If you are traveling to Turkey, whether by boat or by air, one of the most unforgettable places to visit during your stay is Bodrum. Located on the South West coast of Turkey, Bodrum boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and it is also a famous Turkish Holiday center. Bodrum is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World as well — The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Not much remains, but it’s still an inspirational place to visit. With a mix of sunshine, history, and festivities, Bodrum is the perfect place for the first-time visitor and the seasoned traveler alike.
Most larger cruise ships travel the coast of Turkey, but it’s tough for them to reach the most remote and most beautiful parts of Bodrum. This is why smaller ships are fast becoming the most popular choice for Bodrum cruises. Most Bodrum cruises take place on a gulet. A gulet (also called “goulette” or “gullet”) is a two-masted sailing vessel that originated on the South West coast of Turkey. Modern gulet’s are roughly 45-115 feet long and they are popular for various types of cruises. A gulet is a great option for those interested in getting up close and personal with the Aegean coast and all that it has to offer such as numerous secluded, deserted bays as well as coves and unspoiled coastline, all while engaging in activities such as sunbathing, snorkeling, windsurfing, canoeing, and fishing. Just about every nook and cranny of the coast can be observed from the deck of a handmade gulet.
When guests are not busy enjoying water activities or relaxing on the deck, they will have the opportunity to visit fishing harbors, popular villages, and the remains of ancient civilizations on their 3 to 4 day Bodrum cruise. 3 day Bodrum cruises and 4 day Bodrum cruises take place aboard a gulet that accommodates roughly 4-20 guests in six to eight cabins. Keep in mind that because gulets are small handmade native “ships” they do not have modern amenities like most other ships. This is not to say that the ships are not comfortable, but they are better suited to nature lovers and those who love sailing than those looking for onboard entertainment, spas, and elegant dining options. The vast majority of gulets feature very comfortable cabins with en-suite facilities, cozy showers, and hot and cold water. Many gulets do not have air conditioning, but every cabin offers a perfect view of the sea.
To book a 3-4 day Bodrum cruise, visit Bluecruise.org. A Blue Cruise or Blue Voyage is the term used to describe taking a yacht on the Aegean and Mediterranean coast of Turkey. During your cruise, you will spend roughly 3-4 hours cruising daily, and the other time is spent exploring or engaging in numerous water activities. When it’s time to dine, in some cases you will eat at a large table, outdoors on deck or in the dining area of the vessels main saloon. The meals are typically Greek and Turkish-inspired, and the cook prepares them. Besides the cook, the other crewmembers on a Bodrum cruise include the captain and 1-2 deck hands.
There are several itineraries to choose from and prices vary slightly depending on whether you choose a 3 day Bodrum cruise or 4-day Bodrum cruise, the time of year, and number of guests. Prices are per person and may range from $285 per person up to $325 or more. Prices are lower in May and October, and higher in July and August. June and September are slightly lower than the months of July and August.
To book a Bodrum cruise you may also contact your local cruise travel agent.
