Your gulet holiday begins the moment you arrive in Bodrum, and with a little planning your embarkation day can be one of the most enjoyable of the whole trip. Most weekly charters begin on Saturday afternoon, with guests welcomed on board from around three or four o’clock. If your flight lands in the morning, that leaves you several free hours to explore one of the most charming and historic towns on the Turkish coast before you settle into your cabin and enjoy your first dinner on deck. In this guide we explain how embarkation works and share our favourite ways to spend those first few hours in Bodrum.
Bodrum is far more than a gateway to the Gulf of Gökova. Known in antiquity as Halicarnassus, it was home to the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and birthplace of Herodotus, the father of history. Today its whitewashed houses, bougainvillea-covered lanes, lively bazaar and elegant marina make it a delightful place to wander, and its position between two sparkling bays, crowned by a medieval castle, is one of the most beautiful sights on the coast.
Gulets ready for embarkation in Bodrum
How Embarkation Day Works
When you book with us, we arrange a private transfer from Bodrum–Milas Airport to your gulet, which usually takes around forty minutes. If you arrive before the yacht is ready, the driver can drop you and your luggage at the marina, where the crew can store your bags while you explore. Check-in normally begins from around 15:00–16:00, when the captain and crew welcome you aboard with a cold drink, show you to your cabins and give a short safety briefing. In the evening, the chef serves the first dinner, often with views of the illuminated castle, and you sit down with the captain to plan the week ahead. Many gulets stay in Bodrum for the first night and set off for the first bay on Sunday morning.
The Castle of St Peter and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology
Bodrum’s great landmark is the Castle of St Peter, built by the Knights of St John in the fifteenth century, partly using stones from the ruined Mausoleum. Its towers, battlements and gardens offer fantastic views over the harbour, and inside you will find the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of the most important of its kind in the world, displaying ancient shipwrecks, amphorae and treasures recovered from the seabed off the Turkish coast. It is a fascinating introduction to the maritime history you will be sailing through during your week.
The Old Town, Bazaar and Waterfront
From the castle, stroll along the waterfront promenade and into the old town, a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, boutiques, galleries and cafés. The covered bazaar is the place to pick up Turkish towels, spices, leather sandals and souvenirs, and the waterfront is perfect for a leisurely lunch of mezze and grilled fish. History lovers can also visit the remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the ancient theatre on the hillside above town or the restored Myndos Gate.
Practical Tips for Arrival Day
- Pack a small day bag with swimwear, sunscreen and a change of clothes in case you board later than planned.
- Soft luggage is easiest to store in gulet cabins – hard suitcases can be awkward.
- Let us know your flight times so we can arrange your transfer and coordinate with the crew.
- If you are arriving late at night, we can arrange a hotel for the first night or a late check-in on board.
- Share any dietary requirements before arrival so the chef can shop accordingly.
Bodrum gulets – decks and cabins
Ready to Set Sail
After your first night, the gulet slips out of Bodrum harbour and heads for the turquoise waters of Orak Island and the Gulf of Gökova. Read our week on a Bodrum gulet and best bays of Gökova guides to see what lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is check-in on a Bodrum gulet?
Usually from 15:00–16:00 on the embarkation day.
Can we leave our luggage early?
Yes, the crew can usually store luggage if you arrive before check-in.
How far is Bodrum airport from the marina?
Around 40 minutes by road.
Planning your own week at sea? Discover our luxury yacht charter in Turkey – private gulets, motor yachts and superyachts from Bodrum, Göcek, Marmaris and Fethiye, arranged by our team since 2001.