The ultimate guide to cruising the Turquoise Coast
If you’ve already sailed the Whitsundays or explored Bali by boat and think you’ve seen it all, think again.
There’s a new favourite adventure taking over Aussie travellers’ bucket lists: Sail Turkey. From Fethiye to Göcek and Bodrum, Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is a dreamscape of pine fringed bays, ancient ruins and crystal clear Mediterranean water. It’s the perfect blend of sun, sea and story, and it’s surprisingly easy to reach from Australia.
What Exactly Is a “Gulet Cruise”?
A gulet is a handcrafted wooden yacht; the pride of the Turkish Riviera. These boats combine old school maritime charm with modern comfort: private ensuite cabins, onboard chef, air conditioning and plenty of deck space for sunbathing or sunset drinks. Unlike big cruise ships, gulet cruises are intimate and personal,usually 12 to 16 guests max which makes them perfect for Aussie couples, groups of mates, or solo travellers who love meeting new people.
Why Australians Love to Sail Turkey?
Affordable luxury: Compared to Mediterranean yacht charters in Greece or Croatia, Turkey boat tours offer exceptional value; premium boats, full board meals, and crew service at almost half the cost.
Social vibe: Most departures attract travellers from Australia, New Zealand, the UK and USA, easygoing crowd you meet on a yacht.
Hidden coves and ancient ruins: Swim where Lycian kings once ruled, kayak over sunken cities, and snorkel in bays so clear you can see the seabed 10 metres below.
Seamless land connections: Many tours start from Fethiye, easily combined with Cappadocia or Istanbul for a full Turkey experience.
If you’re craving the next great adventure something between a yacht week and a cultural escape, Sail Turkey might be your best discovery yet. The coastline is stunning, the food is unreal, and the people you meet onboard often become lifelong friends.
Pack your swimmers, your sunnies, and your Aussie sense of humour and let Gulet Cruises show you why Turkey is the new Mediterranean favourite.