How to Gulet Charter Planning

Tip No. 2: Guest Count

The number of guests is crucial for shortlisting boats. If, for instance, your group could be 12-16 people, look for gulets that accommodate up to 18.

Tip No. 3: Quality Standards

What quality level do you seek? Most gulets are comfortable, but some are lower quality. These may be older, lack air conditioning, and be poorly maintained. Therefore, if traveling from June to September, air conditioning is highly recommended due to the heat (30-50+ Celsius). Gulets are rated using custom terms or stars:

• Economic Gulets – 1 Star (Mirya Yachting rarely offers this)
• Luxury Gulets – 2 Stars
• Deluxe Gulets – 3 Stars (most popular)
• Ultra Deluxe Gulets – 4 Stars
• High Class Gulets – 5 Stars

The star system, like hotels, indicates quality. Consequently, two-star (luxury) gulets are affordable, comfortable, and clean—perfect for a blue cruise.

Enhancing Your Gulet Experience

Tip No. 4: Water Toys

Combine your holiday with water toys! Most gulets have noodles, fishing gear, and snorkeling gear. However, some offer more, like wakeboards, kayaks, windsurfers, and kneeboards. Furthermore, higher-end options include jet skis, water skis, and powerful tenders for inflatables. If these are important, ask for boats that have them. If not onboard, rent them during your trip where available.

Tip No. 5: Itinerary Planning

Now, decide where to go. There are many itinerary options. Consider what interests you and your guests. Turkey has two coastlines: the Mediterranean and the Aegean. For peace and quiet, the Aegean (like the Gulf of Hisaronu and Gokova) is ideal. On the other hand, if you want ruins and don’t mind crowds, the Mediterranean is better. Plan with your agent and talk to your captain during the trip. They have extensive knowledge of the area.
NOTE: Planned itineraries may change due to weather. The captain has the final say for safety.
To include Greek Islands, starting in the Aegean is better due to proximity to the Dodecanese, Cyclades, and North Aegean Islands.
NOTE: 90% of gulets visit the Dodecanese. However, most non-Deluxe gulets may not visit the Cyclades, especially from June to September due to the Meltemi winds. Check with your agent about the Cyclades. Also, please check updated 2025 season Greek Islands entrance fee and taxes from your broker company.
NOTE: Greek harbor and customs fees are always extra, payable in cash.

Onboard Logistics and Preparation / Gulet Charter Planning

Tip No. 6: Food and Beverage

Food and beverage are part of provisioning. There are usually three menus: Standard, Lux, and Deluxe. They differ in dish selection and seafood quality. For example, lobster, crab, swordfish, caviar, and similar items are usually extra. Half-board is available, allowing you to dine ashore. However, not all destinations have good restaurants. Therefore, full board is recommended for Turkish boats. If you change your mind about dining out, the cook can prepare something. Additionally, inform the cook if you won’t be dining onboard. Finally, check for private marina fees. Gulet dining is a customized experience. Enjoying Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine at a large table is a social feast. Additionally, dining on the beach is a great change of scenery!

Tip No. 7: Bringing Your Own Drinks

You can bring your own alcohol onboard most charters (95%) without corkage fees. Some bring duty-free alcohol. Because imports are pricier in Turkey than the Greek Islands due to taxes, it may be beneficial to bring your own. Alternatively, Turkey has good local wines. You can order wine in advance through your agent.

Tip No. 8: Packing Essentials

Don’t overpack. Gulets have limited space. Therefore, use soft luggage if possible. Especially for under 24 meters boats!
Bring:

• Bathing suits (spares)
• Beach towels (if not provided)
• Light clothing
• Flip-flops
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Light evening wear
• Extra shoes
• Bathroom essentials (some gulets provide them)
• Camera
• Mobile devices (check for internet access)
• Reading material
• Music

You can also have your agent purchase items for you.

Tip No. 9: Communication

Some crews may have limited English. Consequently, a phrasebook can be helpful.

Tip No. 10: Enjoy Your Trip!

Have a great time! It’s a fantastic vacation. Relax, enjoy the food, sights, pampering, and activities. Return home refreshed with great memories!