What's Included in a Gulet Charter?

Imagine waking up to the gentle sea waves, lapping against  the wood hull, from your cabin window, the background sound of the crew preparing your breakfast to be served on deck. Also, imagine the sun is rising over the secluded bay, where you have been anchored overnight. This isn't just any holiday, it's the timeless magical experience, of a gulet charter.

This guide offers a break down of what you can expect from your gulet charter, from the onboard crew and culinary experiences, to the hidden amenities, that help transform a simple boat excursion, into the luxury escape of a lifetime.

The Gulet Experience: More Than Just a Boat

A gulet is certainly not your average sailboat. Traditionally built in southwestern Turkey, these wooden motor-sailers were originally used for fishing and sponge diving. These days, they have evolved into what could be described as floating palaces. Yachts designed with generously proportioned deck space and comfortable accommodation, that is specifically suited to the "Blue Cruise." Unlike sleek, white fiberglass yachts, gulets have a soul. They are wide, spacious, and the craftsmanship in the construction, you feel in the teak decks, beneath your feet.

When you charter a gulet, you aren't just renting a vessel, you are renting a complete hospitality experience. The appeal lies in the privacy and service of the crew. You don't share the deck with strangers, or have fight for a sunbed at 7am. The entire gulet is your private domain, for the duration of the charter. 

1. The Crew: Your Hosts at Sea

One of the most significant experiences and often the most memorable part of the trip, is the service and friendliness of the crew. Unlike a bare boat charter, where you do the work, a gulet charter is fully crewed. The crew are both professional, friendly. Taking care of all your needs. 

The Captain

The captain is the master of the vessel, responsible for navigation,  general safety, and managing the itinerary. Experienced gulet captains understand the coastline and best anchorages, intimately. They also understand which bays are sheltered from the wind, where the water is clear to enjoy a morning swim. Plus, the optimum time to arrive at a popular spot, to in order beat the crowds. Furthermore, they are your perfect guide, to the local culture and geography.

The Chef

Food is also central to the gulet experience (covered more fully later). Your gulet charter includes a dedicated chef, who prepares all meals. This definitely isn't pre packaged airline type food, it is lovingly prepared restaurant quality cuisine in the ship’s galley. Sourcing local fresh, seasonal produce, with healthy and varied choices, based on the Mediterranean cuisine options.

Deckhands and Service Staff

Depending on the size of the gulet, you will have one, or more deckhands. They handle the cleaning, the anchor, the ropes, and the meal service. They are the ones who ensure your glass is full, your cabin is tidy, and the water toys are ready when you want to enjoy.

2. Culinary Delights: Full Board vs. Half Board

When you look at a charter agreement, food and beverage arrangements usually come as an extra allowance (Advance Provisions Allowance) or a fixed price per person, but the service and preparation, are normally included in the charter fee.

Most gulet charters operate on a Full Board basis. This typically covers:

• Breakfast: A lavish spread often featuring local cheeses, olives, fresh bread, eggs, jams, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Plus, tea, coffee, bread and cereals.
• Lunch: Usually a lighter meal consisting of extensive meze platters, salads, and a main course, such as grilled chicken, or vegetables.
• Afternoon Tea. A cherished social tradition on board, known as the "5 o'clock tea time," featuring coffee, tea, biscuits, or cake to tide you over until dinner.
• Dinner: The main event. Dinners are often leisurely affairs, served under the stars, on the aft deck. Includes, either fresh fish or grilled meats, and sophisticated local dishes.

Drinking Water, Tea, and Coffee, these are generally included in the base price of the charter, or the selected food package. Alcohol and soft drinks are usually extra, either bringing your own (if allowed) or purchasing a beverage package.

3. Accommodation and Onboard Amenities

The charter fee covers the exclusive use of the yacht and its cabins, for the duration of the charter. Gulets vary in category and luxury levels, ranging from Standard, Deluxe and VIP, but the basics rules main consistent.

The Cabins

Your private cabin will typically feature a double bed (or twin beds), storage space for your luggage, and an en-suite bathroom including a shower and toilet. On luxury gulets, these cabins can be as large as hotel rooms, sometimes featuring master suites with sofas and vanity tables.

Linens and Towels

You don't need to pack sleeping bags or towels. Crisp bed linens, bath towels, and usually separate beach towels for sunbathing are provided. The crew will change these regularly, often twice a week, or upon request.

Air Conditioning

This is a critical amenity in the Mediterranean summer. Most modern gulets are equipped with air conditioning. However, it is important to check the usage terms. Standard gulets may run A/C for 4-6 hours a day (usually around dinner and before sleep), while luxury vessels often offer 24-hour air conditioning.

Cleaning

Daily housekeeping is standard. The crew cleans the communal areas, bathrooms, and cabins, ensuring the boat remains pristine throughout your voyage.

4. Water Sports and Entertainment

A major advantage of a gulet charter is the selection of water toys. Since you spend much of your time anchored in stunning bays, having equipment to enjoy the water and explore is essential.

Standard selection.

• Snorkeling Gear: Masks, snorkels, and fins are almost always available for guests to explore the underwater world.
• Fishing Equipment: Basic lines and rods for casual fishing off the back of the boat.
• Dinghy (Tender): A small motorized boat used to transport you to shore, for dinner, or exploring.
• Board Games and Books: A library of books and classic games for lazy afternoons.

