Frequently Asked Questions

A gulet is a traditional wooden sailing vessel that is commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in countries like Turkey and Croatia. These boats are known for their distinctive design and are often used for luxury yacht charters and cruising along the coastlines of the Mediterranean.

Key characteristics of a gulet include:

1. Wooden Construction: Gulets are typically made of wood, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and aesthetics. They have a unique and traditional appearance, often with a sleek, elongated hull.

2. Sails and Motors: Gulets are equipped with both sails and motors. While they can be sailed, they often rely on their engines for propulsion, especially in areas with light winds.

3. Spacious Decks: Gulets have spacious decks that provide ample room for passengers to relax and enjoy the scenery. These decks often feature comfortable seating, dining areas, and sunbathing spaces.

4. Cabins: Gulets come in various sizes, with cabins for passengers. These cabins are typically well-appointed and may have en-suite bathrooms. The number and quality of cabins can vary depending on the size and class of the gulet.

5. Crew: Gulets are crewed vessels. They have a professional crew that includes a captain, cook, and crew members who take care of all aspects of the charter, from navigation to cooking and service.

6. Cruising Routes: Gulets are popular for coastal cruising and island hopping along the Mediterranean coast. Passengers can choose from various itineraries, exploring picturesque ports, secluded coves, and historic sites.

7. Luxury Charters: Many gulets are used for luxury yacht charters. They offer a high level of comfort and service, making them an attractive option for travelers seeking a unique and upscale vacation experience.

Gulets have a rich history in the Mediterranean, particularly in Turkey, where they have been used for centuries as fishing boats and cargo vessels. Today, they are celebrated for their charm and offer travelers a combination of traditional elegance and modern comfort for exploring the stunning Mediterranean waters and coastlines.

Gulet boats and motor yachts are two distinct types of vessels used for leisure and recreational purposes, each with its own set of characteristics and advantages. Here are the key differences between them:

1. Propulsion:

• Gulet: Gulets typically have both sails and engines. While they can be sailed, they often rely on their engines for propulsion, especially in areas with light winds.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts are primarily powered by engines. They do not have sails and are designed for motorized cruising.

2. Design:

• Gulet: Gulets have a traditional wooden design with a distinctive and elegant appearance. They often feature two or more masts and a spacious deck.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts come in various designs, including sleek and modern styles, and they may be made of various materials, including fiberglass, steel, or aluminum. They tend to have a more contemporary look.

3. Accommodations:

• Gulet: Gulets come in various sizes and can accommodate a range of passengers. They typically have cabins for guests, which can vary in terms of size and amenities.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts come in a wide range of sizes and styles, with varying degrees of luxury. They often offer larger and more luxurious cabins with modern amenities like en-suite bathrooms, entertainment systems, and air conditioning.

4. Crew:

• Gulet: Gulets are typically crewed vessels with a professional crew that includes a captain, cook, and crew members who take care of all aspects of the charter, from navigation to cooking and service.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts can be crewed or chartered without a crew, depending on the owner’s or charterer’s preference. Crewed motor yachts often have a captain, chef, stewardess, and other crew members.

5. Usage:

• Gulet: Gulets are popular for coastal cruising, island hopping, and exploring sheltered waters. They are well-suited for relaxing vacations and leisurely exploration of coastal areas.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts are versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities, including coastal cruising, open-sea navigation, and longer-distance voyages. They are often preferred by those who want to cover more distance in less time.

6. Chartering:

• Gulet: Gulets are frequently used for luxury yacht charters, offering a unique and upscale vacation experience with a focus on relaxation and exploration of coastal destinations.
• Motor Yacht: Motor yachts are also popular for luxury charters, and they can cater to a broader range of charter preferences, from relaxed coastal cruises to more adventurous open-sea voyages.

In summary, while both gulet boats and motor yachts provide opportunities for luxurious and enjoyable cruising experiences, they have distinct characteristics and are suitable for different types of voyages and preferences. The choice between them often depends on your desired itinerary, style of cruising, and the level of luxury and service you seek during your voyage.

Gulet boats, especially those used for luxury yacht charters, typically come equipped with a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience. What’s included can vary depending on the specific gulet, its size, and the charter package, but here are some common inclusions:

1. Accommodations: Gulets have cabins for passengers, which can vary in size and amenities. Most cabins include comfortable beds, storage space, and some may have en-suite bathrooms.

