A gulet is a wooden classic yacht built usually in Bodrum or Marmaris from the southwestern coast of Turkey. The average size of gulet is 20 to 30 meters length and feature 4 to 8 cabins. Gulets are used nowadays for private charter in different countries. But to find and book a perfect gulet for private charter, you will need to know more about the categories of gulets and the difference between each one, also how the preparation before during cruise as well as the service on board. Gulets are available to charter in Croatia, Turkey, Greece or Italy.
Turkey’s southwest coast is renowned for its charming gulet boats – elegant wooden sailing yachts perfect for leisurely cruises We’ll explain everything you need to know about these classic vessels and why a gulet charter is a must for any visit to Turkey
Overview – Traditional Elegance Reimagined for Modern Charters
A gulet is a traditional wooden sailing yacht that originated along the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, especially in the coastal towns of Bodrum and Marmaris. Gulets first emerged in the 20th century as local boat builders modified traditional fishing and cargo designs into sleek, elegant charters for tourists.
Today, gulets range from 16 to over 40 meters long and usually have between 4 to 8 guest cabins. While they retain traditional touches like wooden decks and polished teak interiors, modern gulets feature air conditioning, luxury amenities, and powerful engines. This blend of classic style and contemporary comfort makes gulet cruises a favorite way to explore Turkey’s stunning coastline.
Construction – Built by Hand Using Age-Old Techniques
Turkey’s master gulet builders still construct these ships using traditional techniques perfected over generations. It starts with precise calculations to design the curved wooden frame and unique sailing lines. Skilled craftsmen steam and shape local pine, mahogany, teak and other hardwoods by hand to form the structural ribs and hull planking.
After the hull takes shape, the deck and interior joinery begin Teak decks are fitted by hand, along with wooden cabins, lounge areas, and elegant staircases. While systems like engines and electronics modernize them, a Turkish gulet’s soul remains in its wooden craftsmanship A 60-foot gulet can take up to 2 years to build this way from start to finish.
Layout and Design – Optimized for Comfort and Relaxation
A gulet’s layout focuses on creating open, multifunctional spaces for guests to dine, lounge, and enjoy the sea views and sunshine. The aft deck usually features cushioned seating and tables for al fresco dining and socializing. Interior saloons offer air conditioning and entertainment systems. Guest cabins are often arranged across two lower decks, with the captain and crew quarters at the stern.
Larger gulets may have a covered flybridge with a second helm station, along with a foredeck sunbathing area and jacuzzi. But simplicity and clean lines remain at the heart of gulet design. Uncluttered decks and spacious social zones allow guests to fully embrace the yacht’s connection to the sea.
Crew – Experienced Sailors Dedicated to Service
A gulet cruise is all about relaxation so these yachts come with an experienced crew to cover all sailing, service, and housekeeping duties. A captain commands the vessel and leads the sailing program. Deckhands handle mooring watersports equipment, and support the captain. Interior staff includes a chef to prepare delicious Turkish meals, a server/bartender, and cabin stewards.
With the crew doing all the hard work, guests are free to fully enjoy the cruise. The crew arranges everything from meals to excursions so all you have to do is relax. Their exceptional Turkish hospitality ensures outstanding service from start to finish.
Amenities – More Like a Boutique Hotel Than a Boat
Beyond its beautiful design, a gulet provides all the amenities of a luxury boutique hotel. Air conditioning throughout, premium linens and towels, entertainment systems – they cover every comfort. Most offer WiFi so you can stay connected. The aft deck is perfect for dining al fresco, while the foredeck has cushioned loungers and jacuzzis on larger gulets.
You can enjoy a range of water sports right from the yacht like standup paddleboards, kayaks and snorkel gear. The interior saloon serves as the main gathering spot with comfy seating, a sound system and flatscreen TVs. Overall, the experience blends maritime adventure with personal pampering.
Cuisine – Savoring Turkish Flavors on Board
Food is a highlight of any gulet cruise in Turkey, thanks to the onboard chef. They expertly prepare Turkish classics like kebabs, mezes, stuffed vegetables, and grilled seafood. Meals often begin with a spread of mezes – small savory dishes and appetizers to share family-style. Fresh local seafood like sea bass, bream and turbot are common dinner entrées.
Menus focus on Turkey’s regional specialties, often with a contemporary twist. You may enjoy stuffed eggplant, pistachio baklava, or octopus salad with arugula and Izmir grapes. With the chef shopping at seaside markets, the cuisine captures flavors from across the Turquoise Coast.
Sailing Routes – Cruising the Turquoise Coast
A gulet cruise explores Turkey’s stunning southwest coastline, called the Turquoise Coast for its crystal blue waters. Common itineraries focus on the Fethiye-Gocek region, Marmaris, and Bodrum. Stopping points include isolated coves for swimming and water sports along with colorful coastal villages and ancient ruins.
