Moroccan scholar and traveler, Ibn Buttata once said: “Travel leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller.” I have to wonder: did a cruise along the Turkish coastline prompt this quote? It’s a place where sunbeams sparkle on turquoise waters. A place where picturesque islands with rocky outcrops and pebble-strewn beaches dot the seascape imploring you to explore the treasures that await on shore. A place where you can escape the crowds as you immerse yourself in nature, culture and history. Or, if active pursuits are your preferred storyline, the warm waters and rocky coastlines provide plenty of opportunities for adrenalin pumping options.
So how will you accomplish all of this in one luxurious adventure? Consider sailing aboard a Turkish-built gulet. The landscapes as you sail along the eastern Mediterranean coastline will leave you speechless. And, with a fleet of exquisite luxury yachts to choose from, fully-customizable itineraries and an onboard chef keen to satisfy even the most discerning foodies, you’ll have plenty of stories to tell.
While traditional gulets were used by fishermen or as freight vessels, today’s Turkish-built wooden yachts combine the beauty of traditional craftsmanship with modern construction mechanics. It’s a winning combination that provides an ultra-luxe cruising experience referred to by the locals as a “blue cruise.” You’re welcome to cast a line overboard and follow the fishing tradition or lounge on the deck’s cushy sun mattresses sipping champagne as you watch the spectacular landscapes unfold.
No Ordinary Cruise
Cruising has quickly become the preferred travel experience today but not everyone wants to sail aboard a mega-ship with thousands of strangers. Many of us would rather experience something a bit more intimate. Gathering a group of close friends or family members together and chartering a private yacht is as intimate as it gets. Yes, it’s exclusive—and why shouldn’t it be? This is experiential travel elevated to the highest level.
Choosing the right company for this kind of adventure is key. Established in 2004 by Jitja and Alenka Mirtič, Turkey Luxury Gulets has organized more than 650 cruise experiences for clients, developing relationships as well as an excellent reputation along the way.
In choosing its fleet, the company’s experts inspected more than 500 luxury yachts and chose the top 50. The yachts vary in size from 20 to 50 meters with larger vessels accommodating up to 12 passengers. Cabins range from Doubles to Master and VIP suites. All offer private baths and an impressive array of amenities. Satellite television, DVD players and Wi-Fi connection along with old-fashioned fun like board games, playing cards and books provide onboard entertainment. The Mediterranean’s warm waters will beckon you and you’ll have paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, jet skis and more at your disposal.
All about U is the newest addition to the fleet. At 50 meters long, this stunning vessel offers spacious elegance at every turn. With six beautifully appointed cabins, All About U accommodates up to 12 guests. The aft deck doubles as a launch pad for water sports—skiing, kayaking, swimming, diving … whatever you want. It really is all about you, after all.
If you prefer a modern yacht with the traditional wooden gulet ambiance, take a look at the Daima. At 42 meters long, the Daima accommodates up to 10 guests. It’s a 5-star experience with sophisticated elegance throughout.
Dreamy Destinations
Turkey is known for its diverse landscapes. From ice-capped summits to lakes born of ancient volcanos to pure white travertine formed from hot springs—it’s all spectacular and the coastline is no exception. Flanked by the Andean and Mediterranean Seas and close to the magical Greek islands, the panoramas are impressive.
A personal assistant will work with you to create the perfect itinerary for your cruise and you’ll be spoiled for choice with the varied destination experiences. Dominated by a 15th-century castle, coastal Bodrum is considered the Riviera of Turkey. Its unique union of cultural and natural treasures makes it an excellent starting point.
Step back in time thousands of years to the age of mythology on the Greek island of Rhodes or experience the splendid harbor of Symi. Snorkel in the gorgeous bays of Datca alongside fish of every hue. Rejuvenate your soul amid the unspoiled nature of Bozburun or consider a hike along a portion of the 500-mile-long Carian Trail. Named for a few delightful weeks each summer when the valley fills with butterflies, Butterfly Valley is another enchanting stop.
Life at Sea
Gliding along the sea in a spectacular gulet with a plethora of dreamy destinations to choose from is a uniquely memorable experience. Onboard your personal chef will create a bounty of culinary delights based on your personal preferences. An extraordinary ratio of crew to guests—eight crew members for 12 guests—elevates the service level throughout this spectacular journey.
As Ibn Buttata noted, you may be speechless initially, but there will definitely be stories to tell.
For more information visit www.turkeyluxurygulet.com.