 'Kalekoy' meaning 'castle village', is located on a stunning Turkish riviera in Kekova Region. Once it used to be a Lycian settlement, the castle remains largely intact upon a hill overlooking Kekova island. Kalekoy is the only Turkish village in the country which has no land access inspite of being on the mainland. The only access to the village today is by boat which keeps the island as it has been there for centuries. Today on our sailing Turkey trips it is one of the highlights especially on Olympos-Fethiye tours where we stop and explore the ancient castle and eat a lot of homemade organic ice cream. In the west of the town, a series of rock-cut tombs are scattered across the slopes of the castle. Olympos

the final spot along the Turquoise Coast to visit is the hippie town of Olympos . It is unspoiled heaven for especially young travelers , backpackers , flashpackers who love to enjoy nature, historical sites, partying in cozy places, sunbathing, swimming in the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera . located 90 kilometers from Antalya. It is a stunning spot to start or finish Turkey sailing trips . Olympos is an ancient city that was founded in the Hellenistic period, sharing its name with the nearby Olympos beach. Olympos was one of the 6 biggest cities in Lycian Leauge. Olympos was later invaded and ruled by the Cilician Pirates until the city was captured by the Roman Empire around 78 BC. Olympos can either be a really cool escape from the hustle and bustle in big tourist attractions of Turkey, staying in cozy treehouses, or a more active stop with Turkey sailing boat cruises, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing. Olympos is located along the Lycian Way which is shown in the top 10 hiking destinations in the world with a 500-kilometer marked hiking trail between Fethiye and Antalya. Goturkeysail offers 2 great routes of 4 days blue cruises which start or end in Olympos . For more information, you can visit www.goturkeysail.com So that concludes our guide to sailing in Turkey and exploring the Turkish Riviera by traditional gulet boat . we hope this guide is useful. both for choosing our company for a sail and find out more about the stops on our sailing tours. As mentioned, Turkey sailing tours are often referred to the blue cruise tours or Blue cruise holidays . If you’re considering a longer trip, Go Turkey Sail offers 7 nights / 8 days sailing trips as well you can find details on www.goturkeysail.com/destinations .

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Aboard A ScicSailing Gulet Cruise On Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

A gulet cruise in Turkey is a signature experience for those looking for off-the-grid charms along the Turquoise Coast in 2021 and beyond. Davida gets onboard with ScicSailing…

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On a girls’ trip to Bodrum, a gulet cruise taster with ScicSailing proved to be the signature experience in discovering off-the-grid charms along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. The classic wooden yachts sail unique itineraries in the southwest coast of Turkey as well as some Greek islands, offering ample moments to swim, snorkel in crystalline waters, relax and explore Mediterranean delights. 

Departure from Bodrum

The day began bright and early in Bodrum, sunlight already dancing on the placid blue of the Aegean sea with the promise of another memorable day in the heart of the Turkish Riviera. Time in Bodrum had so far been a mixture of pared-down sophistication and long drives taking in picturesque crescents and Greek-style whitewashed houses overlooking a glittering marina. Our excitement was palpable as we sped toward the gulet waiting near the Kumbahçe public beach.

Personalised Service

ScicSailing’s personalised service was a highlight throughout. We breezed through embarkation, stepping into the warm welcome of our host, Baris, and crew – Captain Recep, Suleyman and Rafik. The team guided us through every aspect of our day, ensuring a quality of service that imparted a wonderful sense of wellbeing. It infused the relaxation that comes with knowing that all your needs are being taken care of for you – sometimes even before you ask. 

Setting Sail

Captain Recep set a course for the day and sounded the horn. We were ready to sail. Edging out of port with the wind in my hair, the scene was reminicent of a travel dream come true. Behind us, the harbour faded into the distance; ahead lay the promise of bliss, beautiful bays and relaxation. The silhouette of a Dodecanese island in the horizon was a seductive call to return for the real deal with ScicSailing: one, two or three-week itineraries taking in unspoilt fishing villages, fascinating historical sites, rejuvenating walks, jeep rides through the countryside and much more. For today, it was all about the nearby delights of Aquarium Bay, Karaada Islands and Pabuç.  

Onboard Experience

Padding barefoot across the pristine wooden floors, I explored our home for the day. Compact yet charming, the gulet opened out to a spacious sun deck shaded by a softly billowing canvas. A delectable dilemma would soon play out – curl up with a book, let the gentle breeze lull me to sleep or gaze mesmerised at the pine-covered cliffs rising along the Aegean coast like a cinematic entrance? Oh, the sweet taste of enchanting decisions!

Dining on a Gulet

At the rear of the gulet, an alfresco bar and dining room was the spot of the day’s gastronomy. This is where chef Suleyman laid on a leisurely breakfast shortly after we boarded. Think a delectable spread of fried eggs, fresh fruits, warm bakes, tomatoes, cheeses, relishes, olives and the aroma of coffee. Lunch was a still-crackling hot grilled sea bream served with a variety of salads, potatoes and regional delicacies. Each meal was a fresh, tasty spread that ensured you walked on as a passenger without having to worry about rolling off as cargo. Check out the video below on Instagram for a look inside our wonderful day onboard!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Davida | Wonders of Wanders (@wondersowanders) on Sep 18, 2020 at 10:13am PDT

Cruising During Covid-19

After months of lockdown, travelling again came with rituals marked by the signs of the times. Anti-Covid measures included clear health and safety protocol communications, masks, no-contact temperature checks and ample hand sanitisers onboard. It was thorough without being irksome. Those concerned about being at sea need not worry. Sailing near the coast ensures that if, for any reason, further testing is required, shoreside medical treatment centres are within close proximity.

In a world navigating a pandemic, boutique cruise providers like ScicSailing have an edge on big adventures. They carry significantly fewer guests, making social distancing easier. Navigating smaller, more remote and exclusive ports, they also offer up-close-and-personal experiences of local cultures and cuisines. Then there’s the flexibility to make swift changes to itineraries or adapt to passengers’ interests with minimum fuss should the need arise. It’s a winning package for the current direction of travel in which small is the new mighty.

Future Travel Dream

The Mediterranean will seduce you every time.

Take a look at the holiday wish list you’ve mentally drawn up for the future and add ScicSailing. There’ll be food for the body, nourishment for the soul and plenty of awe-inspiring moments to renew your spirit of adventure. So, start dreaming; a gulet cruise in Turkey with ScicSailing is something to experience again and again.

Best time to go : The sailing season is from the end of March until early November. Each ScicSailing yacht sails its own itinerary along the south west coast of Turkey and some of the Greek islands. 

Best for solo, couples, family or group getaways : ScicSailing caters to everyone. Solo travellers will especially love that there’s no single supplement. You may also charter a whole yacht for a group of people – perfect for special occasions.

Further information : Visit the ScicSailing website at www.scicsailing.eu .

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Gulet Cruise Turkey

Introduction

Gulet cruises in Turkey offer a unique and unforgettable sailing experience. These traditional wooden boats, with their distinctive design and luxurious features, provide a blend of classic and contemporary, allowing travelers to explore Turkey’s stunning coastline in style. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about gulet cruises in Turkey, from what a gulet is, to how to rent one, and the best destinations to explore.

What is a Gulet?

A gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden boat, designed primarily for coastal cruising. Originating from the southwestern coast of Turkey, gulets embody a blend of practicality and tradition. They are meticulously crafted, often by hand, and feature wide decks, spacious cabins, and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious sailing experience.

Gulets have a rich historical background, initially used by fishermen and sponge divers. Over time, they have evolved into luxurious charter vessels, popular among tourists looking for a unique and personalized sailing adventure.

Why Choose a Gulet Cruise in Turkey?

Choosing a gulet cruise in Turkey is opting for an extraordinary maritime adventure. Here are some compelling reasons why a gulet cruise is a must-try experience:

Unique Sailing Experience: Gulet cruises offer a distinct sailing adventure, combining tradition with luxury. The wooden design and craftsmanship of the boat add a historical touch to your journey.

Personalized Service: Gulet cruises often come with a dedicated crew, including a captain, chef, and steward, ensuring that all your needs are catered to, providing a personalized and luxurious experience.

Exploring Hidden Gems: Gulet cruises allow access to secluded bays, hidden beaches, and charming villages along the Turkish coast, many of which are not accessible by larger vessels.

Customizable Itineraries: The flexibility of gulet cruises means you can tailor your itinerary, choosing the destinations and activities that most appeal to you, whether it be exploring ancient ruins, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or savoring local cuisines.

Connection with Nature: Sailing on a gulet offers a closer connection to the sea and nature, allowing for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism.

How to Rent a Gulet in Turkey

Renting a gulet in Turkey is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and consideration to ensure that you choose the right vessel and itinerary to meet your needs and expectations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:

1. Research and Planning

Start by researching different gulet rental companies in Turkey. Consider reading reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge the quality of service and the condition of the vessels. Determine the size of the gulet you need based on the number of people in your group and your specific requirements.

2. Contacting the Companies

Reach out to the rental companies that you have shortlisted. Communicate your needs, preferences, and any specific requests you might have. Ask questions about the gulet’s amenities, the crew’s expertise, and the available itineraries.

3. Reviewing Options and Quotes

Review the options, quotes, and itineraries provided by the rental companies. Compare them based on value, services, and customer feedback. Ensure that there are no hidden costs and that the quote includes all necessary expenses such as crew wages, fuel, and meals.

4. Making a Reservation

Once you have chosen a gulet and agreed on an itinerary, proceed to make a reservation. A deposit is usually required to secure the booking. Ensure that you receive a confirmation and that all details are correctly outlined in the reservation agreement.

5. Preparing for the Journey

Prepare for your journey by packing appropriately, considering the weather and the activities you plan to engage in. Communicate any last-minute requests or questions to the rental company to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise.

Popular Destinations for Gulet Cruises in Turkey

A gulet cruise in Turkey sails through a myriad of breathtaking destinations, each boasting its unique allure. Starting from the vibrant city of Bodrum, known for its impressive marina and historical castle, the journey unfolds revealing picturesque locales and hidden gems of the Turkish Riviera.

Marmaris, a lively resort town, offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Its extensive beach and historical sites, such as Marmaris Castle, make it a captivating stop.

Fethiye, rich in ancient history and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, is another remarkable destination. Nearby, the world-renowned Oludeniz Blue Lagoon mesmerizes with its extraordinary beauty.

Antalya, a city where history and modernity coalesce, is a treasure on the Turkish coast. Its old town, marina, and proximity to ancient ruins make it a diverse and appealing destination.

Each stop on a gulet cruise presents a unique facet of Turkey’s coastal beauty and historical richness, promising an unforgettable journey.

Tips for a Memorable Gulet Cruise

To ensure a memorable gulet cruise in Turkey, consider the following tips:

• Choose the right gulet that aligns with your preferences and the size of your group.
• Plan your itinerary carefully, incorporating a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and local culture.
• Communicate your needs and expectations clearly with the rental company and crew.
• Pack appropriately, considering the weather and the activities you plan to engage in during the cruise.
• Embrace the opportunity to disconnect, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the sailing experience.

Gulet Charter Options in Turkey

Turkey offers a variety of gulet charter options to cater to different needs and preferences. You can opt for a private charter, where you rent the entire gulet for a personalized experience, allowing for a customized itinerary and a higher level of privacy. There are also cabin charters available, where you rent a cabin on a gulet and share the vessel with other travelers, which can be a more affordable option and a way to meet like-minded explorers.

Choosing the right charter option depends on your budget, the level of privacy you desire, and your preferences when it comes to customizing your journey.

Embarking on a gulet cruise in Turkey is an extraordinary adventure, offering a unique blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, and luxurious relaxation. With careful planning, choosing the right gulet, and crafting an itinerary that resonates with your interests and desires, you are set to create unforgettable memories along the stunning Turkish coastline.

