An Overview
The gulets which we have in our portfolio range from 20 meters to 52 meters in length and offer anywhere from 2 to 16 cabins; accommodating 4 to 36 guests. Gulets have standards and they are classified as Standart Yachts, Luxury Yachts and Vip Yachts. They all have air conditioning; as well as a shower and toilet for each cabin. The crew consists of a captain, chef and deckhands who also act as waiters during gulet cruise. The more luxurious classes like Luxury and some Vip class gulets provide additional hostess and larger number of crew members.
The general construction of a gulet can last anywhere from 1 generally up to 2 or 3 years and is partially handmade out of wood; such as mahogany, oak and teak. Turkish gulets offer wide open deck space where guests can sun tan and relax. Sometimes the awning is drawn out for some shade especially during meal times. There are two areas for dining. One dining table is located in the salon / lounge area, and the other is on the deck.
There are no set classifications of gulets; however the terms that you may come across on the internet which are used to classify gulets are Standard, Luxuryand Vip.
Depending on the class of the gulet, cabins can be designed quite simple with a bed, toilet, shower and small TV. Luxury gulet cabins have a more luxurious design and come with a CD/DVD player, music system, LCD TV, and Satellite. While other VIP gulets cabins come with a private Jacuzzi and are quite spacious. Gulet cabins are generally used as bedroom for sleeping purpose. Most of our guests spend their time outdoors, in the water, on deck, on land, at the beach or in local towns.
Gulets also provide indoor areas for relaxation for instance the salon, where you may find a bar, dining table, lounge with Satellite TV and music system. Some of the most luxurious gulets even have a piano on board. Gulets have general common characteristics; but they are also quite different from each other. If you are seeking a gulet that provides all the basic necessities and not a total luxurious experience like a Jacuzzi in your cabin or a piano, then the luxury or Vip class gulets could be your preference. Gulets in the VIP also have many of the popular water toys and equipment such as jet ski, water ski, fishing equipment, canoes, wake boards and more. While the Standart class would provide other non sophisticated items such as canoes, sea beds, and snorkeling equipments.
Contact us so that we can assist you in finding the best yacht option of your taste according to your activity and preferences. You can also view our large portfolio of gulets on our website. Each gulet is special in its own way however telling us what your expectations are will certainly help in finding what could be the best choice for you. We are here to do our best to provide what you are looking for in a gulet charter vacation. Our goal is to meet, if not exceed your expectations.
Are Gulet Charters Your Holiday Style?
There are major differences in taking vacations on land or at sea. The accommodation styles and holiday concepts are quite distinctive. While many people are used to hotel accommodation, trying out something different such as a gulet cruise can give a whole new meaning to your holiday experience.
If you are about to be a new gulet vacationer, the information below may give you a better perspective on what to expect on a gulet charter. Needless to say, all gulet charter experiences will not be the same for everyone, with the following information we just want to give a general idea and outline the basics for your convenience.
HOTEL ROOMS vs. GULET CABINS
Hotel rooms are built according to building standards just like the gulet cabins being built according to their size and standards. Like any building, you will have more head space to stand up in your hotel room than you would in your gulet cabin, and this will only affect you if you are very tall, therefore expect a reduction in ceiling height. Hotel rooms can offer a larger occupancy area than some gulet cabins. This will depend on the gulet you have rented. However, there are also some VIP gulet cabins larger than hotel rooms.
SAILING vs. CRUISING
Gulets are categorized as motorsailers. This means that the gulets not only sail but also may use their engines for cruising. They are by no means a sailing vessel alone. Sailing takes time from one destination to another. Hypothetically if you are on a one week holiday and will be travelling from Rhodes to Fethiye, with all the stops in between, there is no way that just by sailing you will be able to take time and enjoy your vacation and also cover that distance. Generally on itineraries that are arranged for a week, the sails on gulets are anywhere between 1 to 3 times.
The variation will depend on the itinerary, the gulet, and the weather.
What are the necessary rules that you need to follow on a private gulet charter?
