What is a Blue Cruise? A Complete Guide to Turkey's Ultimate Yacht Charter Experience
What is a Blue Cruise? A Complete Guide to Turkey's Ultimate Yacht Charter Experience
Introduction: The Blue Cruise Adventure
If you dream of exploring the stunning Turkish coastline, basking in the sun, and enjoying the privacy of a luxurious yacht, a Blue Cruise might be the ultimate escape for you. But what is a Blue Cruise, and why has it become the go-to choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation?
A Blue Cruise is a unique yacht charter experience where you rent a gulet—a traditional Turkish wooden boat—complete with a crew and customized itinerary. This tailored cruise lets you swim in serene bays, discover quaint coastal towns, dine on fresh local cuisine, and enjoy the exclusivity of your own group. Perfect for families, friends, or couples, a Blue Cruise in Turkey is an unforgettable way to experience the Mediterranean.
What is a Blue Cruise?
At its core, a Blue Cruise is a private gulet charter in Turkey, allowing guests to explore the Aegean and Mediterranean seas with a dedicated crew. The essence of a Blue Cruise is its flexibility and intimacy: you and your group get to decide where you want to go, what you want to do, and how you want to spend each day.
Imagine waking up in a secluded cove, diving into crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on deck, and visiting hidden gems along the Turkish Riviera—all without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply relax, a Blue Cruise offers the freedom to create your own adventure.
The Traditional Gulet Experience
What are Gulets?
Gulets are traditional Turkish wooden boats specifically designed for comfort and leisure. Typically ranging from 20 to 30 meters in length, gulets have 4 to 8 cozy cabins, each with private bathrooms, making them ideal for groups looking for a spacious yet private atmosphere on board.
These beautifully crafted boats are equipped with ample deck space for lounging and dining, perfect for enjoying the panoramic views of the sea and coastline. Gulets are ideal for a relaxed cruising experience, as they’re designed for comfort rather than high-speed sailing.
Exploring the Beauty of Turkey by Sea
The Turkish Riviera is home to some of the most beautiful and secluded bays, hidden beaches, and charming villages along the Mediterranean. On a Blue Cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit iconic spots like Fethiye, Bodrum, Marmaris, and Göcek, each offering a unique experience. From snorkeling in vibrant underwater landscapes to exploring ancient ruins and quaint fishing villages, each stop provides a new adventure.
A Blue Cruise lets you experience the natural beauty of Turkey’s coastline while avoiding the crowds—meaning you’ll have peaceful moments in pristine locations that few tourists get to see.
Finding the Best Gulet Deals
With more than 2,000 gulets available for charter worldwide, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Our team specializes in gulet charters and has inspected over 1,500 gulets in 11 destinations to ensure they meet high standards for comfort, service, and quality. Around 700 gulets passed our inspection, meaning we can offer you honest, expert recommendations based on your budget and preferences.
To find the best gulet for your trip, simply fill out our inquiry form, and our experts will guide you through the options, helping you find a gulet that perfectly matches your vision for the perfect cruise.
Life Onboard a Blue Cruise
The Crew and Their Roles
A professional crew comes with every gulet, typically including a Captain, Chef, Sailor, and Hostess. The crew handles everything from sailing and navigation to preparing meals and keeping the gulet clean, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your trip. Larger, more luxurious gulets often have additional crew members to provide even more personalized service.
A typical day on a Blue Cruise is filled with options—you can start the day with a swim, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on deck, explore a nearby town, or lounge under the sun. The crew takes care of all the details, ensuring every moment of your cruise is perfect.
Dining on a Blue Cruise
A Culinary Journey at Sea
Dining is a highlight of any Blue Cruise. Before your trip, you’ll complete a preference list to help the chef prepare meals tailored to your tastes, with options ranging from traditional Mediterranean dishes to gourmet menus. Meals are usually enjoyed alfresco on the gulet’s deck, offering stunning views of the sea as you dine.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea or coffee are served onboard, though you can also choose to dine ashore if you’d like to experience local restaurants.
Accommodation: Cabins and Comforts
Cabins on a gulet are cozy and charming, with options for double or twin beds, private bathrooms, and enough storage space for a comfortable stay. Although smaller than hotel rooms, these cabins offer the perfect retreat after a day spent in the sun or exploring towns. Most gulets also have air conditioning, which is available when docked or powered by a generator during certain hours.
Each cabin comes with a private bathroom featuring either a “vacuum” toilet (similar to those on sailboats) or a “home-type” toilet, as well as a shower. Higher-category gulets offer more spacious bathrooms and enhanced comforts.
Understanding Gulet Pricing
The cost of a Blue Cruise varies based on the size and quality of the gulet, the number of guests, the season, and the destination. As a general guide, expect to spend at least €850 to €1,200 per person per week for a comfortable, well-maintained gulet with a professional crew.
Prices can range from €5,000 to €100,000 per week for a private gulet charter, depending on factors like the season and level of luxury. For more information on pricing and available gulets, reach out to us, and we’ll provide a tailored quote based on your preferences.
Start Planning Your Blue Cruise
Ready to set sail on a Blue Cruise in Turkey? Start planning your unforgettable journey by filling out our inquiry form. Our team of gulet experts is here to help you design the perfect cruise holiday, ensuring every detail is just as you envision. From finding the right gulet to creating a custom itinerary, we’re here to make your dream cruise a reality.
Contact us today to start your Blue Cruise adventure and discover the beauty of Turkey from the privacy of your own yacht.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a Blue Cruise?
A Blue Cruise includes a private gulet charter, a professional crew, and often full board dining. Custom itineraries and amenities may vary depending on your preferences.
How many crew members are on a gulet?
Most gulets have 3-4 crew members, including a Captain, Chef, Sailor, and Hostess, although larger gulets may have additional crew.
