What is Blue Cruise in Turkey?
Blue Cruise, also known as a Blue Voyage or Blue Tour, is a popular type of yacht cruise in Turkey that typically takes place along the southwestern coast of the country. The Blue Cruise gets its name from the deep blue color of the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea, which are the primary bodies of water traveled during the cruise.
The Blue Cruise typically takes place on a traditional wooden gulet, which is a spacious and comfortable yacht with several cabins, a dining area, and a deck for sunbathing and relaxing. The gulets are equipped with all the necessary amenities to make the trip comfortable, including air conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern navigation and safety equipment. Please have a look at the video to get the idea:
The route of the Blue Cruise can vary depending on the tour operator and the duration of the trip, but it usually includes stops at some of the most beautiful and historic sites along the Turkish coast. Some of the popular stops include:
Bodrum: This popular resort town is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and historic castle.
Göcek: This picturesque town is located in a sheltered bay and offers access to several nearby islands and coves.
Marmaris: This bustling town has a beautiful harbor, a historic castle, and several lively bars and restaurants.
Fethiye: This charming town is located near several ancient ruins, including the Lycian rock tombs and the ghost town of Kayaköy.
During the Blue Cruise, passengers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, as well as exploring the local towns and attractions. The food served on the gulet is typically fresh and delicious, with an emphasis on local cuisine and seafood.
The Blue Cruise is a unique and memorable way to explore the stunning coastline of Turkey and experience the beauty and culture of the region.
Cost of the Blue Cruise in Turkey
The cost of a Blue Cruise in Turkey can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the duration of the cruise, the size and quality of the gulet, the time of year, and the specific route and itinerary. However, as a general guideline, a 7-day Blue Cruise in Turkey can cost anywhere from 800 to 2500 euros per person, depending on the level of luxury and the number of passengers on board.
The price typically includes accommodation on the gulet, all meals and snacks, water and soft drinks, fuel, and the services of the crew, including a captain and a chef. Some Blue Cruise packages may also include additional activities and excursions, such as visits to historic sites or water sports.
Please have a look at the video below that explains a gulet very well:
It’s important to note that the cost of a Blue Cruise can be affected by the season. The high season for Blue Cruises in Turkey is typically from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry and the waters are calm. During this time, the demand for cruises is higher, and prices may be more expensive than during the shoulder or low seasons.
When considering the cost of a Blue Cruise in Turkey, it’s important to compare different tour operators and packages to find the best value for your budget and preferences. You can also read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of the quality and level of service provided by different operators.
What Do You Eat in a Blue Cruise in Turkey?
During a Blue Cruise in Turkey, the meals served on board the gulet are typically fresh and delicious, with an emphasis on local cuisine and seafood. The specific menu can vary depending on the tour operator and the preferences of the passengers, but it usually includes a variety of dishes and flavors that showcase the best of Turkish cuisine.
Some of the typical foods that you might eat during a Blue Cruise in Turkey include:
Meze: Meze is a selection of small dishes that are served as an appetizer or as a main course. It typically includes a variety of dips, salads, and grilled or fried vegetables, as well as seafood and meat dishes.
Seafood: Given the proximity to the sea, seafood is a staple of Turkish cuisine and is often featured on the menu during a Blue Cruise. You might enjoy grilled fish, calamari, shrimp, or other fresh catches of the day.
Turkish breakfast: A typical Turkish breakfast includes a variety of breads, cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other fresh vegetables, as well as eggs and Turkish tea or coffee.
Grilled meats: Turkish cuisine is also known for its grilled meats, such as lamb, chicken, or beef. These meats are often marinated in flavorful spices and grilled to perfection on the gulet’s onboard barbecue.
Traditional Turkish desserts: Turkish cuisine is famous for its sweet treats, such as baklava, Turkish delight, and other pastries and confections.
Most tour operators are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, with advance notice. Additionally, if you have specific food allergies or intolerances, it’s important to inform the crew before embarking on the Blue Cruise so they can make appropriate arrangements for your meals.
What to bring in a Blue Cruise in Turkey?
When packing for a Blue Cruise in Turkey, it’s important to keep in mind that you will likely spend most of your time on the gulet, so it’s a good idea to bring comfortable and casual clothing that is suitable for warm weather and outdoor activities. Here are some things you might want to consider packing:
Swimwear: Given that you will be spending a lot of time on or near the water, be sure to pack plenty of swimwear.
Sun protection: The sun in Turkey can be quite strong, so be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
Comfortable clothing: Pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that is comfortable and breathable, such as shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and skirts.
Footwear: Bring comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking and exploring, as well as sandals or flip-flops for the beach and the gulet’s deck.
Snorkeling gear: If you plan to go snorkeling, bring your own snorkeling gear, such as a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be common in some areas of Turkey, so bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
Camera: Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture all the beautiful scenery and memorable moments during your Blue Cruise.
Cash and credit cards: Although most Blue Cruises include all meals and activities, you may want to bring some cash or credit cards for souvenirs, drinks, and other incidental expenses.
Travel documents: Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa (if required), and any other necessary travel documents.
Best Blue Cruises in Turkey
Following are one of the best blue cruise options you can find in Turkey.
Luxury Gulet 42.20 m with 6 Cabins
Luxury Gulet 39.50 m with 6 Cabins