4 Day Turkey Gulet Cruise: Olympos to Fethiye

• 3 nights accommodation on the boat with private bathroom
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
• Unlimited tea and coffee service is available
• Standard yacht equipment, board games, snorkels & masks, fishing lines. Passengers may bring snacks, such as fruit, nuts, muesli, yogurt, chocolate and similar stuff
• Transfer from the Hotel to Boat (just hotels in Cirali and Olympos)
• Transfer from the boat to hotels in Fethiye
• Entry/Admission - Church of St. Nicholas
• Entry/Admission - Firnaz Koyu
• Entry/Admission - Oludeniz
• Entry/Admission - Fethiye Port
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Sea sports fees
• Entrance fees like museums at destinations
• We will pick you up from any hotel in Olympos
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Fethiye Port

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• reginacD6587YG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Experience The hotels were wonderful, Hilton and The Hera Caves, the places are amazing, especially Pamukkale, Kusadasi and Cappadicia, the people are very friendly and the guides were very helpful and had an amazing knowledge of History to enlighten our experience. I highly recommend this package and wish I can come back to this amazing country. Read more Written January 10, 2024
• Giovanni M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Trip Awesome experience! The transfers were always on time, the hotels were great, the places we visited were amazing and the guides were very helpful! Unfortunately, the weather didn't allow us to do the balloon flight in Capadoccia, but now I have more reasons to come back! Read more Written January 10, 2024
• Meander57273953625 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful experience Thank you for the beautiful experience at the Hagia Sofia! Dilek our guide she explained everything in the details, we skipped a huge line in the entrance and after that brought us also to Yerebatan Cisterne without any charge. Super friendly and available for all the advice of this city ! Read more Written December 29, 2023
• juanl381 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic country & Fantastic tour company ! We used Erkan from “ The travel Store, Turkey, simply put he was the best ! Always making sure everything is happening as it should or arranging on the fly when the wind didn’t cooperate for our balloon flight in Capadocia , he moved things around and got us the balloon ride in Pamukkale without us suggesting it. Pickups from and to the airport perfect, hotels great. I’d use him again anytime. Read more Written December 18, 2023
• 531nishadn 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles if you need guided tour in Istanbul then I will definitely recommend her to be your guide … it’s totally worth it.!! Dilek met us by chance… near Hagia Sophia… and I must say it was worth it. At the start of our conversation it was very professional but by end our guided tour we all became so friendly that she helped us out of the way for some other activities as well… Read more Written November 20, 2023
• aruns423 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience and very professionally organised This truly was a trip of a lifetime and it did not disappoint. We covered all major cities of Turkey and indulged in history and site seeing. We covered Gallipoli, Pamakule, Capadocia, Antalya and of course Istanbul. We wish to express our thanks to Mr. Erkan Turka of Travel Store Turkey. We traveled for 11 days and Everything was well organised the schedules was well maintained and tailored for our needs. We were very happy with the hotels we stayed in and all arrangements for pick up and drop happened on time. The guide and driver worked very hard to please us every day, choosing nice restaurants for every vegetarian meal, he was flexible with working hours and making changes to our itinerary. We were well cared for and never felt unsafe on the mountain roads. Overall, we would highly recommend Mr. Erkan Turka If you are planning any sort of tour in Turkey. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• johnnyhuang45 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Turkey Trip Working adults like us didn't really have much time to plan and research for the itinerary especially you are just tired when you get home at late night. We never met him before but we transferred all our tour fee 8 month in advance and the tour was amazingly organized. The transportation, food, the guide and the accommodation was arranged so well beyond my imagination. We had an amazing time in our journey with Travel Story Turkey and I highly recommended them if you are planning a trip to Turkey! Read more Written October 12, 2023
• 245annamariel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect weather. Amazing trip! The tour was amazing! The guides were organized and knowledgeable and made ancient history come alive. Pick ups and transfers were comfortable, food was ample and choice of hotels was great! Highly recommended for history buffs and nature lovers! Even at short notice, Erkan got my bookings done seamlessly! Read more Written October 12, 2023
• Voyage08832211267 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgivable Amazing. I recommend this tour 1000% . The driver was very nice and the guide man very and super nice. And Mr. Erkan was wondering. Read more Written October 8, 2023
• ToniF793 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Battles with Burak What a phenomenal Gallipoli exploration we had with our incredibly knowledgeable tour guide, Burak (who has a better sense of humour than Borat! ). He provided a very comprehensive education of the battles in various sites & managed to keep things upbeat so the mood did not become too somber. A special part of the day was one gent in our party having his own memorial at his great uncles grave. He had brought along his photo, medals & the Aussie flag & played The Last Post. It was very moving. Read more Written October 4, 2023
• Voyage08832211267 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience I went to pamukkale and was amazing mr. Erkan is a nice person. If I have one question he answer me very fast. The guy Mr. Mert explain everything and he is nice too. Amazing experience. Read more Written October 2, 2023
• Funda A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Thanks for a wonderfull day. We booked İstanbul Tour for one day, dilek was very professional Tour guide. We enjoy lot. Topkapi palace, grand bazzaar, and basilica cistern and hagia sophia amazing. Read more Written September 28, 2023
• 468christopherj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 4 day Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale trip Erkan must be a logistical genius to organise that many people and tours so that we can all fly at the right times and bus where we need to be! Great tour, Erkan went above and beyond to ensure our experience was an excellent one. Highly recommend Read more Written September 28, 2023

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4 Day Turkey Gulet Cruise: Olympos to Fethiye provided by Travel Store Turkey

Gulet Cruise, Bodrum, Turkey

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GULET CRUISE, BODRUM, TURKEY (Bitez) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

[email protected]

Turkish Gulet

• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Blue Cruise Turkey

Admiral Gulet

Location: Fethiye Max Guests: 36 Cabins: 16

Aegean Clipper Gulet

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 22 Cabins: 11

Aegean Pearl Gulet

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 8 Cabins: 4

Alcatraz Gulet

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 12 Cabins: 6

Aleyna 3 Gulet

Location: Fethiye Max Guests: 12 Cabins: 5

Aliaga 1 Gulet

Alper A Gulet

Location: Marmaris Max Guests: 16 Cabins: 8

Altair 2 Gulet

Location: Fethiye Max Guests: 12 Cabins: 6

Amazon Solo Gulet

Location: Gocek Max Guests: 12 Cabins: 6

Ametist A Gulet

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 20 Cabins: 9

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 9 Cabins: 4

Angel 2 Gulet

Location: Bodrum Max Guests: 23 Cabins: N/A

TURKEY GULET YACHT

A gulet is a classic wooden, motorized, and sailing boat that is perfect for long sea voyages and close-to-land cruises.

Traditional Turkish gulets are made-to-order boats that skilled artisans construct from wood. Because they provide a very comfortable cruising experience, gulets, often referred to as motor sailboats, are perfect for coastal excursions and lengthy sea cruises.

We are aware that the first gulet construction began in Turkey’s Bodrum region. However, production is also taking place in Bozburun, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Istanbul as a result of the expanding market and demand.

Types of Gulets

Gulet: The gulet is the most well-known traditional yacht design for Blue Cruise. The dining table and seating area are located at the back of the gulets.

There is typically a sofa and enough sun pillows out front for everyone. The entrance to the cabins is through this hall, which features a dining table according to the size of the gulet and an interior hall.

The yacht’s round stern causes the guest quarters to be in the front, while the aft side is typically used as the technical area. The ability to sail is marginally superior to that of Aynakic gulets.

The AFT parts of Aynakic gulets are not round, as they are in gulets, but rather are in a structure with raised corners, which is a key characteristic that sets them apart from ordinary gulets.

They typically use this space for the suite room, or what we would refer to as the “master cabin.” All other details are the same as for gulets, with the exception of this characteristic.

Tirhandil is the oldest local wooden boat type with a pointed stern and the best-suited wooden yacht for sailing. Today, the equipment has changed from sloop to lifeboat and from sail to sail; the majority of them are three-corner sails.

They do not construct them on particularly lengthy decks, often between 15 and 25 meters, like other kinds. The same standards apply to their cabins. If you like sailing, this is the best option.

Accommodation on Gulets

Traditional Turkish gulets have evolved in appearance over time. A modern gulet today resembles a high-end floating hotel and can be anywhere between 15 and 55 meters (50 and 180 feet) in length. Gulet length and passenger capacity are not inversely related.

A 20-meter gulet, for instance, might contain three guest cabins or six. The cabins must be smaller in order to accommodate additional cabins of the same size. But in general, taller gulets make up vessels with six or more multi-cabs.

Every cabin on gulets of different shapes and sizes was created with the needs of the passenger in mind, including a bed, wardrobe, separate shower, and toilet.

However, extra comfort amenities like sofa sets, dressers, work desks, and jacuzzis are also available, depending on the size of the rooms and the level of luxury of the boat. There are separate cabins for personnel in the guest cabins.

Gulet Passenger Safety

On gulets, the welfare of the passengers comes first. As a result, each gulet contains numerous fuel and clean water tanks. Additionally, it features a complete set of navigation and safety equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, GSM phones, and VHF radios.

All of these safety precautions and modern technologies prevent any potential emergency and enhance your seaside vacation.

Types of Gulet Charters

Private yacht charter: When you charter a gulet, the entire vessel—along with its crew—is yours for the duration of the rental period. Within the parameters outlined in your rental agreement, you are free to take any route during the rental term.

And you are not restricted to any set timetable; you can plan your vacation however you like. You can purchase our ready-made menu packages and avoid sticking to a typically restricted menu, just as you can shop for your rations.

Renting a private gulet is the perfect choice if you want to spend a luxurious vacation at sea with your family or enjoy the sea and entertainment with close friends.

For a trip you won’t forget and wish to repeat, choose from traditional, classic, luxury, or ultra-luxury yacht charter options to suit your needs and experience.

Cabin rentals : On a shared tour, one or more cabins may be rented. The schedule for the route, lunch times, and meal components remain the same.

The purpose of in-cabin trips, which they typically arrange on classic gulets, is to experience the spirit and joy of the Blue Cruise rather than taking a vacation on a luxury yacht. Let’s say you can’t organize enough groups to rent a private gulet or you go over your budget.

Then, a cabin rental could provide you with a relaxing blue-tour vacation. Renting a cabin will help you make the most of your vacation by allowing you to cruise in style, widen your circle of friends, and meet new acquaintances on the boat.

LUXURY GULET YACHT CHARTER

Where else can you enjoy the peace and quiet of the Blue Sea, which has everything you need to make up for the weariness of the whole year? In the Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean, where there are “Blue Weeks” that never end and warm seas, you can have a great vacation.

Bluetourturkey.com has helped people for a long time. Many of our guests come back every year to see more of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. Maybe you’d like to come back and try something new. Nature gives you a great temperature, a calm sea, a lot of history and culture, and delicious food.

During the day, you can walk between boats along the coast and stop in different bays. At night, you can stay in a very quiet bay where no one else is. You can drink something cold and watch the sun go down. Or, if you want, you can tie up your boat in a busy port and enjoy the holiday mood of the people there.

Places like the blue coast of Turkey, the Greek islands, and the eastern shores of the Adriatic, Croatia, and Montenegro are also options.

For tourists looking for the sun, Turkey is very famous. Regular regional flights to international airports in southwest Turkey have made this place very easy to get to. A lot of people also visit places like Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Gocek, and Antalya during the long summer months. Each of these places is an area that can be part of the boat rental program.

Local tour operators, especially those from other parts of Europe, have a strong interest in the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. The great thing about a gulet rental vacation is that you can visit some of these islands. Rhodes, Symi, and Kos all have ports that are close to the Turkish shore. These are great islands for people who want to see places in both areas. Between the Greek islands in the west and the many Greek islands in the north, you can mix and match a lot of different options.

Let’s say you have to choose between two routes that are very different. In that case, you can get more information about each area by getting in touch with us.

GULET YACHT CHARTER IN TURKEY

Go with the rhythm and enjoy turkey..

For a luxurious exploration of a world of luxury, whether it be a historical journey, a gulet rental holiday in Turkey provides secret coves, scenic villages, and stunning and varied cruising regions.

It’s a serene location where you can enjoy some water activities or go shopping. In Turkey, there is something new to learn for everyone.

Turkey, which is in the eastern Mediterranean, is one of the top vacation spots for yachts. The best way to experience Turkey’s magnificent coastline, which features ancient ruins, azure waters, virgin coves and bays, and delectable cuisine, is with a private Gulet charter.

Turkey is a fascinating nation with roots in many different cultures, vibrant cities, and sparkling ports. The nation is among the best on the globe for your upcoming vacation because of its friendly culture. The sixth-most popular tourist destination in the world is Turkey, which also hosts the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A yacht charter in Turkey is a must-do experience because it offers a variety of tour alternatives that will appeal to everyone.

You can explore a historic location, undiscovered bays, or an old settlement. Everything you decide to undertake here turns into a life-changing journey.

