A blue cruise is an unhurried holiday along the Aegean coast, anchoring from bay to bay. Bodrum is one of the places where this tradition was born. In this guide you will find what to know when planning a blue cruise, route ideas and which boat suits you.
A short history
The name “Blue Cruise” (Mavi Yolculuk) goes back to the writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, and his friends, who set out from Bodrum on sponge-diving boats in the 1950s. What began with a handful of intellectuals lives on today aboard traditional gulets and modern yachts.
Daily or weekly?
- Daily blue cruise: leave in the morning, return in the evening and spend the day in the bays around Bodrum – a perfect taster if time is short.
- Weekly blue cruise: stay on board and wake up in a different bay every morning. This is the real blue cruise experience.
Route ideas from Bodrum
The route depends on the wind and your wishes; some favourite stops:
- Around Bodrum: bays close to the harbour such as Black Island (Karaada), Aquarium Bay and Kargı.
- Gulf of Gökova: the turquoise water of Orak Island, the calm bay of Çökertme, Sedir Island (Cleopatra Beach) and English Harbour.
- Heading west: bays off Turgutreis and Yalıkavak, with fine sunset views.
The best months
- May–June: quiet bays, green hills and a sea that is slowly warming up.
- July–August: the warmest water and the liveliest season – book early.
- September–October: still warm water, mild air and quieter bays. A favourite of experienced sailors.
Our boats for overnight trips
- Sunrise: a traditional gulet with 7 cabins, for large families and groups of friends.
- Castiel: 5 cabins and a classic voyage under sail.
- Angel V: a cosy 3-cabin gulet for smaller groups.
- The Cabana and Edition: 4-cabin motor yachts for a fast, comfortable blue cruise.
- Monaco: a catamaran with a stable ride and plenty of living space.
Torn between a gulet and a motor yacht? Our comparison guide makes the choice easier.
Before you set off
- Pack a soft bag – boat lockers don’t suit hard suitcases.
- Let us know your food preferences and allergies in advance.
- If you want to visit the Greek islands, check passport and visa requirements early.
Frequently asked questions
What if I get seasick?
On a blue cruise the passages are short and most of the time is spent at anchor. If you are sensitive, we recommend a catamaran or a route through sheltered bays.
How many days are enough?
Three or four nights are a good start for a first trip; a full week is ideal for a true blue cruise.
To plan your blue cruise, get in touch and we will suggest a route and boat for your dates and group.