Turkey’s indigenous sea-going vessel, the Gulet, is actually offered in three versions: Traditional Gulet, Luxury Gulet, and a Gulet-Style Sailing Yacht. Each has unique characteristics; it simply depends on your needs and desires.
Traditional and Luxury Gulets share many features, including a blending of practicality and tradition in a relaxed style. Historically, Gulets evolved from fishing and cargo vessels into their present profile of a sturdy yacht with a broad beam and wide deck. Constructed in the shipyards of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Istanbul, and along the Black Sea Coast, these boats are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. However, do not expect to always sail as the beamy nature of the Gulet usually requires engine assistance to move from anchorage to anchorage. The number of passengers a Gulet carries depends on the boat’s size, although most accommodate between eight and twelve people. These vessels have double occupancy staterooms for passengers generally each with ensuite bath and shower and are comfortably equipped. One of the resounding features of the Turkish Gulet is the expansive aft deck. Covered with a sun awning, the aft deck has a wide cushioned area for lounging and a table with chairs for “al fresco” dining. Gulets offer plenty of room for sunbathing and are equipped with sun mattresses, snorkeling gear and either a sea kayak or a windsurfing board.

Traditional Gulet, Blue Capricorn Exterior and it’s Master Cabin (Above)

Blue Capricorn’s Inside Lounge (Below)

There are some differences between traditional and luxury Gulets. The Traditional Gulet is the best price value and cost includes the yacht, crew and fuel. Additional costs are beverages and food. Meal plans are offered of fresh local Turkish cuisine on a Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) or Half Board (breakfast and lunch) basis. Generally it is possible to include both Full Board and Half Board days in your charter in order to enjoy some dinners on board under the starlight and others ashore in one of the many local Tavernas.

In addition there is an 18% VAT. Crew will be Turkish citizens and at least one will speak English. Finally, you may or may not be able to use the air conditioner at night as the soundproofing of generators and engines were not a specification of these traditional vessels.

Luxury Gulets have been built within the past three to four years. They are constructed of mahogany rather than the pine of Traditional Gulets, creating an interior with refined workmanship. These vessels also offer imported linens, towels and bath products. In addition, the Luxury Gulet is fully soundproofed allowing the use of air conditioning at all times. The price of these yachts is reflective of their upgraded features, but is inclusive of the yacht, crew, food, domestic beverages, and generally the VAT. Menus include fresh Turkish cuisine and international cuisine.

Gulet-Style Sailing Yachts are actually built to sail with aluminum rigging and quality sails, so you will enjoy cruising without an engine. However, as with any sailing vessel, performance is enhanced by less beam, so these yachts are not as roomy as the Traditional or Luxury Gulets. However, all other amenities are similar to what is offered with Luxury Gulets.


Gulet-Style Sailing Yacht – Clarissa Exterior and Clarissa’s Salon (Above)

Clarissa’s Master Cabin (Below)

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