Gulet Charter vs Cruise Ship: Which suits you?

31.7 million people chose a boating holiday in 2023; it is easy to understand why. Boating holidays offer the unique experience of enjoying the natural beauty and turquoise waters from the comfort of your gulet charter or cruise ship.  

Being on the water enables you to develop a deep connection with nature. You could discover hidden coves or beaches, sail on open sea waters, pass through picturesque seaside towns, or admire rugged cliffsides.

In this blog post, expect to learn the key differences between gulet charters and cruise ships which both offer unique boating holiday experiences.

What Is a Gulet Charter?

A gulet charter is a traditional Mediterranean fishing and sailing boat, made out of wood that originated in Turkey. Gulet charters come in different styles and sizes, ranging from 20 to 30 meters long, and offer anything from 4-12 cabins. 

Gulet charters have become a unique sailing experience that allows you to explore remote destinations of the Mediterranean from a luxury boat. A full dedicated crew will look after you to meet your needs and your private chef will cook you delicious food while you enjoy the Mediterranean's beautiful views.

Gulet charters are the ideal choice for families or a group of friends who are looking for a blend of adventure, an intimate experience, flexibility, and freedom to create amazing memories.

Gulet Charter Benefits 

Whether you are looking for your own private space, flexibility to explore hidden areas, your professional chef, or luxury accommodation, gulet charters offer many benefits when considering a boating holiday.

Intimate setting

Whether you are a family or a group of friends looking for an exclusive experience, a gulet charter holiday is the perfect opportunity to relax in your own space with privacy benefits. 

You can take in the stunning coastline views whilst relaxing in your luxurious gulet’s decking area. 

Flexibility 

Gulet charters allow you to create a customised itinerary, allowing you to discover remote destinations. Whether it's exploring hidden coves, taking up water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, or jumping into the blue waters from the convenience of your charter boat, gulet holidays enhance your flexibility.

Unique dining experience 

On gulet charters, you will receive an exceptional service of authenticity when dining aboard because of your very own on-call waiters. Professional chefs on gulet charters will accommodate your food preferences and prepare delicious culinary delights. 

You will also get a unique dining experience of dining on the deck. This could look like enjoying your breakfast whilst soaking in the morning sun whilst admiring the turquoise sea glistening. The professional crew on gulet charters provides a world-class service, enhancing your charter experience.

Luxury Accommodation

Gulet Charters's small size has its benefits when it comes to accommodation. The most common amount of cabins on a gulet is 6. This means the cabins are spacious and have a personalised touch and attention to detail for charter guests to enjoy. With luxury yacht charters prioritising luxury, this level of luxury will be reflected within the cabins with an elegant and traditional design.

What Is a Cruise Ship?

A cruise is a large ship that takes thousands of passengers aboard to discover many beautiful destinations, worldwide. A typical cruise ship hosts around 3000 passengers, with a range of different cabins to choose from. 

Cruises have a wide range of facilities such as different dining and drinking options, shops, and entertainment outlets. Therefore, cruises are an ideal choice for family or friends who are looking to visit an array of locations on a regulated itinerary.

Cruise Ship Benefits

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly holiday with a wide range of facilities available, international dining options or to meet new people, cruise liners offer many benefits for a cruise holiday.

Variety of destinations

Cruise liners are an ideal option to see lots of stunning destinations and historic sites in a short period. Whether you have limited time because of work or school holidays, you can experience a range of different cultures.

International Dining

On cruise lines, you will be able to choose from a variety of restaurants that offer different cuisines which suit your tastes or dietary requirements or preferences. International dining allows food options which suit the the whole family.

Family Friendly

If you are traveling as a family, cruises are ideal to keep the whole family entertained, with fun activities catered for every age group. Enjoy a live show performance or an excursion as a family, your kids can participate in sports or creative activities whilst you can enjoy the pool and spa facilities.

Meet new people

If you are a sociable person looking to meet new people, you will meet people from all over the world on cruises. With thousands of passengers aboard, you will easily connect with fellow passengers whether it be in the dining room, by the pool, or during a shore excursion.

Gulet or Cruise Ship Experience: Which Suits You? 

Ultimately, your boating holiday depends on your personal travel preferences and what type of travel experience you are searching for.

A gulet charter holiday is ideal if you want an intimate and personalised experience with your group of family or friends. Gulet charter holidays allow you to enjoy flexibility, and a unique dining experience, whilst you wind down in your luxurious cabin.

On the other hand, a cruise holiday may be suitable for a family looking to participate in a variety of activities. Cruises allow you to visit a variety of beautiful locations, enjoy international dining options and have an opportunity to meet new people.

Both gulet charters and cruise experiences offer a unique holiday on the water where you will create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Choosing the right boating holiday depends if you would rather be in the peaceful and tranquil environment of a gulet or on a lively cruise full of lots of entertainment options.

Book a Gulet Charter Holiday 

At Blue Cruise, we offer luxury gulet cruise holidays in the beautiful Mediterranean. Whether you are interested in visiting Turkey, Croatia, or Greece, we offer a variety of private charters with a fully experienced crew and personal chef, to match your party size, budget, and style preferences. 

Book your Gulet cruise holiday with us today!

Yasmin Pekel