FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In high season (summer months) it is recommended to book a charter at least 3-6 months in advance. In low season, booking a few weeks in advance is usually sufficient.

Usually included:

• Boat rental
• Insurance
• Basic equipment (snorkels, life jackets, etc.)
• Crew (for crewed charters)

Not included:

• Fuel
• Marina fees
• Food and drinks
• Extra services (water sports, special requests, etc.)

Yes, you can usually determine your route yourself. However, the captain may provide guidance based on weather and sea conditions. For bareboat charters, you also need to choose a route in compliance with maritime regulations.

Boats are equipped with essential safety equipment such as life jackets, lifebuoys, fire extinguishers, and a first aid kit. On crewed boats, the captain and crew are well-versed in safety procedures.

Yes, charter boats are suitable for families with children. Safety measures (life jackets, secure areas) are provided for children. Additionally, routes can be arranged to ensure enjoyment for children.

What is the Blue Cruise?

The Blue Cruise refers to sea journeys along Turkey’s southern and western coasts, typically in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, aboard traditional wooden gulet boats. These journeys offer a unique experience where nature, the sea, and history come together. First initiated in the 1940s by Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı (known as the Halikarnas Fisherman) and his friends, this tradition has evolved into a popular holiday culture over time.

The Blue Cruise is not merely a sea voyage but an opportunity to connect with nature, explore history, and find tranquility. During the journey, boats anchor in bays where travelers can swim, dive, hike, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

Why is it So Popular?

There are several reasons why the Blue Cruise has become so popular:

1. Natural Beauty

Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are renowned worldwide for their crystal-clear waters, lush green forests, and stunning coves. Destinations like Göcek, Fethiye, Bodrum, Marmaris, and Kaş are ideal stops for a Blue Cruise.
Accessing remote bays and pristine nature makes this journey truly unique.

2. Relaxing and Peaceful Atmosphere

The Blue Cruise is a great way to escape the stress of city life and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
In areas with limited phone and internet connectivity, it offers a perfect digital detox.

3. History and Culture

Turkey’s coastlines are dotted with numerous ancient cities, ruins, and historical landmarks. For example, Knidos, Kaunos, Patara, and Kekova are captivating stops for history enthusiasts.
The journey also provides an opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.

4. Customizable Holiday Experience

Gulets can be chartered for families, groups of friends, or individual travelers, making the Blue Cruise a vacation that can be tailored to everyone’s preferences.
Activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing, as well as the route itself, can be organized according to the travelers’ wishes.

5. Unique Experiences

Sleeping under the stars, swimming at sunrise, and anchoring in quiet coves make the Blue Cruise an unforgettable experience.
Freshly prepared seafood and local dishes on board further enhance the enjoyment.

6. Variety of Options and Accessibility

The wide range of gulet options, from luxurious to more budget-friendly, makes the Blue Cruise accessible to travelers with different budgets.
Tours starting from many ports in Turkey also make the journey convenient in terms of transportation.

Things to Keep in Mind on a Blue Cruise

• Planning is Essential: Learn in advance about the size of the boats, the routes, and the services offered.
• Seasonal Considerations: Summer is the most popular time, so booking early is recommended.
• Respect for Nature: To preserve the ecological balance, it’s important to act responsibly toward the environment.

The Blue Cruise offers a rejuvenating vacation experience that combines the tranquility of the sea with the beauty of nature. This type of holiday, suitable for various tastes and budgets, has captivated a global audience, not just in Turkey. Providing a perfect escape from the chaos of modern life, it stands out as an ideal way to enjoy the harmony of nature, history, and the sea.

Advantages:

• Freedom and Exploration: Provides the opportunity to discover new bays, islands, and harbors.
• Living Close to Nature: Offers fresh air, sea water, and a peaceful environment.
• Minimalist and Economical Living: A simple life with fewer possessions can be achieved.
• Unique Experiences: Activities like sleeping under the stars, fishing, and swimming in the sea become part of your daily routine.

Challenges:

• Limited Space: A small living area requires organization and tidiness.
• Weather Conditions: Storms and waves can make life challenging.
• Technical Maintenance: Maintaining a boat requires time and financial investment.
• Social Isolation: Constant movement can make it harder to maintain social connections.
• Daily Challenges: Managing water, electricity, and waste requires careful planning.

Living on a boat provides a unique experience of freedom and closeness to nature. However, this lifestyle demands careful planning and preparation.

Yacht Chartering and Purchasing: Which Option is Right for You?

Yacht chartering and purchasing are two key options for sea enthusiasts. Deciding which option is more suitable depends on personal needs, frequency of use, and budget.

Yacht Chartering

Advantages:

• It is more cost-effective and eliminates expenses such as maintenance and insurance.
• Provides the opportunity to experience different sizes and types of yachts based on needs.
• Ideal for those who want to enjoy the sea only during certain periods.

Who is it suitable for?

• It is a suitable option for those who do not want the responsibility of yacht ownership and only take occasional sea trips.

Yacht Purchasing

Advantages:

• Offers the freedom of owning your own yacht.
• You can customize it according to your needs and use it whenever you like.

Disadvantages:

• Requires high purchasing costs as well as ongoing maintenance, insurance, and marina fees.

Who is it suitable for?

• Ideal for those who frequently go to sea and want to make a long-term investment in their passion for sailing.

Conclusion

Yacht chartering is a more economical and flexible option for short-term use. Yacht purchasing, on the other hand, is better suited for those who spend more time at sea and have a long-term passion for boating. When deciding, it is essential to evaluate your budget, frequency of use, and personal needs.

• Size and capacity of the yacht
• Features of the route and weather conditions
• Duration of the rental period
• Crew services (captain, chef, sailor, etc.)
• Availability of safety equipment

Some yachts offer fully equipped kitchens, while on crewed yachts, meals are prepared by a chef. If you wish, you can also get support from the agency for provisioning.