Charter & Cruise Guide

Yachts can take months, even years to build, especially luxury ones. In the old days, it would take an average of 3 to 4 years to build, but nowadays, they can be seaborne in as few as 15 months from the time the production has begun! What is incredible about these yachts, also known as gulets is that to this day, they are still handmade by skilled builders. There is no simple way to describe how to build a yacht, but if there is a place to learn about yacht building it is in Turkey.Here on the Mediterranean Coast, from Istanbul all the way down to Marmaris, you will find some of the best, most famous yachts being built here. Even the well respected Italian engineer, Fabio Perini brought his production to Turkey in the 1980s. Working out of the Yildiz Gemi, a shipyard in Norther Read more

Everybody knows how it is possible to customize a car, but did you know that you can customize your own yacht. If you have a few dozen million dollars to spare, you can design your own mega-yacht with Dynamiq, a custom yacht builder based out of Monaco. You can use their website to customize your boat with every detail from the furniture and seating fabric to the colour of their televisions and other electronics. With the customizer, you can add anything your heart desires from Bellagio lounge tables to designer armchairs and even 3D carpets!Take a look at some of the most unique custom yachts that have been for sale Read more

Due to the warm climate of the Mediterranean region, the season for Mediterranean yacht vacations begins in April and goes all the way through mid-November. Whether you are looking at a luxury, private yacht rental for your vacation or basic accommodations onboard, the prices vary throughout the season.The cheapest month to rent a charter is of course at the beginning of the sailing season in April and at end of the season, in October and November. Fortunately, the Mediterranean heats up throughout the summertime and stays warm all the way until November.This is an ideal time to go sailing if you are looking to go on a budget, as prices will be several hundred dollars Read more

A brief history of TurkeyDespite common misconception, Turkey is not named after the gobbling bird, but rather the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Kemal Mustafa Ataturk. In 1922 the Ottoman Empire dissolved and the following year Ataturk became the first President of the newly formed Republic of Turkey. Although the country is primarily Muslim, the country has a rich history of many different societies thriving in its land. Although the administrative capital of the country is Ankara, the largest and most well-known city is Istanbul. Formerly known as Constantinople, the city has thousands of years of history from various civilizations and an endless list of things to do. But, Istanbul is just the very beginning of your journey in Turkey... Read more

The Mediterranean is one of the most beloved seas in the world for yacht charter vacations. People flock from not just Europe, but all over the world to hire boats from the Western Mediterranean to the Eastern section. Turkey lies in its Eastern section on the section called the Aegean. Within the Mediterranean, there are several other seas including the Aegean, Ionian, Tyrrhenian, and Adriatic. The Aegean Sea spans from the mouth of the Sea of Marmara in Northern Turkey to the Greek Dodecanese Islands along the Southwestern Coast of Turkey. This region from Bodrum to Marmaris and all the way down towards Fethiye is where luxury yachting and sailing is most popular in Turkey. Read more

What is a yacht?There are so many different types of boats out there, but what makes a boat a yacht? There are many factors as to what is considered a yacht as well as different subcategories of yachts. The size of the boat is the key factor in understanding the different types of yacht. So how do we define the different types of yachts?Luxury superyachts, also known as mega yachts are vessels that are over 24 meters (164 feet) long, privately owned, and have a full working crew on board.But the main factor as to what makes a yacht a yacht is that yachts are solely used for recreation and pleasure, rather than to transport passengers or commercial goods to a specific place, as a ship would. A vessel defined as a ship also needs a crew in order fo Read more

Ever find yourself curious about the world’s most expensive and largest yachts in the world?Here’s a list of the Top 10 Mega Yachts and Yacht Brands in the World:1) Azzam: The biggest yacht in the world comes in at a whopping 179 meters (590 feet) long. This luxury yacht owned by the president of the United Arab Emirates, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan cost $600 million USD to build. Sheikh Khalifa had it built by Lürssen Yachts, one of the top luxury yacht brands and the interior was design Read more

Gulet cruises are a fabulous way to see some of the top highlights of Turkey. Full of stunning natural beauty and historical sights, the southern coast of Turkey is not to be missed. Not to mention the quality relaxation time on board while cruising from destination to destination. Many cruises either depart or arrive in the major harbour towns of Fethiye, Marmaris, or Bodrum. Each port has their own unique beauty and can be explored either before or after the following routes. Read more to find out which routes will bring you to the top destinations for swimming, sightseeing, and overall relaxation.Olympos – Fethiye Read more

Relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Turkish turquoise coast is the main activity on any blue cruise, however, if you are feeling active and adventurous, there are a variety of shore tour options to fill your time while anchored in pristine bays or docked at any of the charming harbours along the coast.Not only will your blue cruise gulet experience introduce you to a new level of relaxation, you will also have many options to actively explore the natural historical wonders that surround you. Prepare to be amazed by the scenery and history that this part of Turkey is famous for. Feel free to enjoy any of these activities Read more

Oludeniz Blue LagoonLike many beaches in Turkey, the main stretch of Oludeniz is pebbled and rocky. However, if you continue westward by car or foot, or arrive by Blue Cruise Turkey, you will find that the world-famous Blue Lagoon is a pleasant and sandy stretch lined with reclining beach chairs and cheerful beachside cafes. Here you can lounge to your heart’s content and watch the paragliders high above until late in the afternoon.Iztuzu BeachIztuzu Beach, located near Dalyan, Tur Read more

Many of the incredible natural wonders of Turkey are accessible by vehicle and foot but the most beautiful are most easily approached by boat. Lucky for tourists in Turkey, affordable cruises run throughout the summer, often stopping at the top 5 beaches mentioned below.1) Butterfly ValleyFamous for the 2,000 meter high cliffs surrounding this sandy beach, Butterfly Valley is the perfect combination of colours so often pleasing to the human eye. A bleached shoreline and aquamarine waters meet at the shore. The cliffs above are dotted with greenery and are home to over 100 different butterfly spe Read more

Choosing a blue cruise can often be confusing and difficult given all of the incredible places to visit and things to do along each gulet route. Whether you join a standard cabin cruise or choose a more intimate private yacht charter, there is plenty to see and do no matter where your gulet route takes you. These suggested highlights will hopefully make your choice easier as you discover more about the options that best suit your interests. Perhaps you are looking for a more adventurous option that includes diving and paragliding? Or maybe you would really just like to completely unwind and relax on a gulet that offers the best of the Turkish coast and the nearby Greek islands? There is something for everyone and the following are on our list of must-sees while cruising the Turquoise Co Read more

Blue cruising is synonymous with relaxation. However, there are a few spots along the turquoise coast of Turkey that will invite an exceptional level of calm into your life. Far from the maddening crowds, these destinations are sure to have you feeling calm and relaxed after just a few hours on board. All of these locations are reachable by boat and in fact, the most relaxing way to enjoy these places is on board a Turkish gulet. Days can be spent exploring charming villages and pristine beaches while evenings and nights are spent on board with delicious meals and a peaceful night’s sleep gently rocking with the waves.Butterfly ValleyButterfly Valley is an incredible canyon that reaches up to almost 2,000 meters above sea level. The cliffs are steep and th Read more

If you have ever wanted to visit this magical corner of Turkey, known for the historical sights of Simena Castle and the Sunken City of Kekova, look no further. Hop on a gulet cruise to experience the majesty of both attractions. Private yacht charters, weekly gulet cruises, and smaller day trip boats can be found anchored around the island of Kekova and the nearby coastal village of Simena (modern-day Kalekoy), home to the magnificent Simena Castle. Many of these boats anchor for the day and passengers spend warm summer afternoons swimming in the clear water before riding ashore to Simena and attempting the steep hike up to the castle. Simena dates back to the 4th century BC and neighbours the charming village of Ucagiz. It is a very special Read more

Typically gulets are found cruising between Bodrum and Antalya and options are virtually endless for routes that cruise east and west along the coast and to the nearby Greek islands. Much of the coastline is untouched and uninhabited and the best way to explore the many serene bays and intimate beaches is via a traditional Turkish gulet. Blue Cruises, as they have come to be known over the years, are relaxing, invigorating, and provide plenty of opportunities to explore the local history and culture. Traditional style wooden gulet boats equipped with full kitchens and comfortable cabins provide the perfect environment to enjoy pristine bays and charming seaside villages. If you have yet to be convinced, keep reading to discover why a Turkey g Read more

