Gulet Charter in Fethiye

Fethiye is the legendary heart of the Blue Cruise, the very soul of the Turkish Riviera. Watched over by ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffsides, this bustling harbour town is the home of the traditional Turkish gulet. To set sail from Fethiye on a gulet is to do more than just charter a boat; it's to become part of a time-honoured tradition, to feel the warmth of handcrafted wood beneath your feet, and to experience the seamless blend of history, nature, and the turquoise sea.

Advantages of a Gulet Charter in Fethiye

A gulet charter is an experience in a class of its own-a floating boutique hotel dedicated entirely to you. In Fethiye, this experience is elevated by several key factors:

• Authentic Atmosphere: Gulets are the soul of these waters. Their spacious decks, comfortable cabins, and handcrafted wooden construction offer a level of character and relaxation that no other vessel can match.
• Full-Service Comfort: When you charter a gulet, you charter a dedicated professional crew. Your captain knows the most secluded bays, your chef prepares exquisite Mediterranean meals, and your deckhand ensures everything is perfect. Your only job is to relax.
• Unrivalled Route Flexibility: Fethiye's strategic location is a major advantage. It serves as the perfect gateway to two distinct cruising grounds: the calm, island-dotted Bay of Göcek, and the dramatic, history-rich coastline stretching east to Kaş and Kekova.

Who Is It Suitable For?

• Large Families and Groups of Friends: With numerous cabins and vast communal areas-especially the large aft deck perfect for long, leisurely dinners-gulets are perfectly designed for groups to holiday together in comfort.
• First-Time Blue Cruisers: The all-inclusive nature of a crewed gulet makes it the most stress-free and enjoyable introduction to a sailing holiday. Everything is taken care of for you.
• Those Seeking Peace and Comfort: For anyone whose primary goal is to escape the crowds, read a book in a quiet cove, swim in crystal-clear water, and enjoy fantastic food, the slow, comfortable pace of a gulet is priceless.
• Food and Culture Enthusiasts: The Blue Cruise is a culinary journey. Your chef will prepare a daily feast of fresh, local ingredients, from olive oil mezes to grilled fish, making it an unforgettable part of your holiday.

Season & Weather

The gulet season in Fethiye is long and pleasant, running from May through to the end of October.

• May - June: The landscape is at its most green and vibrant. The weather is warm but not overpowering, and the sea is refreshingly cool. The bays are wonderfully quiet.
• July - August: The peak of summer. The weather is hot, and the sea is at its warmest. The wide, shaded decks of a gulet provide a welcome sanctuary from the midday sun.
• September - October: Often called the "golden season." The crowds thin out, the sea remains incredibly warm from the summer sun, and the weather becomes mild and perfect. An ideal time for a peaceful cruise.

Sample Itineraries

1-Day Route: The Calm Bays of Fethiye Gulf

Departing from Fethiye Harbour, you'll first cruise around the historic Knight Island. Anchor for a swim and lunch in the pine-clad Turunç Pınarı Bay. In the afternoon, visit Aquarium Bay, where you can swim with schools of fish, before finding a spot in Samanlık Bay to watch the sunset before returning to port.

2-3 Day Route: A Taste of the Göcek Islands

• Day 1: Set sail from Fethiye and cruise into the famous Bay of Göcek, stopping for swims around the Yassıca Islands. Spend the night anchored in Bedri Rahmi Bay, named after the famous Turkish artist.
• Day 2: Explore Cleopatra's Bath Bay, with its submerged ancient ruins, and visit Tersane (Shipyard) Island, the largest island in the gulf.
• Day 3: Enjoy a final morning swim before a leisurely sail back to Fethiye.

1-Week Route: The Classic Fethiye to Kekova Blue Cruise

• Day 1: Embark in Fethiye Harbour and settle in. A short cruise to a nearby bay for your first dinner and night under the stars.
• Day 2: Cruise to the world-famous Ölüdeniz for a photo stop, visit Butterfly Valley, and anchor for the night at the historic St. Nicholas Island.
• Day 3: After exploring the island's ruins, set sail on a longer passage towards Kaş, a charming and vibrant harbour town.
• Day 4: Arrive in the Kekova region. Gently cruise over the mesmerizing Sunken City.
• Day 5: Go ashore at Kaleköy (Simena), a village accessible only by sea, and hike up to its medieval castle for breathtaking views.
• Day 6: Begin the journey west, stopping at more secluded bays for swimming and relaxation.
• Day 7: One last day of bliss in the Fethiye Gulf. Enjoy a final swim before your farewell dinner in the harbour.

Harbour, Transfer & Check-In

The main gateway to Fethiye is Dalaman Airport (DLM), located just a 45-minute drive away. Gulets typically depart from Ece Marina or the Fethiye town harbour. For weekly charters, check-in is usually on Saturday afternoon.

Yacht & Equipment

Traditional Turkish gulets are designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation.

• Spacious Decks: The hallmark of a gulet is its vast deck space, with a large cushioned area at the stern for dining and lounging, and a sundeck at the bow.
• Comfortable Cabins: Cabins are typically comfortable and feature private en-suite bathrooms with a toilet and shower.
• Professional Crew: The crew, consisting of a captain, chef, and deckhand(s), is dedicated to managing every aspect of your holiday.
• Full Galley: Your onboard chef has everything they need to prepare gourmet meals featuring the best of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Cost Items

• Charter Fee: This typically includes the yacht rental, crew services, 3-4 hours of fuel per day, and local harbour taxes.
• Provisions (Food & Drink): This is the main extra cost. You set a budget and menu preference, and the crew purchases everything for you.
• Extra Fuel: For extensive motoring beyond the daily allowance or for using motorized water toys.
• Private Marina Fees: Mooring fees if you choose to stay overnight in private marinas like the one in Kaş.
• Crew Gratuity: It is customary to tip the crew at the end of a successful charter, typically 5-15% of the base charter fee, depending on your satisfaction.

Safety, Insurance & Rules

All commercially registered gulets are fully insured and equipped with all necessary safety gear (life jackets, life rafts, etc.). The crew is trained in safety and emergency procedures. The captain's word is final on all matters relating to the safety of the vessel and its passengers.

Local Highlights

• Ölüdeniz: One of the most photographed beaches in the world, famous for its stunning blue lagoon.
• Kayaköy: A hauntingly beautiful "ghost village" of abandoned stone houses and churches, once a thriving Greek community.
• Saklıkent Gorge: A spectacular canyon accessible via a day trip from Fethiye, where you can walk through icy-cold mountain water.
• St. Nicholas Island: An open-air museum of Byzantine ruins, and arguably the best place on the coast to watch the sunset.
• Fethiye Rock Tombs: The magnificent Tomb of Amyntas carved into the cliff face high above the town, beautifully illuminated at night.

Tips

1. Communicate with Your Crew: They are your local guides. Discuss your route preferences, meal plans, and activity wishes with them.
2. Pack Light and Smart: Use soft, collapsible bags instead of hard suitcases. Bring a light jacket or wrap for cool evenings.
3. Go Ashore and Explore: Don't spend all your time on the boat. Go ashore in towns like Kaş and Kaleköy to experience the local culture, markets, and history.
4. Plan Extra Activities in Advance: If you want to try paragliding in Ölüdeniz or go scuba diving, let your charter agent know in advance so it can be seamlessly organized.
5. Bring Some Cash: It's useful for small purchases in local villages, for optional excursions, and for the crew gratuity at the end of your trip.