What Exactly Is a Gulet?
A classic Turkish gulet is a handcrafted, wooden motor-sailing yacht designed specifically for cruising the warm, turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and Aegean. Unlike standard sailing boats, gulets are designed to maximize living space on deck. Their signature feature is the spacious aft deck, usually equipped with a wide, crescent-shaped dining and lounging area perfect for alfresco dining.
While most gulets are equipped with a mainsail and can harness the wind when conditions are perfect, they primarily rely on powerful engines to adhere to cruising schedules. This distinction sets them apart from high-performance sailing yachts; the gulet is about comfort, stability, and the relaxed pace of the "Blue Voyage." Evolving from their roots as sponge-diving and cargo vessels, modern gulets now represent the pinnacle of maritime leisure in Turkey.
Life On Board a Gulet
Gulets typically accommodate between 8 and 18 guests, depending on the vessel's length (usually ranging from 17 to 33 meters). This guest capacity ensures a perfect balance: you have enough space for privacy in your cabins and on deck, yet the environment remains intimate and secure. It captures the exclusivity of a private yacht charter while avoiding the impersonal, crowded nature of massive cruise liners.
Built primarily in the shipyards of Bodrum, Bozburun, Marmaris, and Istanbul, these vessels are floating boutique hotels. A gulet charter includes not just the boat, but a dedicated crew, service, and often onboard entertainment.
The true magic of gulet life lies in its flexibility. While ocean liners are restricted to large ports, a gulet can navigate into shallow, deserted coves and hidden bays. You wake up to a new view every morning, swim in crystal-clear waters before breakfast, and bond with your group in a way that only a sea voyage permits.
Cabins, Comfort & Facilities
Forget the idea of cramping onto a convertible sofa. On a gulet, every guest enjoys a private cabin with proper double berths (or occasionally twin bunks). Crucially, **every cabin features its own en-suite bathroom (WC and shower)**. The crew has their own separate quarters and facilities, ensuring guest privacy is maintained.
Communal areas are designed for relaxation. You will find a spacious indoor saloon and a fully equipped galley where the onboard chef prepares fresh meals. Outside, the decks are uncluttered and strewn with sun mattresses for tanning. On "round stern" gulets, the aft deck often features a "pigeon’s nest"—a cushioned, shaded perch that is widely considered the most comfortable spot for an afternoon nap.
Water supply is rarely an issue on luxury gulets. Unlike smaller bareboats that must conserve every drop, gulets carry significant fresh water tanks (often over 3 tons), allowing you to rinse off the salt water comfortably after every swim.
Smart Packing for Your Blue Cruise
Space is optimized on a boat, so we highly recommend bringing **collapsible, soft-shell luggage** rather than large, hard-shell suitcases which can be difficult to store in cabins.
Your Packing Essentials:
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are mandatory for deck life.
- Clothing: Swimsuits are your daily uniform. Pack T-shirts, shorts, and light trousers for land excursions.
- Evening Wear: Evenings can be breezy, especially in spring and autumn, so bring a light sweater or windbreaker.
- Entertainment: While the view is enough, a good book or your own music playlist is great for quiet hours.
To protect the delicate wooden decks, outdoor shoes are strictly prohibited on board. We live "barefoot luxury" here. If you have sensitive feet, please pack a pair of clean, soft-soled plastic slippers or boat shoes to use exclusively on the yacht.
Important Onboard Rules & Safety Tips
Water & Electricity Usage +
While gulets have large tanks and generators, resources are not infinite. Please use water and electricity mindfully. Turn off lights, taps, and air conditioning units when leaving your cabin.
Smoking Policy +
For fire safety reasons, smoking is strictly forbidden inside cabins. You may smoke in designated areas on the deck, but never throw cigarette butts into the sea.
Wind & Personal Items +
Even on calm days, sudden gusts can occur. Secure your hats, towels, and electronics. The crew is not responsible for items blown overboard.
Route & Meal Changes +
The Captain has the final authority. For the safety and comfort of all guests, the Captain may alter the itinerary or meal times based on weather conditions or port traffic.
Marine Toilet Etiquette +
Marine plumbing is delicate. Never throw toilet paper, wipes, or sanitary products into the toilet bowl. Use the provided waste bins to prevent blockages.
Leaving the Yacht +
If you go ashore, always inform the crew of your plans. Please respect the return times set by the captain to ensure the cruise stays on schedule.
Is it safe for children? +
Absolutely. However, parents must supervise children at all times. Crew instructions regarding life jackets and deck safety must be followed strictly.
Swimming Safety +
Never jump into the water while the engine is running. Always wait for the Captain's "all clear." Be mindful of passing speedboats when swimming far from the gulet.
Using the Dinghy (Tender) +
The service boat (tender) is for transfers and emergency use. It is operated by the crew only and is not for guest recreational use unless specified.
Moving Around the Deck +
Decks can be slippery when wet. Use handrails, watch out for ropes, hatches, and cleats, and move carefully to avoid accidents.
Before Disembarking +
Please double-check your cabin, drawers, and bathroom before leaving the yacht to ensure no personal belongings are left behind.
Conclusion
Think of a gulet not just as a boat, but as a floating villa that moves effortlessly at 8 to 11 knots. With twin masts and classic lines, they offer the service and amenities of a hotel but with a much deeper connection to the sea. The atmosphere on board is one of genuine camaraderie; unlike large ships where you are a room number, here you are a guest of honor.
With a high crew-to-guest ratio, your individual preferences are easily catered to. By understanding the basics of life onboard—from packing smart to respecting marine etiquette—you are guaranteed a Blue Cruise memory that will last a lifetime.
Ready to dive deeper? To plan specific routes and choose the right vessel class, read our next guide: The Ultimate Guide to Gulet Yacht Charters.
Ready to Book Your Dream Blue Voyage?
Tell us your dates, group size, and style. We will curate a selection of the finest gulets tailored to your needs.
Contact Your Yacht Agency