Stand Up Paddle Board
Water Ski
Ringo
Canoe
Snorkeling Equipment
Fishing Equipment
Other activities which you can hire during your Blue Cruise; Snorkeling Equipment 50 € Brand new set |
Price Includes Yacht charter and berth tax, harbor and port procedures in Turkish water. Standard yacht equipment, board games, snorkels and masks, flippers, fishing lines. Clean bed linen and bath towels and cleaning services. Air-conditioned gulets Using A/C 6-8 hours per day. Gasoline and Diesel expenses. Yacht water. Mooring expenses. Yacht insurance (We advise you to take out your own individual travel insurance).
Price Excludes All food and drinks. Harbor taxes and customs fees in foreign waters (Greek Islands). Flight tickets and airport transfers. Gasoline for using water sports on board if exist. 5% Crew tip is also not included in the price. Archaeological sites and national parks entrance fees. Please bring your own beach towels.
Sailing in Turkey , along the stunning Turquoise coastlines is the best way to spend a week in this beautiful country. Stretching from the vibrant port of Fethiye to the famous resort town of Antalya, this coastline has been named the Turquoise Coast or Turkish Riviera for its cristal clear blue seas. The coastline is backed by mountain ranges for all the way along, Abundant pine forests, stunning sandy beaches, and sheer cliffs make the picturesque scenery, and dozens of pristine bays are hidden, only accessible by boat. In the last 2 decades, Turkey sailing became very popular in the world and the traditional Turkish-made gulet cruise boat is a fabulous and the most authentic way to do it. If you’re looking for long, lazy days onboard a traditional Turkish gulet boat , with glorious weather, stunning swim stops, and mouth-watering local foods, then a Turkey sailing trip is just for you. There are amazing sailing itineraries from 3 nights to 7 nights between Fethiye and Olympos offered by GoTurkeySail company. You can dig in delicious Turkish food, explore ancient ruins, enjoy drinks in lively small resort towns, and jump into the clearest water on the Turkey sailing tours . So here’s a complete guide to the Turquoise Coast, including how to choose a company to sail in Turkey with and what to do in each port of call. Enjoy reading and have fun planning your own sail Turkey trip How to get to the Turkish Riviera? Depending on which route you are planning to sail, you need to have a flight to either Dalaman or Antalya airports. There are many airlines that have domestic flights from Istanbul and many other major cities to these resort towns. You can also get to these towns by bus. If you combine your holiday with some of the Greek islands, then a ferry is also an option between Rhodes and Fethiye. There are more than 50 flights from the Uk and other European counties to those airports in the summer season that you can get really good deals with early planning. When is the best time to go sailing in Turkey? For the best weather and sea conditions, the summer season from early May to late September is the best. In these months, the crowds flock into these towns but the weather is best and you can guarantee long, sunny, hot days that perfect for sailing trips in Turkey ! How to choose a company for a Turkey sailing trip? We are sure you might get a little overwhelmed as there are so many companies that offer blue cruise or Turkey sailing tours . But as an expert on sailing and also being local in the area, Go Turkey sail offers amazing curated sailing tours that have a variety of options from 3 days to 8 days on its web www.goturkeysail.com . Not only it has excellent reviews online, but its customer care service during the booking process is brilliant. The prices offered online are great value. The guaranteed departures work perfectly for anyone to choose the traveling dates easily. The traditional gulets that Go Turkey sail uses for blue cruise holidays are all well-maintained, good size for 16 passengers. The crew is passionate, very organized, fun-loving, and friendliest young mates. It may get really hot especially in July and August so you may enjoy sleeping out on the deck under the stars. There are a lot of comfortable sun-loungers on the deck where you can have amazing sleeping with nice Mediterranean breeze. One of the great things about Turkey sailing tours is making life long friendships with people from all over the world onboard. The sailing tours offered by Go Turkey sail perfectly designed for solo travelers as well. An average of Go Turkey Sail’s passengers are %50 solo travelers. If you have your own group of friends or family, you can also charter one of these amazing gulets privately for yourself. What to pack for a sailing holiday? It is a good idea to bring your beach towels however the bath towels are provided by Go Turkey sail. You will need sunscreen, swimwear, and hats. The sun can be very strong especially in July and august however there is a certain amount of shade on board. Our gulets have quite a few inflatables and snorkeling gears share but it is always more hygienic to bring yours. We offer a full bar on board with an honesty tab system and drinks are reasonably priced therefore we kindly request not to bring any drinks on board. One or two evening outfits recommended for the nights when you dock in a port for a lovely night out Where to stay before or after the sailing trip? The main sailing hubs are Fethiye and Olympos , or the other way round. Fethiye offers a variety of accommodation options from luxury hotels to guesthouses. If you are on a budget, you can find dozens of hostels all-around Fethiye. In Olympos, there is an unusual offering of treehouses in this amazing seaside town. Some of the best options include: • Turkmen Treehouses • Kadir’s Treetop Houses • Olympus Deep Green Bungalows
Towns to visit along the Turquoise coast on Our Sailing tours Fethiye Both thrilling and tranquil, this is one of the resort towns in the Turkish Riviera that you will return to again and again. As being one of the most popular destinations on the Turkish Riviera, Fethiye is also the largest town in Muğla province, is the meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Fethiye is one of the biggest ancient cities in Lycian civilization which is also known as Telmessos. Today, Fethiye is one of the main hubs on the Turkish Turquoise coast where famous Turkey sailing trips start or end. Turkey sail is also known as blue cruises Turkey or Blue voyages Turkey . Every year Fethiye accommodates thousands of Turkish gulets as well as private yachts and superyachts in her 2 huge harbors. People from all over the world are choosing Fethiye for their sailing holidays in Turkey . Fethiye with her stunning bays and coves all around offers amazing stops for travelers with Turkish-made traditional gulets . The turquoise water in the tranquil bays is passionately loved by all sea enthusiasts. As soon as you start your blue cruise holiday in Fethiye you will start enjoying the vibrant turquoise sea against the hills. Butterfly Valley Located about 25 km West of Fethiye, Butterfly Valley is the first destination on our blue cruise holidays which is an exceptional earthly paradise. It boasts a natural setting with no establishment. Butterfly Valley is a valley of 2 large looming mountains that drop straight into the turquoise waters down below. The beach has become a popular spot for backpackers from all over the world to come over and stay at the campsite That’s why you may often see tents pitched and plenty of people lazing about along the beach. There no land access to Butterfly Valley, however, it is accessible only by boat. Butterfly valley is also a place where all the blue cruise tours stop on their route to Kekova .
