Packing for a weekly gulet charter in Turkey is refreshingly simple – once you know what to bring and what is already waiting on board. Life on a gulet is relaxed and informal: most of the day is spent in swimwear, evenings call for light, casual clothes, and the crew provides towels, linen and water toys. The biggest mistake first-time guests make is bringing too much, in the wrong kind of luggage. This guide will help you pack exactly what you need for a perfect week at sea.
Space in gulet cabins is comfortable but not unlimited, and hard suitcases can be difficult to store. The golden rule is: pack light and use soft, foldable bags that can be stowed under beds or in lockers once you have unpacked.
Cabins and decks on our gulets
Luggage
Choose soft duffel bags or foldable holdalls rather than hard suitcases. One medium bag per person is usually plenty for a week. A small day bag or tote is useful for trips ashore, and a waterproof dry bag is handy for tender rides and beach visits.
Clothing
- Swimwear – at least two or three sets, so one can dry while you wear another
- Light cover-ups, sarongs or kaftans
- Shorts, T-shirts, linen shirts and summer dresses
- A light jumper or jacket for breezy evenings and early mornings, especially in May, June, September and October
- Smart-casual outfits for evenings ashore or at places like D-Maris Bay
- Sun hat and a cap that will not blow away
Footwear
Most gulets are barefoot on deck to protect the teak, so you will rarely need shoes on board. Bring flip-flops or sandals for going ashore, water shoes for rocky beaches and comfortable trainers or walking sandals if you plan to explore ancient sites.
Sun and Sea Essentials
- High-factor, reef-friendly sunscreen and after-sun
- Sunglasses (polarised are ideal on the water)
- Rash vests for children and anyone sensitive to the sun
- Insect repellent for evenings ashore
- Any personal medication, plus seasickness remedies if you are prone, though most Turkish bays are calm
Documents and Money
Bring your passport (valid for the required period), travel insurance details, flight information and a copy of your charter confirmation. If your route includes the Greek islands, passports are essential. A mix of card and some cash in euros or Turkish lira is useful for restaurants, small shops and crew gratuity.
Electronics
Gulets usually have 220V sockets with European two-pin plugs, so UK guests will need adaptors. Bring a power bank, a waterproof phone case and a portable speaker if you like – most gulets also have a sound system. Wi-Fi or 4G is available on most yachts, though signal can be limited in remote bays.
What Is Already on Board
You do not need to pack bed linen, bath or beach towels, snorkelling gear, paddleboards or kayaks – these are provided on our gulets. Toiletries are often supplied on luxury yachts. Read our what is included guide and weekly gulet charter guide.
Ready for your week at sea
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we bring hard suitcases?
Soft bags are strongly recommended as hard cases are difficult to store.
Do we need shoes on board?
Usually not – decks are barefoot.
What plug adaptor do we need?
A European two-pin adaptor for UK plugs.