Gulet Charter Inspired by Poets – Iconic Blue Cruise To Explore Turkey's Mesmerizing Coast

Feb 2, 2025
7 min read

Updated: Jan 30

For the decades already this travel experience has been making people fall in love with the Turkish Riviera - introducing them to the beauty, quiet joy, and connection to nature and history of this magical country. If your soul longs for something truly special, then perhaps a gulet journey along the Turkish coast is the holiday your heart's been waiting for.

Yacht deck with dining table and chairs, overlooking a calm sea and rocky shoreline. Sails are furled, with serene sunset lighting. — Dining deck of KAPTAN KADIR Gulet in Turkey, available for charter in summer season

ABOUT: In the 1920s, exiled Turkish writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, found solace in the turquoise waters of Bodrum. After some time he began organizing slow, soul-soothing trips aboard humble sponge-diving boats for himself and his friends. These poetic voyages meandered along Turkey's ancient coastlines, where myths and ruins whisper under olive trees and stars. Artists, writers, and thinkers soon followed, enchanted by the rhythm of sea life. We could say for sure this was the birth of the Blue Cruise — what later became a world-renowned way to explore the Aegean and Mediterranean - at first with simple fishing boats, and later - traditional wooden yachts known as gulets.

WHAT IS A GULET?

A gulet is a traditional wooden sailing vessel, handcrafted in Turkey, originally used for fishing and sponge diving. Today, gulets have evolved into beautiful fully crewed charter yachts ranging from simple and cozy to opulent floating hotels. Most offer wide decks, spacious cabins, private bathrooms, and generous dining areas for open-air feasts.

A GLIMPSE INTO HISTORY: THE BLUE CRUISE

The Blue Cruise ("Mavi Yolculuk") is more than a holiday — it’s a cultural tradition born from literature and love for the sea. Thanks to Cevat Şakir and his circle of artists, the coastlines of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye became sanctuaries for dreamers and creatives. To this day, a Blue Cruise is a way to unplug, reconnect, and sail through time.

TOP 10 BEAUTIFUL THINGS TO DO WHEN ON A GULET IN TURKEY

Swim in turquoise bays – wake up and dive straight into crystal waters.
Explore ancient ruins – visit sites like Kaunos, Knidos, or Simena.
Stargaze from the deck – with no light pollution, the night sky is mesmerizing.
Feast on Turkish cuisine – enjoy meze, grilled seafood, and regional delights.
Water sports – kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and more.
Visit coastal villages – stroll through Kalkan, Kas, or Bozburun.
Soak in Cleopatra’s bath – a thermal spring hidden in a bay.
Try fishing at sunset – then have your catch grilled for dinner.
Join a morning yoga session – breathe with the sea.
Disconnect & reconnect – no agenda, just your own rhythm.

A GULET CHARTER IS GOOD FOR YOU IF YOU:

Love slow travel and meaningful moments
Enjoy the simplicity of life at sea
Crave privacy, comfort, and natural beauty
Value authenticity

IT MAY NOT WORK IDEALLY FOR THOSE WHO:

Prefer ultra-modern motor yachts with multiple decks -a gulet has a totally different vibe (but still amazing just in another way)
Want to cruise at high speeds (gulets typically cruise at a leisurely pace)
Dislike the aesthetic or feel of a traditional wooden sailing vessel as well as sails themselves

THERE'S REALLY A GULET FOR EVERY BUDGET:

From rustic charm to ultra-luxury, gulets come in a wide range. Some resemble cozy countryside guesthouses (2* by European hotel standards), while others boast Jacuzzis, chefs, and marble en suites (5–7* standards). Whether you're a group of friends, a couple, or a multi-generational family, there's a gulet that fits.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GULET FOR YOUR VACATION?

There’s a gulet for every kind of traveler — but the key is to find the one that matches your rhythm and dreams. Here are a few things to consider before you book:

Decide on your style: gulets range from simple and traditional to luxurious and glamorous. Do you want barefoot bohemian or boutique hotel vibes at sea? Let your vision guide your choice.
Choose the right route: each itinerary has its own soul. The Gulf of Gökova offers wild, untouched beauty and pine-scented anchorages. The route from Fethiye to Kekova invites you to explore ancient ruins and charming villages. Think about what moves you — history, quietude, vibrant towns — and let that lead. Bodrum has party vibes, whereas Hisaronu Gulf - I think it has it all (a bit of everything for sure).
Group dynamics matter: whether you're traveling with friends, family, or a partner, alignment in expectations makes all the difference. Do you all crave stillness, adventure, pampering, or freedom? It helps to discuss it beforehand.
Level of service & food preferences: most gulets offer delicious onboard dining, and menus can be adapted to suit your taste. You can choose a full board option or create a more flexible plan — but don’t skip the local flavors!

Don’t expect a motor yacht: a gulet is a wooden sailing yacht with character. If you prefer sleek, modern yachts with multiple decks and speeds of 24 knots, this may not be your ideal match. But if you like the idea of cruising gently with the wind, surrounded by nature and elegance, a gulet will feel like home. There's a good news here too. If you still prefer a gulet vibe but look for some modern vibes, then Turkey has many beautiful motor sailing yachts - a hybrid of a gulet and a motor sailer that definitely can be a match.