Premium selection (this varies according to the individual gulet)

• Kayaks and Paddle boards (SUPs) Many mid-range to luxury gulets include these non-motorized toys.
• Water skiing, Wake boarding, and Ringo: These require a powerful tender. Whilst the equipment may be on board, using them often incurs an extra fuel cost.
• Jet Skis: Usually found only on high-end VIP gulets. Note that using them, requires a license in many Mediterranean countries.
• Wi-Fi: Internet is increasingly standard. It relies on 4G/5G mobile networks, so it works best near the coast.

5. Fuel and Port Fees: The Tricky Part

Understanding fuel costs is vital to avoiding surprises.

Fuel for Cruising: Unlike motor yachts where you pay for every drop of fuel, gulet charter fees typically include fuel for cruising up to 4 hours per day. This is normally sufficient to move from one beautiful bay, to the next and perhaps reach a port for the evening. If you want to cover long distances, you may well be charged extra.

Port Taxes: Turkish gulet charters usually include Turkish port taxes and mooring expenses in municipal harbors. However, if you choose to dock at a private marina (which may offer more luxury facilities, but consequently costs more) this also incurs an extra charge.

• Cruising to Greece? If you decide to cross from Turkey to the Greek islands, you will be responsible for the Greek port taxes, customs fees, and transit log expenses. These can add up, so best to discuss beforehand and budget accordingly.

Destinations and Itineraries

The classic gulet route is the "Blue Voyage" along the Turkish Riviera, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean.

Popular Routes Include:

• Bodrum to Gökova Gulf: Known for the darkest blues and lush green pine forests dropping straight into the sea. It’s calm, secluded, and famously where the Blue Voyage concept began.
• Marmaris to Fethiye: A mix of lively towns and quiet bays. Highlights include; the Dalyan River tombs and the sunken ruins of Cleopatra’s Bath.
• Gocek Islands: A sailor's paradise. The islands are close together, meaning short cruising times and maximum swimming time and exploring.
• The Dodecanese islands (Greece): Visiting Rhodes, Symi, or Kos offers a different cultural flavor, combining Turkish hospitality with Greek island charm.

Your itinerary is generally a little flexible. While the captain will have a planned route, you can often discuss adjustments. If you fall in love with a particular bay, you may want to stay for lunch. If a port town is too crowded, you can choose to anchor a quiet cove nearby.

Additional Services and Upgrades

If you want to add to your experience, beyond the standard offerings, there are plenty of ways to customize your individual needs.

Airport Transfers. While not standard, most charter agencies can organize private VIP transfers from the airport (Bodrum, Dalaman, or Antalya) directly to the harbor.

Land Excursions. The gulet can drop you off for land adventures. You have the possibility to arrange guided tours to ancient sites, like Ephesus, Kaunos,  or perhaps arrange a mud bath experience in Dalyan, or simply go hiking in the coastal hills.

Special Occasions. Celebrating a birthday or anniversary? The crew can organize cakes, decorations, and champagne to make the evening special. Some charters can even bring a masseuse, or yoga instructor on board for a day. Simply discuss with your crew.

Tips for First-Time Charterers

If this is your first time booking a gulet, the terminology and options can be overwhelming. This guide will help ensure you get exactly what you want.

1. Clarify the Air Conditioning Situation. If sleeping in cool air is non-negotiable for you, explicitly ask about the air conditioning hours. "Partial A/C"normally means it goes off after midnight, to reduce generator noise. If you want it all night operation, you need a boat with a silent generator, or a specific agreement.

2. Discuss the Menu in Advance. The chef  will want to ensure your happiness. Before you sail, you will have the opportunity to fill out a preference sheet. Be honest and detailed. If you hate cilantro, are allergic to shellfish, or love spicy food, then make this clear. It also shapes the provisioning required for the week.

3. Pack Light and use Soft baggage. Cabin space is efficient but limited. Hard-shell suitcases are difficult to store. Use soft duffel type bags, that can be folded away easily. You also won't need many shoes, as they are not worn on deck. 

4. Respect the Captain's Word. You might want to reach a specific island, but if the captain says the wind is too strong, you must  trust them. The gulet is a heavy vessel, and safety is paramount in his decision making, even if the itinerary conflicts with this. The alternative spot, may well be equally enjoyable.

5. Tipping. While the crew service is included, a tip (gratuity) is customary at the end of the charter, if you are happy with the service. The industry standard is generally 5-10% of the charter fee, given to the captain, who will distribute fairly amongst the crew.

Conclusion

A gulet charter is unique and offers freedom. Also, having the advantage of stripping away the logistical stresses of travel; packing and unpacking, finding restaurants, navigating traffic and replaces them with the simplicity and enjoyment of life at sea.

What's included is much more than just the tangible list of meals, fuel, and equipment. Included, is the silence of a sunrise in an empty bay, feeling at one with nature.The enjoyment of your family jumping off the deck. The absolute luxury of time, slowing down to the speed of a wooden gulet navigating through turquoise blue waters. Whether you are seeking adventure, romance, or pure relaxation, a gulet charter offers a comprehensive escape and experience of a lifetime, where the only thing you really need to bring is yourself and chosen guests.

Communicate with your agent, any queries, or concerns you may have in the planning stage, their experienced team are always ready to help and advise, to ensure you realize the best experience possible.