For Charter, the Turkish Gulet is Better than Ever
A familiar sight along Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines, the Gulet has long been associated with relaxed, traditional sailing holidays. Once humble fishing boats, these broad-beamed wooden motor sailers evolved into charter favourites for their charm, space and affordability.
Gulets are no longer just a nod to the past however. In recent years, a new generation of purpose-built vessels has entered the market, bringing cutting-edge design, elegant finishes and refined onboard comfort. Today’s Gulets sit comfortably alongside the most modern luxury catamarans and motor yachts, offering a charter experience that is as stylish as it is unique.
The Gulet’s New Era: Modern Builds, Timeless Spirit
While traditional Gulets in charter are often retrofitted workboats, many in today’s fleets are new builds crafted by master Turkish shipwrights. They preserve the romantic lines and communal layout of the originals but deliver all the features expected of a high-end yacht.
Turkey is a world leader in Gulet construction, with Bodrum, Fethiye and Göcek now home to innovative builders producing vessels that rival superyachts in both style and performance. These aren't just upgraded wooden boats—they are modern masterpieces that reflect decades of refinement in design and craftsmanship.
A traditional gulet made for charter pre-2000, and typicaly refurbished recently
A gulet of the 2020s - luxury motor sailing
Leading the Fleet: Notable Gulets built for Luxury Charter
Several standout Gulets launched recently highlight the sophistication and innovation now defining this category.
New Gulets entering the water now embody a broader trend in the Turkish charter market: high-spec Gulets with professional crews, eco-conscious systems like solar power, and open-plan spaces that allow guests to dine, relax and enjoy the voyage in unmatched comfort.
Furthermore, if there’s not a brand new gulet available that meets your charter holiday plans, there are plenty of earlier models that have undergone extensive refits in response to growing demand in this section of the luxury charter market.
Here are three additions to our website that well and truly fall into the ‘modern contemporary’ category:
Esma Sultan for charter in Turkey
Albatros M for charter in Turkey
In most cases Turkish charters can include southwestern Greek Islands, with the operator making Customs and Immigration arrangements for you.
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Luxury of the day with a nod to tradition
A modern gulet makes boarding and water sporting easy
Fine dining is a feature of today's gulet charter
Loads of space fore and aft on the contemporary gulet
What Makes a Modern Gulet Charter Special?
Modern Gulets retain their distinctive wide sterns—perfect for al fresco dining at a single large table. But today’s models go further, with upper decks, retractable sunshades, and upgraded interiors that let in natural light and feel airy and open. Key features often include:
- Air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms
- Crew quarters separate from guest areas for added privacy
- Outdoor lounges and jacuzzis
- Smart navigation and entertainment systems
- Custom itineraries along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Greek Dodecanese Islands and in the Adriatic.
- Many Gulets now rival boutique hotels in comfort, with the added benefit of ever-changing coastal scenery outside your window.
Why Charter a Gulet?
For groups of eight or more, a Gulet offers a cost-effective alternative to multiple smaller cabins on a catamaran or monohull. The value is especially strong in Turkey, where prices are competitive, and service levels are consistently high.
With a full crew, typically including a skipper, chef and deckhand, your only job is to relax. Enjoy Turkish mezze served fresh on deck, swim in secluded bays, and explore ancient ruins accessible only by boat.
At Sail Connections, we work closely with reputable Turkish operators to connect you with the finest Gulets available—new builds, classic refits, and everything in between. Whether you are looking for laid-back luxury or a more budget-conscious adventure, we’ll help you find a boat that fits your style.
