Gulet Yachting in Turkey

Set sail on a wooden gulet to discover remote bays, sunken ancient ruins and experience the ultimate art of Mediterranean slow living along the Turquoise Coast.

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A wooden Turkish gulet yacht anchored in a secluded turquoise cove

A wooden Turkish gulet yacht anchored in a secluded turquoise cove

Gulet Yachting: The Authentic Turkish Blue Cruise Experience

Embarking on a Blue Cruise aboard a Turkish gulet is the ultimate expression of maritime slow living. The gulets were originally born as humble wooden vessels used by Aegean fishermen and sponge divers. Modern gulets however have evolved into beautifully handcrafted, twin masted wooden motor sailers. These boats are manufactured through custom orders and range from charming, rustic classic designs to luxurious floating boutique hotels.

Top Routes and Coastal Voyages

Legendary Journeys Along the Turkish Riviera

A standard gulet charter takes you along the Aegean and the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. The geography is a mixture of hills, high mountains, hidden bays and pine forests.

  • Marmaris to Fethiye: A route tracking past the reed lined Dalyan Delta, the ancient rock cut tombs of Kaunos and the world famous lagoon of Oludeniz.
  • Bodrum to the Gulf of Gokova: Known for its calm sailing waters, this path pairs Bodrum’s vibrant harbor culture with serene anchorages.
  • Fethiye to Kekova: A fascinating route defined by natural wonders, where you can sail over the submerged ruins of the Sunken City of Kekova and anchor beneath the medieval fortress of Simena.
A luxury wooden gulet by the rugged green cliffs along the Turkish Riviera

Sailing the Turquoise Coast, you can swim in bays unreachable by land.

Life Aboard the Vessel

A gulet ship is specifically designed for leisure and relaxation while considering extended stays. The ships boast expansive, cushioned aft decks perfect for lounging and open air dining. For sunbathing, you will be using wide foredecks. The comfortable indoor salons are perfect for a rest while the boat is in transit. The crew typically consists of a captain, multiple deckhands and a private chef. This professional crew manages all navigation, prepares Mediterranean meals daily and keeps your rooms and the common areas clean and pristine.

You can charter the gulet as a private boat with friends and family or book an individual cabin on a scheduled tour. Some gulet companies offer the option to stock the onboard fridge with the drinks individuals prefer. If you arrange a private charter, you can discuss the menu beforehand with the chef and customize parts of the program with the captain. As itineraries need to be set and the ship has to stocked beforehand, make sure the crew has ample time to adjust to your groups preferences. Your daily rhythm will revolve around swimming in deserted coves, kayaking, paddleboarding and stepping ashore to explore forgotten coastal ruins.

Planning & Practical Advice

The Turkish yachting season spans from late April to early October, capitalising on long sunny days and calm sea conditions.

Seasonal Guidelines & Packing:

  • Peak Summer (July & August): The hottest and most popular months. Water temperatures are perfect for swimming and daytime heat ranges between 85°F and 105°F (30°C and 40°C). Sea breezes provide relief, but early booking is essential.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June & Sept-Oct): The absolute best windows for slow travel. The crowds dissipate and temperatures sit comfortably between 70°F and 90°F (22°C and 32°C).
  • What to Pack: Keep luggage light and casual. Bring multiple swimsuits, high quality sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat. Pack breathable linen clothing for hot days, a light jacket and pants for breezy evenings at anchor and sturdy sandals or walking shoes for trekking ashore.
A dining table set up on the wooden deck of a gulet yacht

The warm Mediterranean microclimate offers excellent, calm cruising conditions from spring through autumn.

Got Questions?
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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a gulet and what is a Blue Cruise?

A gulet is a wooden motor / sailing vessel native to Turkey's southwestern coast. A Blue Cruise is a classic multi day sailing holiday aboard these vessels, focusing on slow travel, swimming in secluded coves and exploring coastal ruins.

Do I need sailing experience or a license to go on a gulet tour?

No sailing experience or license is required. All gulet charters and tours come fully crewed with a professional captain, deckhands and a private chef. The staff handle all navigation, safety, cooking and boat maintenance.

What is the best time of year to take a gulet tour in Turkey?

The ideal season runs from late April to early October when the sea is calm. July and August are peak months with the warmest water, while May, June, September and October offer a quieter, highly pleasant experience with fewer crowds.

What are the top gulet sailing routes along the Turkish Riviera?

The most popular routes include Marmaris to Fethiye (featuring the Dalyan Delta and Kaunos ruins), Bodrum to the Gulf of Gokova (known for serene anchorages), and Fethiye to Kekova (famous for the Sunken City and Simena castle).

Can I book a single cabin, or do I need to rent the entire gulet?

Both options are available. You can book a 'cabin charter' to rent an individual room on a shared itinerary with other travelers, or a 'private charter' to rent the entire vessel exclusively for your own private group.

What should I pack for a multi day gulet trip?

Pack light in soft sided bags. Essential items include multiple swimsuits, sunscreen, a wide hat, sunglasses, light breathable linen clothing for daytime, a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings at anchor and sturdy shoes for onshore excursions.

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