With pristine coves, turquoise waters and a sailing tradition that goes back centuries, a gulet holiday in Turkey remains one of the most authentic ways to explore the eastern Mediterranean. In this article we cover everything you need to know: the best routes, indicative prices, when to book, and why the Turkish gulet keeps winning over travelers from all over the world.
A Turkish gulet is a traditional wooden sailing vessel, born in the Bodrum region, that blends the handcrafted charm of classic sailing with the comforts of a modern yacht. En-suite cabins, spacious sundecks, a professional crew (captain, cook and deckhand) and menus built around fresh Turkish cuisine make this type of boat the go-to choice for anyone looking to rent a gulet in Turkey without giving up comfort.
Heading into 2027, demand for this kind of charter keeps growing: more and more families, groups of friends and couples are choosing a gulet cruise in Turkey over a standard beach hotel, drawn by the privacy, flexible itineraries and direct access to coves that can only be reached by boat.
When it comes to renting a gulet in Turkey, the choice of departure port shapes much of the experience:
Known as the "Turkish Saint-Tropez," it's the birthplace of the gulet and remains one of the most popular departure ports, with access to the Gulf of Gökova.
Surrounded by twelve islands and sheltered coves, ideal for those seeking calm waters and spectacular scenery.
A classic starting point for the turquoise coast, perfect for flexible itineraries for couples and families alike.
The gateway to some of Turkey's most photographed bays, such as Ölüdeniz and Kekova.
Any of these routes turns your gulet vacation in Turkey into an unforgettable experience, combining relaxed sailing, swims in secluded coves and visits to charming coastal villages.
Prices vary depending on boat size, season and the level of luxury on board. As a rough guide:
Low season (May, October): from around €8,000 per week for private gulets carrying 6 to 8 guests.
High season (July–August): the most exclusive gulets can exceed €20,000 per week.
The price usually includes the boat rental, crew, bed linen, sailing fuel and basic equipment such as kayaks or paddleboards.
It typically does not include port fees, food and drink provisioning, or extras like scuba diving or jet skis.
To secure the best price and availability for 2027, it's advisable to book well in advance, especially if you're aiming to sail during high season.
Turkey's sailing season generally runs from April to November, with July and August as the busiest months. If you want to rent a gulet in Turkey on the best terms:
- Book 6–9 months ahead if you're traveling during high season.
- Consider May, June or September for great weather with fewer crowds and better rates.
- Decide on your group size and budget first — this will determine the right gulet size and route for you.
At Bestgulet, we know the gulets we offer firsthand: we've sailed on them, we know the owners and captains, and we've tasted their menus. This lets us recommend the gulet that best fits your group, budget and preferences — whether that's a classic wooden boat or a fully-equipped luxury gulet in Turkey.
If you're ready for a tailor-made gulet holiday in Turkey in 2027, get in touch and we'll help you design the perfect itinerary.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our routes through Bodrum, Gocek, Marmaris and Fethiye, and discover why more and more travelers are choosing a gulet as their favorite way to experience Turkey.