Turkey Travel Guide for Gulet Rental

Depending on where you want to go, you can fly into Dalaman Airport (DLM) or Bodrum Airport (BJV) to get to your yacht in Turkish waters. For instance, Dalaman Airport would work for you if your tour departs from Gocek, Fethiye, or Marmaris.

Those of our visitors who have vacationed with us in the past are familiar with the most popular locations and attractions. However, our website includes very thorough destination, route, and travel information for our new visitors.

Visit the links for Turkey and Greece, as well as the recommended routes link for the best-selected cruise itineraries, to learn more about your intended destinations. Ask for further information and clarification on any aspects that are sticking in your mind if you are having trouble deciding which course to take.

Please consult our knowledgeable experts about it. Our staff takes the time to hear what you want and then works with you to identify the path to happiness.

You have numerous options to visit a different location every day if you choose to take a gulet rental vacation in Turkey. A fresh bay, another harbor, and an alluring island are always waiting to be discovered.

You get to decide what sights you wish to see along the trip, including pleasant islands, lovely cities, and fascinating ports. Your decision is yours.

You don’t need to rush through tariffs, plans, or lists on this holiday. Instead, you may take a drink on your yacht, watch the sunset over the water, enjoy the sea when no one else is around, and swim to your heart’s content away from the bustle and congestion.

Anchor at any port and enjoy a local-only tavern for dinner without feeling like a tourist.

In Turkey, How to Rent a Gulet

To enjoy a luxurious seaside vacation and to share this amazing experience with friends and family, you can hire a gulet. You can choose from super-luxury, luxury, classic, or affordable gulet rental options to rent the boat that best fits your budget.

Your comfort is our first focus with each choice. So sit back, unwind, and trust our knowledgeable staff to make your trip as pleasurable as possible. Keep in mind that they plan your vacation so you can unwind and enjoy it to the fullest.

To view our gulet fleet, go to our website. To report your inquiries and requests, use communication tools and question forms. Then, let our knowledgeable team do the rest. They’ll locate the ideal gulet for you and provide the most enjoyable vacation.

You may feel secure working with us. There are no hidden fees, and the booking process is simple and convenient. A money-back guarantee is offered by us.

Bluetourturkey.com Guarantee

We are a reputable yacht broker with many years of industry knowledge. We are prepared to offer services at any moment, thanks to our skilled team and vigor.

From the time you first get in touch with us until you arrive home with pleasant recollections, it is our goal to be by your side throughout the entire process.

We try our hardest to ensure that you enjoy your vacation and feel relaxed. The entire procedure is documented legally, and we always uphold your legal rights.

On our website, you may find details on yacht charter contracts, cancellation policies, and other topics. If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Embarking on a Dream Vacation: Discover the Wonders of Turkey with a Blue Cruise Gulet Holiday

Turkey is a great place to get away from everyday life because it has a lot of history and beautiful scenery. A blue cruise gulet trip is one of the most appealing ways to see this beautiful place.

There is an adventure for everyone with a variety of choices, including 3-day gulet cruises and custom excursions. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of Turkish gulet sailing. We’ll talk about the best routes, adventures, and tips for a memorable trip.

Setting sail on a 3-Day Gulet Cruise in Turkey

A 3-day Gulet cruise is a wonderful opportunity to experience Turkey’s breathtaking coastline. While sailing through crystal-clear waterways and stopping at gorgeous bays and historic ruins, learn about the highlights of this lovely country. Other well-liked itineraries include:

See the stunning Butterfly Valley, the Blue Lagoon, and the quaint hamlet of Kayaköy on your trip from Fethiye to Lüdeniz. See the magnificent Cleopatra’s Island, the historic city of Knidos, and the tranquil English Harbour on your trip from Bodrum to Gökova.

Selecting the Best Turkish Gulet Cruises

There are several things to take into account while choosing the ideal gulet cruise in Turkey, including the itinerary, time frame, and boat. Find reliable businesses that provide custom itineraries, knowledgeable personnel, and cozy accommodations.

Classic wooden sailing boats called “blue cruise gulets” are used to explore the coast of Turkey at your own pace. These boats normally hold 8 to 16 people, providing an intimate setting ideal for a special getaway. When you sail along the Turquoise Coast on a Gulet cruise, you get a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

Immerse yourself in Blue Cruise Gulet Holidays Turkey

The best way to experience Turkey’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes is on a blue cruise gulet vacation. Relax on decks bathed in sunlight, go swimming in remote bays, and eat delicious Turkish food made by your onboard chef. Some remarkable journeys’ high points include:

Seeing historical places and ancient ruins Finding secluded coves and thriving marine life Being treated with the customary Turkish hospitality Paragraph Five: Blue Voyage Gulet Turkey: A Time-Travel Trip

Discover the mysteries of the past on a blue cruise gulet tour through Turkey, which has a long history. From the ruins of Lycian cities to the beauty of Byzantine architecture, each stop gives you a fascinating look into Turkey’s long history. Among the historical sites that are a must-see are:

Myra Castle 

A blue cruise gulet vacation in Turkey is a unique way to relax, see the sights, and learn about the culture. Every traveler can have a great trip because there are so many routes and ships to choose from.

Prepare to be spellbound by Turkey’s charm as you set sail on the turquoise coast’s beautiful waters.

Book a Gulet Cruise in Turkey: Charter a Gulet for an Unforgettable Family Adventure

Charter a gulet in turkey: discover the wonders of a gulet blue cruise with your family.

One of the most popular vacation activities in Turkey is a gulet cruise. The Mediterranean and Aegean Seas’ breathtaking coastlines and crystal-clear waters can be explored on these exquisite wooden vessels, sometimes known as “gulets.”

A gulet cruise in Turkey is the ideal way for families and friends to get together and make lifelong memories while getting away from the rush and bustle of everyday life. This blog post covers how to rent a Gulet in Turkey, what to anticipate on your Gulet Blue cruise, and how to make it the ideal family trip.

Charter a Gulet in Turkey

You can rent a gulet in Turkey in many ways that suit different tastes and budgets. There are many different kinds of gulets, from simple and traditional to luxurious and modern.

Start by looking for reliable companies and websites that provide Gulet charters before making a reservation for your Gulet cruise in Turkey.

Check for client testimonials, pictures, and comprehensive details regarding the gulets that are offered. It’s time to reserve your dream trip once you’ve identified the best gulet for your requirements.

What to Expect on a Gulet Blue Cruise

A gulet blue cruise provides the ideal fusion of leisure, exploration, and cultural immersion. Your Gulet cruise can include the following:

Turkey’s coast is known for its stunning beauty, with its quiet bays, blue oceans, and beautiful islands.

Enjoy the clear seas for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. Water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and water skiing, are also available on several gulets.

Historical Sites : Go through historic sites along the shore, including lovely villages and prehistoric remains.

Enjoy delectable Turkish cuisine served freshly on board by the knowledgeable crew.

Relaxation : Take a seat on the deck, enjoy the sunshine, and allow the gentle swaying of the gulet to help you forget about your troubles.

Family Gulet Turkey: Making it the Perfect Adventure

Families can enjoy a gulet cruise in Turkey because it has plenty to offer everyone. Take into account the following advice to make your family’s Gulet cruise even more enjoyable:

Plan with the entire family in mind. Give everyone a say in the gulet, the itinerary, and the activities.

Choose a gulet that is suited for families by checking if it has games, safety features, and other amenities that your family will find useful.

Make sure there are activities for both adults and children, such as guided tours, swimming, and cultural experiences, when planning activities for all ages.

Encourage your family to spend time together without technology by playing games, talking, or just looking at the stars.

Make lasting memories by taking pictures, making videos, or writing in a travel journal about the best parts of your trip.

Families seeking rest, excitement, and cultural encounters should consider a gulet cruise in Turkey. By renting a gulet, you can customize your getaway to your needs and make priceless family memories.

What are you still holding out for? Now, reserve your family’s gulet experience in Turkey!

Gulet Blue Voyage Turkey

Introduction to gulet cruises.

Imagine sailing along the mesmerizing turquoise coastlines of Turkey on a traditional wooden yacht. That’s the essence of a gulet cruise.

A gulet is a classic Turkish wooden yacht, handcrafted to offer an unforgettable experience while exploring the bays, coves, and ancient ruins scattered along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

Turkish Coastline Delights

Turkey’s coastline boasts a mix of picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, and historical sites. From secluded bays and turquoise waters to charming fishing villages and ancient ruins, there is something for everyone.

With a Gulet cruise, you can indulge in a world of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, all while enjoying the comforts of a luxury yacht.

Different Types of Gulet Boats

Gulet boats come in many sizes and styles, from traditional wooden yachts to modern luxury boats. Each gulet gives you a unique experience that fits your needs, whether you want to relax in a quiet bay, learn about the area’s history, or do water sports.

Gulet Boat Cruises Turkey

Choosing the right gulet cruise.

When planning a gulet cruise, you should think about the type of boat, the route, the length of the trip, and the available services. Choose a company with a good name and a crew with a lot of experience. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions or read reviews from other travelers.

Top Destinations for Gulet Cruises

Most gulet cruises in Turkey go between Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Gocek, but some go as far as Antalya or the Greek Islands. Popular stops include Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kaş, Kalkan, and ancient sites like Ephesus, Xanthos, and Simena.

Gulet Boat Turkey

Features of gulet boats.

Most gulet boats have large cabins with bathrooms, air conditioning, a sun deck, and a nice place to eat. Some gulets also offer additional amenities such as a jacuzzi, water sports equipment, and Wi-Fi.

The Gulet Boat Experience

On a gulet boat, the atmosphere is more intimate and laid-back than on a big cruise ship. With fewer people on board, you’ll be able to get to know your fellow passengers and crew members better.

Also, gulets can get into smaller bays and coves, making the experience more private and off the beaten path.

Gulet Boats Turkey

Gulet boats vs. other cruises.

What makes Gulet boats different from other cruises is that they offer a personal touch and a real experience. While larger cruise ships may offer more amenities, they often lack the intimacy and charm of a gulet boat.

On a gulet, you can learn about the culture of the area, find hidden gems, and have a slower-paced, more relaxing vacation.

Gulet Bodrum

The beauty of bodrum.

Bodrum is a popular place to go on a gulet cruise because it has beautiful bays, clear water, and a lively nightlife.

This picturesque town on the Aegean coast is home to the impressive Bodrum Castle, which houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, as well as the ancient ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Bodrum’s Rich History

The history of Bodrum goes back to the ancient city of Halicarnassus, which was known for its mausoleum and skilled shipbuilders. Today, Bodrum is still proud of its maritime past, and gulet boats are a big part of the city’s booming tourism industry.

Gulet Bodrum Charter

Benefits of a gulet bodrum charter.

Chartering a gulet in Bodrum offers numerous advantages, such as:

• Flexibility : You can change your schedule and pick the places you want to see, making your trip fit your interests.
• Privacy : Enjoy a more intimate experience with your friends or family without the crowds typically found on larger cruise ships.
• Personalized service : benefit from the dedicated attention of a professional crew that caters to your needs and ensures your comfort throughout the trip.
• Authenticity : Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting small villages, exploring ancient ruins, and sampling traditional Turkish cuisine.

Tips for Choosing a Bodrum Charter

To select the perfect gulet charter in Bodrum, consider the following:

• Size and capacity : Pick a gulet that is big enough for your group and has comfortable places to live.
• Budget : Figure out how much you can spend and choose a charter that offers the level of luxury and service you want for that price.
• Reputation : Look into the charter company’s reputation and read reviews from people who have used them before to make sure everything goes smoothly and you have a good time.

Gulet Cabin Charter Turkey

Gulet cabin charter overview.

A Gulet cabin charter is a cheap way for single travelers, couples, or small groups to go on a Gulet cruise without chartering the whole boat. You’ll share the gulet with other guests, but you’ll still get the same services and amenities as on a private charter.

Advantages of a Cabin Charter

• Affordability : Cabin charters are cheaper than private gulet charters, so a wider range of travelers can go on them.
• Socializing : Meet and make friends with other travelers from all over the world who share your interests.
• Hassle-free : With a set schedule and meals included, you can focus on enjoying the trip and finding out about new places.

Discover the Magic of Gulet Charter in Turkey

Introduction to gulet charters.

A gulet charter is an exceptional way to see the breathtaking Turkish coastline. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime voyage that is full of relaxation and rich cultural encounters.