Oludeniz / Blue Lagoon Oludeniz, also known as the blue lagoon, is definitely one of the most famous beaches in Europe. This stunning beach is voted as the most beautiful beach in Europe twice. It really is a beautiful stretch, but as with many gorgeous beaches around the world, it certainly attracts crowds and is pretty touristy. One of the most popular activities to do in Blue Lagoon is paragliding! Every year, over 60.000 people from all over the world come to Oludeniz for a jump-off baba mountain which makes it no 1 spot in the world. We can help you to arrange a jump-off during your blue cruise holiday You depart from the center of Olu deniz in a minibus with all of the paragliding kits and crew on board. Oludeniz is also the starting point for the Lycian Way, one of Turkey’s most iconic hiking trails. In Oludeniz , there are also some great bars and cafes to enjoy some time in if you don’t feel like paragliding. Kaş Kaş means eyebrow in the Turkish language and when you check the map of the area, you can easily understand why. Kaş is a picture-perfect town on the Turkish Mediterranean coasts. If you are after a warm Mediterranean atmosphere you are definitely at the right place. Kaş has all the right elements in hand; phenomenal sea view, narrow cobblestone streets with whitewashed houses, tempting restaurants and cafés, and bougainvillea of course. And while this is quite enough to be felt in love with, we can also add pretty beaches, and a picturesque harbor to complete the Mediterranean vibe. This area is also known for fantastic diving and many dive operators run trips straight from Kaş. You will have enough time in the town to try out Scuba diving as an optional tour on our Turkey sailing trip . You can enjoy fantastic cocktails at Mumi Cafe Beach which is 200 meters away from the harbor. This beach bar has an awesome atmosphere during the day, and we would highly recommend it. Kekova The next stop along the coast is Kekova, Kekova has a unique historical attraction which is lying under the water today; the famous Sunken City. Once It was a huge port city to both Lycian and Roman civilizations, the ancient city was mostly abandoned by inhabitants when an earthquake happened in the 2nd century AD which resulted in most of the city was sink into the water. The city is mostly submerged, however you can still see underwater ruins on the shores thanks to the clearest water of the Turkish Mediterranean. In some places on the island, some defensive walls and ruins from basilicas with some rock tombs are still visible This is a no walk, no diving zone since it is an archaeological site But many boats do sail past every day slowly to take in the incredible sight. You can see rooms, staircases, and doorways above the sea level, as well as make out pathways and more rooms under the water level. Luckily the water is completely transparent, Kaleköy and Simena Castle Simena Castle, also known in Turkish as 'Kalekoy' meaning 'castle village', is located on a stunning Turkish riviera in Kekova Region. Once it used to be a Lycian settlement, the castle remains largely intact upon a hill overlooking Kekova island. Kalekoy is the only Turkish village in the country which has no land access inspite of being on the mainland. The only access to the village today is by boat which keeps the island as it has been there for centuries. Today on our sailing Turkey trips it is one of the highlights especially on Olympos-Fethiye tours where we stop and explore the ancient castle and eat a lot of homemade organic ice cream. In the west of the town, a series of rock-cut tombs are scattered across the slopes of the castle. Olympos
the final spot along the Turquoise Coast to visit is the hippie town of Olympos . It is unspoiled heaven for especially young travelers , backpackers , flashpackers who love to enjoy nature, historical sites, partying in cozy places, sunbathing, swimming in the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera . located 90 kilometers from Antalya. It is a stunning spot to start or finish Turkey sailing trips . Olympos is an ancient city that was founded in the Hellenistic period, sharing its name with the nearby Olympos beach. Olympos was one of the 6 biggest cities in Lycian Leauge. Olympos was later invaded and ruled by the Cilician Pirates until the city was captured by the Roman Empire around 78 BC. Olympos can either be a really cool escape from the hustle and bustle in big tourist attractions of Turkey, staying in cozy treehouses, or a more active stop with Turkey sailing boat cruises, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing. Olympos is located along the Lycian Way which is shown in the top 10 hiking destinations in the world with a 500-kilometer marked hiking trail between Fethiye and Antalya. Goturkeysail offers 2 great routes of 4 days blue cruises which start or end in Olympos . For more information, you can visit www.goturkeysail.com So that concludes our guide to sailing in Turkey and exploring the Turkish Riviera by traditional gulet boat . we hope this guide is useful. both for choosing our company for a sail and find out more about the stops on our sailing tours. As mentioned, Turkey sailing tours are often referred to the blue cruise tours or Blue cruise holidays . If you’re considering a longer trip, Go Turkey Sail offers 7 nights / 8 days sailing trips as well you can find details on www.goturkeysail.com/destinations .