On board, gulets have certain rules that must be honored for the safety of the guests and crew. You can smoke on gulets, but no smoking is allowed in the cabins. If you are planning to do some serious partying, the gulet is not the most suitable place for it. You may consider that kind of partying in places like night clubs or discos, where you will be able to find once the gulet is docked at a harbor. Over drinking may lead all sorts of accidents on board. Therefore, it is best to be safe than sorry and keep within reasonable limitations of partying on board. There might be times that it would be unfavorable for the gulet to leave the harbor, due to weather conditions. At those times the captain will inform you and may change the schedule according to the existing conditions. This type of precautionary measures could prevent seasickness and other unfortunate casualties. After all, Mother Nature cannot be controlled.
AIR CONDITIONING
Gulets that are classified as Standart, Luxury, and Vip, come with air conditioning included in the price of the gulet charter. While gulets otherwise classified do not offer air conditioning on board.
In hotels air conditioning could possibly be running all the time if you have your key inserted in the slot that allows for electricity in your hotel room. Hotels can offer continuous air conditioning easily since it is provided by the city. However gulets are at sea most of the time and they can only get electricity from the city once docked at a harbor, therefore air conditioning cannot run all day long. The electricity during sailing comes from the generator(s) on board.
The longer the generator runs the more fuel is required to keep going. Exceeding what is considered normal usage will tack on extra fuel expenses for the guests.
Another fact to consider is the noise coming from the generator while in operation. The VIP gulets generally have much quieter generators that are not disturbing and their air conditioners are able to run all night long unlike the other gulets. All the cabins are cooled in the evenings and in the morning hours. Additional usage of air conditioning is switched off during the day. Most of the guests if not all are outside the cabins; therefore the air conditioning is not really desired during day time.
HOTEL PRICES vs. GULET PRICES
Prices cannot be compared between hotel accommodation and gulet accommodation. The reason is the difference in the style and type of holidays and services provided. Booking a hotel most of the time means that accommodation is the most important part of your holiday. On the other hand, when booking gulets rather than accommodation, the features like the services, activities and the itinerary are the most important parts of the holiday.
Your gulet holiday can still be affordable and can provide more for you to do and see than staying at a hotel. Once you book your hotel, you have to leave to see places which will cost you extra on top of your accommodation.
With gulets everything is right there for you. The places you see, you are taken to. You do not have to stand in line to get your meals or beverages they are served to you. You also do not have to share your dining table with people you do not know. The waiters cater to you and your group only. The services are private as is the gulet charter.
When you really dig deep and analyze all the differences between hotel accommodation and gulet holidays, you are really getting more for your money by choosing a gulet cruise. You are always travelling to many magnificent places and being served personally by the crew who are there around the clock. As guests, you do not have to book a VIP gulet charter to experience this. The Standart or luxury class gulet will give you similar types of services because your gulet charter is custom prepared for you and your party.
GULET HOLIDAYS PROVIDE FREEDOM & RELAXATION
One of the main purposes of gulet holidays is to experience a more personalized service. You have the freedom to do whatever you wish during your gulet cruise. The word stress should not even exist in your vocabulary during a gulet holiday. It is a time-out from everyday life so relaxation should be the best part of it.
What makes gulets differ in price?
While gulets look very similar from the outside, they are in fact different from one another. These differences are what set their prices apart. There can be older and larger gulets that are less in price than those who are smaller but newer. Although there are no legal categories to gulets, in general they are classified with various terms; such as VIP, Luxury and Standard. The characteristics of gulets from one category to another are customized by the owner of the gulet. The gulets are manufactured with Standard facilities as in the general design and layout. However the fine touches, facilities, amenities, and accessories; as well as things like water toys; equipment, engines, generators, kitchen facilities, bathroom facilities and decor are just a few of the details that make them different from each other. You can also take into consideration the frequency of maintenance. Some gulets are refitted more often than others, which also reflect to its structure, services, and overall general maintenance. A gulet that is kept up more, will be priced differently and also will be more reliable for holiday travel at sea. The number of the crew members and to what extent they are trained can also make a difference in the prices of gulets. The service will certainly be there for all types of gulets, but will vary from a VIP gulet charter to an Standart gulet charter. The bottom line is the budget you have set aside for your holiday so that the most well suited gulet options can be provided for your consideration. It is the job of the yacht agent to give you consultation services and listen to your needs, so that you can end up with a holiday that you can enjoy. All individuals have distinctive expectations. The agent has to analyze and find solutions which suites best their guests.. Paying the lower prices doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t enjoy your holiday. On the contrary, you certainly will. Paying more doesn’t mean that you have the best gulet cruise. The whole objective of your gulet holiday is to luxuriate in all it has to offer - from the places you visit, the friendly services you will receive by the crew, to the freedom of allowing yourself to do whatever your heart desires - whether its snorkeling, jet skiing, canoeing, sun tanning, reading a good book, visiting exciting new places, sharing quality time with your family and friends, exploring history, discovering charming little bays and being a part of Mother Nature’s unspoiled creations; it’s your private gulet charter, so you should make the best of it.
