A blue cruise turkey adventure is more than just a holiday. It's a philosophy of travel born from the poetic experiences of Turkish writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı in the mid-20th century.
You might be eyeing the best blue cruise turkey routes, trying to decode blue cruise turkey prices, or comparing blue cruise turkey tours. We've created this detailed guide to help you plan your first voyage along Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast.
Let's take a closer look at everything you need to know before booking your blue cruise.
Understanding Your Blue Cruise Turkey Adventure
What is a Blue Cruise?
A Blue Cruise (Turkish: Mavi Yolculuk) refers to recreational voyages along Turkey's southwestern coast. These trips span the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Week-long journeys aboard traditional wooden vessels take you to ancient cities, hidden harbors, historic tombs and secluded beaches. The Turquoise Coast's countless small coves nestle these destinations.
The routes traverse regions once known as Caria in ancient times. Some sources refer to these journeys as Carian Cruises. Blue cruise turkey tours last around seven days. This provides ample time to explore turquoise waters and coastal gems without rushing.
The Traditional Turkish Gulet Experience
Gulets are traditional wooden sailing boats. Turkey's southwest coast builders originally crafted them for fishing and cargo transport. Modern gulets range from 15 to 55 meters in length. They accommodate groups between 6 and 24 people. Pine and mahogany form the construction materials for these vessels. They feature two or three masts, though most rely on diesel engines rather than sails for propulsion.
The design centers on comfort and space. A broad beam creates expansive deck areas both indoors and outdoors. The foredeck serves as the primary sunbathing area with loungers. The aft deck features a canopy-covered dining space with couches for relaxation. You'll find 6-10 cabins below deck. Private bathrooms, storage, bedding and air conditioning equip each cabin.
The crew-inclusive model distinguishes gulet charters. Your base charter covers a complete crew that includes captain, cook and deckhands. The captain handles navigation and serves as your local guide. The cook prepares three daily meals using fresh local ingredients. Deckhands maintain the boat and assist with water activities. This arrangement means you're on vacation rather than operating a vessel.
Safety equipment comes standard: radios, flare guns, first aid kits and life jackets. Most gulets carry water sports equipment like snorkeling gear, paddleboards and fishing tackle. Some luxury vessels include jacuzzis and jet skis.
Daily routines follow a relaxed rhythm. Cruises average 3-4 hours of motoring per day. This leaves plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling and exploration. Meals are served family-style on deck. This promotes a communal atmosphere.
Blue Cruise vs Regular Cruise: Key Differences
Traditional cruise ships transport hundreds or thousands of passengers between ports on fixed schedules. Blue cruise turkey adventures operate on a different model.
Size matters by a lot. Gulets carry small groups. This creates intimate experiences rather than crowded mega-ship environments. Your shallow draft allows anchoring close to shore in protected coves and bays. Larger vessels cannot access these spots.
Privacy defines the experience. The whole gulet belongs to your group when booking a private charter. Cabin charters let solo travelers or couples join scheduled departures. They share the vessel with other guests.
Flexibility shapes the itinerary. Private charters can customize routes based on your interests. These might include archeology, water sports or pure relaxation. Scheduled cruises follow predetermined routes but maintain the same unhurried pace.
The gulet serves triple duty as your transport, accommodation and dining venue. No checking in and out of hotels, no hunting for restaurants, no tour busses. You wake each morning in a new location, ready to explore.
Choosing the Best Time and Route for Your Blue Cruise Turkey
Best Months to Book Your Blue Cruise Turkey
Timing shapes your whole experience. The blue cruise season runs from late April through October. Peak summer months of July and August deliver air temperatures between 30-35°C and sea temperatures around 26-28°C. These months guarantee sunshine and perfect swimming conditions but come with 20-30% higher blue cruise turkey prices and crowded anchorages.
Shoulder months offer better value. May, June, September, and October provide warm weather in the mid-20s°C with sea temperatures between 20-27°C. You'll save 15-25% on costs while you experience fewer crowds. September stands out, maintaining summer warmth with seas at 26-28°C as the season winds down. June and September see 40% fewer boats in popular bays compared to peak months.
