The scenery of the Gulf of Gökova is breathtaking, but what makes a Bodrum–Gökova gulet cruise so memorable is the life you lead on board. For seven nights a traditional Turkish gulet becomes your private floating home: a place to sleep soundly in a comfortable cabin, to eat beautifully prepared meals in the open air, to swim whenever the mood takes you and to be looked after by a crew whose warmth often becomes the highlight of the holiday. In this article we describe what daily life on a gulet is really like, from the cabins and the food to the water sports and the VIP extras we can arrange.
Unlike a cruise ship or a hotel, a private gulet has no timetable imposed on you. You decide when to wake, when to eat and how long to stay in each bay, and the crew adapts to your rhythm. Some groups love early-morning swims and active days of kayaking and walking; others prefer long breakfasts, afternoon naps in the shade and evenings that stretch late into the night. Both are equally welcome.
Comfort on board
Comfortable Cabins and Spacious Decks
Every cabin on our gulets is en-suite, with a private shower, washbasin and toilet, and most have air-conditioning, generous storage and comfortable double or twin beds made up with quality linen. Larger luxury gulets add master suites with panoramic windows and bigger bathrooms. During the day, though, most guests spend their time on deck. The wide aft deck, shaded by a canvas awning, is where meals are served at a long table and where groups gather to chat and play cards, while the forward sun deck, laid out with cushions and sunbeds, is perfect for reading, sunbathing and watching the coastline drift by. Many guests also love sleeping on deck under the stars on warm summer nights.
Delicious Turkish Meals, Served Daily
Food is at the heart of the gulet experience, and the chef is often one of the most popular people on board. Each morning begins with a generous Turkish breakfast: fresh bread, eggs cooked to order, white cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, jams and fruit, with tea and coffee. Lunch is lighter, often a selection of salads, mezze, vegetable dishes cooked in olive oil and perhaps grilled chicken or fish. Afternoon tea brings homemade cake or fresh fruit, and dinner is a three-course affair with soup or mezze to start, a main course of fresh fish, lamb, chicken or a traditional Aegean stew, and dessert. The chef buys produce from local markets and fishermen along the way, and is happy to cater for vegetarians, vegans, allergies and young children. See our sample weekly gulet menu.
Water Sports and Activities
The calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Gökova are made for water sports. Most of our gulets carry stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkelling gear and fishing equipment, along with a tender that can take you to beaches, villages and hidden coves. Larger yachts may also have sea scooters, towable inflatables, water skis or a jet ski. Ashore, there are walks through pine forests, visits to ancient Cedrae on Cleopatra Island and to the villages of Çökertme and Akyaka, and the chance to spot sea turtles in some of the quieter bays.
VIP Extras to Make Your Week Special
- Private airport transfers from Bodrum or Dalaman in a comfortable vehicle – see our VIP transfer service.
- Helicopter or speedboat arrival for a truly memorable start – find out more.
- Celebration dinners with flowers, cake and decorations for birthdays, anniversaries or proposals.
- Beach barbecues or picnics prepared by the crew in a secluded cove.
- Private guides for ancient sites such as Cedrae or Knidos.
- Premium drinks packages and wine pairings for dinner.
- Professional photographer for a day on board.
Moments on a Gökova gulet week
Book Your Bodrum–Gökova Week
A seven-night Bodrum–Gökova cruise on a private gulet starts from around €6,000 per week for a classic gulet in the shoulder season, with luxury gulets and motorsailers ranging up to €175,000 or more. Your personal advisor will suggest the yachts that best suit your group and arrange every detail. See our 7-day itinerary and our guide to the best bays of Gökova.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are meals included?
Meals are usually arranged as a full-board package with breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
Can the chef cater for dietary needs?
Yes – vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and children’s menus are easily arranged.
Can you arrange a surprise celebration?
Absolutely – just tell us in advance and we will coordinate with the crew.
Planning your own week at sea? Discover our yacht charter in Turkey – private gulets, motor yachts and superyachts from Bodrum, Göcek, Marmaris and Fethiye, arranged by our team since 2001.