The Blue Cruise: Turkey Most Iconic Sailing Experience
The Blue Cruise (Mavi Yolculuk) is a sailing voyage along Turkey stunning Aegean and Mediterranean coasts on a traditional wooden gulet boat. First popularized by Turkish writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı in the 1940s, the Blue Cruise has become one of Turkey most beloved and unique travel experiences.
What is a Gulet?
A gulet is a traditional wooden sailing vessel, hand-crafted in Turkish boatyards, typically 20-30 meters long with 4-8 cabins. Modern gulets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern comforts including en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and sun decks. Meals are prepared fresh on board by the crew chef — expect incredible Turkish cuisine with freshly caught fish, meze, grilled meats, and seasonal salads.
Popular Routes
Fethiye to Olympos (4 days): The classic Blue Cruise route. Stops include Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz from the sea, St. Nicholas Island, Kaş, Kekova sunken city, and Olympos/Çıralı. This is the most popular route for backpackers and budget travelers doing cabin charters.
Bodrum to Gökova Bay (3-7 days): A more upscale route through pristine bays. Stops include English Harbour, Cleopatra Island (with its unique golden sand), Longoz cove, and various secluded swimming bays.
Fethiye to Marmaris or vice versa (7 days): The extended route covering Göcek bays, Dalyan, Ekincik, and the stunning Twelve Islands.
Types of Booking
Cabin Charter: Book individual cabins on a shared gulet. Budget option at 200-500 EUR per person for 4 days. You will share the boat with other travelers. Departures are usually on set days (Monday or Saturday).
Private Charter: Rent the entire gulet for your group. Prices range from 5,000-30,000 EUR per week depending on the boat size and season. Complete privacy and flexible itinerary.
What to Expect
Days are spent swimming in crystal-clear bays, snorkeling, sunbathing on deck, and visiting coastal villages and ancient ruins. Evenings are anchored in quiet bays with stargazing, card games, and delicious dinners. The pace is wonderfully slow and relaxing. Most boats provide snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and kayaks.
When to Go
May-October is sailing season. June and September offer the best balance of warm weather, calm seas, and fewer crowds. July-August is peak season with the highest prices and most boats on the water. A Turkey travel agency can help arrange the perfect Blue Cruise matching your budget, group size, and preferred route.