If there is one place on the Turkish coast that seems to have been designed for a gulet holiday, it is Göcek. Tucked into the north-western corner of the Gulf of Fethiye, this small, stylish harbour town is surrounded by a breathtaking archipelago of pine-covered islands, sheltered inlets and crystal-clear bays known as the Twelve Islands. The water here is calm almost every day of the season, the distances between anchorages are short, and the scenery – green mountains plunging into emerald water – is simply spectacular. A gulet charter from Göcek is therefore one of the most relaxing, family-friendly and beautiful ways to experience the Turquoise Coast, and it has become a firm favourite with British guests.
Göcek is also wonderfully easy to reach. Dalaman Airport (DLM), with direct flights from London Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh and many other UK airports, is only around twenty-five minutes away by road. That means you can step off your flight, enjoy a short private transfer and be aboard your gulet with a cold drink in hand within an hour of landing. The town itself has a relaxed, upmarket feel, with several modern marinas, waterfront restaurants, cafés and boutiques, and it is a pleasant place to spend an evening before or after your charter.
Private gulets in Göcek
Why Choose Göcek for Your Gulet Charter?
The great advantage of Göcek is its sheltered geography. The Twelve Islands and the surrounding bays are protected from the open sea by a ring of mountains and islands, which means the summer Meltemi wind that can make other areas choppy in the afternoons is far gentler here. For families with young children, guests who worry about seasickness, or anyone who simply wants long, peaceful swimming stops, this is ideal. At the same time, the area has a remarkable variety of anchorages: deep fjord-like inlets with restaurants on wooden jetties, tiny islands with ancient ruins, lagoons with sandy bottoms perfect for snorkelling, and remote coves where your gulet may be the only yacht in sight.
Göcek also makes a superb starting point for longer routes. Heading south and east, you can cruise to Fethiye, the famous lagoon of Ölüdeniz, the Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island with its Byzantine ruins, or continue further to Kaş and the sunken city of Kekova. To the west lie Dalyan with its Lycian rock tombs and turtle beach, Ekincik and the route towards Marmaris. Whatever your interests, your captain will tailor the week to your group and the weather.
The Best Bays Around Göcek
- Göcek Island and Yassıca Islands – tiny islets with shallow, turquoise lagoons, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Bedri Rahmi Bay – named after the Turkish painter whose fish painting still decorates a rock above the water.
- Hamam Bay (Cleopatra’s Bath) – where submerged ancient ruins lie just beneath the surface.
- Tersane Island – an abandoned Greek village and old boatyard in a beautiful, sheltered cove.
- Boynuz Bükü and Kuyucak – long, quiet inlets with restaurants on wooden jetties.
- Sarsala and Manastır Bays – pine forests, clear water and wonderful sunsets.
For a detailed guide to these anchorages, read our best bays of Göcek article, or see our classic Göcek Bays & Twelve Islands route.
How Much Does a Gulet Charter in Göcek Cost?
Gulet charters in Göcek are priced per week for the whole yacht, including the crew and cruising fuel for a normal itinerary. In our fleet, smaller 4–6 cabin gulets start from around €6,500–€15,000 per week, comfortable family gulets of 30–36 metres cost around €18,000–€32,000, and luxury motorsailers such as Perla Del Mare or Caustic range from around €47,000 to €60,000 per week in high season. Food is usually added as a full-board package, while drinks, marina fees outside Göcek and a crew gratuity are additional. See our Göcek gulet rental prices guide for a full breakdown.
Life on board a Göcek gulet
When to Charter in Göcek
The season runs from late April to the end of October. June and September offer warm water, sunshine and quieter bays, July and August are the busiest and warmest months, and May and October are lovely for walking and exploring. Because Göcek is so sheltered, it is one of the best choices in Turkey for the peak summer months when the wind can be stronger elsewhere. Read more in our best time to charter in Turkey guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Göcek from Dalaman Airport?
Around 25 minutes by road – the shortest airport transfer of any major gulet base in Turkey.
Is Göcek good for families?
Yes, it is one of the calmest and safest cruising areas in Turkey, ideal for children.
Can we cruise to Fethiye and Ölüdeniz from Göcek?
Yes, these are easy, popular additions to a Göcek week.
What time does a Göcek charter start?
Usually Saturday at around 15:00, ending the following Saturday at around 10:00.