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You won’t find a better way to explore Turkey’s Turquoise Coast than from the decks of a gulet (a traditional wooden boat). But did you know you can experience a blue cruise like this on a backpacker’s budget? You can sail the stunning Turkish Riviera from Fethiye to Olympos on a 4-day cabin charter from just $260. That’s crazy cheap.
Imagine this…
Watching a display of shooting stars as you drift off to sleep, no noise but the waves lapping against the side of the boat. Waking up to the sunrise in a secluded cove, to the smell of pine and herbs and honey. Padding barefoot along the deck, bracing yourself for a dive into water that sparkles like gemstones. Afterwards, you plot the day’s adventures over a breakfast spread of tomato, cheese, cucumber, olives, coffee, bread, and jams.
The catch? For the cheapest prices, you’ll have to share a boat and can expect the facilities to be basic. Oh, but it’s worth it though.
Read on to discover why.
I used to be scared of the sea . One of my first memories is of being on a ferry aged 3, afraid to go anywhere near the guardrail. My mind boggled at how anyone could think boats were safe.
A gulet cruise in Turkey converted me.
It was an ex’s idea. We were in Fethiye , heading for Olympos on the Turquoise Coast on the south-west of the country. A backpacker’s haven with treehouses and beach-side ruins, it has drawn hippy types for decades.
The scenic coastal route to Olympos would take a few days and a few buses. But in Fethiye, we discovered that a 3-night cabin charter on gulet cruise could take us along the same route.
This stretch of coastline isn’t the easiest to explore by road. Many of the villages and bays along this coast were inaccessible to road traffic until the 1970s and, despite the new highways, there are still many parts that are difficult to access by car or public transport.
What better than to drift lazily between them on a boat?
A cabin charter is where you rent a room on a boat with other travellers (I use the word ‘room’ loosely). Once I learned the price, I was sold. With food and accommodation costs factored in, it wasn’t much more expensive than making our own way there.
Any fears I had of water were quickly dispelled once I strapped on a snorkel mask and jumped into those crystal clear turquoise seas. The food was as good as a restaurant, but with a much better view.
It wasn’t long before I was a convert to travelling by boat.
Related read : Top 10 Bluest Waters in the Mediterranean
Gulet sailing in Turkey refers to a type of sailing charter in this southwestern corner of Turkey, typically week-long liveaboard trips along the stretch of coast from Bodrum to Antalya with an emphasis on enjoying the nature as much as the sights and towns.
Gulet cruises in Turkey are also commonly referred to as a ‘ blue cruise ‘ or ‘ blue voyage ‘. Same thing.
The gulet cruise industry is popularly credited to Cevat Sakir – the Fisherman of Halicarnassus – a writer who was exiled to Bodrum in 1925.
He fell in love with the simplicity of life and beauty of the area, often taking his literary friends out on sponge-diving boats when they visited. Several books were published about these trips, and before long fishing boats had been converted for the tourists seeking the same experience.
A gulet is a type of traditional Turkish wooden motor sailing vessel, originally used for fishing and sponging. If you’re wondering how to say ‘gulet’, it’s pronounced more like ‘goo-let’ than ‘gull-et’.
Although gulets do have sails, you can expect to motor cruise most of the time. Since gulets became popular for charters, adaptations have been made to the design to make it more comfortable for living aboard but less suitable for sailing. They have roomy decks with plenty of space for al fresco dining and sunbathing, and are wide and stable vessels.
The downside of motor cruising is the engine noise. And if you’re looking to learn how to sail, this is not the trip for you.
But if you want to experience life at sea for a few days and explore the coast by boat then gulet sailing in Turkey is great fun and great value. Turkey isn’t the only place in the Mediterranean you can gulet cruise; similar vessels have cropped up in Croatia and Montenegro, but this stretch of coast is the spiritual home.
Related read : Heading to the Turquoise Coast? Check out our interview with local blog Slow Travel Guide on making the most of this beautiful region.
Most boats offering cabin charters have around 12 passengers and 3 crew, although some party boats cram on more than that. Your meals are provided on the boat and there’s ample room on deck for lounging around, sunbathing, playing cards. A bimini provides shade and protection from the sun. You’ll spend most nights at anchor, hanging out with your fellow passengers, although there are opportunities to link up with other boats if you feel like it (particularly at the infamous Pirate Bay disco). It’s a great way to travel for singles, although you find plenty of couples and friends on the cabin charters too.
The cabins on budget boats are tiny and unlikely to have (working) A/C, meaning it’s more comfortable to sleep on a mattress on deck. If privacy/air-conditioning/showers are more your style then check out more expensive voyages with higher spec boats.
So you think sailing’s just for the super-rich? That’s what I thought too. Having grown up inland with no particular interest or experience of watersports, I’d never given sailing a moment’s consideration. I assumed that it was out of my budget and didn’t see the appeal.
Until I tried it.
The cheapest rates I’ve seen online for 2018 are around the € 200 mark for the 4-day Fethiye-Olympos route, which tends to be the cheapest option. The higher the price, the better the facilities on the boat. 7-day itineraries start at around €3 00 .
When comparing operators it’s wise to check what’s included. Some allow you to bring your own booze, which can make a difference to your budget if you’re bringing the party spirit. Otherwise alcoholic drinks are sold on board.
If you’re travelling in peak season (July/August) you should consider booking in advance in order to secure the itinerary/boat that you’re after. That said, there is plenty of competition so it’s not strictly necessary.