Weekly tours start and end on Saturdays most of the time. Saturday departures give you more vessel options when you book. April, May, and October represent the most affordable periods with season-start pricing. Winter months from November through March see few operations as conditions turn cooler and stormier.
Popular Blue Cruise Routes in Turkey
The Olympos to Fethiye route ranks among the most popular. It stops at Demre, St Nicholas Island, the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, Kas, Butterfly Valley, and Oludeniz Blue Lagoon. The Fethiye 12 Islands route focuses on bay-hopping through calm waters and visits Butterfly Valley, Bedri Rahmi Bay, Cleopatra's Bay, Yassica Island, and Tersane Island.
The legendary Gokova route travels east from Bodrum along the coastline to Orak Island, Cleopatra Beach on Sedir Island, Seven Islands, English Harbor, Tuzla Bay, and Karacasogut Village. Bodrum also serves as a launching point for Greek island excursions, with routes heading north or south.
The Marmaris to Fethiye experience combines both port cities with serene seaside stops and delivers diverse scenery. The Marmaris-Datca route appeals to those who seek authentic Turkish experiences through protected bays. History enthusiasts will find the Gocek to Kekova route features numerous archeological sites.
How Long Should Your Blue Cruise Be?
Seven days represents the standard duration and provides enough time to relax while you find new coves. Most blue cruise turkey tours run 7-8 nights. Weekly trips allow ample time for swimming, water sports, and onshore exploration.
Shorter 3-4 day trips work well for weekend getaways and first-timers, especially from Gocek or Fethiye. These condensed routes include stops at Yassica, Cleopatra's Bath, and Bedri Rahmi Bay.
Extended 10-14 day cruises suit avid sea enthusiasts who want thorough exploration. The Bodrum to Gocek line appeals for longer trips and features deluxe gulets with spacious living areas and professional crews.
Fethiye vs Bodrum vs Marmaris: Choosing Your Starting Point
Fethiye serves nature lovers who seek swimming-focused holidays. This vibrant town provides direct access to Oludeniz lagoon, Butterfly Valley, and the island-filled Gulf of Gocek. One-week cruises that explore Gemiler Island, Karacaoren, and Gocek coves are recommended.
Bodrum represents the historic birthplace of the blue cruise and exudes a sophisticated atmosphere with its Crusader castle and world-class marina. Bodrum blue cruises run one week and cover multiple islands and coves efficiently. The city blends vibrant onshore culture with legendary sailing tradition.
Marmaris offers versatility as a dynamic hub nestled in one of the world's largest natural harbors. Routes from Marmaris last 7-10 days and cover Datca, Bozburun, Selimiye, and Orhaniye. This starting point suits travelers who want options between wild, serene beauty and bustling port energy.
Selecting the Right Boat and Understanding Blue Cruise Turkey Prices
Types of Boats Available (Gulet, Motor Yacht, Cataman)
The vessel type you select shapes every aspect of your blue cruise turkey experience. Gulets remain the iconic choice and range from 15 to 55 meters with accommodations for 6 to 24 guests. These traditional wooden motor-sailers prioritize comfort over speed. They feature expansive deck lounging areas and full crew service that includes a captain, chef and deckhands. Their broad beams create stable platforms at anchor and make them ideal for families and large groups.
Motor yachts offer a different proposition. They cruise at 12-15 knots with maximum speeds that exceed 25 knots and cover substantially more distance than gulets. This speed advantage allows hopping between distant ports or even visiting Greek islands during your charter. Modern motor yachts feature sleek designs, state-of-the-art entertainment systems and premium water toys like jet skis.
Catamarans present exceptional stability with their dual-hull design. This eliminates the heeling effect that concerns first-time sailors. The platform between hulls creates spacious open-plan living areas with excellent privacy since cabins occupy separate hulls. Families with young children especially appreciate this stability and the famous front trampoline netting.
