Life & Food on Board
A Gulet Cruise offers an enchanting blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, all wrapped in the comfort of a private yacht. Here’s an overview of the unique experiences you can expect when stepping aboard a gulet, the traditional wooden sailing yacht that serves as your floating sanctuary:
A Day Aboard a Gulet
Imagine waking up to the serene calm of the open water, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. As the sun rises, you are greeted with a delicious Turkish breakfast, fresh and full of flavors that will fuel you for the day ahead. While enjoying your meal, you can plan your activities or simply soak in the view of the calm sea.
Morning: A Tranquil Start
After breakfast, indulge in morning activities such as swimming in crystal-clear waters or hopping onto a canoe to explore hidden coves and secluded bays.
If you prefer relaxation, you can unwind on the sunbeds, with the gentle rays of the sun warming your skin while you read your favorite book or sip on a refreshing drink.
If you're feeling more adventurous, try out water sports like windsurfing or take a dinghy ride around the coast.
Afternoon: A Taste of Turkish Delights
As noon approaches, enjoy fresh fruits and a warm cup of tea. The onboard chefs are busy preparing a scrumptious lunch made from locally sourced ingredients, often featuring a variety of Turkish dishes bursting with flavor.
After lunch, the gulet will head to a new destination, possibly a fishing village or a busy harbor. The calm sailing time (usually about 4 hours per day) gives you a chance to relax or participate in various activities.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet-skiing, water-skiing, or a banana boat ride, all at reasonable prices, organized by local operators in each bay.
Late Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Scenic Beauty
As the gulet anchors at a new spot, you can choose to sunbathe on the deck or go for another swim. The clear, turquoise waters beckon for another dip.
If you’re feeling adventurous, land excursions to explore archaeological ruins or take a short hike into pine forests are a great way to experience the local culture and scenery.
Evening: Sunset & Savoring the Moments
As the sun begins to set, bask in the golden hues of the sky, watching the water shimmer under the last light of the day. The magical aura of dusk casts a peaceful mood over the boat.
For dinner, a gourmet three-course meal is prepared, offering an array of Turkish delicacies that are often accompanied by local wines or other beverages of your choice.
The night continues with delightful chit-chat, music, and fun games that make the evening feel unforgettable. Enjoy the camaraderie of your loved ones as you reflect on the day's adventures and relax under a starry sky.
Yacht Features & Amenities
Sailing & Navigation: While the gulet primarily uses its engine for navigation, it will also set sail when the winds are favorable, giving you a traditional sailing experience.
Destinations
You’ll visit different bays and harbors each day, offering a variety of experiences ranging from quaint, peaceful fishing villages to bustling towns like Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Rhodes.
Water Toys & Equipment: Most gulets are equipped with standard water toys, including windsurf boards, dinghies, canoes, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment. If you crave more excitement, try out jet-skiing, water-skiing, or parasailing (available at certain stops).
Food & Beverages
The Blue Cruise menu focuses on traditional Turkish flavors with dishes like meze platters, grilled fish, kebabs, and fresh vegetables. You will also enjoy afternoon tea or coffee with cake and cookies.
You can bring your own special food or beverages aboard, and the onboard chef will be happy to prepare meals with your selected items. If you have any dietary requests or special preferences, the team will accommodate them as best as they can with prior notice.
The bar on board offers a range of local and imported alcoholic beverages, along with soft drinks.
Leisure & Exploration
Local excursions are a highlight of any gulet cruise, whether visiting ancient ruins, relaxing in pine forests, or exploring hidden beaches.
The coastline of Turkey and Greece offers some of the most scenic spots in the Mediterranean, perfect for photography or simply taking in the view.
Your Itinerary
The itinerary is typically planned for a one-week period, with a set route that covers different bays and harbors. However, the schedule is flexible, and changes can be made according to your personal requests or in response to weather conditions.
The gulet needs to visit a harbor every three to four days to stock up on essentials like fuel, food, and beverages.
Conclusion: A Dream Vacation
A gulet cruise is more than just a boat ride; it’s an immersive experience that blends luxury, adventure, and relaxation in one unforgettable trip. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of water sports, the serenity of floating on calm waters, or the joy of savoring exquisite meals, this is the perfect way to unwind, explore, and connect with loved ones.