What is the Crew role on Gulet?
Without a crew, there cannot be a gulet cruise. The crew is the most important part of the cruise. Other than all the other features of a gulet holiday, the crew is the most valuable part of it. They are on board around the clock with the sole purpose of giving service to their guests. A luxury or VIP gulet is not worth much without the right crew. Depending on the size and type of the gulet, as well as the number of guests; the number of crew members start from 2 and can go up to an average of 4, 5 or more on much larger gulets.
One of the best parts of the gulet charter is that you are not required to clean your cabins, change your linen, cook your meals, wash your dishes, or navigate the gulet. The crew takes care of all these services for you on board so that all you have to think about is living it up on your private gulet charter.
THE CAPTAIN
All gulet charters have a captain (skipper). The captain holds the highest authority and is responsible for everyone on the gulet. He/she has the authority to decide for the safety and emergency. When you plan your itinerary, the best person to ask is the captain. He/she will know every cove, bay, and secret places to see, and offer the most suitable advice for your charter.
THE CHEF
The chef holds a category on his/her own. For some guests, he/she is one of the most favored person on the gulet. The chefs are the ones who prepare all tasty and delicious dishes, and have been known to leave a very memorable impression on the guests.
THE WAITER
The responsibility of the waiter is to serve your meals, wash the dishes and sometimes clean the cabins when there are no hostesses among the crew. The waiters are also full of useful information. If you have any questions about the gulet charter or the program, you may always ask the waiter. They can be considered somewhat of a tour guide on these gulet charters.
THE SAILOR
This sailor supervises the waiters, hostesses, and the chef. The sailor is the captain’s primary assistant.
THE HOSTESS
A hostess is not always on board and a part of the crew with gulets less than luxury class. The responsibility of the hostess is to clean the cabins and change the linen; serve drinks, as well as to clean the deck and saloon areas of the gulet. The crew and all members of the crew are quite valuable and shouldn’t be under estimated. When guests retake the gulet cruise, they generally ask for a gulet charter based on the crew they wish to see again.
How much does it Cost to Charter a Gulet?
Gulets in our portfolio start from 500€ and go up to 15,000€ per day. The lowest prices occur in the months of April, May, and October. The mid season for gulet cruises are the months of June and July and the highest prices are in the months of August and September. For some gulets, the peak months are July and August and their prices are reflected accordingly. While there are other gulet owners who simply keep the same gulet rental rate the same throughout the whole season from May to October.
GULET PRICES
The best gulet prices can be obtained during the months of May and October. The weather is fantastic during these months. However you can still get really good prices for gulets during the months of June and September as well. During these months, prices are not set, so there is room for a discount. In July and August, the peak month of the season, it is rarely negotiable unless you have a gulet booking longer than a week or two.
Gulets come in different sizes, and sometimes a gulet that holds 16 guests can be cheaper than a gulet that has a capacity of 8 guests. This difference is based on the gulet’s specifications. However it does not mean that the service is any less. All services on the gulets are equally presented by the crew on board. The difference usually is in the amenities and facilities provided on board. While some gulets may have many water toys and more luxurious cabin designs, some may have more conservative in design; with only a canoe and fishing equipment on board for water toys.
