Bozburun is much more than a holiday resort; it is a way of life where wood meets art and the sea meets tradition. To embark on a blue cruise from this tranquil peninsula, where the highest quality gulets in Turkey and the world are handcrafted, is to feel the soul of the Hisarönü Gulf, the most serene and unspoiled geography of the Aegean. This is a true escape story, free from speed and noise, where you hear only the sound of the waves, the wind, and your loved ones.
Advantages of a Gulet Charter in Bozburun
Chartering a gulet in Bozburun means becoming part of a tradition. With their spacious decks, comfortable living areas, and a professional crew dedicated to your service, gulets are like your "boutique hotel on the sea." The sheltered nature of the Hisarönü Gulf perfectly complements the slow, gliding character of the gulets. There is no rush on this holiday; the goal is to savor every cove, to live every moment by absorbing it.
Who Is It For?
- Seekers of Peace and Quiet: Those who want to completely disconnect from the world, leave their phone aside to be with their book, and integrate with nature.
- Large Families and Groups of Friends: Those looking for a safe, comfortable holiday that offers plenty of private and common space for everyone, with all food and beverage organization taken care of.
- Lovers of Authentic Experiences: Travelers who want to feel the spirit of traveling on a handmade wooden boat and experience the local culture, food, and lifestyle.
- Nature Enthusiasts: Those who want to swim in turquoise waters where pine forests meet the hills, snorkel, and watch the stars at night.
Season & Weather
The gulet season in Bozburun extends from May to the end of October.
- May - June: The best times of the season, when nature is at its most vibrant, the weather is not overwhelming, and the sea is refreshingly cool.
- July - August: The hottest months. The sea temperature is ideal for swimming. The "Meltemi" wind, which blows regularly in the afternoons, balances the hot weather and offers great opportunities for sailing.
- September - October: The favorite period for holiday connoisseurs. The summer crowds have left, the sea is still very warm, and the weather is generally calm and sunny.
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Route: A Hello to Serenity
Departing from Bozburun harbor, anchor at the nearby Adaçayı Cove. After a swimming and lunch break here, move on to Serçe Port, which fascinates with its fjord-like structure. After watching the sunset here, return to Bozburun.
2–3 Day Route: The Magic of Selimiye and Söğüt
- Day 1: Set off from Bozburun and arrive in Selimiye, one of the most stylish and popular villages of Hisarönü. The overnight stay is in Selimiye Bay, where you can feel the calm atmosphere of the village. One of the famous restaurants on shore can be tried for dinner.
- Day 2: After swimming in Selimiye in the morning, move on to Söğüt, a more pristine and authentic village. In the afternoon, spend the night by anchoring in a quiet cove like nearby Adaboğazı.
- Day 3: A pleasant return cruise towards Bozburun begins. Final swimming breaks are taken in a few small coves along the way.
1-Week Route: The Classic Hisarönü Tour
- Day 1: Settle into your gulet in Bozburun and anchor in a nearby cove for the first night.
- Day 2: Cruise to the sheltered Bozukkale, where the ancient Loryma castle is located. Explore the castle and spend the night in this historic harbor.
- Day 3: Set sail towards the Datça Peninsula. Stop at wonderful coves like Kocabahçe or Bencik Cove.
- Day 4: Arrival in Datça, famous for its almonds and honey. Stroll among the stone houses of Old Datça and a pleasant break in the harbor.
- Day 5: Cross to the opposite shore of the gulf, to Orhaniye, where the Kızkumu Beach gives the feeling of walking in the middle of the sea.
- Day 6: A short cruise to the calm and sophisticated village of Selimiye. Swimming, relaxing, and perhaps a special dinner ashore.
- Day 7: After a final swim break at Dirsek Bükü, a favorite stop for sailors, return to Bozburun.
Harbour, Transfer & Check-In
The main transportation point for your gulet holiday is Dalaman Airport (DLM). The transfer from the airport to Bozburun harbor takes about 2.5 hours. Most gulet tours start directly from the local harbor of Bozburun or nearby piers. Check-in is usually on Saturdays between 15:00-16:00.
Vessel & Equipment
Gulets are floating homes designed for comfort and pleasure.
- Spacious Decks: Sunbathing cushions on the foredeck, and a large dining and seating area under an awning on the aft deck. Most of the day is spent in these pleasant areas.
- Comfortable Cabins: Each cabin has its own shower and toilet. The cabins are usually air-conditioned and have everything necessary for a comfortable sleep.
- Professional Crew: The team, consisting of a captain, chef, and deckhand(s), takes care of all your needs. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the holiday.
- Fully Equipped Galley: Your chef prepares the freshest and most delicious dishes of Aegean cuisine according to your preferences.
Cost Components
- Charter Fee: The weekly rental fee for the gulet and its crew.
- Provisioning (Food & Drink): The cost of the menu created according to your preferences. A daily budget per person is usually determined.
- Fuel: Fuel for the route is generally included in the price. An additional fee may be requested for extra and long routes.
- Port & Mooring Fees: Mooring fees in Turkish waters are usually included. Private marinas and Greek island ports are subject to extra charges.
- Crew Gratuity: At the end of the holiday, it is a tradition to leave a tip of 5-15% of the charter fee, depending on your satisfaction with the service.
Safety, Insurance & Rules
All chartered gulets have a commercial boat license, comply with legal safety standards, and are fully insured. The captain is primarily responsible for life and property safety at sea. It is important to listen carefully to the safety briefing at the beginning of your holiday.
Local Highlights
- Gulet Shipyards: It is a unique experience to see the huge wooden gulets under construction in the shipyards in and around Bozburun.
- Loryma (Bozukkale): Impressive castle ruins from the Hellenistic period, guarding the entrance to a large bay.
- Selimiye: The pearl of Hisarönü with its calm sea, stylish restaurants, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Kızkumu (Orhaniye): The experience of walking on a red sandbar about 600 meters long in the middle of the sea.
- Söğüt Village: A village that preserves its authentic structure, with wonderful views and casual but very delicious fish restaurants.
Tips
- Go with the Flow: The best part of a gulet holiday is its flexibility. Don't hesitate to talk to your captain about staying an extra day in a cove you really like.
- Taste the Local Flavors: Ask your chef to prepare appetizers made with local herbs, fresh seafood, and olive oil dishes.
- Disconnect from Technology: Phone and internet may not be available in many coves. See this as an opportunity and do a digital detox.
- Have Cash on Hand: It will be useful to have some cash with you for small, local shops or restaurants on shore.
- Respect Nature: Keeping the sea and coves clean is everyone's responsibility. Do not throw your garbage into the sea and take care to use nature-friendly sunscreens.
