Antalya is not just the capital of the Turkish Riviera; it is the historic gateway to the legendary Lycian Coast, where the Taurus Mountains dramatically meet the Mediterranean and ancient cities are carved into cliffsides. The most authentic and enchanting way to explore this unique coastline is on a "Blue Cruise" aboard a traditional wooden gulet. Chartering a gulet from Antalya is an invitation to disconnect from the modern world and surrender to the rhythm of the sea, nature, and history on an unforgettable voyage.
Advantages of Chartering a Gulet in Antalya
A gulet journey from Antalya promises much more than a holiday; it's a voyage through time. The slow, graceful pace of a gulet allows you to truly absorb the stunning views of world-heritage sites like Phaselis, Olympos, Myra, and the Sunken City of Kekova. With their spacious decks, shaded lounging areas, and professional crew-often including a dedicated chef-gulets offer the comfort of a "floating boutique hotel." This experience, focused on the journey rather than speed, is the perfect way to feel the soul of Lycia.
Who Is It For?
- History and Archaeology Buffs: Those eager to explore the countless Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine ruins that dot this ancient coastline.
- Relaxation-Focused Travelers: Anyone looking for an all-inclusive holiday where every detail is taken care of, allowing them to focus solely on relaxing and enjoying the view.
- Large Families and Groups of Friends: With their multiple cabins and large common areas, gulets provide an ideal setting for groups to connect and share a memorable experience.
- Nature Lovers and Photographers: Those inspired by the opportunity to see the most beautiful coastal stretches of the historic Lycian Way and photograph its dramatic cliffs and pristine bays.
Season & Weather
The gulet season in Antalya stretches from April to November, with the spring and autumn months being the most ideal.
- May - June: The weather is pleasantly warm, not yet scorching, and nature is at its most vibrant. It's a perfect balance for swimming and sightseeing.
- July - August: These are the hottest months, perfect for those who plan to spend most of their time in the water. The sea temperature is delightful.
- September - October: The "Indian summer" of the Mediterranean. The sea retains its warmth, the crowds thin out, and the milder air is perfect for shore excursions.
Sample Itineraries
2–3 Day Route: Phaselis & Olympos Escape
- Day 1: Depart from Antalya or Kemer Marina. Cruise to the ancient city of Phaselis with its three magnificent harbors. Here you can swim, snorkel, and explore the ruins nestled among pine trees. Overnight in this magical bay.
- Day 2: After breakfast, sail to Olympos, another ancient port city. After enjoying the legendary beach, anchor in the neighboring, tranquil bay of Adrasan for the night.
- Day 3: Enjoy a peaceful breakfast and a final swim in Adrasan before beginning the leisurely cruise back to your home port.
1-Week Route: The Classic Antalya - Kekova Blue Cruise
This iconic journey is often done one-way, starting in Antalya and ending in Fethiye, allowing you to see the entire Lycian coast without backtracking.
- Day 1: Embark at Kemer Marina and meet your crew.
- Day 2: Set sail for Olympos in the morning. After visiting the ancient city, spend the night in Adrasan Bay.
- Day 3: Arrive at Andriake, the port for Demre. Take a land tour to the incredible rock-cut tombs of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas (the original Santa Claus).
- Day 4: Enter the heart of the Blue Cruise: the Kekova region. Gently cruise over the Sunken City and anchor in the calm waters of Gökkaya Bay for the night.
- Day 5: Visit Simena (Kaleköy), a charming village accessible only by boat, and climb its medieval castle for a breathtaking panoramic view.
- Day 6: Sail to the chic, bohemian town of Kaş. Spend time exploring its harbor or anchor in the beautiful Limanağzı Bay just opposite.
- Day 7: Your final day of cruising towards the Gulf of Fethiye. Visit world-famous sites like Butterfly Valley or Ölüdeniz before your tour concludes in the port of Fethiye or Göcek.
Harbors, Transfers & Check-in
The main hub for air travel is Antalya Airport (AYT). Most gulet charters along this route depart from Kemer Marina, located about a one-hour drive from the airport, or Antalya Setur Marina in the city center. Check-in is typically on Saturday afternoons, where you'll receive a full briefing about the yacht, safety, and your exciting itinerary.
Yacht & Equipment
The traditional Turkish gulet is the star of this journey. These vessels feature:
- Spacious Decks: Offering ample space for sunbathing on the foredeck and enjoying alfresco meals and lounging on the shaded aft deck.
- Comfortable Cabins: Gulets vary in size from 4 to 8+ cabins, each typically equipped with a private en-suite bathroom.
- Professional Crew: A dedicated crew consisting of a captain, chef, and one or more deckhands will cater to your every need.
- Amenities: Canoes, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and fishing lines are often available for guests to use.
Cost Components
- Gulet Charter Fee
- Provisions (Food & Drinks): Usually offered as a full-board package at a set daily rate per person.
- Fuel
- Port & Mooring Fees (Turkish ports are often included, private marinas are extra)
- Land Tours & Entrance Fees to Historical Sites
- Crew Gratuity (A tip of 5-15% of the charter fee is customary for good service)
Safety, Insurance & Regulations
All chartered gulets are commercially registered, fully insured, and equipped with all necessary safety equipment according to maritime law. Your crew is trained to ensure your safety throughout the voyage. In protected archaeological zones like the Kekova Sunken City, anchoring and swimming are prohibited, and your captain will adhere strictly to these important conservation rules.
Local Highlights
- Phaselis Ancient City: A magical site where you can swim in ancient harbors and walk among Roman ruins shaded by fragrant pine trees.
- Olympos & Chimaera: A bohemian valley holding Lycian ruins, and the nearby "eternal flames" of Chimaera that burn from the rocky ground.
- Kekova's Sunken City: The hauntingly beautiful underwater ruins of a town submerged by an earthquake, visible from your gulet.
- Simena (Kaleköy): An authentic fishing village with no car access, topped by a Crusader castle offering the best views of the Kekova region.
- Myra (Demre): Home to some of the most impressive examples of Lycian rock-cut tombs in all of Turkey.
- Kaş: A charming and vibrant town with turquoise waters, cobbled streets, and a lively atmosphere, making it a favorite stop on the route.
Tips
- Consider a One-Way Charter: An Antalya-Fethiye route is the most efficient way to experience the entire Lycian coast without wasting time returning to your starting point.
- Prepare for History: Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes to make the most of your visits to the sprawling ancient sites along the way.
- Chat with Your Crew: Your crew are local experts. They can share fascinating stories about the region and take you to the best secret coves.
- Embrace Flexibility: The best moments on a Blue Cruise are often spontaneous. Be open to small changes in the itinerary based on weather or the discovery of a perfectly secluded bay.
- Pack Light: Life on a gulet is beautifully simple. A few swimsuits, casual clothes, a light sweater for the evenings, and a good book are all you really need.