The benefits of booking when you’re already in Turkey are that you’ll be able to compare operators, get a sense of the other passengers and crew, and potentially negotiate a lower price—particularly in shoulder season or if you’re travelling solo and hope to avoid paying the dreaded single supplement.
Some people like to party more than others, so talk to the operators to find the boat that’s the right fit for you. Find out who else has booked, make sure you know what’s included in the cost, and don’t forget to check out online reviews.
Speaking of hangovers . . .
I loved the gulet cruise experience so much that I brought a group of friends back the following year.
It wasn’t my last sailing experience either, since then I’ve gone on to sail on a tall ship around the Balearics , crewed on a classic yacht, and been a volunteer crew member on the Phoenician Ship Expedition around Africa.
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Sailing in Turkey along it’s Turquoise Coast is a magical way to spend a holiday in this beautiful country.
Stretching from the bustling port of Fethiye, to the resort town of Antalya, this coastline has been dubbed the Turquoise Coast for its twinkly blue warm seas. Backed by mountain ranges for almost its entire length, their slopes drop precipitously down to quaint fishing villages and the coastal highway which twists and turns with the coast. Lush pine forest, sandy beaches and sheer cliffs add drama, and the hundreds of tiny secluded coves and bays are tucked away, only accessible by water.
The most popular way to explore the Turquoise coast is by sailing, and the traditional wooden gulet cruise boat is a fantastic and authentic way to do this.
If you’re looking to spend long, lazy days onboard a typical Turkish boat, with glorious weather to boot, then a sailing trip in Turkey is for you. I recently spent three nights on board a gulet, sailing from Fethiye to Olympus, near Antalya with Alaturka Cruises enjoying a sailing trip along the Turquoise coast, on the route often referred to as the ‘blue cruise’. I tucked into delicious fresh seafood, explored ancient ruins, enjoyed drinks in lively fishing ports and jumped into the warm, calm seas for three days, and it was just brilliant. So here’s my guide to the Turquoise Coast, including how to choose a company to sail in Turkey with and what to do in each port of call. Enjoy reading and have fun planning your own sailing trip to Turkey!
Depending on which direction you want to sail in, you need to fly to Fethiye or Antalya. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus both fly domestically from Istanbul and several other Turkish destinations to these seaside ports. You can also reach these towns by bus or train, which you can read more about in my guide to using public transport in Turkey.
From the UK or other European destinations, in the summer months (April to October), many airlines fly to Fethiye or Antalya and you should be able to catch a good deal.
For prime weather conditions, the peak summer season from May to September is best. In these months, the crowds do swell but the weather is best and you can almost guarantee long, sunny, hoy days – perfect for sailing trips in Turkey!
It might seem a little overwhelming as so many companies offer gulet cruises in Turkey. For two day or longer trips, I would definitely recommend Alaturka Cruises . I found them online in advance of my visit. Not only did they have excellent reviews online, but their email support beforehand was brilliant. The price was great value and the dates worked perfectly for my two week Turkey itinerary .
The gulet boat that we sailed the Turquoise Coast on was really well-maintained and well-sized for the number of passengers on board. It was so hot during our sailing trip in late August that they recommended we slept out under the stars on deck. We slept on these comfy sun-loungers and it was amazing sleeping with a warm breeze. The crew with Alaturka were fantastic. They were really attentive and fun, but not overbearing at all. We had a crew of three Turkish guys who took such great care of us and gave us great tips and suggestions. I joined the gulet cruise as a solo female traveller and didn’t feel uncomfortable once.
The other passengers were from all over the world – including a family from Saudi Arabia, a couple from South Africa and the US, a few other Brits and Americans. Everyone got on so well and the atmosphere was brilliant. With Alaturka, you could also rent your own private gulet cruise boat or yacht with crew if you had your own big group.
Depending on the company you go with, it’s unlikely you’d need to bring any bedding or towels. However, you will need lots of suntan lotion, swimwear and hats. The sun can be very strong and there may only be a certain amount of shade onboard. The gulet boats normally have quite a few inflatables and they’re nearly always full board.
Every sailing company will have its own policy for alcohol on board. Our gulet cruise with Alaturka offered a self-service bar with an honesty tab, therefore we didn’t need to bring our own alcohol on board.
I would recommend one or two evening outfits for the nights you dock in or near a port for the option to go out in the evening.
The main sailing routes are Fethiye to Olympus, or the other way round.
Fethiye offers many accommodation options. One of the best luxury hotels is the Club Tuana, you can check rates here .
Otherwise you can find hundreds of other options covering all price ranges on Booking.com here .
In Olympus, there is the very unusual offering of treehouses in this amazing valley town.
Some of the best options include:
Although it was the starting point to my gulet cruise in Turkey, Fethiye was possibly my least favourite town along the coastline. The town has experienced some mass overdevelopment in the past few decades and I imagine much of its charm has been lost.
I don’t know why, but before I arrived, it seemed to think Fethiye was going to be a quaint village so I was even more disappointed. That being said, it is the starting point for many sailing trips in Turkey so you don’t necessarily need to spend too long there. Its harbour is pretty beautiful but I didn’t particularly like the surrounding streets and restaurant areas.
Some of the key attractions in and around Fethiye include the ancient city of Kadyanda and the abandoned ancient Greek village of Kaya Köyü.
The first stop for many boats departing from Fethiye is the famed Butterfly Valley. This beautiful secluded cove is only reached by boat.
Its important to know that this beach isn’t sand, but instead, lots of tiny sharp rocks – really painful.
The beach sits at the entrance to a vast canyon, where there is also a cool off-the-radar back-to-basics campsite and a low-key bar and restaurants offering a cool hippy chilled vibe.
