⚓ Introduction: What is a Blue Cruise?
If you are new to Mediterranean sailing, you might be asking: What exactly is a "Blue Cruise"? Originating in Turkey, a Blue Cruise is a multi-day voyage along the coastline, focusing on relaxation, swimming in secluded bays, and dining under the stars.
Unlike a standard yacht charter, this journey is typically done on a Gulet . A gulet is a traditional, handcrafted wooden motor-sailing vessel. With their wide decks and spacious cabins, they are built more for comfort and leisure than for high-speed sailing, making them the floating "boutique hotels" of the sea.
However, the experience of a Blue Cruise changes drastically depending on when you go. A gulet charter in May is a completely different holiday than one in August.
⏳ Why Timing Matters: 3 Real-Life Scenarios
To help you visualize the difference, here is how the season impacts different travelers:
- 👨👩👧👦 The Family (August): The kids want endless swimming, and the parents want lively dinners in town. The heat is high, the water is like a warm bath, and the ports are buzzing with energy.
- 💑 The Couple (September): They want romance and quiet. The sea is still warm from the summer, but the schools are back in session. They enjoy silent bays and cooler evenings on the deck.
- 🧭 The Explorers (May/June): They want to hike coastal ruins and see nature in bloom. The water is fresh, forcing a quick dip rather than a long swim, but they have the ancient sites all to themselves.
🗓️ Overview of Mediterranean Charter Seasons
🔥 High Season (Peak Summer: July – August)
This is the heart of the Mediterranean summer.
☀️ Weather: Hot. Expect temperatures to consistently reach 30°C–35°C (86°F–95°F).
🎉 Atmosphere: Vibrant and social. Ports like Bodrum, Mykonos, and Hvar are alive with nightlife.
👍 Pros: The water temperature is perfect for swimming (26°C–28°C). All beach clubs and restaurants are fully open.
👎 Cons: Bays are crowded. Prices are at their highest.
💡 Gulet Tip: You must book a gulet with powerful Air Conditioning for these months to sleep comfortably.
🌤️ Shoulder Seasons (May–June & Sept–Oct)
Experienced sailors often call this the "sweet spot."
⚖️ The "90% Experience": In June and September, you get 90% of what high season offers—sunny days, open restaurants, and lively towns—but without the extreme heat or the chaotic crowds.
💶 Value: Prices are significantly lower.
👍 Pros: Milder weather makes sleeping without AC easier. The crew is either fresh (start of season) or relaxed (end of season).
👎 Cons: In May, the sea temperature is around 19°C–21°C (refreshing/cool). In October, days are shorter.
📉 Low Season (Nov – April)
🛠️ The Reality: Most gulets go into dry dock for maintenance during these months.
Is it possible? While sailing is rare, late April or early November can be arranged for hiking groups. However, expect limited restaurant options on islands and unstable weather.
📅 Month-by-Month Breakdown
🌿 May: Nature is lush and green. Sea is cool (approx. 20°C). Ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
🚀 June: The "Ramp Up." Days are long, water warms up to 23°C. Great balance of warmth and price.
☀️ July & August: The "Zenith." Hot days, warm nights, warm water (26°C+). Perfect for sun worshippers.
✨ September: The "Golden Month." The sea retains August's heat, but the air cools down.
🍂 October: The "Slow Down." Beautiful sunsets and calm seas. By mid-October, restaurants in seasonal destinations (especially Croatia) begin to close.
🧳 Practical Factors to Consider
1. 💰 The Cost: What Are the Real Differences?
Budget plays a huge role. Charter fees can fluctuate by up to 40% between seasons.
🏷️ Example: A standard 4-cabin gulet might cost €8,000 per week in early May. That exact same boat could cost €12,000–€14,000 per week in August.
🗝️ Insider Tip: You can often upgrade to a Luxury Gulet in June for the same price as a Standard gulet in August.
2. 🌬️ Regional Weather & The "Meltemi" Factor
🇹🇷 Turkey: Has the longest season. You can comfortably sail the sheltered bays of Gocek and Fethiye well into late October.
🇬🇷 Greece (Cyclades): In July and August, the Meltemi winds (strong dry north winds) blow through the Aegean.
⚠️ Impact: This can make sailing choppy and may force your captain to change the itinerary to stay in sheltered bays. If you are prone to seasickness, consider the Ionian Islands or the Turkish coast during peak summer for calmer waters.
🇭🇷 Croatia: The season is shorter. By mid-October, many island restaurants and shops close for the winter, so late-season charters here are best for solitude seekers rather than party-goers.
3. 📅 Booking & Packing
⏳ When to Book: For July and August, aim to book 8–10 months in advance. The best boats with the best crews get snapped up first.
Packing Smart:
- 👙 High Season: Swimwear, kaftans, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- 🧥 Shoulder Season (May/Oct): Bring a light windbreaker, a sweatshirt for evenings on deck, and closed shoes if you plan to hike.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need AC in June or September?
A: ✅ While not strictly "survival" essential like in August, it is highly recommended. AC helps remove humidity from the cabins, ensuring a better sleep even if the air isn't scorching hot.
Q: When is the absolute cheapest time to go?
A: 📉 The first two weeks of May and the last two weeks of October offer the lowest rates. This is great for "Luxury for Less," provided you are okay with cooler swimming conditions.
Q: Can we swim in May?
A: 🏊♀️ Yes, but it is "fresh." Expect water temperatures around 19°C–21°C. If your priority is spending hours in the water, wait until mid-June.
🏁 Conclusion
The "best" time to charter a gulet isn't about the weather forecast; it's about aligning the season with your personal travel style.
👉 Choose June or September for the perfect balance of value and weather.
👉 Choose July or August for the ultimate summer energy and warmest water.
👉 Choose May or October for nature, silence, and smart savings.
Ready to find your boat? At Gulet Broker, we know every vessel in our fleet. 📩 Contact us today, or browse our full range of Gulets for Charter to match your vision perfectly.