On your next holiday in Turkey, why not hire a Turkish Gulet charter to explore the coastline and nearby Dodecanese Greek islands? This gathering of islands sprinkled where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean is best explored via a Turkish gulet. Even better if you have the opportunity to charter your own and explore the islands at your pace and leisure. When planning your charter itinerary, you have the freedom to choose your port of departure and arrival. Luckily, the Greek islands are accessible from various ports which you can choose based on your interests and travel plans.From MarmarisMarmaris is another option for those desiring the views of the Datca peninsula, in addition to some of the Greek islands such Read more

It may be overwhelming to choose from the array of Turkey Blue Cruise itineraries that are possible for your luxury gulet charter. These suggested steps will help to guide you through the process of choosing which charter is right for you and your group to create the perfect holiday experience.Consider Your Interests: Destinations and ActivitiesAre you seeking an active vacation filled with every spot along the coast that you have been dying to explore? Or is your group content with a private and calm experience that includes slow island hopping and days anchored in isolated and pristine bays? It is important to consider your interests before choosing the best route for your group.There is plenty of history to Read more

Sometimes the options for blue cruise Turkey are overwhelming with so many beautiful places to visit and explore. However, if you have decided to begin your journey in Bodrum, all that remains is planning your itinerary for visiting the nearby Dodecanese islands of Greece. The following islands are easily accessible and all stunning in their own unique ways. Depending on your time frame, it is possible to explore the majority of the islands, getting a very good taste for Greek culture in this region of the Aegean sea.KosKos is the largest of the northern Dodecanese islands and is known for its abundantly sandy beaches. The island is rich with Greek and Roman landmarks, including a castle, many temples, and a villa Read more

If your next trip to Turkey includes a blue cruise along the magnificent Turquoise coast, be sure to take a few days to experience the wonders of Olympos before or after your voyage (cruises travel in both directions, to and from the charming port town of Fethiye). Only a 1 ½ hour ride from Antalya, Turkey’s 8th largest city, Olympos is easy to reach and full of things to see and do.The ancient city of Olympos is a well-preserved representation of the past and is only a few minutes walk from a stunning beach with crystal clear turquoise waters. The secluded nearby village is full of affordable accommodation and home-cooked Turkish food. Olympos will easily prove itself to be one of the best decisions you made during your adventure Read more

With so many beautiful places and beaches to explore, and Bodrum itself being a highlight of the area, blue cruises that traverse this part of Turkey are full of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Many gulet cruise Turkey routes begin and end in this port town so leave a few days before or after your reservation to explore the rich culture and history that Bodrum has to offer. Bodrum was previously an ancient Greek city known as Halicarnassus. The castle of St. Peter overlooks the harbour and is partly constructed from the remains of a mausoleum that once stood in its place before it was destroyed by a devastating earthquake. Bodrum has an interesting mixture of the historical, the bohemian, and the modern. Take a water along the mar Read more

As the largest harbour in Turkey, there are plenty of options for your Blue Cruise from Marmaris. Many cruises either begin or end in Marmaris, providing an ideal opportunity to explore this coastal town before or after embarking on your Mediterranean adventure. It is a bustling port town and has much to offer in the new centre as well as the old town that surrounds the castle. Cruises depart and arrive daily and your options are limitless, particularly if you might be considering a chartered blue voyage for your private group. However, there are plenty of cabin cruises also available with predetermined routes that explore many of the following destinations.Marmaris to Fethiye to Marmaris Read more

Bodrum is the blue cruising capital of Turkey and many routes can be explored via the fleet of gulet cruises you see filling the harbour. Bodrum is the beginning and end destinations for all of the following routes so be sure to take time to explore the town either before or after boarding your blue cruise. If your travel plans in Turkey land you in this charming seaside town, be sure to hop on a scheduled or private Blue Cruise to experience the scenery of this exquisite part of the world. Cruises are available for all itineraries and budgets and experienced captains will expertly guide you through these hard to choose from routes.GokovaFor the perfect balance of small seaside coves and ancient ruins, this route Read more

Gulet cruises Turkey: private luxury charter or standard cabin cruise? How do you choose? Both can be equally as relaxing and at times there is hardly a price difference, depending on the time of year, size of the boat, and the number of people you are travelling with. If you are travelling with a group focused on certain destinations, private charters are ideal. However, if you are single or a couple travelling and seeking a relaxing holiday with everything planned for you, standard cabin cruises may be just the right fit for your time in Turkey. The options are endless so here are a few ideas to narrow down your decision for your next holiday.Standard Cabin CruiseStandard cabin cruises are an affordable and rela Read more