Gulet charters give you the chance to see undiscovered jewels along the coast and take you to off-limits locations to land while relaxing aboard a traditional wooden boat from Turkey.

Gulet Charter Destinations in Turkey

Along the Turkish coast, you can find some of the most beautiful and unspoiled places to sail in the Mediterranean. Antalya, Bodrum, and Fethiye are three of the main locations for gulet charters; each has its allure and charm.

Gulet Charter Antalya

The best place to start your gulet charter trip is in Antalya, which is known for its ancient sights and clear waters. Visit historic sites, sample regional cuisine, or just unwind on the golden-sand beaches.

Phaselis, Kekova, a buried city, and Kas, a lovely village, are among the attractions.

Gulet Charter Bodrum

Gulet charters often go to Bodrum, a bustling city with a fascinating history. The stunning Bodrum Peninsula, with its quiet coves and unspoiled beaches, is accessible from Bodrum. St. Peter’s Castle, Knidos, an old city, and Gumusluk’s breathtaking natural harbor are a few must-see sights.

Gulet Charter Fethiye

An excellent starting point for your gulet charter journey is Fethiye, a bustling town surrounded by blue seas and beautiful green mountains. Explore the historic city of Telmessos, cruise to the Butterfly Valley, or see the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to take a traditional Turkish bath or dine on delectable regional cuisine at a seaside restaurant.

Why Choose a Gulet Charter?

A gulet charter provides a unique and genuine approach to seeing Turkey’s breathtaking coastline. It mixes comfort and elegance with a unique, exclusive experience.

You may create your schedule, participate in a variety of activities, and fully immerse yourself in the community. You can genuinely relax and enjoy your holiday when a skilled staff handles all the details.

Planning Your Gulet Charter Adventure

Gulet charters give you many options to meet your needs, from shared cabin charters for singles or couples to private charters for families or groups of friends.

Furthermore, you may choose a regular, luxurious, or ultra-luxurious gulet according to your financial constraints and ideal degree of comfort.

Choosing the Perfect Gulet

Consider aspects like the number of rooms, onboard amenities, and general vessel design when choosing a gulet for your charter. It’s essential to confirm that your party can travel in comfort and that the gulet can meet all of your demands.

Creating an Itinerary

Making the most of your time on the Turkish coast requires planning the ideal route for your gulet charter. When choosing places to go and things to do, think about the interests and travel styles of everyone in your group, as well as how long you plan to stay.

Your gulet charter operator can give you advice and help you make a personalized schedule based on your preferences.

Food and Drinks Onboard

Nothing will make a gulet charter in Turkey complete without feasting on delectable regional food. The majority of gulet charters feature meals made by a talented chef, often using ingredients acquired locally. Before your trip, make sure to discuss any food preferences or limitations with your charter operator.

Gulet Charter Tips

To guarantee your desired gulet and travel dates, reserve well in advance.

Think about the weather, how many people are there, and what’s going on in the area when deciding when to go where you want to go.

Bring just what you’ll need, including proper footwear for exploring on land and comfortable, relaxed attire for your time on board.

To make sure that your visit is easygoing and pleasurable, get familiar with the regional traditions and manners.

Gulet Charter Gocek: An Unforgettable Experience

The beauty of gocek.

Gocek is a genuine gem, tucked away in the middle of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. This quaint seaside community is renowned for its magnificent beaches, beautiful waters, and active marina.

With its surrounding pine forests and historic ruins, Gocek is a haven for both history buffs and those who value the environment.

Gulet Charter Gocek: An Overview

Gocek’s gulet charters provide a distinctive opportunity to discover this gorgeous area. These traditional wooden sailing vessels provide a small, cozy atmosphere that is ideal for appreciating the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

A gulet charter in Gocek can accommodate any traveler’s interests and tastes thanks to the variety of available gulets, from magnificent vessels to more affordable ones.

Gulet Charter in Turkey: A Dream Vacation

Turkey’s stunning coastline.

About 8,000 kilometers of magnificent coastline in Turkey are home to pristine beaches, quiet coves, and towering cliffs. The Turquoise Coast, also known as the Turkish Riviera, is a great place for a gulet charter because it has beautiful seaside towns and clear water.

Types of Gulet Charters in Turkey

Turkey offers a variety of gulet charters, including the following:

Basic Gulet Charters

These affordable options are great for people who want to sail along the Turkish coast but don’t want to spend a lot of money.

Luxury Gulet Charters

For those who want a more luxurious experience, luxury gulet charters offer top-notch facilities, roomy staterooms, and first-rate service, which guarantees a memorable trip.

Gulet Cruises

These trips are led by professionals and combine the best parts of a traditional Gulet charter with a well-thought-out schedule. They let people see some of Turkey’s most famous landmarks and undiscovered gems.

Gulet Charter Marmaris: An Exciting Place

Discover marmaris.

The thriving resort town of Marmaris, which is situated on the Turquoise Coast, is well-known for its exciting nightlife, gorgeous marina, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Marmaris, which has a long history that dates back to antiquity and offers a mix of modern conveniences and cultural attractions, is a well-liked location for gulet charters.

Gulet Charter Marmaris: Exploring the Region

In Marmaris, you can embark on a gulet charter to explore the area’s many wonders, such as remote bays, quaint coastal towns, and historic sites. Attractions include Cleopatra Island, renowned for its golden sand and clean waters, and the Dalyan River, where you may explore the ancient city of Kaunos.

Gulet Charter Turkey Luxury: A Premium Experience

Luxury gulet charters: what to expect.

A memorable vacation is guaranteed by the unmatched comfort and service offered by luxury gulet charters in Turkey. These luxurious ships provide lavish rooms, fine dining, and a committed crew that attends to all of your needs. A luxury Gulet charter delivers a remarkable experience, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for the perfect vacation.

Top Luxury Gulet Destinations in Turkey

Many locations in Turkey are ideal for a luxury gulet charter, including:

Bodrum : Sometimes referred to as the “St. Tropez of Turkey,” Bodrum is a posh location with an active nightlife, a luxurious marina, and significant historical buildings.

Fethiye : This charming coastal city is surrounded by gorgeous bays and historic sites, making it the perfect starting point for a luxury Gulet charter.

Antalya : Serving as the starting point for trips to the Turquoise Coast, Antalya offers a unique blend of contemporary conveniences and old-world charm.

Gulet Charters Turkey: Choosing the Perfect Voyage

Factors to consider.

Plan your gulet charter in Turkey, taking into account the following elements:

Budget: Establish your spending limit before choosing a normal, luxurious, or cruise-style gulet charter. Plan your itinerary, taking into account the distances you’ll have to travel and how quickly you’d like to explore each location. Group Size: Check to be sure the gulet you choose can accommodate your group comfortably, taking into account the number of cabins and onboard amenities.

Tips for a Memorable Gulet Charter

Use these suggestions to make your Gulet charter in Turkey unforgettable:

In advance : To guarantee your selected ship and itinerary, reserve your gulet charter well in advance.

Be adaptable : Accept the impromptu nature of a sailing voyage and be willing to visit off-the-beaten-path locations.

Get active : Learn from your crew about sailing, regional traditions, and Turkish cuisine.

Gulet Cruise Charter Turkey : Setting Off on an Enchanting Adventure

The Gulet Cruise Experience

A Turkish Gulet cruise charter combines the comfort of a guided tour with the intimacy of a private sailing excursion. These cruises frequently have a pre-planned itinerary that makes it simple to see some of Turkey’s most famous locations and undiscovered gems. A Gulet cruise charter promises an immersive experience with knowledgeable staff members on board to share insights into the area’s history, culture, and natural beauties.

Gulet Cruise Routes in Turkey

Gulet cruise itineraries in Turkey come in a variety to suit a range of interests and preferences. Popular choices comprise:

The Blue Cruise : This well-known itinerary takes you around the Turquoise Coast, with stops in charming places like Bodrum, Göcek, and Fethiye.

Visit the historic sights, hidden coves, and breathtaking beaches of the Lycian Coast, which includes the buried city of Kekova and the Myra rock tombs.

The Carian Cruise will take you to places like Marmaris, Datça, and the historic city of Knidos as you explore the Carian Coast’s rich history and natural beauty.

Turkish gulet charters provide a singular and spectacular opportunity to discover the nation’s breathtaking coastline, exciting cities, and rich cultural heritage. You’re guaranteed to make priceless memories as you travel around the Turquoise Coast, whether you choose a low-cost gulet charter, an opulent sailing excursion, or an immersive gulet cruise.

Gulet Cruise Turkey: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you trying to plan an amazing vacation? Look nowhere else! A Turkish gulet cruise provides the ideal fusion of leisure, travel, and adventure. Everything you need to know about gulet cruises, including the best locations, costs, types, and advice for picking the ideal gulet for charter, will be covered in this in-depth guide. Set sail, then!

What is a Gulet Cruise?

A traditional, elegant, and comfortable wooden sailing vessel from Turkey is called a gulet. Turkey’s magnificent coastline, immaculate beaches, and historical monuments can all be explored while on a gulet cruise, which offers the height of luxury and leisure.

Top Destinations

Your gulet cruise must stop in Fethiye, which is famous for its azure waters and historic Lycian ruins. Don’t pass up the chance to visit the magnificent Butterfly Valley and the ancient city of Telmessos.

The cosmopolitan beach town of Bodrum combines history, nightlife, and leisure. See the Halicarnassus Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as the Castle of St. Peter.

The hills covered in pine trees that surround Marmaris are a thriving port city. Visit the Marmaris Castle and unwind on the breathtaking Cleopatra Beach while you’re there.

Göcek, a charming fishing village, boasts six marinas and is the perfect starting point for exploring the numerous islands and bays of Göcek Bay.

Antalya, known as the “Turkish Riviera,” offers a rich cultural experience with its ancient sites, such as Hadrian’s Gate, and stunning beaches.

Gulet Cruise Turkey Prices

Prices for gulet cruises in Turkey vary depending on the type of gulet, the route, and the length of the cruise. A regular gulet cruise costs between €3,000 and €20,000 per week, with luxury gulet cruises costing more. Included services like meals, water sports, and guided tours also affect the price.

Gulet Cruise Turquoise Coast, Turkey From Antalya to Dalaman, there is a breathtaking length of shoreline known as the “Turquoise Coast,” often called the “Turkish Riviera.” The best way to enjoy the Mediterranean is on a gulet cruise along Turkey’s turquoise coast, which will take you through secluded bays, gorgeous beach villages, and crystal-clear waters.

Gulet Cruises in Turkey: Types

Luxury gulet cruises.

The highest standard of comfort and facilities may be found on luxury gulet cruises, which feature roomy staterooms, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and gourmet meals. A lot of the time, these cruises come with special features like private chefs, masseuses, and instructors for water sports.

Traditional Gulet Cruises

Even if they are cheaper, standard gulet cruises are nonetheless cozy and fun. These gulets offer a more genuine and personal sailing experience while having fewer facilities and smaller staterooms.

Gulet Cruising in Turkey: What to Expect

Nothing compares to the thrill of gulet cruising in Turkey. You can enjoy the amenities of your gulet while seeing historic sites, unwinding on isolated beaches, and indulging in delectable Turkish cuisine.

The days are usually spent sailing, swimming, and taking in the sights, while the evenings are for leisurely dinners, stargazing, and getting to know your fellow travelers.

Gulet Cruising in Turkey: The Best Time to Go

Turkey’s mild weather and calm waters are ideal for gulet cruises between the months of May and October. The busiest travel months are July and August when costs are highest and accommodations are most crowded.

Consider going on a cruise in May, June, September, or October to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the nicer weather.

Gulet for Charter: Tips on Choosing the Right Gulet

To get the ideal gulet for your needs when searching for one for charter, take into account the following factors:

Size and capacity : Choose a gulet that can hold your group size comfortably. Think about what kind of comforts you want, like air conditioning, private bathrooms, or equipment for water sports.

Route and schedule : Make sure that the gulet’s route and schedule fit with what you want and what you’re interested in.

Budget : Take the price of the gulet into account, as well as any extra charges for the crew, meals, or activities.

Reputation : Check the gulet’s and its crew’s reputations to make sure they have a good track record of happy clients and great reviews.

A gulet cruise in Turkey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends leisure, exploration, and adventure. You may guarantee a remarkable and pleasurable holiday by taking into account the top locations, comprehending the distinctions between luxury and regular gulet cruises, and selecting the appropriate gulet for charter.

