Turkey Gulet Cruises offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the beautiful Turkish coastline, often referred to as the Turkish Riviera or Turquoise Coast, which spans the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Aboard traditional wooden gulets, travelers can enjoy pristine bays, hidden coves, ancient ruins, and charming coastal towns in a relaxed and scenic setting. Here’s an in-depth guide to gulet cruises in Turkey:
Key features of gulets include:
- Spacious Decks: Large outdoor areas for sunbathing, dining, and relaxing.
- Comfortable Cabins: Guest cabins usually feature en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.
- Motor-Sailers: Though they have sails, gulets primarily use motor power for smoother, more reliable cruising.
1. Popular Routes for Turkey Gulet Cruises
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is dotted with charming towns, pristine bays, and ancient historical sites. Gulet cruises offer flexibility in choosing routes based on interests. Here are some of the most popular gulet cruise routes in Turkey:
a. Bodrum to Gökova Bay (The Blue Cruise)
- Overview: This classic route takes you from the historic town of Bodrum along the Gulf of Gökova, known for its stunning natural beauty.
- Highlights:
- Explore the ancient ruins of Knidos, a city once renowned for its cultural and scientific advancements.
- Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Cleopatra’s Island.
- Visit picturesque bays like Çökertme and English Harbour.
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing, scenic cruise.
b. Fethiye to Ölüdeniz and Göcek
- Overview: Starting from Fethiye, this route explores the idyllic Twelve Islands and the stunning Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz.
- Highlights:
- Butterfly Valley: A lush valley home to diverse butterfly species and a perfect spot for hiking and photography.
- Gemiler Island: Explore the Byzantine ruins and snorkel in the clear waters.
- Ölüdeniz: Famous for its blue lagoon and as a top paragliding destination.
- Ideal For: Adventure seekers, families, and those who enjoy combining nature with cultural exploration.
c. Marmaris to Dalyan and Kaunos
- Overview: This cruise takes you along the coast from Marmaris to explore the ancient city of Kaunos and the Dalyan rock tombs.
- Highlights:
- Visit the Dalyan River and enjoy a mud bath or explore the famous rock-cut tombs of ancient Lycian kings.
- Stop at Ekincik Bay for a secluded swim.
- Explore the ruins of Kaunos, including its theater, temples, and city walls.
- Ideal For: History buffs and travelers seeking a mix of nature and ancient culture.
d. Gocek to Kekova and Kas
- Overview: Starting from the charming marina town of Gocek, this route takes you along the Lycian coast to the sunken city of Kekova.
- Highlights:
- Explore the sunken ruins of Kekova, where the ancient city partially sank after an earthquake.
- Visit Simena Castle for panoramic views over the Mediterranean.
- Dive and snorkel in the clear waters around the small town of Kas.
- Ideal For: Snorkelers, divers, and those interested in ancient ruins and picturesque villages.
2. Types of Gulets Available
Gulets come in a variety of sizes and luxury levels, catering to different tastes and budgets:
- Standard Gulets: These gulets offer basic amenities and comfort, making them ideal for budget travelers who still want to experience a traditional Turkish cruise.
- Luxury Gulets: These vessels provide higher-end furnishings, air-conditioned cabins, en-suite bathrooms, and better dining services. They’re perfect for guests seeking more comfort and modern conveniences.
- Ultra-Luxury Gulets: The ultimate in luxury, these gulets feature master suites, high-end finishes, gourmet cuisine, and often extras like Jacuzzis and water sports equipment (kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis). They are ideal for travelers who want a five-star cruising experience.
3. Costs of Gulet Cruises
The cost of a gulet cruise in Turkey varies depending on the size of the boat, the level of luxury, and the season:
- Charter Price: Gulet charters are usually priced per week. Standard gulets may cost a few thousand euros per week, while luxury gulets can range from €10,000 to €50,000 per week, depending on the amenities.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): In addition to the charter fee, an APA (around 20-30% of the charter price) is typically charged to cover the cost of food, drinks, fuel, and port fees.
- Gratuity: It is customary to tip the crew, generally around 10-15% of the charter price, depending on the level of service.
4. How to Book a Gulet Cruise
There are various ways to book a gulet cruise in Turkey:
- Charter Companies: Many charter companies specialize in gulet cruises along the Turkish coast. They offer various options, from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious gulets.
- Travel Agencies: Specialized travel agencies can organize custom gulet cruise packages, often including land tours or excursions.
- Direct Booking: Some experienced travelers prefer to book directly with the gulet owners or local charter companies in Turkey for more flexibility in negotiating prices and itineraries.
