The Origins of the Gulet
The gulet (pronounced goo-LET in Turkish) originated in the Bodrum peninsula of southwestern Turkey, where it was used as a working vessel for fishing and coastal trading. The modern charter gulet developed in the 1970s and 1980s as Turkish craftsmen began adapting the traditional hull form for tourism.
Today gulets are built across Turkey and Croatia to essentially similar specifications: wide beam, high sides, rounded stern, two or three masts, and a combination of motor and sail propulsion. The modern charter gulet prioritises comfort and living space over sailing performance.
What Does a Gulet Look Like?
Gulets are distinctive on the water. The hull is wide relative to length — a 22-metre gulet typically has a beam of 6 metres or more. The stern is round and generous, with a large aft deck and a retractable boarding ladder for swimming. The superstructure is relatively low, keeping the boat stable at anchor.
Inside, a typical 22-metre gulet has 5 or 6 guest cabins with en-suite bathrooms, a saloon with a dining area, and a galley (kitchen). The crew sleep in separate forward accommodation.
Gulet Sizes and Categories
| Category | Length | Cabins | Guests | Weekly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Standard | 18–20 m | 4–5 cabins | 8–10 guests | €5,000–8,500 |
| Mid-Range | 22–25 m | 5–6 cabins | 10–12 guests | €7,500–13,000 |
| Large | 25–30 m | 6–7 cabins | 12–14 guests | €11,000–18,000 |
| Luxury | 30 m+ | 7–9 cabins | 14–18 guests | €16,000–30,000+ |
How a gulet charter Works
The Crew
Every gulet operates with a minimum of two crew: the captain and a cook/hostess. Larger vessels add a deckhand and sometimes a dedicated hostess. A good captain who has sailed the Dalmatian coast for decades is a genuine asset — they know the best anchorages, the local restaurants, and the bays that are sheltered in a west wind.
The Itinerary
Before departure, you and the captain agree on a rough itinerary for the week. The captain proposes a route based on season, wind, and your preferences. Once underway, the itinerary adapts daily. If you want to stay an extra day at a particular island, you stay. The pace is deliberately relaxed.
Understanding APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)
The weekly charter fee covers the vessel and crew. All running costs — fuel, port fees, food, drinks — are covered by the APA: a cash fund you transfer to the captain before departure. Standard APA is 25–30% of the weekly charter fee. The captain accounts for every euro and returns any unspent balance at the end of the week.
Example: A €9,000/week gulet charter requires approximately €2,250–2,700 in APA. This covers a week of full provisioning, daily port fees, and normal fuel use. Total charter cost: approximately €11,250–11,700 for 10 guests — around €1,125–1,170 per person.
Gulet vs Catamaran: Key Differences
| Feature | Gulet | Catamaran |
|---|---|---|
| Crew | Always fully crewed | Optional skipper or bareboat |
| Service | Full board or APA provisioning | Self-catered or add crew |
| Sailing | Motor-sailing, limited sail use | Genuine sailing performance |
| Space per guest | High (wide beam) | High (bridge deck platform) |
| Best for | Service-focused groups, celebrations | Active sailors, independent groups |
| Licence required? | No | Yes (bareboat) / No (skippered) |
Is a Gulet Right for You?
A gulet is the right choice if your group wants:
- Full service — meals cooked, boat managed, logistics handled
- No sailing licence or experience required
- A social, communal experience with a large aft deck for gathering
- An all-inclusive budget covering food and operational costs
- A crew who knows the coast better than any guidebook
A gulet is probably not the right choice if your group wants:
- The authentic sailing experience — genuine sail trim, passages under canvas
- Complete independence and full control of the itinerary
- The lowest possible weekly cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gulets safe?
Yes. Modern charter gulets are surveyed, certified, and equipped to full Mediterranean maritime standards. The captain holds a professional qualification. The relevant concern is weather: gulets in a sudden bora are vulnerable if the captain has not found shelter. A knowledgeable, experienced captain is the key safety factor.
Is tipping expected?
Yes. Standard gratuity is 10–15% of the weekly charter fee, split between captain and crew. On a €9,000 charter, €900–1,350 divided among two or three crew is appropriate. Tip in cash at the end of the week.
What is the difference between a gulet and a yacht charter?
A gulet is a specific type of traditional wooden motor-sailer, always crewed, designed for comfort and social living. A yacht charter covers sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts — some crewed, some bareboat. Gulets occupy the mid-luxury tier: more service than a skippered catamaran, more character than a modern motor yacht.