What are you still holding out for? It’s time to set sail and discover Turkey’s Turquoise Coast’s beauties!

Turkey Gulet Holiday

Are you trying to find the ideal vacation that mixes leisure, excitement, and a little bit of cultural immersion? Consider a trip on a Turkish gulet instead! The most exquisite vacation lodgings have been created from these historic wooden boats, or gulets, to provide the best possible travel experience.

Gulet Rent Turkey

When you rent a gulet in Turkey, you can choose from many different types. This lets you plan the perfect vacation.

Gulets come in a range of sizes and conveniences, so you may select one that perfectly suits your needs, whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or with a large group of friends or family.

Gulet Rental Bodrum

Bodrum has gulet rentals that can be used to see the beautiful coastline of the Bodrum Peninsula. Bodrum is a popular place for people who like to go on gulet vacations because it has beautiful beaches, clear water, and historical sites.

Gulet Rental Marmaris

Gulet rental Marmaris is another well-liked location for gulet vacations. Marmaris, a city on the Turkish Riviera, is renowned for its thriving nightlife, stunning marina, and charming old town.

A Marmaris gulet cruise is certain to be a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Gulet Rental Turkey

Turkey is a great place to rent a gulet, whether you want to see the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul, the historic ruins of Ephesus, or the crystal-clear seas of the Mediterranean.

You may design the ideal gulet vacation to fit your hobbies and preferences thanks to the myriad customization possibilities.

Planning a Gulet Tour

Choosing your gulet, types of gulet s.

Standard, luxury, and deluxe gulets are among the different varieties that can be rented. Your budget and desired amenities will determine the kind you select.

Gulet Amenities

Gulets have many amenities to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable. Ensuite restrooms, air conditioning, sun decks, and even hot tubs could be a few of these.

While choosing your gulet, be sure to take into account the amenities that are most important to you.

Selecting Your Route

Popular destinations for gulets.

You should think about the numerous locations you want to see when organizing your gulet trip to Turkey. The Greek Islands, the turquoise seashore, and the ancient Lycian sites are a few well-liked alternatives.

Booking Your Gulet Tour

It’s time to reserve your gulet tour once you’ve decided on your gulet and determined your route. It’s best to make reservations early because gulet vacations are popular and there may not be many spots available during peak times.

On board a Gulet Tour

Activities and excursions.

You’ll have the chance to take part in a range of activities and excursions while on your gulet tour. There is something for everyone, from seeing historic ruins and quaint villages to snorkeling and scuba diving in the pristine waters.

Your crew can help you create an agenda that includes things you’ll enjoy if you let them know your interests.

Life Onboard

A gulet’s life is a singular and fascinating experience. You may fully unwind and take pleasure in your vacation with the dedicated personnel attending to all of your needs.

A gulet vacation offers the ideal balance of rest and action, whether you’re relaxing on the sun deck, enjoying delectable local food, or just taking in the stunning vistas.

A vacation on a Turkish gulet is a great way to see the country’s beautiful coastline and learn about its rich history and culture.

Your ideal vacation is only a reservation away thanks to the large selection of gulets available and the limitless possibilities for customization. Why then wait? Today is the time to organize your amazing gulet tour!

Gulet Trips Turkey: A Luxurious Escape

Unveiling the allure of gulet trips in turkey.

Gulet trips in Turkey are getting more and more popular with tourists who want a unique and luxurious vacation. Fishermen and sponge divers used gulets, a traditional wooden sailing vessel, first in the Mediterranean.

These vessels have evolved through time into opulent floating mansions that provide their visitors with priceless memories.

The Origins of the Gulet

The gulet comes from the coast of Turkey, where it was used as a cargo and fishing boat for many years. Modern gulets are more luxurious and have more modern amenities to meet the needs of tourists who want a unique and memorable vacation.

Luxury Gulet Holidays Turkey: A Unique Experience

What makes luxury gulets stand out.

Turkey’s luxury gulet vacations provide a distinctive fusion of luxury, adventure, and comfort. These wooden vessels are made to order with fine craftsmanship and meticulous attention to every last detail.

The large decks, luxurious suites, and chic lounges provide a homey yet refined ambiance. The expert crews on luxury gulets also attend to your every need, guaranteeing a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience.

The Delights of a Luxury Gulet Holiday

In Turkey, a luxurious gulet vacation offers a wide range of delights. You’ll discover picturesque coves, swim in clear waters, and relax on stunning beaches.

Together with enjoying the individualized treatment of your crew, you will also indulge in delectable regional food and tour historic sites.

Exploring the Best Luxury Gulet in Turkey

The finest luxury gulet vessels.

Turkey has a wide range of high-end gulets, and each one has its special features and appeal. Some of the best yachts have modern entertainment systems, bathrooms in each cabin, and large master suites.

Jacuzzis, water sports gear, and even onboard spas are amenities found on other luxurious gulets.

Top Destinations for Gulet Holidays

The breathtaking coastline of Turkey offers a wide variety of locations for gulet vacations. The Gulf of Hisarönü, the Gulf of Gökova, and the Turquoise Coast are a few of the most well-liked cruising areas.

Every region has its charm, with stunning coastlines, adorable fishing towns, and intriguing historical monuments just waiting to be discovered.

Luxury Gulets in Turkey: What to Expect

Accommodations and amenities.

On a luxury gulet vacation in Turkey, you may anticipate first-rate accommodations and conveniences. The majority of luxury gulets include roomy cabins with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, and plush mattresses.

A chic lounge, a well-stocked kitchen, and a large dining space are frequently found in the communal areas. The decks have sun loungers, covered resting places, and outdoor dining areas to promote relaxation.

Cuisine on a Luxury Gulet

The delectable cuisine is one of the pleasures of a luxury gulet vacation. Using local, fresh ingredients, your private chef will prepare delicious meals that feature both Turkish specialties and other cuisines.

You can anticipate lavish breakfast buffets, leisurely lunches, and magnificent dinners that are all customized to your tastes.

Onboard Activities

During a luxury gulet vacation, there are a lot of things to do on board to keep you busy. You may explore the Mediterranean’s pristine waters by using the paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment that many gulets provide.

A few opulent gulets also provide yoga mats, fishing gear, and even gyms aboard to make sure there is something for everyone.

Planning Your Private Gulet Charter Turkey

How to choose the right gulet.

When planning a private gulet charter in Turkey, it’s important to choose the right boat for your needs. Think about things like the number of people in your group, your spending limit, and your preferred amenities.

To guarantee a hassle-free sailing trip, it’s also crucial to examine the gulet operator’s reputation and the crew’s level of experience.

Reservations for Your Gulet Charter

It’s time to make your charter reservations once you’ve discovered the ideal gulet. To assure availability, it is advisable to book your luxury gulet far in advance, especially during the busiest times of the year.

To ensure a customized vacation experience, don’t forget to discuss your itinerary, culinary preferences, and any special requests with the operator.

Advice for a Fantastic Gulet Vacation

Take into account the following advice to get the most out of your luxurious gulet vacation in Turkey:

Together with swimsuits and sun protection, bring just lightweight, casual attire. You’ll have plenty of time for relaxing, so bring a book or two. Be willing to attempt new things, like paddleboarding or snorkeling. Take advantage of the chance to unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Turkey’s luxury gulet vacations provide a singular and unforgettable experience. These wooden boats are the ideal environment for a restful and exciting getaway because of their exquisite designs, first-rate amenities, and attentive service.

You may ensure that you will have lifelong memories by carefully planning your private gulet charter and enjoying the Turkish seaside.

Luxury Gulet Cruise Turkey: A Comprehensive Guide to Turkey Gulet Charters and Cruises

Introduction to luxury gulet cruises in turkey.

Do you have visions of a wonderful getaway on Turkey’s turquoise waters? The best way to discover this fascinating nation’s gorgeous coasts and secret harbors is on a luxurious gulet cruise.

This article will delve into the world of luxurious Turkish gulets and provide you with all the details you need to organize the ideal gulet cruise in Turkey.

Types of Luxury Gulet Cruises in Turkey

Boutique gulet charters.

Boutique gulet charters are perfect for people who want something unique, private, and tailor-made. These smaller gulets, which can hold between 6 and 12 people, have luxurious amenities and a crew that will take care of your every need.

Ultra-Luxury Gulet Charters

Ultra-luxurious gulet charters offer comfort and extravagance that can’t be found anywhere else. These gulets offer an amazing cruise experience thanks to their roomy accommodations, cutting-edge technology, and top-notch service.

Turkey Gulet Cruise Itineraries

Blue cruise.

The picturesque itinerary of the renowned Blue Cruise takes you along Turkey’s southern coast. When you go by boat from Bodrum to Antalya or the other way around, you’ll pass by stunning coves, historic sites, and quaint coastal towns.

Fethiye and Göcek

On this alluring gulet trip, explore the alluring Gulf of Fethiye and the nearby islands. You’ll explore quiet bays, go to the quaint hamlet of Göcek, and be in awe of the Blue Lagoon in Lüdeniz’s natural splendor.

Marmaris and Bodrum

From Bodrum to Marmaris, you can take a cruise along the beautiful coast, stopping at charming towns, busy ports, and unspoiled beaches. This varied trip combines history, culture, and leisure.

Experiences on a Luxury Turkish Gulet

Onboard comfort and amenities.

Luxurious gulets rival any five-star hotel in terms of comfort and relaxation. After a day of exploration, spacious accommodations with air conditioning and private bathrooms offer the ideal escape.

There is always something to keep you engaged on board thanks to the sun deck, Jacuzzi, and water toys.

Culinary Delights

One of the highlights of every opulent gulet cruise is the delicious food that a talented chef has prepared. You can eat traditional Turkish food made with fresh, local ingredients as well as popular dishes from around the world that have been adapted to suit your tastes.

Enjoy al fresco dining with great wines and breathtaking views on the deck or in the magnificent dining room.

Excursions and Activities

There are many options for exploration and adventure on a lavish gulet cruise. See historic sites, go on a hike through luscious forests, or stroll through charming towns.

Take your hand at water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving, or just unwind on a remote beach.

Choosing the Right Gulet for Your Turkey Cruise

Size and capacity.

Take your intended passenger count into account when choosing a gulet for your cruise. While larger gulets can accommodate larger parties or special events, smaller gulets are suitable for small gatherings.

Gulet Features

Think about the aspects of a gulet that are most important to you, like the number of cabins, the design, and the amenities. While some gulets feature a more traditional appearance, others feature contemporary features.

Budget Considerations

The price of a luxury gulet charter can vary a lot based on its size, amenities, and level of service. Set a budget and choose a gulet that meets your needs without going overboard.

Booking Your Turkey Gulet Charter

It’s time to reserve your voyage after selecting the ideal gulet. Contact a gulet charter firm with a good reputation and a focus on high-end Turkish gulets.

They can assist you in finding the best deals, organizing your travel plans, and making sure all the details are covered.

Tips for a Memorable Gulet Cruise Experience

When making plans, be flexible and leave room for last-minute changes based on the weather and other things going on in the area.

To ensure a tailored experience, let the crew know your preferences and expectations. Take part in new activities and gastronomic delights while embracing the local culture. Unplug from technology and take in your surroundings’ tranquility and natural beauty. Storage space on gulets can be scarce, so don’t overpack. Comfortable attire, swimsuits, sunscreen, and a hat are necessities.

A luxurious gulet cruise in Turkey is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the beautiful coasts and hidden treasures of the country in comfort and style.

There is a cruise that is ideal for everyone thanks to the diversity of gulet options and itineraries available. Arrange the turkey gulet cruise of your dreams to make lifelong memories.

Bodrum Blue Cruise Tours

Bodrum to Marmaris Blue Cruise I Bodrum to Gokova Hisaronu Cruise I Bodrum to Gocek Blue Cruise

Fethiye Blue Cruise Tours

Fethiye Oludeniz and Gocek Blue Cuise I Fethiye Olympos Blue Cruise I Fethiye Kekova Blue Cruise

Marmaris Blue Cruise Tours

Marmaris Bodrum Blue Cruise Tour I Marmaris Fethiye Marmaris Blue Cruise I Dodecanese Islands Marmaris

Gocek Blue Cruise Tours

Gocek Oludeniz Fethiye Blue Cruise I Gocek Blue Cruise I Gocek Marmaris Blue Cruise

Luxury gulet charter in Turkey

Top 10 best value gulets to charter in turkey, chosen out of more than 1,000 options..

