Luxury gulet charters in Turkey are the perfect solution for those seeking peaceful beaches, endless sunshine, and the chance to experience local culture without the crowds. If you have ever strolled around glamorous marinas, admiring the beautiful yachts and dreaming of setting sail into the big blue yonder, a week spent on your very own boat may seem like something of a fantasy. However, this dream can easily become a reality aboard a luxury gulet or motor yacht, which - far from being super-yachts with film-star prices - can favourably compare in price to a luxury villa, but with the freedom of being able to move from place to place.
THE BEST TIME TO TAKE A GULET CRUISE IN TURKEY
Gulet holidays in Turkey provide a chance to enjoy splendid isolation, yet experience the bustle of life in coastal towns and villages which come alive during the summer months. The favourable weather conditions in southern Turkey also allow for a long sailing season, allowing you to extend your summer far beyond the peak months of July and August.
- May and October: The low-season months are favoured by those who seek peace and quiet and the chance to explore while the weather is not too hot. This is also when prices are at their lowest.
- June and September: The mid-season months are popular for those who like to avoid highest temperatures and biggest crowds, offering the perfect balance on the Turkish coast.
- July and August: High season is much sought-after due to the endless sunshine, school holidays, and perfect sailing weather. The best yachts and gulets are booked far in advance, so contact our specialists early to ensure you have the widest choice of vessels.
LIFE ON BOARD
Free spirit and a dose of serendipity dictate life on board a Turkish gulet cruise. You can stop at will to enjoy shopping in local markets and dining in authentic village tavernas, exploring local ruins, swimming in the turquoise sea and sunbathing on deck. You might choose to go for a swim each morning before enjoying an assortment of watersports that provide endless entertainment for all on board. Almost all gulets pack into the lazarette water skis, paddle boards, a selection of inflatables and kayaks to keep everybody amused. Other vessels take their watersports provision to the next level, furnishing them with jet skis, Sea Bobs, and other top-notch toys to facilitate fun on the water.
Traditional gulets are wonderfully spacious compared to regular sailing boats, with roomy interiors that were originally designed to take cargo. Days will be interspersed with cruising and sailing, stopping for lunch mid-day and again in the evening to anchor overnight. The crew can provide three meals a day, intermingled with delicious snacks and drinks, all served to you while the captain steers the yacht to that next deserted cove or secluded bay.
MEET THE CREW
- The captain is the most important crew member on board. Responsible for navigation and for each day’s activities, the skipper will carefully plan the route and transport you to the most beautiful bays in which to drop anchor overnight. And if the wind is of sufficient strength and blowing from the right direction, he will be delighted to launch the sails.
- The chef specialises in local Turkish dishes, often with a bit of international flair, and prepares sumptuous meals with a delicious mix of fresh seafood, locally sourced meat, vegetables and fresh fruit. Meals are generally taken on deck, al fresco. Some gulets and yachts offer the option to add a half-board or full-board meal plan in advance, but whether you choose to do this or not, your chef will be delighted to whip up an array of enticing dishes to suit your preferences.
- The deckhands, despite being on board to tend to your every need, are discreet, friendly, attentive and incredibly respectful of your privacy. They will also drive the tender and take the children water-skiing or fishing, as well as being responsible for making up your cabins each day.
SAILING ROUTES IN TURKEY
There is no set formula on a Turkish gulet holiday, but you will find countless rewards on the stretch of coastline from Bodrum, on Turkey’s southwestern corner, to Gocek, which looks south to some of the most sheltered and sun-drenched waters in the Mediterranean. Freedom and independence reign and you can set sail as you wish, with your captain to advise at all times. We provide some suggested sailing routes, which can help you frame your week in advance, but you are also welcome to discuss your preferences with the captain each day. The captain’s extensive knowledge and experience of the Turquoise Coast means he can make excellent recommendations on the most secluded bays for swimming and snorkelling, the best time for some thrilling hours of watersports, and the finest local haunts should you wish to dine in a harbourside taverna.
PLACES TO DROP ANCHOR
One of the joys of a luxury yacht cruise in Turkey is being able to drop anchor at will, whether to simply swim, to enjoy lunch at a newly-discovered taverna, or to explore ancient pathways above pretty fishing villages. The Turkish coast is littered with fascinating historic places to explore.
- Discover the ruins of ancient Lydae and Loryma Castle while leaving your gulet moored in the bay.
- Visit the impressive ruins of the ancient city of Kaunos to see the unique temple tombs cut into the rock-face.
- Go ashore to explore the pretty riverside town of Dalyan, known for its authentic Turkish restaurants, Saturday market and shops selling handicrafts.
- Walk over the hill to the deserted ghost town of Kayakoy, complete with two Greek Orthodox churches and abandoned in 1917.
If you have specific sites you wish to see, please advise us in advance so that we can ensure your route accommodates them. Otherwise you can simply trust in your captain to make recommendations that will deliver your perfect balance of cultural explorations, marine adventures, and blissful relaxation on the water.
