Melis’s Blue Dream: Starting from Bodrum

The sea symbolized freedom for Melis since childhood. Far from Istanbul’s traffic and gray skies, it was all about the sound of waves, the scent of salt, and the sunrise glistening over the horizon. At the end of summer 2025, she decided to join a Bodrum departure blue cruise with her husband and two children.

During the booking process, two options appeared: a standard gulet or a luxury gulet. Both promised Turkey’s stunning coasts, but the differences were far more than price.

Melis said to her husband while browsing the photos:

“One has fewer crew and a homely feel, the other has every detail taken care of… Which is right for us?”

This question faces every traveler: choosing a gulet is no longer just about a boat—it’s about the experience.

Standard Gulets: A Place to Connect with the Sea

Melis first explored standard gulets. Typically 4–8 cabins, wooden hulls, and a nostalgic maritime feel. Crew is minimal but friendly. Simple yet tasty breakfasts under the sun, shared stories on deck, and new friendships are all part of the charm.

These gulets usually sail from Fethiye to Göcek, Marmaris to Bozburun, perfect for those who truly want to connect with the sea.

Initially, Melis preferred the standard gulet for budget reasons, but the luxury options gradually caught her interest.

Luxury Gulets: Five-Star Life on the Water

Step aboard a luxury gulet, and the first thing you notice is silence—everything is prepared for you. Spacious master cabins, air-conditioned rooms, en-suite bathrooms, espresso machines, private chefs, jet skis, and paddle boards.

Luxury gulets offer an on-water boutique hotel experience. Fresh orange juice for breakfast, candlelit dinners on deck… Every detail combines comfort and elegance. Often under the ultra-luxury segment, these gulets follow exclusive routes.

Melis was particularly interested in Fethiye luxury gulet tours, where the bays were pristine and the crew experience was top-notch. “Once I experience this, it will be unforgettable,” she thought.

Where the Real Difference Begins

The difference isn’t just comfort; it’s service level, private space, and personalized experiences. Luxury gulets customize everything from menus to routes, while standard gulets usually have set routes and group meals.

2026 Trends: Luxury Gulets in Turkey

For 2026, demand for blue cruises has increased by 40%. Luxury tours departing from Göcek and Marmaris are favored by European guests. Guests now expect comfort, sustainability, and tranquility.

The team added four eco-friendly trawler-type gulets with quiet engines. Luxury now means conscious choices, not just extravagance.

Melis’s Final Decision: The Formula for Happiness at Sea

After much research, Melis booked a deluxe gulet, blending the warmth of a standard gulet with the comfort of luxury.

“Sipping coffee in the middle of the sea while my kids laughed on deck, I realized freedom is about the feeling, not the boat.”

Choosing the Right Gulet

Whether standard or luxury, a blue cruise is a personal story. Know your expectations and select the route that suits you. Start your dream trip with weekly gulet charters or contact us.

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