Discover the Charm of a Gulet Cruise in the Mediterranean
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Sailing Advices
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- Spacious Comfort and Traditional Design
- Understanding the Layout of a Gulet
- Gulet Cruises for Every Traveler
Originally used by fishermen and traders in Turkey, gulets are traditional wooden boats with spacious decks and multiple cozy cabins, ideal for lounging, socializing, and enjoying stunning seascapes.
Why Choose a Gulet Cruise?
Gulets are distinct from traditional sailing yachts in that they’re primarily motor-powered, not designed for extensive sailing under wind alone. While many gulets have sails, they are rarely raised except for show, as gulets weren’t historically crafted to rely on sail power. The focus of a gulet cruise is on leisurely travel and exploration, making it the perfect choice if you’re more interested in luxury and comfort than in active sailing.
Spacious Comfort and Traditional Design
Gulets offer a range of cabin types, with larger models featuring ensuite bathrooms for added privacy. The layout is ideal for relaxation, with spacious decks, plush sunbeds, and outdoor dining areas perfect for enjoying meals under the stars. Inside, cabins are well-equipped, often with air conditioning, and luxurious options can rival a high-end hotel, offering private bathrooms and upscale amenities for an exceptionally comfortable journey
A Relaxing and Social Experience
One of the highlights of a gulet cruise is the crewed service. Most gulets come with a dedicated team that includes a captain, chef, and hostess, ensuring that your needs are met throughout the trip. The chef crafts delicious local dishes, making the onboard dining experience one of the voyage’s delights, while the hostess attends to cleaning and service needs, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy your time onboard.
Activities and Exploration
While a gulet’s primary allure lies in its leisurely atmosphere, these cruises also offer a variety of activities, from snorkeling and swimming to jet skiing and paddleboarding. Many routes include stops at historical sites, secluded bays, and beautiful islands, making a gulet cruise ideal for sightseeing and discovery along Turkey's "Turquoise Coast." Gulets also allow guests to explore Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, adding an international twist to the adventure.
Setting Sail with Style – On Occasion!
Though gulets aren’t designed as performance sailboats, some captains may unfurl the sails briefly to showcase the vessel’s charm. This ceremonial “sailing” adds to the experience, giving guests a taste of traditional nautical aesthetics, even though the boat remains motor-powered for practicality and stability. Gulets are all about creating a serene, visually stunning environment rather than swift movement by sail. Sailing is not guaranteed on your gulet trip; many times, the yacht will be powered by the engine for practical reasons such as reaching remote anchorages or moving between islands.
The primary focus of a gulet cruise is on relaxation, exploration, and enjoying the unique Mediterranean landscapes, rather than the thrill of traditional sailing.
Understanding the Layout of a Gulet
Gulets are traditional Turkish boats that offer a unique blend of comfort and charm. Whether for a cabin charter or a private yacht experience, these vessels offer distinct areas, each designed for relaxation and leisure. The layout is spacious, with luxurious touches, but it’s important to note that gulets are designed for comfort rather than speed and sailing.
Deck Areas
- Main Deck
The main deck is the central hub of a gulet and the perfect place for sunbathing or enjoying the beautiful Mediterranean views. It’s usually equipped with comfortable sunbeds, seating areas, and sometimes even a shaded area to keep cool under the sun. On many gulets, you can also find a large dining table where guests can enjoy meals al fresco, making it ideal for group charters or private gatherings. - Flybridge
Some larger or more modern gulets are equipped with a flybridge, a higher deck above the main deck, offering panoramic views of the surrounding waters. It often has additional seating areas or a small helm station for navigation, providing both privacy and an excellent vantage point.
Cabins
- Master Cabin
The master cabin is typically located in the center or rear of the gulet, offering a spacious, private retreat with a king-size bed, storage space, and sometimes an ensuite bathroom. This cabin offers the highest level of luxury and privacy, often with large windows for a stunning view of the sea. - Guest Cabins
Guest cabins are spread throughout the boat, offering a mix of sizes and configurations, with double or twin beds. These cabins are well-furnished with comfortable amenities, ensuring that each guest feels at home. While the size can vary, most gulets provide en-suite bathrooms or shared bathrooms depending on the vessel's layout. - Crew Quarters
Separate from the guest cabins, the crew quarters are located towards the rear of the gulet. These quarters are functional but less spacious, as the crew has their own space to rest while you enjoy the amenities of the boat.
Saloon
- Interior Saloon
The saloon of a gulet is a large, open space used for socializing and dining inside. It is often equipped with large windows to let in natural light and offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find comfortable seating areas, sometimes with sofas and armchairs, as well as a dining table where meals can be served if you wish to dine indoors. This area is usually where the crew will host social events, provide entertainment, or offer assistance.
Galley (Kitchen)
- The Galley
Located below deck, the galley is the heart of the boat’s culinary operation. Although gulets are not typically known for their modern, gourmet kitchens, the galley on a gulet is well-equipped for preparing fresh meals using locally sourced ingredients. The crew will often prepare delicious Turkish or Mediterranean meals, with a focus on seafood and fresh produce, depending on the location.
Helm and Navigation Station
- Helm Station
Unlike modern yachts, gulets have a more traditional helm station, which is typically located at the stern (rear) of the vessel. While some gulets feature a flybridge for additional control options, the main helm area is where the captain steers the boat. It often features a large wheel and navigational instruments, but gulets are not designed for fast sailing, and the emphasis is on relaxation and luxury rather than high-speed navigation. - Sails and Rigging
Gulets are traditionally rigged as schooners, with two masts and several sails. However, sailing is not the primary focus of gulets. While many gulets have sails, they are mostly used for demonstrations or special occasions. In most cases, the engines are used to power the gulet from place to place. Sails are unfurled occasionally, but this is not guaranteed to happen regularly during a trip.
Bathrooms and Showers
- Bathrooms (Heads)
The bathrooms on a gulet are well-equipped, often with modern fixtures. The number of bathrooms varies depending on the size and layout of the vessel, but each guest cabin typically has access to its own bathroom. The bathrooms are usually small but practical, with a marine toilet (using seawater for flushing) and a shower. On some gulets, a bathroom may be shared among a few cabins.
Stern and Transom
- Stern (Rear Deck)
The stern of the gulet is often the most social area, with seating, dining, and sometimes even a small bar. It’s also where you’ll find access to the water via a swim platform or ladder. This space is ideal for lounging, watching the sunset, or accessing the sea for swimming and water activities. - Transom (Back of the Boat)
At the transom, there is often a swim platform or an area where guests can enter or exit the gulet’s tender boat. This is a common place for guests to enjoy swimming and other water-based activities.
Gulet Cruises for Every Traveler
While Turkey remains a popular destination for gulet cruises, these boats are available throughout the Mediterranean. You can explore destinations like the Greek Islands, Croatia, Italy, and beyond. A gulet is ideal for those looking to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches, as these boats can access areas that larger vessels can’t.
Whether you opt for a cabin charter, where you share the boat with fellow travelers, or a private charter for a more exclusive experience, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to explore less touristy areas of the Mediterranean, docking in picturesque bays and ports away from the crowds.
From the comfort of spacious cabins to curated stops at natural and cultural sites, a gulet trip combines the essence of Mediterranean leisure with the charm of a traditional wooden yacht. So, if you’re ready to experience the Mediterranean in style, consider embarking on a gulet cruise and embrace a journey where comfort, history, and scenic beauty come together seamlessly.
Intersailclub team can help you find the perfect boat for your holiday, tailored to your budget.
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