It’s called Butterfly Valley as it’s home to a butterfly farm, were there’s a huge diverse range of butterflies. August (when I visited) was not the season to see the butterflies, but the ones I did see were very colourful.
Ölüdeniz is one of the most famous beaches in Europe. This stunning beach is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful, so I was really excited to dock here.
It really is a beautiful stretch, but as with many gorgeous beaches around the world, it certainly draws crowds and is pretty touristy.
One of the most popular activities to do in Ölüdeniz, and even in Turkey is paragliding. You can arrange this through your gulet cruise organisers, when you arrive in Ölüdeniz or in advance through GetYourguide. Book your paragliding jump here!
No matter which company you pick to go paragliding with, the experience is the same.
You depart from the centre of Ölüdeniz in a minibus with all of the paragliding kits and crew on board.
It’s one very long and perilous drive to the top of Babadag Mountain. I wondered a few times if the van was genuinely road-worthy enough, but we made it.
Ölüdeniz is one of the highest commercial locations in the world where you can paraglide. Together with the breathtaking views and consistently good weather, it is also one of the best places in the world to paraglide.
Once you reach the top, it takes no more than five minutes to jump into the gear and attach the parachute. You run down a short runway with your paragliding guide before, bam, you’re in the air.
We flew straight through the clouds, which was much like a warmer shower, before swerving sharply and emerging into the most spectacular view.
I was really impressed with my guide who I felt really wanted to make it an epic experience for me. He was very keen on making sure we tons of awesome photos and videos, and he really worked the ropes to create a stomach twisting experience. It was amazing!
Aside from paragliding, Ölüdeniz is also the starting point for the Lycian Trail, one of Turkey’s most iconic hiking routes.
In Ölüdeniz, there are also some great bars and cafes to enjoy some time in if you don’t feel like paragliding.
The beautiful harbour town of Kaş has a lot to offer and is a great town to visit along the Turquoise Coast. Its charming laneways are lined with interesting boutique stores, cute cafes, lively beach bars and metres of tumbling bougainvillea.
This area is also known for fantastic diving and many dive operators run trips straight from Kaş. Our boat trip with Alaturka permitted enough time to spend the afternoon diving, which was great.
We enjoyed fantastic cocktails at Mumi Cafe Beach. This beach bar had had an awesome atmosphere during the day, and I would highly recommend.
On the day we were in Kaş, it so happened to be Victory Day in Turkey. This meant that the evening was absolutely pumping. Hundreds of Turks had travelled from all over the country to revel in the town. It was an amazing experience as a tourist.
The next stop along the coast is Kekova, and the magnificent Sunken City here – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kekova is home to incredible underwater ruins that were submerged following an earthquake. This area was once a prominent town in the Byzantine and Lycian eras, but is now completely deserted, except for a handful of goats.
This is a no walk, no diving zone. But many boats do sail past each day slowly to take in the incredible site. You can see rooms, staircases and doorways above the sea level, as well as make out pathways and more rooms under the water level. Luckily the water is completely translucent, and is one of the most unusual sites I have ever seen.
Along the Turquoise Coast, this tiny, traditional village was one of my favourite spots. Visiting this tiny hillside hamlet was like a step back in time. The ancient Simena Castle is located at the top of the village and is well worth a visit. It takes around 10 minutes of hiking through the tiny village and up into the hill. At the top, you’ll find the old fortress, once a notable Lycian settlement. Here you will find an incredible panoramic vista over the Gokkaya bay. The heat can be particularly intense here and despite it being quite a short hike, we ran out of water.
The tiny laneways of the village are lined with local women (and children) selling their homemade souvenirs. They were not pushy at all and I bought several lovely bracelets here.
Lastly, the final spot along the Turquoise Coast to visit (or first if you’re doing this route in reverse) is the hippie town of Olympos.
An odd mix of travellers descend on this incredibly beautiful town, nestled in a canyon and surrounded by fragrant forest. It has a tucked away beach and an atmosphere that’s really quite unique. Visitors stay in ‘treehouses’, and the bars are leafy, basic and so, so chilled. If have the time, this is a great place to finish the trip and spend a few extra nights.
So that concludes my guide to sailing in Turkey and exploring the Turquoise Coast by traditional gulet boat. I hope this guide is useful. both for choosing a tour company and find out about the ports. As mentioned, this route is often referred to as ‘the blue cruise’.
If you’re considering a longer trip, you might find my two-week Turkey itinerary here useful. I’ve also written guides to Bodrum , Pamukkale , Ephesus , Istanbul and Cappadocia here.
Have you sailed along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast? I’d love to hear if so. Drop a comment below, and if you’ve enjoyed this post, feel free to share using the below links!
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Disclaimer: This visit to the Turquoise Coast in Turkey was entirely paid for by myself . There was no involvement from the tourism board or any local gulet companies. This is an independent guide to sailing in Turkey.
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The Turkish coastline you visited looks stunning. I would love to do a boat ride around here. 🙂 Looks like you had a whale of time especially swimming in the water.
Your pictures are amazing I had to look at them twice! What an experience that must have been, I never knew Turkey was so breath taking. The paragliding… Wow! I really enjoyed your post looks like a great future vacation.
My hubs is currently standing over my shoulder absolutely drooling at the thought of being able to do this kind of sailing. Those views are so magnificent what a lovely way to travel, peaceful, quiet and so beautiful.