Get more ideas   Check gulets

How we can help you with a gulet Charter in Turkey:

Our expert will find the perfect gulet for your group out of more than 1.000 options.

A customer support team is available for you 24/7 to organize the best itinerary and the most enjoyable activities in Turkey tailored to your wishes.

The food and drinks packages are our speciality in Turkey and will be happy to plan out every detail of your trip to serve your tastes buds as well.

We offer non-stop support during the cruise for anything you might need.

Gulet Expert Recommendations:

Top 10 gulets to charter from turkey that offer  best value for money, (listed from deluxe to standard gulets).

Halcon del Mar :

Halcon Del Mar is one of the largest luxury gulets in Turkey built-in 2018. It has an extraordinary amount of space with a jacuzzi on deck & can accommodate 16 guests in 8 cabins.

Price: 45.500€ – 59.500€ per week

Queen of Salmakis:

Deluxe 39 meters Queen of Salmakis’s can accommodate 18 pax in 8 cabins (2 masters, 4 double and 2 triple cabins). Built for season 2019, we inspected her while in the shipyard and when completed.

Price: 28.000€ – 54.000€ per week

Mare Nostrum:

With its 43 m length, Mare Nostrum is one of the largest wooden construction boats in Turkey. Super-sized traditional wooden gulet has 6 cabins for 12 guests who can enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Price: 50.000€ per week

Bella Mare:

Bella Mare is a perfect example of a Turkish wooden vessel and is a great charter choice for sailing in the comfort of a luxury home. Gulet can accommodate up to 12 passengers in 2 master suites with french beds, 2 double cabins with french beds and 2 twin cabins with two single beds.

Price: 28.000€ – 42.000€ per week

Kaptan Kadir:

Gulet Kaptan Kadir is the sister ship of the famous Mare Nostrum where the mahogany and teak has been masterfully carved. She offers 6 very large cabins to accommodate 12 pax families or a corporate yacht charter with utmost security and comfort.

Price: 35.000€ – 40.000€ per week

Wicked Felina:

Luxurious Wicked Felina from Turkey has 5 spacious cabins and a professional crew of 4 that aims to provide you with high-quality service on board. For those who want to stay active, there are various watersport possibilities like sub wing, windsurfer, wakeboard, and water skiing.

Price: 17.500€ – 23.800€ per week

Smyrna is a special luxury gulet from Turkey that has an outstanding sun deck area and leisure area on the front deck. Smyrna is ideal for families, close friends, or people who love to be on the go since she offers a vast choice of watersport toys on board too. She can accommodate up to 8 people in her 4 cabins.

Price: 9.625€ – 18.640€ per week

Maske 2 completely stands out with its robust and flamboyant structure and high level of comfort as well as a generous variety of watersports and outdoor deck spaces. Furthermore, she is one of the rare gulets that can have great sailing performances, thanks to full-fledged sailing equipment.

Price: 12.740€€ – 16.380€ per week

Derin Deniz:

Derin Deniz is a 5-star ship ideal for those who want to travel in style and luxury and still be on the budget. Another important highlight is the fact that the crew was also recently awarded with best crew award, a good time is a guarantee.

Osman Kurt:

This deluxe classic wooden ketch can accommodate up to 16 VIP guests. You can expect high-class service with skilled and dedicated personnel, all in order to provide the best lifetime experience in a cosy and comfortable yacht.

Price: 7.000€ – 14.000€ per week

The entire gulet fleet in Turkey

Find all available gulets to charter in turkey sorted by price, how to book the perfect gulet cruise holiday in turkey:.

• Send us an inquiry and outline all your preferences for your cruise.
• Once you have outlined your preferences, dates, location, group size, and configuration, our experienced gulet experts will research the best gulet charter idea.
• We will closely work together and create a food and drink menu according to your wishes.
• We’ll tailor every aspect of your gulet charter, giving attention to the smallest details to ensure your trip is memorable.
• If you need any extra help you have our support before, during and after the cruise.

Turkey gulet cruise prices:

• The price of a gulet charter Turkey ranges from €5,000 per group per week to around €100,000. Prices vary according to the gulet size and its category (standard, deluxe, luxury).
• The quoted price includes: Personal assistance – Personal preparation for the cruise – Route planning – Port and tourist taxes – Support during the cruise – Fuel during the cruise – Service on board
• The charter price in Turkey usually excludes: Meals on board – Drinks – Private marinas – Entrances to national parks and other shore-based excursions. These additional costs can be paid directly to the captain of your gulet.

FIND YOUR PERFECT GULET IN TURKEY

Send us a brief outline and one of our cruise experts will contact you with some initial suggestions. we offer free advice to our clients., more turkey gulet cruise info.

Top luxury blue cruise destinations in Turkey

There are many fascinating hidden gems scattered across the charming turquoise Turkish coast.

Since choices are a bit overwhelming and beautiful destinations are plentiful, it is important to understand what are the best and most captivating islands, towns, bays and villages you could enjoy during the journey.

Get inspired and learn more about the  most popular destinations you can discover .

Blue Voyage Turkey – Top Cruise programs and routes

The most known four main blue cruise regions are Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris, and Gocek.

However, there are many more beautiful places and private charter routes are very flexible so everything can be adapted to your wishes and needs.

Explore some of our route suggestions   organized according to different group structures.

The Most Incredible Top 5 Beaches In Turkey

Most of Turkey’s beaches are located among the country’s peninsula and they are rarely crowded even in the high summer season.

So if you are looking for authenticity, clear turquoise waters, sandy shores with endless sun you hit the jackpot!

Discover the top 5 incredible beaches you’ll simply fall in love with!

How does a day on gulet cruise look like? Will I be bored?

Some people might be worried that these cruises might get boring for them or kids, but we must inform you that the possibilities for a good time are truly endless.

We prepared a post where we explained  how a day on a Blue Cruise can look like , and what are the things you can do on gulets.

Quick Tips You Must Know before Rent a Gulet in Turkey

If you are interested in the Turkey gulet cruise we prepared 6 ultimate tips and a bit of excellent general advice that you should know before planning your holiday.

Blue Cruise Turkey is a truly special type of holiday and   these quick tips  can be very helpful with panning.

About gulet expert

GuletExpert.com s pecialized only for gulet charters in destinations from all over the world with the team of the best gulet charter experts in the world!

Thanks to many years of experience and close relationships with owners, we know the backstory of every gulet, and we can with confidence say that we will successfully assist you with planning your entire gulet cruise experience to absolute perfection.

START PLANNING YOUR GULET CRUISE

Send us your inquiry and let one of our gulet experts help organise the best cruise holiday of your life., about guletexpert.

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Don’t have a big enough group to charter your own gulet? Don’t worry! Cabin charters are a great alternative for an amazing blue cruise experience.  With tours in Turkey, the Greek Islands and Croatia there’s plenty to choose from.

TURKEY & GREEK ISLANDS GULET CRUISES

Type of Boat:  Luxury Gulet Duration:  7 Nights – 8 Days Route:  Bodrum – Gulf of Gokova – Bodrum Departure Day:  Saturdays Embarkation:  Bodrum Marina Embarkation Time:  15:30 Disembarkation:  Bodrum Marina Disembarkation Time:  Before 09:30 a.m. after breakfast

Departures: Every Saturday between 4 May and 26 October

Luxury Gulet Cruises Offer: - Sailing weather permitting (at captain’s discretion) - Adjustable A/C throughout (limited use) - Spacious cabins - High quality food - TV and DVD player - Wi-fi - Great range of water sports and water toys

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Day 1: Bodrum

Transfer to the lively and historic Bodrum marina and board your luxurious gulet in the afternoon. Your captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board. Spend the first night on board in Bodrum marina or a nearby bay.

Day 2: Cati

Depart from Bodrum for the Gulf of Gokova, a stretch of the Aegean where the sea displays the most remarkable hues of blue. The rugged coastline with its myriad small bays and harbours gives way to a stunning backdrop of pine-clad hills and mountains. Continue your gulet charter and cruise onto Cati Bay where we will spend the rest of the day, relaxing. Cati is a beautiful natural harbour surrounded by pine trees, fantastic for swimming and walks through the scented pine forests.

Day 3: Seven Islands – Kufre Bay

After breakfast, we set sail to explore Yedi Adalar (Seven Islands), a chain fringed by coral reefs, of six large and many small islands. Each island has its own natural beauty, including beaches, pine forests, and beautiful Styrax (or Sorax, sweet gum, liquid-amber) trees, which are native to this region, and have provided resin to make perfumes and incense since ancient times. The locals extract the sap from the sweet gum trees to produce Storax, which is used for medicinal purposes.

There are many secluded beaches and coves here where you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Overnight in the Seven Islands region will be Kufre Bay.

Day 4: Cleopatra Island – English Harbour

After breakfast continue on your gulet cruise to Cleopatra Island, site of the reputed love-nest created by Mark Anthony for the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra. Here you can find extensive archaeological remains scattered along one of Turkey’s most breathtaking golden beaches.

Day 5: Longoz Bay – Ballisu – Tuzla

Set sail for the Longoz Bay, where the forest touches the water’s edge and offers some lovely hiking opportunities. In the early evening drop anchor in Tuzla for overnight, after a stop for swimming in Ballisu. Ballisu (meaning ‘honey water’) is another site of incredible natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Day 6: Cokertme

Cruise on your gulet holiday, to the picturesque fishing village of Cokertme, nestling in the foothills of the Kiran Mountains. Here you can hike through the village’s winding pathways, some of them not much more than a goat path and explore this amazing region. (Optional): A short sail south will bring you to the intriguing village of Oren. If the sea is calm, you can drop anchor at the sea wall and either walk about a mile or take a minibus up to the old village. Here you will find villagers living amongst the ruins of ancient Keramos. If you explore the various footpaths, you will eventually come across an ornately carved temple doorway (now part of a barn wall), the remains of a Byzantine church at the bottom of a garden complete with a clearly visible fresco, and the remains of a Roman bath complex.

Day 7: Kisebuku – Bodrum

This morning cruise along the scenic Gokova shores to the pine-clad Bay of Kisebuku. Opt for a stop at Orak Island. In the afternoon, sail into Bodrum harbour. Cosmopolitan Bodrum, with its variety of delightful restaurants, popular night clubs, upmarket boutiques and international marinas attracts many visitors.

Take the opportunity to visit the historical side of this resort, the 15th century Crusader castle, containing the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, exhibits ancient shipwrecks raised off the coast of Turkey, and a preserved Carian princess’ tomb dating to the time of Alexander the Great. The remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World is located nearby.

Day 8: Bodrum

You leave the boat with precious memories in the morning after breakfast.

•Prices above are per person per week sharing a double or master cabin •Single Supplement is 75% •Children under the age of 8 aren’t allowed

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE • All meals on board, soft drinks and wine during dinner service (other alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the onboard bar) • All charter & berth taxes, harbour & port procedures • Transit log & related formalities for the shipping agents • Mooring expenses • Crew service • Clean bed linen, bath and beach towels • Use of equipment on board (Flippers, snorkel and fishing tackle etc.). • Yacht insurance (We advise you to take out individual travel insurance) • Turkish V.A.T.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE • Flights (Can be arranged on request) • Transfers (Can be arranged on request) • Optional land tours and entrance fees to historical sites and museums

Type of Boat:  Luxury Gulet Duration:  7 Nights – 8 Days Route: Bodrum  -  Northern Greek Islands – Bodrum Departure Day:  Saturdays Embarkation:  Bodrum Embarkation Time:  15:30 Disembarkation:  Bodrum Disembarkation Time:  Before 09:30 a.m. after breakfast

Your gulet cruise starts in the bustling resort town of Bodrum. Your captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board in Bodrum Harbour. Spend the first night on board in Bodrum harbour, or if all the guests have arrived then your gulet can depart for Kalymnos straightaway.

Day 2: Kalymnos

After passing through customs in Bodrum and we depart for Kalymnos. Before arriving to the harbour of Kalymnos, anchor in the hidden natural harbour of Vathi, which is the most fertile spot of the island. The lovely houses in the village of Rina trickle down the slopes of two hills, while a small part of the settlement lies in the verdant valley that extends to the fishing village and the natural fjord-like gulf beyond. The charming village fringed with citrus orchards boasts one main street and a scattering of houses; an unexpected patch of lush vegetation on an otherwise dry and arid-looking island. Vathi is the only place on the island that is lucky enough to have its own spring water supply, and here it is used carefully to cultivate citrus fruits, figs, grapes and anything else that can be persuaded to grow!

