The Blue Voyage – Mavi Yolculuk in Turkish – is one of the most romantic travel traditions in the Mediterranean. It was born in Bodrum in the mid-twentieth century, when the writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, and his circle of artists and intellectuals began sailing the coast on simple wooden fishing boats. They spent days drifting between deserted bays, swimming, fishing, talking late into the night and writing about the beauty they found. Their journeys inspired generations of travellers, and the Blue Voyage became a symbol of freedom, simplicity and a deep connection with the sea.
Today, the spirit of the Blue Voyage lives on – but the boats have changed beyond recognition. A luxury Blue Voyage from Bodrum combines the timeless pleasures of those early cruises with the comfort of a boutique hotel: spacious suites with air-conditioning and private bathrooms, gourmet meals prepared by your own chef, professional crews and vast decks for sunbathing and dining under the stars. You still wake up in a different bay each morning and fall asleep to the sound of the sea, but now with every comfort you could wish for.
Luxury yachts for a Blue Voyage
The Classic Blue Voyage Route
The most famous Blue Voyage route from Bodrum heads east into the Gulf of Gökova – the very waters the original voyagers loved. Over a week, you might swim in the turquoise water of Orak Island, visit the fishing village of Çökertme, walk among the ruins of ancient Cedrae on Cleopatra Island, anchor in the wartime hideaway of English Harbour, explore the tranquil Seven Islands and enjoy dinner in the waterside restaurants of Değirmen Bükü. Each day brings a new landscape of pine-clad hills and crystal-clear water, and the pace is wonderfully slow. Read our 7-day Bodrum to Gökova cruise and best bays of Gökova.
Life on a Luxury Blue Voyage
Days on a luxury Blue Voyage follow the rhythm of the sea. Mornings begin with a swim before a generous Turkish breakfast on deck, followed by a short cruise to the next bay. Afternoons are for swimming, paddleboarding, snorkelling, exploring ashore or simply reading in the shade. As the sun sets, the crew serves drinks and the chef prepares a dinner of fresh fish, mezze and seasonal dishes. On luxury gulets and motorsailers, the service is attentive and discreet, the cabins are elegant and the decks are made for long, sociable evenings. It is the Blue Voyage as its founders imagined it – but with a touch of indulgence.
Choosing Your Yacht
For a luxury Blue Voyage, we recommend a large gulet or motorsailer of 39 to 51 metres, with five to seven spacious cabins and a crew of five or more. These yachts carry the traditional spirit of the Blue Voyage in their wooden hulls while offering superyacht-level comfort. For guests who prefer modern design and speed, a luxury motor yacht is also an option. See our luxury gulet yachts and best luxury gulets in Bodrum.
On board a luxury Blue Voyage yacht
When to Go
The Blue Voyage season runs from May to October. June and September offer the best balance of warm water, sunshine and quiet bays, while July and August are the warmest and busiest months. Read our best time to charter guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Blue Voyage?
A traditional cruise along Turkey’s south-west coast, born in Bodrum, exploring bays, villages and ancient sites by wooden yacht.
How long is a Blue Voyage?
Usually one week, though shorter and longer routes are possible.
Is a luxury Blue Voyage private?
Yes – the whole yacht and crew are reserved for your group.
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.