1. What is the Blue Cruise?
The Blue Cruise is a popular sailing experience along the southwestern coast of Turkey (mainly the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts). It involves cruising along the turquoise waters on traditional wooden boats, usually gulets, exploring hidden bays, secluded beaches, ancient ruins, and charming coastal towns.
The name comes from the vivid blue color of the sea and sky combined with the relaxed, luxurious sailing lifestyle. It’s not just a cruise—it’s a cultural, historical, and nature adventure.
2. Duration of a Blue Cruise
- Short Cruise: 1–3 days, ideal for a weekend trip. Usually covers a few nearby bays.
- Standard Cruise: 5–7 days, most popular for fully exploring the Turkish Riviera.
- Extended Cruise: 10–14 days, perfect for visiting many islands, ancient cities, and remote beaches.
3. Types of Boats
Most Blue Cruises are done on gulets, but there are different options:
- Classic Gulet: Wooden, spacious, cozy, ideal for authentic experience.
- Modern Gulet: Wooden body with modern interior and navigation tools.
- Luxury Gulet: High-end gulets with deluxe cabins, jacuzzi, entertainment systems.
- Small Gulet / Yacht: Smaller boats for couples or small groups.
4. Typical Blue Cruise Itinerary
Here’s a sample 7-day Blue Cruise along the Turkish coast:
- Day 1: Bodrum / Marmaris
- Board the gulet in the afternoon
- Welcome drinks, orientation, and first dinner on board
- Day 2: Bozburun & Cleopatra’s Beach
- Swim in crystal-clear waters
- Explore local villages
- Day 3: Datça Peninsula & Knidos
- Visit ancient city of Knidos
- Anchor in hidden bays for swimming
- Day 4: Symi Island (Greece) or local Turkish bays
- Explore colorful Greek or Turkish villages
- Evening sailing under the stars
- Day 5: Fethiye – Ölüdeniz & Butterfly Valley
- Swim in lagoons and scenic coves
- Optional paragliding in Ölüdeniz
- Day 6: Göcek & Dalyan
- Visit ancient Lycian tombs
- Mud baths and river cruise in Dalyan
- Day 7: Return to Marmaris / Bodrum
- Breakfast, farewell, and disembark
Most cruises are flexible; routes can be tailored to weather, preferences, or islands to visit.
5. Activities on a Blue Cruise
- Swimming & Snorkeling: Explore hidden coves and crystal waters
- Hiking: Visit ancient ruins and scenic viewpoints
- Diving / Water Sports: Some gulets provide snorkeling and paddleboards
- Cultural Visits: Small villages, local markets, Lycian tombs, and Greek islands
- Relaxation: Sunbathing, reading, stargazing, and enjoying freshly cooked meals onboard
6. What’s Included in a Typical Blue Cruise
- Accommodation in cabins (shared or private)
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Crew service (captain, cook, sometimes a deckhand)
- Water, tea, and coffee
- Some cruises include alcohol or soft drinks; check the package
Optional costs: Excursions, diving, wine, or transfers to/from airports.
7. Best Time for Blue Cruise
- Peak Season: June–September (warm sea, sunny days, calm seas)
- Shoulder Season: April–May and October (fewer crowds, mild weather)
- Off-Season: November–March (many gulets inactive, cooler waters)
8. Popular Starting Points
- Bodrum – Vibrant nightlife, close to Greek islands
- Marmaris – Marina hub with many gulets and beaches
- Fethiye / Göcek – Scenic coves, ideal for Lycia exploration
- Antalya / Kaş – Less crowded, more remote bays
9. Tips for Travelers
- Pack lightweight clothes, swimwear, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
- Bring cash for small local purchases
- Internet may be limited; enjoy a digital detox
- Respect local customs and nature
- If prone to seasickness, take medication or acupressure bands
10. Blue Cruise vs. Regular Cruise
| Feature | Blue Cruise | Regular Cruise |
|---|---|---|
| Vessel | Wooden gulet / yacht | Large ferry / cruise ship |
| Focus | Nature, culture, small bays | Entertainment, big ports |
| Passengers | 8–20 | Hundreds to thousands |
| Pace | Slow, flexible | Scheduled, fast |
| Meals | Home-cooked on board | Buffet / restaurant |
| Destination | Hidden coves, small islands | Popular ports only |
Blue Cruises are the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, swim in turquoise bays, or simply sunbathe with a cocktail, the Blue Voyage has it all.
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