Gulet Routes in Turkey (Bodrum)

Boarding at Bodrum Harbour begins at around 4:00 p.m., where you will be welcomed by the crew.

After boarding, you will receive a short briefing to help you become familiar with the gulet. If you wish, the captain will also review the cruise itinerary with you using the nautical charts.

Before departure, you may have time to visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, located close to the harbour.

Later, you will sail to a nearby bay, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and your first overnight stay on board.

Located on the southern tip of Turkey's Datça Peninsula, Palamutbükü is a charming seaside village renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Close to the ancient ruins of Knidos, it is home to some of the longest and most tranquil beaches in the region, surrounded by lush walled gardens that add to its unique character.

Like a village from a fairy tale, Palamutbükü comes to life as you stroll along the waterfront, admiring the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. The sea is rich in fish, many of which are caught just hours before being served in the local restaurants, accompanied by delicious regional produce and traditional Turkish flavours.

Despite becoming increasingly popular with visitors, this beautiful stretch of coastline has managed to preserve its unspoilt charm, making it one of the most authentic and relaxing destinations along the Turkish coast.

Located on the Datça Peninsula, Aktur Bay has been recognised as one of the most beautiful bays in Turkey. Situated between Datça and Kurucabük, Aktur lies at the narrowest point of the peninsula, where a thin strip of land separates two bodies of water overlooking the Gökova Gulf and the Hisarönü Gulf.
According to local history, the Persian army crossed this narrow isthmus in 550 BC to move their fleet between the two gulfs more efficiently, highlighting the area's long-standing strategic importance.
Nearby lies the peaceful Bencik Bay, a sheltered anchorage in the Gulf of Hisarönü that is well worth a visit. Its spectacular scenery and unspoilt natural surroundings make it a favourite stop for swimming, relaxing, and capturing unforgettable photographs.
Just three nautical miles away is D Maris Bay, home to a luxurious five-star resort and stylish beach clubs. It is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive and sophisticated destinations along the Muğla coastline.

Named after the renowned Turkish singer Emel Sayın, Emel Sayın Bay is a breathtaking anchorage where crystal-clear turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the pine-covered hills that surround it. The bay is said to have been named in honour of the singer's striking blue eyes and is a wonderful place to enjoy a relaxing swim or a leisurely brunch on board.
Further along the coast lies Orhaniye, on the Bozburun Peninsula near Marmaris. The village is home to the famous Kızkumu Beach, a unique natural sandbar that appears to stretch across the sea, creating one of Turkey's most distinctive coastal landscapes. Visitors can also explore the remains of the historic Black Night Castle and wander through the traditional village, which is rich in local culture and hospitality.
Orhaniye is also well known for its excellent restaurants, where fresh seafood and regional specialities attract visitors from around the world. During the summer, the marina and surrounding bays are filled with sailing yachts and gulets, making it one of the most popular stops along the Turkish coast.
In the Gulf of Hisarönü lies the picturesque village of Selimiye, considered one of the hidden gems of the Turkish Riviera. One of its most enchanting moments comes at sunset, when the surrounding hills and traditional stone houses are bathed in deep shades of red and gold.

Bozburun is a charming coastal town located around 45 km southwest of Marmaris. Home to a small yet modern marina, it is internationally renowned for its traditional boatbuilding industry, where some of the world's finest handcrafted wooden gulets and yachts are still built today.
The journey to Bozburun is as scenic as the destination itself, winding through spectacular coastal landscapes and pine-covered hills. This peaceful harbour town is perfect for those seeking relaxation rather than nightlife. Instead of busy clubs, you'll find welcoming boutique hotels, waterfront cafés, cosy bars and excellent restaurants serving freshly caught seafood alongside delicious locally grown produce.
Situated between the Hisarönü Gulf and the Aegean Sea, Dirsek Bükü is one of the region's most beautiful natural anchorages. Surrounded by sheltered bays, secluded coves and crystal-clear waters, it is a favourite stop for gulet cruises sailing between Bodrum and Marmaris.

One of the most popular stops along the Turkish coast is Datça, a charming seaside town located more than 75 km west of Marmaris on the Datça Peninsula. Surrounded by countless secluded coves and sheltered anchorages, it offers the perfect opportunity to drop anchor and enjoy a swim in the privacy of a crystal-clear bay.
The peninsula is dotted with traditional fishing villages and small farming communities, famous for producing some of Turkey's finest olives, almonds and tomatoes. While visiting Datça, be sure to sample these delicious local products—or, if you're cruising on a private gulet, ask your onboard chef to incorporate them into your meals for an authentic taste of the region.
At the southwestern tip of the Datça Peninsula lies the ancient city of Knidos, one of Turkey's most remarkable archaeological sites. Beautifully preserved and rich in history, Knidos was once an important Greek city renowned for its culture, science and trade.

Around 5 km from Bodrum lies the beautiful Kara Ada (Black Island), one of the area's most popular stops for gulet cruises. The island is famous for its natural sulphur hot springs and therapeutic mud baths, which have been enjoyed for centuries for their reputed healing properties.
The thermal waters, with temperatures ranging between 29°C and 32°C, flow directly into the sea, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique combination of warm seawater, mineral-rich springs and natural mud baths in a spectacular setting.
A little further offshore is Orak Island, located approximately 10 nautical miles east of Bodrum. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, it is one of the finest locations in the region for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

After an unforgettable gulet cruise, you will return to Bodrum, providing the perfect opportunity to explore this vibrant coastal town and enjoy your final moments in Turkey.
With its golden sunsets, crystal-clear waters and lively waterfront, Bodrum is one of the jewels of the Turkish Riviera. We recommend taking time to savour the local cuisine, stroll along the marina and discover the town's rich cultural heritage.
A visit to the iconic Bodrum Castle is highly recommended. Built by the Knights of St. John using stones from the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the castle is now home to the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology and is one of Bodrum's must-see attractions.
After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to the captain and crew. We hope you have enjoyed your gulet cruise and look forward to welcoming you back on board for another unforgettable sailing adventure.