Tehe, looks like you guys should definitely go and visit then 🙂
wow what a fabulous adventure! I would love to sail somewhere one day! I can’t believe I haven’t heard about Olu Deniz before ! Looks like a really nice beach! Your photos are amazing, I love the one of your jump especially ! So beautiful!
Picturesque coasts like those make it hard to leave the ship and explore. I could stare at that all day. But thankfully you pointed out numerous amazing things to do. I would thoroughly enjoy the paragliding. There is something about going through clouds that gives you an incredible feeling.
Turkey has always been one of the best countries I have visited until now, and can visit it many more times :), your pictures are just so amazing which makes me pack my bag and go to Turkey right away 🙂
Those are some amazing towns – Kas specially. It reminds me of a smaller town in Nepal called Bandipur with its cobbled pathways and bougainvillea. The water here is terrific, I definitely think that it is the best way to explore this coastline. Glad you shared your views on the same.
P.S: I love the pics
Really? I should definitely look into visiting there too!! 🙂 And thanks for your kind words about my photos!
This place is unbelievably beautiful. I’d book a trip here tomorrow if I could. The water looks so refreshing. I love beaches, I could stay here forever and not get bored for sure. The food looks really delicious as well. Definitely adding to my bucket list.
Eek, I’d also book a return trip back here tomorrow if I could! Thanks for your kind comment 🙂
The Turkish coastline seems so ethereal. The views, especially the sunset ones, are really breathtaking. I am sure it was a blissful experience cruising along on the turquoise coast of Turkey. The Olu Deniz beach looks gorgeous and the paragliding looks really exciting.
Hi Sandy! Yes, truly breathtaking! Thanks for your kind words!
Wow this sailing trip around turkey coast was stunningly beautiful. And added bonus the paragliding adventure love to do the sailing trip one day- another list added ti my bucket.
Awesome, glad to hear this post has inspired you! It is a truly beautiful coastline!
This is a really nice post. Thanks for sharing.
Great photos it makes me want to pack up and go now!!! I get sea sick so always worried about being on a boat on the ocean. Was it always calm?
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Southern explorer, dubrovnik to split.
Call our experts: 0208 324 3117 Mon – Fri: 09:00 to 18:00 / Sat: 09:30 to 17:00
10-day package from: £1,299, departure dates may to oct, gulet cruise along the turkish coastline.
Embark on a captivating Gulet cruise along the Turkish coastline, designed for an affordable yet enriching experience. Starting and ending in Fethiye, with options to sail towards Marmaris, this journey promises a blend of comfort and authenticity. You’ll be staying in an air-conditioned cabin, ensuring a relaxed journey. The cruise operates on a full board basis, delighting you with hearty local meals that include fresh fish, grilled meats, lush salads, and fruits. Not only will you bask in the sun on the deck and savor the calming sea breeze, but you’ll also enjoy swim stops at serene spots, perfect for refreshing dips in the sea. This laid-back itinerary is an invitation to immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of the sea and discover the stunning beauty of Turkey’s coast, all within a budget-friendly package.
7 Night Cruise on Board Larin Su gulet on a Full-board basis
2 Night stay in Letoonia Club Hotel on All inclusive basis
Day By Day Itinerary
Departure Dates & Prices
Oludeniz’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife
Gemiler Island’s ancient ruins and churches
Ekincik, visit Caunos ruins, and see loggerhead turtles at Iztuzu Beach.
Breathtaking beauty of Sarsala (Bedri Rahmi Bay) with its azure waters
Turkish hammam or try your hand at haggling in the bustling markets of Fethiye
What is extra.
Flights from London Gatwick, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool
All local transfers
2 nights at Letoonia Club hotel on All inclusive basis
Accommodation on board Larin Su for 7 nights with air conditioning and private SH/WC
Full board: Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tea & coffee during breakfast and water during meals
Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment, canoes and stand up paddle boards (subject to availability)
Port charges
Below flight times are indicative and subject to availability. You will be advised exact flight details at the time of booking.
Gatwick (British Airways)
Bristol (Easyjet)
Manchester (Easyjet)
Edinburgh (Easyjet)
Liverpool (Easyjet)
All local transfers are included in your package.
Cruise routes may need to be varied in the event of adverse weather and operating conditions at the captains discretion, in the interests of the comfort and safety of guests. The Captain and Cruise Director will will keep you fully briefed on the daily programme.
Gulet Larin Su, a 31-meter vessel offering a comfortable experience for up to 16 guests. Accommodation includes 5 double cabins and 3 triple cabins, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning. The gulet underwent refits in 2014 and 2020 for a refreshed feel.
On deck, you’ll find sun mattresses for lounging, a leisure area at the rear, and fishing equipment for those interested in angling. Dive into the underwater world with provided masks, snorkels, and flippers or enjoy water activities like canoeing and paddle boarding. Additional amenities include a 70HP tender, waterskis, wakeboard, and the option for jet ski rental (on request and at extra charge). For entertainment, there’s a TV, DVD player, CD player, Wi-Fi, and USB connections for multimedia devices.
Accommodation & Amenities
Club & hotel letoonia.
A private paradise
Club & Hotel Letoonia is located on a stunning peninsula, which has 2,000 meters seashore, includes 3 private beaches (Cactus Beach, Champagne Beach, and Dolphin Beach) with 3,700 meters walking path. Hotel Letoonia welcomes guests in Fethiye, an area of exceptional geographical beauty in Turkey.
On a verdant Lycian peninsula overlooking the magnificent Southern Aegean Sea on Turkey’s south coast. It is one of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated resorts.
2024 - cruise only, turkish delight cruise 2024 flight inclusive package.