WHEN TO BOOK YOUR GULET HOLIDAY IN TURKEY?

The best time to enjoy a gulet charter in Turkey is from May to October (actually, the beginning of November can be also still very very good). June and September offer the perfect balance: warm waters, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds. July and August are peak season and ideal for sun lovers. Book 6 to 12 months in advance for the best selection of gulets, especially for high-end options.

SAMPLE ITINERARY FROM MARMARIS TO BODRUM VIA HISARONU GULF:

Day 1: Marmaris – embark in the lively marina town with a rich blend of Ottoman history and modern charm. Stroll along the promenade or visit the castle before setting sail.

Day 2: Serçe Limanı – a deep, protected bay once used by ancient traders. Swim in glassy waters and relax under the stars, far from the world.

Day 3: Bozukkale (Loryma) – explore the ruins of a Hellenistic fortress overlooking the sea. Hike the hills or snorkel in the calm bay where history sleeps underwater.

Day 4: Selimiye – a peaceful village famous for its slow rhythm and gourmet restaurants by the shore. A perfect place for an elegant dinner and local wine.

Day 5: Orhaniye & Kızkumu – walk the famous “sea path” across shimmering shallows and enjoy a day of water sports, village visits, or complete stillness.

Day 6: Knidos – sail into an ancient city by the sea, where you can walk among ruins that once hosted astronomers and philosophers. Watch the sun dip behind the statues and stone.

Day 7: Bodrum – disembark in the coastal gem where the Blue Cruise was born. Visit the castle, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, or enjoy a final farewell lunch by the harbor.

Not to mention that on this way you can visit some of the most beautiful restaurants, explore the luxury charm of truly iconic D Maris Bay Hotel, visit Datca and its nearby vineyard, swim in crystal clear waters of Palamutbuku.

SAMPLE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE FETHIYE AND KEKOVA AREA:

Day 1: Fethiye –explore the market or the rock tombs.

Day 2: Tersane Island – an abandoned shipyard from Ottoman times.

Day 3: Çamlik Bay – a secluded bay for swimming and kayaking.

Day 4: Kas – chic, artsy, and full of character.

Day 5: Kekova – snorkel over the sunken city and hike up to the Simena Castle.

Day 6: Kalekoy – dine in a waterfront village unreachable by car.

Day 7: Return to Fethiye – capture the final sunrise from the deck.

There are as well many places to see on the way, such as Oludeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kayakoy "ghost" village, Patara beach, Demre.

Please, note that all itineraries published here serve as an example. Together with you and the captain we tailor make each route to match your preferences and what a certain yacht and destination can offer.

VARIETY OF CHARTER GULETS AVAILABLE FOR RENT IN TURKEY: This website where you're now serves as my personal yacht and travel blog to inspire you for different experiences and share some useful information. I invite you to visit the website of a MYBA member company - Contact Yachts where I work as a senior yacht charter broke and explore the full selection of available yachts for rent.

EXAMPLES OF CHARTER GULETS TO FIND ON CONTACT YACHTS WEBSITE:

Names below are clickable - they are of the gulets displayed above

Gulet Sailing Yacht UBI BENE: 44m long, 5 cabins for 12 guests, price per week from €42,000 per week plus VAT and expenses

Gulet TERSANE 8: 44m long, 14 cabins for 32 guests, price per week from €30,000 per week plus expenses

BLUE HEAVEN gulet: 30m long, 5 cabins for 9 guests, price per week from €20,415 per week plus expenses and VAT

Gulet KAPTAN KADIR: 39m long, 6 cabins for 12 guests, price per week from €50,000 per week plus VAT and expenses

SAMARKAND gulet: 26.5m long, 4 cabins for 8 guests, price per week from €12,950 per week plus VAT and expenses

Visit Contact Yachts Website for the Fleet

WHAT'S USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE CHARTER FEE TO RENT A GULET:

The hire of the yacht and crew
Daily cleaning service
Use of water toys and onboard equipment
Fuel for 3–4 hours cruising per day and fuel for the generators & A/C system (which is limited for some gulets)
Crew services (captain, chef, sailor)

WHAT'S USUALLY EXCLUDED FROM THE RATE TO HIRE A GULET:

VAT
Food and drinks (can be arranged as Full Board, Half Board or separate shopping)
Marina fees (if any, depending on route)
Tips for the crew (usually 10–15% from the charter fee)
Land excursions
Alcohol (can be purchased by guests or arranged by the crew)
Customs fees if you plan to visit also nearby Greek islands and also in this case fuel for cruising in the Greek waters can be charged as extra expense

Whether you're a seasoned sea traveler or dreaming of your first yacht adventure, a gulet cruise along Turkey’s coastline is unlike any other journey. It connects you to a tradition born of poetry, sea foam, and starlight.

EXAMPLES OF CABINS & EN SUITE FACILITIES ONBOARD GULETS IN TURKEY: There are Master suites, cabins with Double beds, Twin beds, A/C, portholes, storage shelves, sometimes TV and music system not only the saloon but also in the cabins, numerous dining spacer options & more. All depends on the type and size of a gulet, and of course and her price range.