Blue Cruises

Blue Cruises started in the 1970s as inexpensive boat tours catering to Turkish intellectuals, and they’re still an enjoyable and relaxing way to explore the secluded coves of the Aegean coastline. Of course, nothing is inexpensive anymore, and there are plenty of luxury options. A typical Blue Voyage cruise lasts about seven days, but can be shorter or longer—there’s not much to do other than reading, swimming, and relaxing, so many find that three or four days is optimal. April through October is the best time for a cruise; prices vary according to the month, the type of boat, and whether you opt for full board. You can arrange your trip before you leave home, or when you get to the docks. On the Aegean coast, Bodrum marina is the best place to hire a boat, with the most options.

Contacts

Era Yachting. One of the oldest yacht charter agencies in Bodrum, Era organizes weeklong tours around the Gulf of Gokova, the Gulf of Hisaronu, and out to the Greek Dodecanese islands. From 790 TL per person. Neyzen Tevfik Cad. 120/2, Bodrum, Mugla, 48400. 252/316–2310; www.erayachting.com.

Motif Yachting. Motif's regular weekly charters take Blue Cruisers along Turkey's Turquoise Coast. From 800 TL per person. Caferpaşa Cad. 11/A, Bodrum, Mugla, 48400. 252/316–2309; www.motifyachting.com.

Neyzen Tours. Neyzen's luxury charters of Turkey's Turquoise Coast and the Greek Dodecanese Islands offer onboard perks such as flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. From 3,070 TL per person, all-inclusive, for a one-week cruise. Kibris Şehitleri Cad. 34, Bodrum, Mugla, 48400. 252/316–7204; www.neyzenyachting.com.

ScicSailing. Offering regular Blue Cruises as well as themed ones centered around activities such as art, archaeology, or cuisine, Dutch/English-run ScicSailing prides itself on sailing (instead of motoring) as much as the winds allow. From € 940 (2,840 TL) per person, all-inclusive, for a one-week cruise. 758/300–1766; 62/906–3180; www.scicsailing.eu.

True Horizon Travel. Organizes Blue Cruises of the Gulf of Gokova departing from Bodrum on small gulets (wooden sailing boats) that range from simple and affordable to luxurious. From €38 (125TL) per person, per night. 320/296–5757 ; 533/451–7712; www.truehorizontravel.com.