Departure date | Double/ Twin | Single | Vessel | |
---|---|---|---|---|
09/05/2024 | £1,299 | £2,143 | Efe Burak | |
16/05/2024 | £1,339 | £2,183 | Efe Burak | |
30/05/2024 | £1,529 | £2,438 | Efe Burak | |
06/06/2024 | £1,569 | £2,618 | Larin Su | |
13/06/2024 | £1,569 | £2,618 | Larin Su | |
05/09/2024 | £1,729 | £2,850 | Larin Su | |
19/09/2024 | £1,799 | £2,890 | Larin Su | |
27/09/2024 | £1,639 | £2,688 | Ada Deniz | |
03/10/2024 | £1,489 | £2,388 | Ada Deniz | |
10/10/2024 | £1,439 | £2,303 | Ada Deniz |
Departure date | Double / Twin | Single | Vessel | |
---|---|---|---|---|
11/05/2024 | £849 | £1,443 | Efe Burak | |
18/05/2024 | £849 | £1,443 | Efe Burak | |
01/06/2024 | £899 | £1,528 | Efe Burak | |
08/06/2024 | £899 | £1,528 | Larin Su | |
15/06/2024 | £899 | £1,528 | Larin Su | |
07/09/2024 | £959 | £1,630 | Larin Su | |
21/09/2024 | £959 | £1,630 | Larin Su | |
28/09/2024 | £899 | £1,528 | Ada Deniz | |
05/10/2024 | £899 | £1,528 | Ada Deniz | |
12/10/2024 | £849 | £1,443 | Ada Deniz |
Package prices are subject to availability in the accommodation and flight class booked. Flight supplements may apply for regional and other flights.
| Your flight inclusive holiday with us is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed and the full package is ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence. |
We at Friendship Travel are pleased to provide world-class cruising experiences on our single-friendly cruises. Our cruises for solos give you the best recommendations to put together a great package with flights and transfers where needed. Setting sail for both short and long-haul destinations, our range of ships will take you to the most magnificent corners of the world with like-minded solo travellers. You can enjoy solo cruises with us on everything from large cruise ships to gulets and vintage yachts.
And if this is your first singles cruise holiday, don’t panic! Our welcoming Friendship Travel Hosts and your fellow travellers will make you feel at ease on board the ship, just as they do on every one of our other singles traveller holidays.
Browse our solo cruises in 2024/25 below and read on to learn more about our singles cruise holidays.
Our solo cruises in 2024/25 will allow you to enjoy memorable destinations and meet like-minded single travellers.
Here at Friendship Travel, we are the experts when it comes to singles holidays. We have years of experience planning amazing holiday packages for solo travellers in beautiful destinations.
Our small but friendly team are focused on personal service and real experience in the destinations we visit. So, if you have any questions or want to learn more about our singles cruises, please get in touch.
If you are looking to book a long-haul singles cruise in 2024/25, then why not hop onto the Royal Clipper departing from the exotic Caribbean island of Barbados? The ship is the world’s largest fully rigged five-mast sailing ship to have been built since the beginning of the 20 th century, and with a ratio of two passengers to every crew member, you will no doubt be treated like royalty!
Working with the world-renowned Norwegian Cruise Line, Friendship Travel provides single people wishing to embark on a new singles cruise experience with exclusive packages for both fly-cruise and cruise-and-stay holidays. Sailing from Barcelona, NCL’s Epic is designed with the solo traveller in mind. Their ‘Freestyle Cruising’ concept adds flexibility in terms of dining, activities and shore excursions, enabling you to enjoy your own personal on-board schedule.
The 128 Studio rooms onboard the Epic offer a truly luxurious stay, designed and priced for the solo traveller. All single cabins come with a full-size bed, flat-screen TV, desk and access to the exclusive two-storey lounge where solo guests can meet for drinks.
You can get a taste of what facilities to expect on this amazing cruise below.
As you can see, there are many wonderful singles cruise ideas available with Friendship Travel. From a cruise along the Nile to a Gulet cruise along Turkey’s beautiful coast, there are plenty of amazing choices.
Explore all the singles cruise locations available .
We provide singles cruise holiday packages in partnership with some of the world’s most highly regarded cruise lines, all of which are designed with your peace of mind as the top priority. The cruises differ in terms of dates, prices and ports of call during the year, but if you like the look of any of our cruises on offer – which often have no single supplements applied – we will be more than happy to discuss, plan and arrange your singles cruise to your liking.
If our solo cruise deals sound good to you. Join your fellow single travellers today and book a cruise holiday with Friendship Travel.
If you require any more information about our range of cruises for singles, please contact us or give us a call on 0289 446 2211 – we’re here to help!
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SINGLES ONLY 7 NIGHTS TURKEY SAILING FROM FETHIYE - GOCEK - DALYAN. Longing to explore the tantalising Turkish coastline, what better way to discover its beauty than with our singles Gulet cruise. Jump aboard with new companions as you set sail on a voyage off the beaten track, allowing you to explore Turkeys most secluded and intimate spots ...
Gulet Escapes | Gulet Cruises in Turkey, Croatia & Greece
Itinerary. DAY 1. Guests will land into Dalamna airport and be transferred to Fethyie harbour (60 minutes). You will be welcomed by the captain and his crew and check-in to the Gulet. Overnight in Fethiye harbour with dinner onboard. Cocktail meeting with the captain and crew in our boat which is connected to Fethiye harbour.