This deep blue inlet is also home to a cluster of picturesque church remains dating from the early Byzantine period to the more recent past, which can be accessed after a short walk. We stop here for lunch on board, and for swimming and snorkelling in the most incredible waters. You can even try some rock climbing here. Before watching the sunset with cocktails on deck and stepping on shore to dine at one of the 2 tiny tavernas in Vathi where the octopus is a must-try!

Day 3: Telendos – Patmos

On the way to Patmos your yacht will visit the islet of Telendos, which is located 700 meters from Kalymnos. Until 535 CE this tiny island was actually part of Kalymnos until an earthquake separated the two. It is a lovely quiet spot with no roads and no cars; just warm and genuine Greek hospitality. A strip of tavernas offering fabulous views back to the escarpment of Kalymnos itself lines the waterfront, and the tiny village has a paved and shady main street which soon leads you to a couple of lovely beaches on the west side of the island.

Away from crowds, Telendos is a haven for soaking up some quiet time, as well as another hotspot for climbing. Spend the day lazing in the sun, walk along the sea front in the shade of the tamarisk trees, and swim or snorkel in crystal clear waters from your gulet yacht in one of the small secluded coves dotted around the island. The On the Rock establishment on Telendos offers a choice of incredibly tasty Greek signature dishes including freshly caught fish, octopus and moussaka, which taste even better from this fantastic location by the sea. Don’t miss sampling a few from the extensive cocktail and Greek beer menu.

From here, sail to Patmos and dock in the main port of Skala. Patmos’ breathtaking scenery and special atmosphere have made it an ideal getaway for those seeking inspiration or a quiet retreat. The island is built around the important Monastery of St. John and its medieval fortress, which is visible from nearly everywhere on the island, and stands overlooking Chora as a reminder of Patmos’ historical and spiritual significance. St. John is said to have penned the Book of Revelations and the Apocalypse here on Patmos. The monastery houses some spectacular frescoes and a museum well worth visiting. The smaller monastery of the Apocalypse halfway down the hill from Chora, grew up around the grotto where the Evangelist is said to have heard the voice of God.

Day 4: Lipsi

Wake up to the sunshine, have a relaxing breakfast on board and then spend the morning exploring Lipsi. Perhaps head out and cruise to one of the untouched bays or sandy beaches along the coast for swimming and relaxing on board.

The virgin nature, crystal clear waters, beaches and the relaxing atmosphere of Lipsi Island attract tourists looking for total seclusion and privacy. This is a frequent destination among naturists and hikers, as many beaches can only be reached on foot or by boat. A fortress crowns the uppermost peak of the island, and in the scattering of small tavernas and cafes below you will find local delicacies like the traditional thyme honey, wine, cheese and grapes.

There are so many small churches in the island that it is said there is 1 church for each family in Lipsi. Panaghia tou Harou architecturally has a local feel, Byzantine in perception yet austere and unpretentious. As yet unexcavated, the church was built sometime between the 7th and 8th Century CE. The holy icon of the Virgin here, holding Jesus crucified, is reputed to be of miraculous powers. The uniqueness of the concept and the skill of the rendition make this icon one of the brightest moments in hagiography.

Now to Lipsi’s beautiful beaches! Lientou is by far the most popular and located in town. Venture a little further and discover the Kampos, Platys Yialos – a delightful sandy strip of land stretching out to sea, and the exceptionally stunning sandy beach of Papandria in the south facing the island of Leros. Chochlakoura beach is loved for its pebbles, flat rocks and scenic caves, while Tourkomnima, Xirokampos, Monodendri and Kamares are all remote beaches of wild beauty, and definitely worth the expedition to visit.

Day 5: Leros

Cruise to the small island of Leros, the island of Diana, Goddess of Hunting. This is an island of small fertile valleys sandwiched between rolling green hills, deep coves and pretty beaches. Depending on the winds, dock in the harbor of Agia Marina or the more secluded bay of Panteli.

Pandeli is the oldest fishing village in Leros, where most of the residents are still in the fishing trade, and located in the island’s most picturesque spot surrounded by enchanting landscapes of green trees, steep mountains and excellent coves.

The small settlement is built amphitheatrically around the natural bay and joins with Platanos, the quaint harbor of Agia Marina, which has selective local shops located in old traditional buildings that sell antiques and crafts. The town of Alinda is also gorgeous with its attractive pebble beach and hip beach clubs. These waterfront towns hold most cultural interest, with their neoclassical buildings and pleasant village atmosphere.

Leros has a magnificent crusader castle or better known as Kastro, It is a strong medieval fortress presiding over the villages of Pandeli and Agai Marina, with spectacular views of the mountainous landscape and the sea. It is a rigorous uphill climb from either village, but once at the top it is truly picturesque and a lovely walk back down directly into either village. The island is a paradise for foodies with a rich culinary heritage, featuring many unique Lerian specialties. You can find the best combination of the local and fusion cuisine, witnessed by the seaside El Greco Restaurant on the Panteli beach. Make sure to try the tuna carpaccio and phyllo bread stuffed with soft goat cheese.

The patisserie-cafe To Paradosiako, meaning ‘The Traditional’ in Greek, is in Agia Marina’s harbor, has a lovely setting on the water and offers some of the most delicious and creative treats you can find. With contemporary and spiced up traditional flavors, you will be spoilt for choice with what’s on offer here.

After dinner Leros comes alive in bars and nightclubs that feature local Bouzouki as well as contemporary music, warm hospitality and a laid-back ambience, which is at its best in Panteli and Agia Marina.

Day 6: Turgutreis – Orak Island

From here cross back into Turkish waters and from Turgutreis, sail south to into the Gulf of Gokova, a stunning stretch of the Aegean where the sea displays its most remarkable hues. The rugged coastline with its myriad small bays and harbors gives way to a lush backdrop of pine-clad hills and mountains. Drop anchor near Orak Island, one of the Gulf’s large islands, and this one known for its rich sea life and crystal clear water, a perfect site for snorkelling.

Day 7: Kisebuku Bay (Or Ciftlik Bay)

This morning cruise to the gorgeous Bay of Kisebuku. Take advantage of the calm midday hours, sailing smoothly along the Gokova shores. Afternoon come into the Bodrum harbour.

Your gulet trip comes to an end with precious memories. Disembarkation by 09:30 after breakfast.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE • All meals on board, soft drinks and wine during dinner service (other alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the onboard bar) • All charter & berth taxes, harbour & port procedures • Transit log & related formalities for the shipping agents • Mooring expenses • Crew service • Clean bed linen, bath and beach towels • Use of equipment on board (Flippers, snorkel and fishing tackle etc.) • Yacht insurance (We advise you to take out individual travel insurance) • Turkish V.A.T.

Type of Boat:  Luxury Gulet Duration:  7 Nights – 8 Days Route:  Bodrum – Gulf of Hisaronu -  Bodrum Departure Day:  Saturday Embarkation:  Bodrum Harbour Embarkation Time:  15:30 Disembarkation:  Bodrum Harbour Disembarkation Time:  By 09:30 a.m. after breakfast

Departures: Every Saturday between 4 May and 26 October

Transfer to the lively and historic Bodrum marina and board your luxurious gulet in the afternoon. Your captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board to start your gulet holiday. Spend the first night on board in Bodrum harbour or a nearby bay.

Day 2: Knidos – Kargi

Depart on your gulet charter and sail across the Gulf of Gokova to the ancient site of Knidos, where the Mediterranean and Aegean seas meet. Knidos is famous in antiquity for the cult of Aphrodite which originated here. The city was built on terraces rising to the acropolis, with a theatre overlooking one of the 2 harbours, temples, one dedicated to Aphrodite, a basilica and also remains of Greek and Roman houses can be seen. Later, cruise onto the beautiful bay of Kargi for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Datca – Ciftlik Bay and Bencik

Early morning we journey on to the resort of Datça, situated on the southern shore, which has a natural harbour and a promenade with restaurants and bars dotted along. Datca is renowned for its warm climate and natural beauty, a perfect spot for experiencing the rural life in Turkey. Eski (Old Town) Datca is particularly charming. After a swim stop in Ciftlik Bay you arrive in the amazing Bencik Bay. Bencik looks like a small fjord and is situated at the narrowest part of the Datca peninsula. The inlet extends inland about 1.5 nautical miles and has tree lined slopes on either side.

Day 4: Selimiye – Bozburun

Today you cruise into Selimiye Bay, one of the safest natural harbours in the Gulf of Hisarönü. Surrounded by spectacular scenery and largely unspoiled, the village of Selimiye seems as though it was frozen in time. You will have a chance to walk around the village before cruising to Bozburun, an idyllic fishing village. It used to be the centre of sponge diving along the Turkish coast, but nowadays locals here earn their living by building the typical broad-beamed wooden gulets.

Day 5: Bozukkale

Depart for the Bay of Bozukkale, which means ‘broken castle’ as one side of the castle is missing. The entrance to the bay is guarded by an ancient citadel 350 meters long and 30 meters wide. In ancient times it was known as the city of Loryma and throughout history this port was used bythe Greek navy forces during Peloponnese Sea. The Colossus, at nearby Rhodes, was built to celebrate the defeat of Antigonus’ invasion force in 305 B.C. It was in Bozukkale Bay that the invasion fleet was assembled. Hike up to the ruins for some spectacular views of the Greek Islands of Simi and Rhodes.

Day 6: Palamutbuku – Mersincik

After breakfast,we will set sail for Palamutbükü, renowned for its crystal clear waters, fresh fish and delicious locally grown almonds.. Later, cruise to Mersincik in the Gulf of Gokova, an impressive secluded bay, surrounded by high mountains and woods, with crystal clear waters making it an ideal spot to spend the night.

Day 7: Kisebuku Bay – Orak Island

Cross the Gulf of Gokova to the pine-clad Bay of Kisebuku. Take advantage of the calm morning hours sailing smoothly along the Gokova shores. Opt for a stop at Orak Island. Enter into Bodrum harbour during afternoon. Cosmopolitan Bodrum, with its variety of delightful restaurants, popular night clubs, upmarket boutiques and international marinas attracts many visitors. Take the opportunity to visit the historical side of this resort, the 15th century Crusader castle, containing the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, exhibits ancient shipwrecks raised off the coast of Turkey, and a preserved Carian princess’ tomb dating to the time of Alexander the Great. The remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World is located nearby.

Your gulet cruise comes to an end with precious memories. Disembarkation by 09:30 after breakfast.

CROATIAN BOAT CRUISES

A TASTE OF GULET HOLIDAYS

Available departures

Gulet cruise cabin charters run from May to the end of October. To enquire please use the form below. Please state your preferred route and any additional info in the message box such as special requests or extending your stay.

Tour score and score breakdown

Based on 5 reviews

Guest reviews

Had a superb cruise from Marmaris to Fethiye and back. Everyhing was a 9.5 or 10 out of 10 for me. Thank you Ahmet for putting up with my endless questions.

It was all great.

I went on the Northern Greek Islands tour. It was a beautiful holiday. The crew were very helpful and respectful. I was impressed with the teamwork. It was great to meet different people. The gulet, the facilities on the gulet and the crew were excellent. Food was very good.

It would have been good to have a mix of some single people like myself. But a beautiful holiday.

We went on the all inclusive luxury cruise from Bodrum on a gulet called Flas VII. The service we received from Gulet Escapes throughout was excellent. 10/10.

It took us a while to find our boat.

I went on the all inclusive luxury cruise with my wife and 2 kids. We were greeted with a cocktail on the first day which was a nice surprise. Our cabn was really spacious and comfy. The gulet was absolutely amazing as well. Had lots of space and water sport things and stuff. Kids really enjoyed it and spent the whole time in the water. So overall it was a great holiday!

It's a great way to see the Turkish Coastline. Amazing scenery. the best pool in the world (which you're surrounded by the whole time basically) and amazing food. Boat was comfy enough but don't expect luxury. You get what you pay for.

We had to skip a spot that I really wanted to go. It was coz of wind can't blame anyone.

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13 Day Unforgettable Turkey & Gulet Cruise

pp Twin Share

From pp Twin Share

Small Group

Fully Escorted

Gulet Cruise

Moderate Pace

These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.

