Nestled in a spectacular natural harbour where pine-clad mountains meet turquoise waters, Marmaris is one of Turkey's premier gateways to the legendary Blue Cruise. The most authentic and soulful way to embark on this adventure is aboard a traditional Turkish Gulet. A gulet is more than just a boat; it's a floating boutique hotel that embodies the relaxed spirit, comfort, and culinary delights of the Aegean. Setting sail from Marmaris on a gulet is the first step on a timeless journey into the heart of the serene Hisarönü Gulf.
The Advantages of Chartering a Gulet in Marmaris
Marmaris is a strategic and vibrant hub for gulet holidays. Its primary advantage is providing direct access to the Gulf of Hisarönü, one of the most sheltered and tranquil sailing grounds in the Aegean. The spacious decks, comfortable living areas, and stable nature of a gulet are perfectly suited to these calm waters. A gulet holiday is not about speed; it's about the journey, relaxation, and experience. It offers the perfect platform for exploring the pristine coves of Hisarönü, savouring delicious meals, and simply living on the water.
Who Is It For?
- Large Families and Groups of Friends: With the capacity to comfortably accommodate 6 to 16 guests in private en-suite cabins, gulets are ideal for groups who want to holiday together in their own private space.
- Seekers of Peace and Tradition: For those looking to slow down, read a book, sleep under the stars, and disconnect from the hustle of modern life, the gentle rhythm of a gulet cruise is priceless.
- Gourmet Travellers: The culinary experience is central to a gulet holiday. For those who dream of tasting fresh Aegean dishes prepared by a private chef against the backdrop of a new, stunning view each day, this is a dream come true.
- Nature Lovers: Waking up for a morning swim in a deserted cove, spotting dolphins, and cruising along a coastline scented with pine is a magical experience for any nature enthusiast.
Season & Weather
The gulet charter season in Marmaris runs from May through to the end of October.
- May - June: The landscape is at its most vibrant and green, and the weather is pleasantly warm. It's an ideal time for those seeking tranquility.
- July - August: The peak of summer, with the hottest temperatures and the warmest sea. The gulet’s ample shaded deck areas provide a comfortable haven for relaxing throughout the day.
- September - October: Considered by many sailors to be the best time. The sea is still wonderfully warm, the crowds have thinned, and the air is softer. Perfect for a romantic and peaceful holiday.
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Route: A Taste of the Coast
Depart from Marmaris harbour and cruise to nearby Paradise Island and Kumlubük for swim stops. Lunch is served on board, prepared by your chef. Spend the afternoon sunbathing and relaxing before returning to the harbour.
2–3 Day Route: Journey to Dalyan
- Day 1: Set sail from Marmaris to the beautiful bay of Ekincik and anchor for the night.
- Day 2: Take a small local riverboat from your gulet for a fascinating tour up the Dalyan River. See the ancient Lycian rock tombs, the ruins of Kaunos, and the famous Turtle Beach (İztuzu).
- Day 3: Enjoy a final morning swim in Ekincik before a leisurely cruise back to Marmaris.
1-Week Route: The Classic Hisarönü Gulf Cruise
- Day 1: Board your gulet in Marmaris. Cruise to a nearby bay like Kadırga for a welcome dinner and your first night.
- Day 2: Sail to Bozukkale (ancient Loryma). Explore the impressive Hellenistic castle walls before anchoring in this incredibly sheltered natural harbour.
- Day 3: Visit the quiet village of Bozburun, once the centre of traditional gulet building.
- Day 4: Arrive in the jewel of the gulf: the chic and peaceful village of Selimiye. You might choose to dine ashore at one of its famous restaurants.
- Day 5: Explore Dirsekbükü, a sailor's favourite, and then the stunning, fjord-like Bencik Cove.
- Day 6: Visit Orhaniye to see the famous 'Kızkumu' (Maiden's Sand) sandbar where you can "walk on water".
- Day 7: Start the journey back towards Marmaris, enjoying final swim stops before a last evening in the harbour.
Harbour, Transfer & Check-in
The closest airport to Marmaris is Dalaman Airport (DLM), with a transfer time of approximately 90 minutes. Marmaris is home to several large, well-equipped marinas, including Netsel Marina and Marmaris Yacht Marina, as well as a main harbour that hosts hundreds of gulets. For weekly charters, check-in is typically on Saturday afternoon between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
Vessel & Equipment
The gulet is the soul of the Blue Cruise experience:
- Spacious Decks: Life is lived outdoors. The foredeck is for sunbathing on comfortable cushions, while the large aft deck offers a shaded dining and lounging area.
- Comfortable Cabins: Gulets feature private cabins, almost always with their own en-suite shower and toilet. Air conditioning is standard on most.
- Professional Crew: Your holiday is managed by a dedicated crew of a captain, chef, and deckhand(s).
- Delicious Cuisine: The onboard chef is a key part of the experience, preparing fresh, delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners using local ingredients.
Cost Components
- Charter Fee: The weekly hire of the gulet, crew, and standard equipment.
- Provisions (Food & Drink): This is usually handled with an APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) budget or an all-inclusive full-board package.
- Fuel: Fuel for a standard itinerary (3-4 hours of motoring per day) is often included.
- Port & Marina Fees: Turkish port taxes are usually included. Mooring in private marinas or visiting Greek islands would be an extra cost.
- Crew Gratuity: It is customary to tip the crew at the end of your charter (usually 5-10% of the charter fee) if you are happy with their service.
Safety, Insurance & Rules
All commercial charter gulets are fully insured and equipped with all legally required safety equipment (life rafts, life jackets, etc.). The captain has the final say in all matters concerning the safety of the vessel and its passengers.
Local Highlights
- Hisarönü Gulf: The heart of the Marmaris gulet routes, home to villages like Selimiye and Bozburun and countless pristine bays.
- Bozukkale (Loryma): A huge, protected natural harbour guarded by the ruins of an ancient Rhodian citadel.
- Selimiye: A sophisticated and peaceful village known for its tranquil atmosphere and outstanding waterfront restaurants.
- Dalyan River & Kaunos: An incredible day trip from Ekincik Bay to see magnificent rock tombs and ancient ruins.
Tips
- Communicate with Your Chef: Don't be shy about sharing your food preferences, dietary needs, or allergies with your chef at the beginning of the trip.
- Embrace the Pace: A gulet holiday is about slowing down. Don't try to cram too much in. The real joy is in the journey, not just the destinations.
- Pack Light: Storage space is limited in cabins. Use soft, collapsible bags instead of hard suitcases.
- Bring Cash: You may need cash for small purchases in villages, at local market stalls, or for drinks at simple restaurants in remote bays.