YOUR BUDGET
The question is not that how much money is required to rent a gulet for your holiday, but it is actually about what is your budget for your gulet charter vacation. Based on your criteria and budget, a gulet charter consultant can shortlist gulets that are the most suitable for you.
YOUR GULET CHOICE
When you are searching through the list of gulets, the prices and the options you see may not be the best deals. It is ideal to “like” the gulets first and then discuss with our gulet charter consultants your plans so that they can arrange the best possible deal for you with the most ideal gulet charter program. Also, whichever gulet(s) you shortlist may not always be the gulet you get on your holiday. You might get one even better. It is not guaranteed; however our aim is to provide you with the best gulet at the time of your holiday. Please remember that we are here to work in your best interest so that you can truly fulfill your holiday at sea in the best way possible.
The charter of a gulet is based on the complete rental of the gulet and not on a per person basis as it is in cabin charters. Guest capacities range from 4 person gulets to 36 person gulets. When you rent the gulet, it will serve you and your group only.
The gulet prices are listed on our website. However we would have to check the type of gulet and its specifications to find out your preference. Once you choose the gulet or make a list of gulets that peak your interest, then it is a matter of either choosing a set itinerary; or create one custom made to your liking. This would be an itinerary on which places you wish to visit and how long to stay during your gulet cruise. When you make your flight plans, keep in mind that all gulet charters start on a Saturday and end on a Saturday. Embarkation is 3:30 pm. Disembarkation is 10:00 – 10:30 am.
Are there Additional Costs for Gulet Charters?
In Turkey, guests do not have to pay extra for port taxes. This applies only for the ports located on Turkish coastlines, the fees are included on the gulet rental. Port taxes for Greece instead are extra and not included in the price of the gulet rental. They are paid on top of the gulet rentals for charters that include Greece. If you require an airport transfer to the gulet, please let us know so that we can arrange to pick you and your party up from the airport.
There are some costs inclusive and exclusives on private gulet charter.
Private gulet charter:
INCLUDES: Turkish port charges, air conditioning, the captain, crew, insurance on the gulet, fuel for up to an average of 3 – 4 hours of cruising per day, laundry services, towels and bed linens. Use of snorkeling and fishing equipment.
EXCLUDES: Airport transfers, foreign (Greek Island fees) and private marina chargers, passport handling fees for entering and exiting foreign countries, FOOD & BEVERAGES.
In addition to the price of the gulet charter; there is the food and beverage menu inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner; coffee, tea and water. The prices are arranged as follows:
Full board 245,00 € / person for one week
Full board + soft drinks 315,00 € / person for one week
Full board + soft drinks + localalcoholics drinks 455,00 € / person for one week
Children ages 0 – 3 are free of charge
Children ages 3 – 11 receive a 50% discount
What are the payment terms for a private gulet charter?
DEPOSITS
The deposit is required at the time of booking your gulet charter. This ranges from 30% to 50% of the gulet price. Depending on the time of the year, you can be entitled to receive discounts on your gulet rental. Also paying for your entire gulet charter before your arrival may entitle you to a discount. This is subject to your arrangements with our gulet charter consultant at the time of your booking. Payments are accepted as bank wire transfers only. Once you have signed the gulet charter agreement, our gulet charter consultant will email you the bank account details.
PAYMENT BALANCE
The payment method for the balance of your gulet charter is required as cash or bank wire transfer. This can be done either prior to or upon arrival / check-in. These payment terms can vary, and depend on your gulet charter. It is totally up to the discretion of your gulet charter consultant. The payment terms will be finalized at the time of your booking and signing of the contract.
For more detailed information please kindly contact us and we will answer all the questions that you might have in detail. Our specialist are available also to help you in making a decision regarding which style of gulet charter suits best your requirements..
To inquire:
You can fill out the forms located on each gulet details page;
Fill out the form on the contact page located at the deyachting.net website.
By contacting us, you will be able to determine the most suitable option of the gulet cruise for yourself.
The Procedure
How it Works
1. Choose a gulet or gulets – or make a shortlist. Let us know.
2. Tell us what your expectations are. What do you want to do on your gulet vacation?
3. Establish a budget.
4. Once the first 3 parts are confirmed. Read through the contract that we send you. If all is acceptable please sign and send it to our office.