What's Included in Blue Cruise Turkey Prices
Charter rates in Turkey operate on a per-vessel basis rather than per person. A standard 4-cabin gulet costs around €1,750 per day mid-season and totals €12,250 for seven days before food. Larger vessels like a 7-stateroom gulet that accommodates 16 guests run €4,000 daily in low season.
The base charter covers crew salaries, motoring fuel for about 4 hours daily, Turkish port and harbor fees, yacht equipment and toys, water, gas and boat laundry. Turkey stands out by including port taxes in your charter price, unlike other Mediterranean destinations.
Understanding Extra Costs and APA
Your charter rate excludes several significant expenses though. Food represents the largest additional cost. Full board options range from €75 per adult daily for standard Mediterranean cuisine without alcohol to €100 daily for deluxe menus that include local wines and beverages. Children ages 5-12 cost €30 daily, with those under 5 eating free.
The APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) system requires 25% of your charter price upfront. This covers food, drinks, fuel for water sports and marina fees. Airport transfers, land excursions, entrance fees, VAT and crew gratuities (usually 10-15%) remain separate expenses.
How Boat Size and Luxury Level Affect Pricing
Luxury level impacts blue cruise turkey prices in a big way. Standard gulets range €6,000-€10,000 weekly with 3-6 cabins and simple comfort. Luxury class vessels cost €12,000-€25,000 weekly and feature 4-8 spacious cabins, jacuzzis and extensive water sports equipment. Deluxe and VIP gulets command €30,000-€70,000+ weekly with 5-10 cabins, premium design and resort-level service.
Per-person calculations range from €850 to €1,200 weekly for mid-range charters that include crew, fuel, full board and port taxes. Economy gulets without air conditioning start at €500 per person weekly, while VIP vessels exceed €4,000 per person.
Essential Preparation: Packing and Health Considerations
What to Pack for Your Blue Cruise
Cabin storage is substantially different from hotel rooms. Soft-sided luggage is essential. Duffel bags and flexible bags pack well and stow out of the way. Skip hard-shell suitcases.
Pack light with comfortable casual clothes in lightweight, loose materials and natural fibers. Cotton and linen work great for the Turkish coast weather. Bring shorts, light t-shirts and breathable dresses for daytime. You'll spend most time in the water and lounging under the sun, so casual attire is enough.
Bring 2-3 swimsuits so while one dries, another stays ready. Beach towels aren't supplied on all boats. Pack a light jacket or wrap for dinner during April to mid-May and end of October when Turkish nights can get cool[244]. Optional fancier clothes work for evening restaurants on land.
Footwear matters, so choose wisely. Barefoot is preferred onboard to protect the deck. Bring rubber-soled boat shoes if walking barefoot feels uncomfortable. Pack walking shoes or sneakers for city trips and ancient site visits.
Sun Protection and Safety Items
The Mediterranean sun is very strong. You need SPF 30+ sunscreen. Choose reef-safe types to protect clean waters on your blue cruise turkey trip[261]. Wide hats stop headaches from deck glare. Polarized sunglasses cut water glare[261]. Pack backup sunglasses in case one pair breaks. Long-sleeved UV shirts cover shoulders during extended sailing days.
Managing Seasickness and Health Needs
Seasickness is rare on gulets due to calm coastal waters, but bring medication if sensitive. Prevention beats treatment, so start remedies several hours before boarding. Over-the-counter options include Dramamine and Bonine. Acupressure wristbands offer drug-free alternatives. Natural remedies like ginger candy or peppermint help ease symptoms.
Pack prescription medicines in original bottles with extra amounts for long cruises[302]. Turkish pharmacies stock common items, but special prescriptions need advance planning. Bring any daily medications you require.
Documents and Money You'll Need
Keep passport, travel insurance and charter papers in waterproof bags. Make digital copies stored separately. Your passport should not expire within seven to eight months of your cruise.
Bring cash in Turkish Lira for shore shopping and crew tips. Tips range 5-10% of charter cost. Many areas accept Euros, but local currency gets better rates. ATMs are available in towns and marinas where yachts stop.