This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

A gulet is a wooden yacht usually built in Bodrum or Marmaris in Turkey that measures 20 to 30 metres in length on average. Handcrafted from mahogany, pine and teak, the gulets follow a design developed for these waters in Byzantine times, with a sharp bow, broad beam and rounded aft. They are stylish, graceful, fitted for comfort and full of character. We cruise in style along the spectacular coastline of Turkey for three days on a journey that promises Kodak moments at every turn.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

✓ Incredible sightseeing including Istanbul's historic monuments, the underground cities of Cappadocia, sail the Turkish Riviera on board a traditional gulet, visit Troy and the cliffs of Gallipoli ✓ Small group experience with no more than 16 guests ✓ 7 nights in central 3 to 5-star accommodation ✓ 2 nights in a spectacular cave hotel in Cappadocia ✓ 3 nights sailing on a traditional Turkish gulet ✓ Daily breakfast, 2 lunches and 3 dinners ✓ Visit a local vineyard and sample their award-winning range of wine ✓ Fully escorted by an expert tour leader ✓ In-depth sightseeing as per the itinerary ✓ Dedicated air-conditioned transportation

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Istanbul

Your small group tour through Turkey awaits! Prepare to be spellbound by this continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans have all called home.

Upon arrival into Istanbul, make your own way to your centrally located hotel.

Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotels discretion.

Day 2 Istanbul

After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene) and the Hippodrome.

We follow in the footsteps of the city’s most famous ruler, Sultan Ahmed, and head to the district of Sultanahmet, within Istanbul's old city. The historic centre of Istanbul, here you'll explore the legacy of the Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Take in the majesty of the sixth-century Hagia Sophia, whose stunning construction is said to have changed the history of architecture. When not erecting splendid buildings, the Byzantine Emperors loved a bit of entertainment and the Hippodrome of Constantinople was their stadium. Inspect some of the decorative statues and obelisks that remain, harking back to a time when this space would play host to thousands of chariot racing fans. Witness the majesty of the Blue Mosque before enjoying the evening at leisure to further explore Istanbul.

Day 3 Istanbul Gallipoli Çanakkale

One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, today we visit the WW1 Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original trenches and tunnels. We'll spend a moment in quiet contemplation, looking down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for so many thousands of young men from both sides. We’ll tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Afterwards, we continue on to Canakkale.

Day 4 Çanakkale Troy Pergamon Selçuk

Step back in time today as we visit Troy and its famed Trojan Horse. Learn about the groundbreaking archaeological digs and how the site has baffled historians.

Afterwards we tour the magnificent acropolis of Pergamom. Its impressive temples and library made it a renowned cultural and political centre in its time. 

Day 5 Selçuk Ephesus Selçuk

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before continuing to the former Greek village of Sirince, famous for its fruit wines.

Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value.

Tonight, we will visit a local vineyard and learn about the local production. You will taste 3 local wines from the region at the garden of the vineyard and return back our hotel.

Day 6 Selçuk Fethiye Embark Gulet Cruise

This morning we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to Fethiye for your gulet cruise, boarding in Fethiye Harbour around 15:00.

A gulet is a yacht usually built in Bodrum or Marmaris in Turkey that measures 20 to 30 metres in length on average. Handcrafted from mahogany, pine and teak, the gulets follow a design developed for these waters in Byzantine times, with a sharp bow, broad beam and rounded aft. They are stylish, graceful, fitted for comfort and full of character.

We cruise in style along the spectacular coastline of Turkey for the next three days on a journey that promises Kodak moments at every turn.

We enjoy some swimming and snorkeling in Turunc Bay or Tarzan Bay. We cruise along a few of the islands towards Tersane Island, with the ruins of a once very important shipyard.

PLEASE NOTE - These traditional gulets boats are not meant to be luxurious, but they are very comfortable. All cabins have double beds (maximum size of the bed is 180 cm) and the cabins are nicely appointed with private ensuites. Most of your time will be spent on deck enjoying the view. Gulets are traditional Turkish boats and do not have aircon. As they are wooden boats, they allow for much more air circulation and you have the advantage of the ocean breeze. Sailing on a gulet is a unique and memorable way to spend three nights!

IMPORTANT: Electricity supply is very limited. The electricity of most yachts runs at 12 V/24 V. Please consider this if you wish to bring battery-operated equipments. Electrical appliances may only be connected while the yacht is tied up to land.

Day 7 Gulet Cruise

After breakfast we depart for Cleopatra's Baths (Hamam Bay). Enjoy a swim in the ancient ruins of these Roman Baths. We then cruise to Sarsala Bay, a striking pine-surrounded bay. It is also a convenient starting point for a 45-minute hike to ancient Lissa, notable mostly for inscribed walls dating from the 3rd century BC rule of two of Cleopatra's Ptolemy forebears.

Bedri Rahmi Bay is our next stop, named after one of the first 'Blue Cruisers' who painted here in 1973 a fish on the rocks. Jump in the clear water or explore the island.

Day 8 Gulet Cruise

Today we cruise to the Yassica Islands. These tiny little islands don't have individual names. They are so small that no one has named them. The biggest one has a sandy beach and there is a small pool cape off the lagoon. We will then cruise to the tranquil area of Gocek Islands where we can swim, snorkel or just soak up some sun and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Enjoy a last swim at Red Island before we overnight in Fethiye Harbour.

Day 9 Disembark Gulet Cruise Pamukkale

After an early departure from the gulet, we'll head to magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where we also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic Powers.

Day 10 Pamukkale Konya Cappadocia

After an early departure from the Pamukkale, we'll head to magnificent Cappadocia. En route, we will stop at the Mevlana Museum in Konya and Sultanhani Caravansary. On arrival in Cappadocia, spend the evening at leisure.

Day 11 Cappadocia

Optional Tour: Hot Air Ballooning Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the surreal Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. Please note, this activity can only be booked locally. Please speak to your tour leader on day one to organise this (approximate cost €160pp).

This morning, find yourself a roof top cafe and enjoy the spectacle of the plethora of hot air balloons rising into the morning sky. 

Marvel at the lunar landscape of Cappadocia today as we visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys, and explore the many levels of an underground city. You'll see fascinating rock formations such as cones, peaks and fairy chimneys made from tuff – a light, porous rock formed by consolidated volcanic ash – as well as man-made cave chapels from early Christian times. 

Day 12 Cappadocia Ankara Istanbul

We depart early this morning for the nation's capital, Ankara.

Here we visit Anitkabir, the mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, before returning to Istanbul for our final evening in Turkey.

Day 13 Istanbul

As they say, all good things must come to an end. Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Turkey. At the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport to board your flight home.

Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. 

What's Included

• Small group experience with no more than 16 guests
• Incredible sightseeing including Istanbul's historic monuments, the underground cities of Cappadocia, sailing on board a traditional gulet, visiting Troy and the cliffs of Gallipoli, and a special wine tasting at a local vineyard
• 7 nights in central 3 to 5-star accommodation
• 2 nights in a spectacular cave hotel in Cappadoccia
• 3 nights sailing on a traditional Turkish 'gulet'
• Daily breakfast, 2 lunches and 3 dinners
• Professional fully escorted guide throughout
• In Depth sightseeing as per the itinerary (entrance fees not included)
• Dedicated air-conditioned transportation

Sightseeing Highlights

• Istanbul - Uncover the grandeur of the incredible Blue Mosque.
• Istanbul - Visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the amazing Hippodrome of Constantinople.
• Istanbul - No visit to Turkey would be complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar.
• Gallipoli - Visit the beach and cemeteries of Anzac Cove and the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair.
• Troy - See the remnants of the ancient city walls and the famed wooden horse.
• Ephesus - Explore Ephesus, arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, which features the iconic Library of Celsus and a huge amphitheatre.
• Sirince - Witness a carpet weaving demonstration and explore this former Greek town.
• Selcuk - Visit a local vineyard and learn about the local wine production during a special wine tasting.
• Pamukkale - Travese the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, and watch the sun set over this fascinating lunar landscape.
• Pamukkale - Visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the ancient Roman baths that are said to date back to 190AD.
• Gulet - Board a traditional gulet and sail along the country's renowned Turquoise Coast past ancient ruins and incredible scenery, enjoying the leisurely pace and refreshing swims at secluded beaches.
• Hamam Bay - Enjoy a swim in the ancient ruins of Cleopatra's Baths 
• Cappadocia - Explore the out-of-this-world landscape of Cappadocia, walking among the fabled region's incredible fairy chimneys.
• Cappadocia - Tour the Derinkuyu underground city.
• Ankara - Visit Antibakir, the mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

Inspiring Features

Inspiring Taste

• We enjoy a guided tour of an award-winning winery in Selcuk, before tasting three of their best wines.

Inspiring Stays

• Spend 2 nights in a boutique cave hotel in Cappadocia, staying in rooms carved into the rock.
• Sail the Turkish Riviera for 3 nights on board a traditional gulet. Handcrafted from mahogany, pine and teak, the gulets follow a design developed for these waters in Byzantine times.

Gulet Cruise Details

Electricity supply is very limited. The electricity of most yachts runs at 12 V/24 V. Please consider this if you wish to bring battery-operated equipments. Electrical appliances may only be connected while the yacht is tied up to land.

No drinks are included as part of our package, however drinks may be purchased on board. Some Gulets provide drinks packages however, each gulet is privately owned so options provided will differ from ship to ship. Please enquire with your guide on tour.

Payment Terms

Important information.

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and inspires excellent service.

  Over the years we have found that many of our travellers find the need for tipping to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if they don’t have the correct small change. To overcome this, your leader might raise the idea of a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then your tour leader pays the tips as you go. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour returned to group members. This amount is usually €2-4 (AUD$3-6)  per person per day. This kitty does not include tips for your leader and crew.

  You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline of €2-4 (AUD$3-6) per person per day can be used. Of course, you are free to tip as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $988.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share Not available.

Tour Length The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

Visa & Passport information It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from your intended date of return.

All Australian passport holders will require a visa to enter Turkey. The visa must be issued prior to departing Australia.

How: Turkey has an e-visa system which can be applied for online by clicking  HERE .

Cost: USD $60 per person (subject to change) Visa Type: Tourist Visa / Single Entry When to apply: 30 days prior to departure

Please note: Do NOT apply for your visa until you receive your tour documentation from Inspiring Vacations 30 days prior to your departure.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Group Size Maximum of 16 people.

Tour Style To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

• Fully Escorted - This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
• Group Tour - Offers unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much into their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.

Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation & Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $249.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $182.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

Arrival and departure airport transfers

• Pre tour transfer - $127 per car, maximum of 2 travellers
• Post tour transfer - $127 per car, maximum of 2 travellers

Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers. Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Flight requests & booking information

This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades ,  you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?” By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package. We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:

• Airline Preferences - You may wish to fly with a particular airline
• Cabin Preferences - These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
• Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) - You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
• Meal Requests - You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
• Seat Requests - If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.

We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:

• Stopovers - Is where you might want to stop in transit for a certain amount of days prior to your tour or after your tour.
• One way flights
• Different start or end city to the tour - you may not amend the arrival or departure city of your itinerary. 
• Around the world tickets  - Is when a ticket includes multiple stops in different continents.
• Return home to a different city from the one you departed.
• Frequent Flyer point redemption - Is when an airline allows you to redeem points to pay for your flights or upgrade your ticket.  

Online check-in 

Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.

• International Airfares
• Airport transfers
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping for gulet staff, drivers and tour leader
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses

Entrance Fees

What climate to expect.

Click HERE for more information on weather in Turkey.

Entrance fees are not included in the tour price. Whilst we do our utmost to keep these entrance fees up to date, they do change often and so the entrance fees below should be treated as a guideline. All prices are per person:

• Ankara - Atatürk's Mausoleum - Free
• Cappadocia - Kaymakli - Underground City - 13 euros 
• Ephesus - 40 euros 
• Cappadocia - Göreme Open Air Museum - 20 euros
• Istanbul - Blue Mosque - Free
• Istanbul - Hippodrome - Free
• Istanbul - St. Sophia Museum - 35 euros
• Istanbul - Topkapi Palace (Hagia Irene and Harem) - (closed Tuesdays, replaced by Dolmabahce Palace) - 50 euros
• Konya - Mevlana Museum - Free
• Pamukkale - Calcium Travertines - Free
• Pamukkale - Hierapolis - 30 euros
• Site of the Temple of Artemis - Free
• Sultanhani Caravansary - 2 euros
• Troy - 27 euros

Departure Dates

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