Meridian Travels Gulet Cruises specialises in single traveller, couple and group Turkish Gulet Cruises.Take a relaxing Gulet Cruise or fun holiday onboard a handcrafted yacht, Meridian Travels Gulet Cruise will show you Turkey's beautiful Turquoise coast . Call WhatsApp: +90 538 593 5032;
History and culture combined with sun and sea. There's no better way to explore the beautiful Turkish Riviera than a gulet cruise. Turkey has some of the most exciting historical sites and charming villages and towns so you can explore cultures old and new to your heart's content. The undeveloped and sheltered coastline is full of secluded ...
A Gulet cabin charter is a cheap way for single travelers, couples, or small groups to go on a Gulet cruise without chartering the whole boat. You'll share the gulet with other guests, but you'll still get the same services and amenities as on a private charter. ... Gulet Cruise Charter Turkey: Setting Off on an Enchanting Adventure. The ...
View our range of Gulets available in Croatia for private cruising. Our 6, 7, and 8-person Gulets offer luxury air-conditioning, embark Saturday to Saturday and offer full board as standard. Cabins are all en-suite and are offered on a 'first come, first served' basis. Per person, prices from only £899 each plus flights and transfers.
Our all-inclusive Gulet cruises are ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, allowing you to meet like-minded people from across the globe. Including all meals and accommodation on board the Gulet yacht, you'll absolutely enjoy the experience. To learn more, check out our Sail Turkey and Sail Greece pages.
Solo Travelers: Gulet cruises can also be a fantastic option for solo travelers. The social atmosphere onboard makes it easy to meet new people and make friends. ... Themed Gulet Cruises: Many gulet operators offer themed cruises catering to specific interests. These may include adult-only cruises, yoga retreats, family-friendly adventures, or ...
Booking a Gulet cruise in Turkey is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you: 1. Research: Start by researching different gulet cruise operators and the types of cruises they offer. Read reviews, compare prices, and consider the itineraries and destinations covered. 2.
TURKEY - SAIL & SAND. £ 1,699 View Details. Explore the Turkish coastline on a traditional Gulet boat on a SINGLES ONLY SAIL. The 7-night cruise sail from Fethiye to Dalyan and return, taking in ancient rock tombs, sleepy fishing villages and picturesque islands on the way. And there's plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling and shopping, too.
Gulet cruises in Turkey are ridiculously good value. That was true in 2004 and is still true today. ... Because the other big draw for me was the lack of single supplement - catnip to a solo traveller. As with hotels, cabin charters are often priced on the assumption they will be filled by a couple. This makes SCIC's prices very appealing ...
5 Best Gulet Cruise Holidays in Turkey
Amazon Solo is a handcrafted wooden Gulet that provides private yacht charter service along the Turkish Riviera. It offers accommodation for up to 12 people in 6 cabins. Blue Cruises - Sail Turkey ... 3 Day 2 Night Gulet Cruise ; 4 Day 3 Night Gulet Cruise ; 5 Day 4 Night Gulet Cruise ...
A gulet cruise in Turkey is a signature experience for those looking for off-the-grid charms along the Turquoise Coast. Davida gets onboard. ... Best for solo, couples, family or group getaways: ScicSailing caters to everyone. Solo travellers will especially love that there's no single supplement. You may also charter a whole yacht for a ...
Give him a ring to discuss your holiday in detail on 0330 390 0999 or send an email. Get in touch. Luxury Gulet Cruises in Turkey and Greek Islands - Cabin sales & Private hire or Gulet cruise and stay holidays. Explore Turkey's hidden treasures.
Amazon Solo Gulet - 31 mt x 7 mt luxury Turkish Gulet yacht charter for daily or weekly rent with 2 Master, 2 Double, and 2 Twin cabins for 12 people in Gocek. ... designed to make a pleasant Blue Cruise in Turkey and the Greek islands. Suppose you rent a comfortable, clean, comfortable yacht on an affordable budget and make an unforgettable ...
In the last 2 decades, Turkey sailing became very popular in the world and the traditional Turkish-made gulet cruise boat is a fabulous and the most authentic way to do it. If you're looking for long, lazy days onboard a traditional Turkish gulet boat , with glorious weather, stunning swim stops, and mouth-watering local foods, then a Turkey ...
Gulet sailing in Turkey refers to a type of sailing charter in this southwestern corner of Turkey, typically week-long liveaboard trips along the stretch of coast from Bodrum to Antalya with an emphasis on enjoying the nature as much as the sights and towns. Gulet cruises in Turkey are also commonly referred to as a ' blue cruise ' or ...
The most popular way to explore the Turquoise coast is by sailing, and the traditional wooden gulet cruise boat is a fantastic and authentic way to do this. If you're looking to spend long, lazy days onboard a typical Turkish boat, with glorious weather to boot, then a sailing trip in Turkey is for you. ... I joined the gulet cruise as a solo ...
Gulet Larin Su, a 31-meter vessel offering a comfortable experience for up to 16 guests. Accommodation includes 5 double cabins and 3 triple cabins, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning. The gulet underwent refits in 2014 and 2020 for a refreshed feel. On deck, you'll find sun mattresses for lounging, a leisure area at ...
If our solo cruise deals sound good to you. Join your fellow single travellers today and book a cruise holiday with Friendship Travel. If you require any more information about our range of cruises for singles, please or give us a call on 0289 446 2211 - we're here to help! Friendship Travel boasts a wide range of singles cruise holidays.
The TA destination forums for Kalkan/Kas and Olu Deniz/Fethiye are excellent sources of information. You may be able to get a local day trip on a gulet. I'd stayed in a hotel in Feralya, and my hotel helped me and 4 other guests book our own gulet for the day, which we picked up along the coast in Olu Deniz.