Booking Your Blue Cruise Turkey Tours: The Complete Process
When to Book for Best Blue Cruise Turkey Tours
You need to plan 3-6 months ahead to secure your ideal vessel during peak season. July and August departures require booking 8-10 months before you sail. The sweet spot sits at 4-6 months before departure. This timing offers maximum vessel choice and operators still provide meaningful discounts.
Finding a Reliable Charter Company
Work with companies that have years of operational experience and extensive fleet access. Request references from past clients. Verify their responsiveness when you first ask questions. This indicates the support you'll receive throughout your booking.
Understanding Your Charter Contract
Most Turkish charters use MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) contracts. Your agreement should itemize the base charter fee, APA percentage, insurance coverage and any additional costs. Read every detail before you sign. Confirm route flexibility, crew qualifications and what "all-inclusive" covers.
Payment Plans and Cancelation Policies
You'll pay a 30-50% deposit when you book. Final payment comes due 4-6 weeks before departure, though some operators require settlement 8 weeks out. Cancelation penalties escalate closer to departure. Cancelations 90+ days out may refund most payments minus administrative fees. Cancelations within 60 days often receive no refund.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Confirm flight and transfer details with your charter agent one week before departure. Share final itinerary and company contacts with family. Prepare photocopies of passports and documents. Ensure you have adequate prescription medications. Obtain small amounts of Turkish Lira for onshore purchases.
Conclusion
You now have everything you need to plan your first blue cruise turkey adventure with confidence. Selecting the right route and vessel type, understanding blue cruise turkey prices, and packing essentials—this piece covers the journey from research to departure.
Start early to book successfully. Choose the right season for your budget and work with experienced charter companies. Shoulder months offer the best balance between weather and pricing.
Note that a blue cruise isn't just about the destination. It's about embracing the unhurried rhythm of coastal life and waking up in turquoise coves. Experience Turkey's Aegean beauty from the water. Your perfect voyage awaits.
FAQs
Q1. What exactly is a Blue Cruise and how is it different from a regular cruise? A Blue Cruise is a recreational voyage along Turkey's southwestern coast aboard traditional wooden vessels called gulets. Unlike regular cruise ships that carry hundreds of passengers on fixed schedules, Blue Cruises accommodate small groups of 6-24 people on intimate journeys. These gulets can anchor in secluded coves and hidden bays inaccessible to larger vessels, offering a personalized experience where the boat serves as your transport, accommodation, and dining venue all in one.
Q2. When is the best time to go on a Blue Cruise in Turkey? The Blue Cruise season runs from late April through October. While July and August offer guaranteed sunshine and perfect swimming conditions with sea temperatures around 26-28°C, the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October provide the best value. During these months, you'll enjoy warm weather in the mid-20s°C, save 15-25% on costs, and experience 40% fewer crowds in popular bays compared to peak summer.
Q3. How much does a Blue Cruise in Turkey typically cost? Blue Cruise prices vary significantly based on vessel size and luxury level. Standard gulets range from €12,000-€16,000 weekly, while luxury vessels cost €16,000-€25,000 weekly. Per person, mid-range charters including crew, fuel, full board, and port taxes typically range from €1,500 to €2,000 weekly. Additionally, expect to budget for food (€75-€100 per adult daily) and an Advance Provisioning Allowance of 25% of your charter price.
Q4. What should I pack for a Blue Cruise? Pack light using soft-sided luggage like duffel bags rather than hard-shell suitcases. Bring 2-3 swimsuits, lightweight casual clothes in cotton or linen, rubber-soled boat shoes, and walking shoes for shore excursions. Essential items include SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, polarized sunglasses, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget prescription medications in original bottles, waterproof bags for documents, and Turkish Lira for tips and shore shopping.
Q5. How far in advance should I book a Blue Cruise? For the best selection of vessels, book 3-6 months in advance. If you're planning to travel during peak season (July and August), reserve your spot 8-10 months ahead. The ideal booking window is 4-6 months before departure, which offers maximum vessel choice while still allowing you to take advantage of operator discounts. Expect to pay a 30-50% deposit upon booking, with final payment due 4-6 weeks before departure.