Popular stops range from the sunken Batik Hammam to the hillside mausoleums of Caunos. You may hike to the ancient rock tombs of Dalyan or explore the markets of Fethiye and Marmaris. Wherever you sail, the region’s natural scenery, historic sites and mouthwatering cuisine await discovery. With so much to experience in a week or less, the options are endless.
Choosing Your Gulet – Size, Style and Budget
From sleek sailing yachts to broad cruising boats, gulets come in sizes ideal for any group. Smaller 16-meter designs carry under 10 guests while larger models reach 50 meters and more. The size affects cost as well as the sailing profile, with smaller gulets able to access shallow bays.
Decor varies from traditional teak styling to contemporary luxury. Consider amenities like jacuzzis, watersports gear, interior layouts and the number of crew when choosing your ideal gulet. There are designs perfect for families, friends getaways, special occasions or company retreats. Our gulet experts can match you with the perfect boat for your Turkey cruise.
Experience This Iconic Turkish Tradition
With their distinctive silhouette and polished wooden elegance, gulets remain symbols of the Turquoise Coast. Relaxation merges seamlessly with adventure and discovery on these charming yachts. As Turkey’s original luxury charter experience, a Blue Voyage gulet cruise promises memories, and friends, to last a lifetime.
So gather your family, partner or closest friends and escape aboard your own Turkish gulet. With hardly a care in the world except deciding where to swim and dine next, you’ll soon see why these graceful wooden yachts capture the spirit of summer in Turkey.
A) Price Difference Between Gulet Boats
Sometimes looks can be deceiving and that phrase can also apply to a gulet yacht because sometimes they can appear so similar but yet have a huge price difference between them. There are 3 categories of gulets namely; Standard, Deluxe, and Luxury. Below are some of the things that help distinguish the price of a gulet:
The crew on board a gulet can define your trip. An excellent crew on board can make your cruise much more enjoyable. A more experienced and knowledgeable captain knows how to sail and all the best places to stop at and this can absolutely make your cruising experience fantastic.
Maintenance, as well as the age of the gulet, will influence the final price of gulet charter. A gulet in fine and properly maintained condition will surely command a higher charter price than a gulet in average condition.
The more services and amenities are available on a gulet, the more expensive it will become. For example, few gulets that offer water boarding equipment, Jacuzzi, fully furnished bar, posibility of having a babysitter on board etc. will generally attract a hefty price tag.
EXAMPLES OF GULETS FROM 3 DIFFERENT DESTINATIONS
Luxury sailing yacht Lady Gita with astounding 49,30 m in length provides lots of space for 12 guests that she can accommodate in 6 cabins. The deck features sun mattresses and lounge area, a jacuzzi from where you can enjoy in the beautiful surroundings while the experienced and professional crew will ensure you with the best cruise experience.
Aurum Sky combines high-end elegance, sleek lines and modern decor both inside and on the deck. “Aurum Sky” is owned by the same family who owns gulet “Aurum” that was always booked months in advance. This shows the quality of service they provide onboard that our experts can equally confirm.
Gulet Dolce Mare from Turkey️ won the best service award. The crew will truly go an extra mile for all of its clients to provide them with everything they wished for and more! Luxury gulet also provides excellent accommodation for a comfortable cruise with a lot of admirable features and watersports.
Gulet Kaptan Mehmet Bugra is 34 meters super-luxury yacht that can accommodate 18 guests in 8 cabins. Kaptan Mehmet Bugra offers the biggest watersports selection, all from; dinghy, water skiing, jet ski, Ringo ride,paddleboard… There is also Jacuzzi that can be filled with sea water or fresh water.
Glorious II is a 36-meter luxury gulet yacht available for private charter in Greece. Glorious II features a flybridge and offers a vast choice of watersports to choose from, there are lots of cushioned areas on deck for sunbathing and relaxation. Your chef will provide you with delicious meal while crew will make sure your cruise is stress free.
Motor sailor yacht Arktos is a newly built traditional wooden schooner and one of the finest designs of Greek craftsmanship. Onboard, you can expect an experienced amazing cuisine and professional crew who will be a great host throughout your Greek cruise! The professional crew consists of a captain, chef, deckhand, engineer, hostess.
TURKISH DELIGHT – A WEEK ON A TURKISH GULET
FAQ
What is a Turkish gulet?
What is the difference between a gulet and a yacht?
What is a gulet in English?
How much does it cost to charter a gulet in Turkey?
What is a gulet?
A Gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden sailing yacht that is designed explicitly for cruising along the beautiful Turkish coast. These vessels are known for their elegant design, spacious interiors, and comfortable accommodations.
What are gulet sailing holidays in Turkey?
Gulet sailing holidays in Turkey focus on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, which make up the Turkish Riviera. Within this long stretch of coastline, captains follow defined Blue Cruise routes, with unique attractions and things to do.
How long is a Turkish gulet?
The design of traditional Turkish Gulets has indeed evolved along the ages and a modern day Gulet is a plush and comfortable blue cruising boat varying from 11 to 55 meters (36-180 feet) in length. The length of the Gulet is proportional to its passenger capacity.