2. Crew: Gulets are crewed vessels, and the crew members are responsible for various aspects of the charter, including navigation, cooking, cleaning, and service. The crew usually consists of a captain, chef, and crew members who assist with various tasks.

3. Catering: Gulet charters often include full or half-board catering options. Full board typically covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared by the onboard chef. Half-board usually includes breakfast and lunch or dinner. The menu can be tailored to your preferences, and some charters offer local cuisine or specialty dishes.

4. Drinks: Some gulet charters include soft drinks, water, and local alcoholic beverages (wine and beer) in the charter price. Premium or imported alcoholic beverages may incur additional charges.

5. Water Toys: Many gulets come equipped with water sports equipment and toys, such as snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and sometimes water skis or wakeboards. The availability of these toys can vary by gulet.

6. Crew Services: The crew ensures that your needs are met during the charter. They provide services such as housekeeping, serving meals, and assisting with water sports activities.

7. Linens and Towels: Bed linens, towels, and beach towels are typically provided on gulet charters.

8. Fuel and Operating Costs: The cost of fuel and the operation of the yacht are typically included in the charter price, so you don’t need to worry about these expenses during the cruise.

9. Mooring Fees: The charter often covers mooring fees at designated ports and anchorages. However, some exclusive or optional stops may incur additional charges.

10. Itinerary Planning: The crew can help plan your itinerary, recommend destinations, and offer insights into local attractions and activities.

11. Entertainment: Gulets often have entertainment systems, including music systems, TV, and DVD players. Some may offer board games and a library of books and movies.

12. Air Conditioning: Depending on the gulet, air conditioning may be available in cabins and common areas to keep you comfortable during warm weather.

It’s essential to discuss the specific inclusions and exclusions with the gulet charter company before booking your trip. Some additional services and amenities, such as water sports instructors, special excursions, or premium drinks, may be available for an extra fee. Customization of your charter package is often possible to tailor the experience to your preferences and needs.

Attention! There may be differences in what is included in the price of some gulets.

While gulet boats offer a wide range of amenities and services as part of their charter packages, there are certain items and expenses that are typically not included in the base charter price. It’s important to be aware of these potential extra costs so that you can budget accordingly. Here are some common items and expenses that are not typically included in gulet boat charters:

1. Personal Expenses: Expenses of a personal nature, such as souvenirs, gratuities for the crew, and personal items you purchase during your trip, are not included.

2. Special Excursions: Some exclusive or specialized excursions, tours, or activities at certain ports of call may not be included in the charter price. These may be available as optional add-ons.

3. Premium Alcoholic Beverages: While some gulet charters include local wine and beer, premium or imported alcoholic beverages, cocktails, and spirits are often not included and may incur additional charges.

4. Port Fees and Taxes: While mooring fees at designated ports and anchorages are typically covered in the charter price, certain exclusive or unplanned stops may have additional port fees and taxes.

5. Fuel for Water Toys: While fuel for the operation of the gulet itself is usually included, the fuel for the use of water sports equipment like jet skis may be an extra cost.

6. Airport Transfers: Transportation to and from the airport to the gulet’s embarkation and disembarkation points is typically not included.

7. Personal Travel Insurance: Travel insurance, including trip cancellation, health, and baggage insurance, is typically not included and should be arranged separately.

8. Crew Gratuities: While tipping is at your discretion, it is customary to tip the crew for their excellent service. The recommended tip amount is typically a percentage of the charter fee.

9. National Park or Nature Reserve Fees: If your itinerary includes visits to national parks or nature reserves, entrance fees may apply and are usually not included.

10. Communication Costs: Charges for satellite phone usage, internet access, or onboard communications are typically not included.

11. Additional Customization: Any additional customization to your charter, such as special dietary requests, specific menu choices, or unique onshore experiences, may come at an extra cost.

12. Medical Assistance: Costs associated with medical assistance or evacuation in case of emergencies are typically not included.

It’s essential to clarify with the our gulet charter company what is and isn’t included in your specific charter package before booking your trip. This will help you plan your budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses during your gulet cruise. Keep in mind that while some items may not be included, you can often arrange for them as part of your charter for an additional fee or bring your own provisions and items if you prefer.