5. Send the agreed deposit amount to our company bank account.
6. The next step is to fill out the PREFERENCE LIST. We need this to be filled out so that
we can prepare your gulet and holiday accordingly.
7. We send you a confirmation.
8. If you require airport transfer, please inform us in advance.
9. Upon your arrival, the remaining balance of your holiday is due, in cash at our Office or a bank wire transfer prior to your arrival.
Which countries do the gulet cruises go ?
DE Yachting offers two counties of choice; Turkey and Greece. The pre-arranged itineraries consist of various combinations from places such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Gulf of Gokova, Kekova, Datca, Hisaronu, and Gocek in Turkey. While these are the major ports, visits to charming little villages, other bays and hidden coves in between are also inclusive to the itineraries. The Greek Island itineraries include the islands in the Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Gyali, Nysiros, Patmos, Tilos, Leros, Lipsi, and Kalimnos. Greek Islands and the lovely towns, bays, and villages in Turkey can be combined in an itinerary organized for two countries. The combinations are endless.
Can Guests plan their own Itineraries?
This is the beauty of gulet cruises. The itineraries are quite flexible. All itineraries can be discussed with your gulet charter agent and they can then contact the captain to find out if it is feasible. The captain is there for the best interest of both the guests and the crew and knows the waters quite well; therefore he/she must be certain that the weather conditions are acceptable to travel to those particular destinations in and around the arranged dates booked by the guests. Even though the itineraries are planned prior to disembarkation, they can be changed, if the new provided conditions are suitable. Guests may wish to stay at one particular town, city, bay or island longer than a day or few hours; or change the itinerary to head to a different place of interest. The gulet cruises are somewhat of an adventure trip. Sometimes spontaneous adventure is the way to go. But all in all it is wise to discuss ideas with the captain as he/she will know the best or most popular or quiet places to visit.
Travel insurance is always recommended while traveling in case of unforeseen circumstances. Your charter agreement will detail insurance provisions onboard: the yacht remains insured by the owner during your charter, however it is recommend that you purchase additional liability coverage to protect you and your guests from any unforeseen mishap.
What will the weather be like ?
April, May and October's temperature range between 20 and 26 Degrees Centigrade and are much cooler than at the height of the season. Temperatures for June, July and August are hot, ranging form 30 to 38 Degrees Centigrade. It is not humid and you are very unlikely to see rain at the height of summer.
Buy Dramamine, an inexpensive sea sickness remedy available at Turkish Pharmacies. It deadens stomach muscles and is highly recommended if you are prone to sea-sickness. Take it before you feel bad... not after! Before boarding even. Jump for a few minutes a couple of times a day. You will condition your vestibular system to the motion and reduce your susceptibility to seasickness significantly. Your neighbors will also think you're crazy, but this is just an added benefit and should not enter into justifying the purchase to your spouse. You might want to try taking some ginger root with you while at sea and also eating some ginger root prior to leaving port. Talk to your doctor about this option.
Shall we embark or disembark from different harbours ?
You can embark or disembark from different harbours. But we kindly charge an addational cost. The cost varies according to the distance between the two harbours. Please ask for the one way supplements.
When should I plan my blue cruise ?
The reservations for the blue cruise start at December. The peak season can be busy. We recommend you to book in advance.Please first you plan how many people will join you on holiday and then we can help you decide what kind of boat or trip you need. At this time you can choose the route and the exact time you want to do the trip. We are always ready to help and give you some advices.
Most yachts will not permit guests to bring pets on board in order to maintain rigid cleanliness standards. Please check with us prior to your arrival.
Will my family and office be able to reach me on charter ?
Most charter yachts are equipped with some of the latest communications equipment including cellular phones, global satellite communications and radio telephones.
What are the safety measures of each boat ?
Our boats are beeing inspected by the harbour masters every year. The life jackets, life raft, fire extinguishers and all technical equipment are checked and only after that authorization the boat is allowed on sea.The upper deck surrounded with hand-rails. For emergencys there is a dinghy with a outboard engine.