Explore the Magic of Blue Cruises
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If you’re dreaming of an enchanting voyage where azure seas meet ancient history, a Blue Cruise along Türkiye's stunning Riviera is your ideal getaway. Also known as the Blue Voyage (Mavi Yolculuk) or Blue Tour (Mavi Tur), this captivating journey along Türkiye’s southwestern coast on the Aegean and Mediterranean seas offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, historical wonders, and luxurious relaxation.
What is a Blue Cruise?
The Blue Cruise is typically a week-long adventure aboard traditional Turkish gulets—elegant wooden schooners. These quintessential Turkish wooden motor sailboats are elegantly crafted with two or three masts and exquisite sails that, when conditions are right, can be unfurled to offer an authentic sailing experience. Gulets have become a favourite among discerning yachting enthusiasts due to their remarkable blend of luxury and value. As you sail along the Turquoise Coast, you’ll encounter a mesmerising array of ancient cities, historic harbours, mystical tombs, and secluded beaches nestled within serene coves.
History of the Blue Voyage
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The Blue Voyage's roots are deeply embedded in Turkish literature. The term was popularized by Azra Erhat, inspired by the adventures of Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as The Fisherman of Halicarnassus. Exiled to Bodrum in 1925, Kabaağaçlı and his friends began exploring the coast on local sponge divers' boats. Captivated by the area's beauty, these excursions were coined "Blue Voyages," a term that soon became synonymous with the region’s tourism.
Literary Legacy and Tourism Boom
Authors like Sabahattin Eyüboğlu and Azra Erhat further romanticized the Blue Cruise in their works, captivating readers and travellers alike. The literary review "Yeni Ufuklar" (New Horizons) played a significant role in popularizing these voyages in the 1950s and 1960s, with guidebooks in Turkish and German painting vivid pictures of these idyllic trips. Today, the Blue Cruise is a vital part of the local economy, transforming Bodrum from a quaint fishing village into a bustling holiday destination.
Choosing Your Perfect Route
Whether you’re seeking a brief escape or a comprehensive exploration, Blue Cruise routes are incredibly flexible. Popular starting points include Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Antalya, with routes taking you to picturesque villages and hidden coves like Dalyan, Gökova, and Kekova. For a touch of international flair, you can even sail to nearby Greek islands.
Private Charter vs. Cabin Charter
When planning your Blue Cruise, you'll need to choose between a private charter or a cabin charter. A private charter offers exclusive use of the entire yacht, making it ideal for groups of friends, families, or special events. You can tailor the itinerary to your preferences and enjoy a personalised, intimate experience. In contrast, a cabin charter involves booking a cabin on a shared yacht, essentially like a mini-cruise ship, perfect for solo travellers or couples looking to meet new people. This option is often more cost-effective and provides a social atmosphere while still allowing you to explore the stunning Turkish coastline.
The Vessels: Your Home on the Sea
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Gulet ships come in a variety of types, each offering a unique blend of tradition and luxury. Traditional gulets are handcrafted wooden vessels that exude old-world charm, featuring elegant, curved lines and often preserving classic nautical decor. These boats provide a rustic, authentic sailing experience reminiscent of ancient maritime journeys. In contrast, newly built, state-of-the-art gulets are equipped with modern amenities and cutting-edge technology, offering the ultimate in luxury and comfort. These contemporary vessels boast spacious sun decks, gourmet kitchens, en-suite cabins with air conditioning, and advanced navigation systems, ensuring a seamless and opulent voyage. Whether you prefer the historical allure of a vintage gulet or the sleek sophistication of a modern yacht, there’s a perfect vessel to match your dream Blue Cruise adventure.
Costs for Private and Cabin Charters from Bodrum
Embarking on a Blue Cruise from Bodrum offers flexible pricing to suit various budgets and preferences. Private charters provide an exclusive experience and range from around €12,000 per week for older ships with more rustic amenities up to €150,000 per week for the newest, most luxurious vessels. Booking your gulet for two weeks or more often qualifies you for special rates. Additionally, if you are part of a larger group and book multiple gulets, you can also secure a discounted rate.
If you are looking for something altogether more budget friendly, cabin charters are a more affordable option, starting at around €640 per person for a week-long journey. This price includes shared facilities, meals, and a chance to meet fellow travellers.
Seasonal Price Variations
The season you choose to cruise also significantly impacts the price. The seasons in Türkiye are as follows:
Low Season: May and October
Midseason: June and September
High Season: July and August
During the low season, you can book a top-tier gulet at a very reasonable price, enjoying a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Understanding what’s included in your Blue Cruise package can help you plan better and avoid any surprises. Whilst this may vary from company to company, typically for private charters the price covers accommodation on the yacht, crew service, diesel and Turkish port taxes. However, food and drinks, Greek Island taxes, water sports (such as Jet Skis), land excursions, airport transfers and VAT are usually not included and can incur additional costs. Make sure to confirm these details with your provider to ensure a seamless experience.
Please bear in mind that the most exquisite Ultra Luxury Turkish Gulets operate with an Advance Provisioning Allowance (A.P.A.), which typically amounts to around 30% of the charter fee to be paid upfront which covers all additional expenses.
These typically include:
Food and beverages
Water toys
Private marina fees
Various other amenities
The A.P.A. is managed by the captain during your cruise. If your expenses exceed the initial allowance, you can top up the amount on the spot. If there are remaining funds at the end of your voyage, the balance is refunded to you. The captain maintains all receipts, which you can review at any time. This system ensures you won't need to worry about extra costs during your trip—just pay the A.P.A. upfront, board your luxurious gulet, and enjoy the journey.
Cabin charters are usually full board (excluding alcohol) and offer an overall experience that is a lot more budget friendly.
Whether you charter a gulet for exclusive use or decide to book a cabin charter, it is essential to note that terms and conditions vary with each provider. Always read the fine print and discuss all fees in detail before signing any contracts. This ensures transparency and avoids any unexpected costs during your voyage.
Gratuities and Tips
At the end of your Blue Cruise, if you have been satisfied with the experience it's customary to tip the crew to show your appreciation for their hard work and excellent service. A general guideline is to tip between 5% to 10% of the charter price, which is then distributed among the crew members. This gesture of gratitude ensures the crew's dedication and helps maintain the high standards of service for future voyages.
Tips for a Memorable Blue Cruise
To make the most of your Blue Cruise, ensure you pack light but smart, including swimwear, casual clothing, and sun protection. Remember to bring suitable shoes to wear on board, as high heels (sorry ladies) or other shoes that mark the delicate yacht deck are generally forbidden. Flip-flops or boat shoes are a great option, or ask your gulet provider if they will be providing shoes to wear on deck.
Bring a good book or two for lazy afternoons and don't forget to carry cash for tips and small purchases at local ports. Engage with the crew and other passengers; they often have great stories and tips to share. Lastly, keep an open mind and a flexible attitude, as weather conditions can sometimes alter the planned itinerary, leading to unexpected adventures.
So, what are you waiting for? Set sail on your Blue Cruise and discover the magic that awaits on Türkiye’s stunning coastline. Bon voyage!