Fethiye is known as a launching point for many groups and private gulet cruises headed either east or west along the Mediterranean coast. However, Fethiye is a destination in itself and has much to offer those looking for a spot rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. It is likely that your holiday on the southern coast of Turkey will probably include a stop to the port town of Fethiye. Be sure to spend a few days exploring all that Fethiye has to offer.Old Town & Local MarketsFull of shaded bars, restaurants, and shops, the old town in Fethiye is the perfect setting for a pleasant stroll to enjoy a beverage and purchase local souve Read more

Marmaris is an ideal starting point for a holiday on the water. Heading west down the Datca Peninsula there are the Greek Islands, east heads towards Fethiye while the Island of Rhodes lies fairly close off the Turkish mainland. There is plenty of choice and much will depend upon how long you have to enjoy this great part of the Eastern Mediterranean.Those deciding to start their holiday in Marmaris have two possible points of entry on the Turkish mainland. Dalaman Airport is east of Marmaris, around 90 minutes away. There are numerous direct flights from many regional airports in Europe and the Middle East. Bodrum’s Airport at Milas is to the north and is a similar distance away.Taking to the SeaThe immediate vicinity of Marmaris is extremely inte Read more

The warm and calm seas of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast are ideal for cruising. There are many alternatives from which you can choose and one of the most popular is to move between Turkey and Greece where local relations between the two countries are excellent. The inhabited islands off the Turkish Coast are all Greek but that does not detract from what is certain to be a great relaxing holiday.Greece Turkey Blue Cruises allow passenger to get a flavour of both countries and one of the most popular cruises takes in the island of Rhodes that offers so much. The Colossus, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, has long gone but the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is just one of the many things to enjoy.History and CultureYou will certainl Read more

Those wishing to combine the pleasures of sailing in crystal blue seas with a little history and culture need look no further than the stretch of Turkey’s Coast between Kemer and Fethiye. Just south-west of Kemer there are the ruins of an ancient Lycian City, Olympos, in what has now become a National Park.OlymposOlympos is close to the modern town of Cirali and is thought to date back to the 4thCentury BC. It has had a rich history; Lycian, Roman, sundry pirates, as well as Italian traders (Venetian and Genoese) before the whole region, became part of the Ottoman Empire.While the ruins are fairly overgrown they are worth seeing especially the sarcophagus which is the main evidence of the date of the city. Just above Cirali, there is the Chimera, flame Read more

There are few nicer places to cruise in crystal clear warm waters than in the Eastern Mediterranean. The region commonly referred to as the Eastern Mediterranean includes the Aegean and its Greek Islands. There are regular direct flights into Bodrum in South West Turkey from most regions of Europe and the Middle East. It is just a short step to climb aboard one of the Blue Cruises from Bodrum to enjoy a relaxing holiday, swimming, catching the sun and savouring the fine cuisine.Bodrum TownThere is no need to hurry. The whole point of a holiday is to relax and your port of embarkation has much to enjoy before you set sail. Bodrum’s history dates back centuries; it was a village settlement Read more

The Turquoise Coast of Turkey has become increasingly popular with sailors in recent years and even those who have never had a holiday on the waves before have begun to realise the joys of such a relaxing holiday. There is no need for any expertise because the yachts and gulets that sail out of Fethiye harbour every day come with an experienced captain and crew intent on ensuring their passengers have an unforgettable holiday.10 Compelling ReasonsWhy a Fethiye Blue Cruise you may say?1) There are a host of attractions just minutes away. Even as you leave the harbour you will immediately begin to see the attraction of sailing in these waters Read more

The small town of Kas that sits on the coast below the Akdaglar Mountains in South West Turkey has rightly gained a reputation amongst divers as a town to head for. Kas has always had a small harbour but in recent years a new marina area has been constructed to cater for the increased numbers heading for this part of Turkey. They are never disappointed.Fancy a Dive?Kas is equidistant between two international airports. Dalaman is to the west with the coastal road hugging the coast from Kalkan onwards. Antalya is east of Kas with the road once again largely tracking the shape of the coastline. The road trip is worth it in itself before tourists reach Kas to start their holiday on the sea.While diving is not part of a regular charter cruise facility th Read more