Understanding What a Gulet Is

A gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden yacht, originally built for fishing and sponge diving, but today fully transformed into luxurious charter vessels designed for leisure and comfort. These handcrafted yachts usually feature broad decks, spacious cabins, and plenty of outdoor lounging space. Unlike standard sailing yachts, gulets prioritize stability, comfort, and style, making them ideal for multi-day cruises with families and groups.

Each gulet is unique, ranging from classic wooden designs to modern builds equipped with advanced technology. Choosing the right gulet is about finding the balance between your budget, group size, travel style, and the level of service you expect onboard.

Types of Gulets

One of the first steps in choosing a gulet is understanding the different categories available. Each type caters to a different budget and style of cruising.

• Standard Gulets: Perfect for budget-friendly cruises, offering comfortable cabins and cozy lounges. They are an authentic way to experience a Blue Cruise in Turkey.
• Luxury Gulets: These offer upgraded interiors, air conditioning, modern amenities, and professional service. See examples at Gulet Charter.
• Deluxe Gulets: Equipped with stylish cabins, gourmet kitchens, and entertainment systems, these gulets create a high-end private yacht feel.
• Ultra-Luxury Gulets: Comparable to five-star floating resorts. They feature jacuzzis, water toys, spa rooms, and VIP crew service. Many of these can be booked through Turkey Yacht Charter.
• Themed Gulets: Specialized vessels such as yoga gulets, wellness gulets, or gourmet-themed yachts designed for niche experiences.

Size and Capacity

Gulets come in a wide range of sizes, typically between 15 to 45 meters in length. Choosing the right size is critical to ensuring your group has enough comfort and privacy. Consider the following:

• Small Gulets (up to 8 guests): Best for intimate family trips or close friends who want a private yet affordable holiday.
• Medium Gulets (10–16 guests): A great balance between space and cost. These often have more spacious salons and larger decks.
• Large Gulets (18–24+ guests): Suitable for weddings, corporate retreats, or extended families. These vessels often include multiple lounges and entertainment zones.

Most gulets are designed with double or master cabins, all with en-suite bathrooms. The choice of cabin configuration is essential, especially if you travel with children or need more luxurious master suites.

Departure Ports and Routes

The beauty of gulet cruising lies in the ability to explore multiple destinations while traveling in absolute comfort. Choosing your departure port helps shape your entire holiday experience.

Bodrum

Known as the birthplace of the Blue Cruise, Bodrum is a cosmopolitan port with vibrant nightlife and ancient wonders like the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Start your journey with Bodrum Yacht Charter.

Fethiye

Famous for its turquoise coast, Oludeniz Lagoon, and Lycian Rock Tombs. A Fethiye yacht charter often includes trips to Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island.

Göcek

Göcek is a paradise for sailors with its 12 islands and secluded coves. Its marinas are world-class, making it a favorite for Göcek yacht charters.

Marmaris

A blend of natural beauty and lively town life. Popular routes include Marmaris–Datça–Bozburun. Details: Marmaris Yacht Charter.

Greek Islands

Many gulets also offer combined itineraries with Dodecanese islands such as Rhodes, Kos, and Symi. This is perfect for travelers who want to combine Turkish and Greek culture in one holiday.

Life Onboard: Services and Activities

A gulet cruise is more than just transportation—it’s a lifestyle experience. Onboard services typically include:

• Dining: Freshly prepared Mediterranean meals, seafood, Turkish meze, and gourmet desserts.
• Watersports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and in many luxury gulets, jet skis or diving equipment.
• Wellness: Yoga sessions on deck, massage therapy, and spa services on luxury gulets.
• Excursions: Guided visits to ancient cities, traditional villages, and cultural festivals.
• Entertainment: Music, dance nights, and cinema under the stars.

Comparing Gulets with Other Yachts

While gulets are the most traditional choice, other yacht types may also be considered:

• Motoryachts offer speed, modern design, and shorter transfer times.
• Trawlers combine the comfort of gulets with the efficiency of motor yachts.
• Classic sailing yachts appeal to those who value wind-powered cruising over comfort.

Each option has advantages, but gulets remain the most authentic and spacious for Turkish Blue Cruises.

Early Booking 2026 Advantages

Planning your 2026 Blue Cruise in advance ensures the best deals and availability. Early booking provides:

• Up to 20–30% discounts on weekly charters.
• Priority choice of gulet type, cabin, and departure port.
• Flexibility in designing tailor-made itineraries.
• Securing high-demand dates in July and August.
• Better options for special occasions like weddings or corporate events.

Gulet Charter Process

Booking a gulet is simple but requires careful planning:

1. Decide on your group size and budget.
2. Choose a departure port: Bodrum, Göcek, Fethiye, or Marmaris.
3. Select the gulet type and level of luxury.
4. Discuss meal plans, activities, and special requests.
5. Sign the charter agreement and secure with a deposit.

FAQs: Practical Tips for Choosing a Gulet

• How much does a gulet cost per week? Prices range from €8,000 for standard gulets to €80,000+ for ultra-luxury gulets.
• Do all gulets have air conditioning? Luxury and above categories usually have AC in cabins; standard gulets may not.
• What is included in the price? Crew, fuel for standard cruising, meals, and port fees are often included. Extras include alcohol, special requests, and water sports fuel.
• When is the best time to book? For 2026, early booking is highly recommended between September 2025 – February 2026.

Your Perfect Blue Cruise Awaits

Choosing the right gulet is the most important step toward creating an unforgettable holiday on the Turkish Riviera. By considering your budget, group size, desired level of luxury, and itinerary preferences, you can find the ideal yacht for your needs. Whether you dream of exploring Bodrum’s lively coast, Göcek’s peaceful islands, Marmaris’ hidden bays, or the historical wonders of Fethiye, a gulet charter offers a timeless experience.

Start planning your journey today: explore Gulet Charters in Turkey or contact our team through the Contact Page to receive tailor-made offers for your 2026 Blue Cruise.