Frequently asked questions

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

How do I book a cruise?

Booking your dream gulet cruise with Arkadaslik Yachting is simple and stress-free. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Contact us by phone, text, or e-mail to discuss your vision and preferences.
  2. Once we understand your requirements, we'll send you a Booking Agreement and invoice for deposit (30% of the cruise price).
  3. Submit your deposit to secure your reservation. The balance is due at time of departure.
  4. Once your reservation is confirmed, we’ll handle the planning while you look forward to your relaxing getaway.
How much do cruises cost?

Cruise prices are based on the itinerary length and destination. Our prices include all meals, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, accommodations, and use of onboard amenities. Alcoholic drinks and optional activities like land excursions and water sports are extra.

Private cruises are priced as follows:

  • Göcek Islands cruises - 1485 Euro per day per group
  • Turkish coast cruises - 1650 Euro per day per group
  • Greek islands cruises - 2050 Euro per day per group

For shared cruises, the total daily rate is divided by 4, allowing guests to book individual cabins while sharing the gulet with others

Our pricing reflects the quality, flexibility, and personal touch we bring to every cruise. From luxury amenities to hand-crafted itineraries, every detail is designed to provide you with an unforgettable experience at exceptional value.

Can I pay by credit card?

We currently accept payments via international bank transfers or services like Wise, ensuring secure and convenient processing.

How much should I tip the crew?

Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. We recommend 5-10% of the cruise price, which can be given to Captain Oktay for distribution or handed to crew members individually.

Can I smoke on the boat?

Smoking is permitted on deck. Smoking inside the boat is strictly prohibited. We kindly ask for your cooperation, as violators will be thrown overboard! (Neither Sue nor Captain Oktay smoke. Some of our crew may smoke, but are not allowed to smoke near our guests.)

Can we split costs with other families/groups?

Yes, shared cruises are ideal for travelers looking to enjoy a gulet experience without booking the entire boat. Each group pays only for their cabin, creating an affordable option for small parties.

Where do cruises start and finish?

Our cruises start and end in Fethiye harbour. They typically begin at 2PM on the first day, and end after breakfast on the final day, but we do our best to adjust start and end times to suit your travel schedule, ensuring a seamless experience.

What do women wear in Turkey? Do I need to cover my head?

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country and the dress may be more conservative than some other parts of the world - for both men and women. While you won't likely see the locals in tube tops, gangsta pants or short shorts, there is no requirement for anyone to be fully covered.

The only exception to the "not fully covered" requirement is when visiting mosques - where women are required to cover their hair, arms and legs - out of respect for local customs and traditions.

Please note that the same standards of conservative dress do not apply on-board the boat. You are welcome to wear whatever you like, exposing as much (or as little) skin as you are comfortable with. Just don't forget to apply sunscreen!

For more information about appropriate attire during your Turkish holiday, check out our article: A Female Traveler's Guide to What to Wear in Turkey.

What should I pack for gulet cruise?

We provide everything from bed linens to board games, beach towels to blow driers, freeing you up to pack the bare minimum for your yachting holiday with Arkadaslik Yachting.

Essential things to pack for your cruise include:

  • Your camera and/or video camera to capture the stunning scenery of the Turquoise Coast.
  • A small day pack if you're planning to head out on land excursions.
  • Chargers for your electronics. (Visit the Power Plugs and Sockets of the World website if you are unsure of whether you'll need adapters to plug into the boat's 220V A/C outlets.)
  • Your favourite reading material and music.
  • Protection from the Mediterranean sun, including lots of sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and cover-up. (Tip: Chin straps are recommended for hats with big, floppy brims.)
  • Insect repellent.
  • Personal toiletries, medications, and, if required, a spare set of prescription glasses and/or contact lenses.
  • As far as on-board clothing goes, think light-weight, loose materials and natural fibres. Bathing suits, t-shirts and shorts are perfect for the heat of summer. If you're travelling in May or October, you'll also want to bring a sweater or light-weight jacket and some long pants (jeans are fine) for staying warm in the evenings.
  • We'll ask you to remove your outdoor footwear when boarding Arkadaslik. If you have sensitive feet, please bring a clean pair of non-slip flip-flops or slippers for on-deck use. (The teak gets hot under the sun!) Don't forget to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes if you're planning any land excursions.
  • Water shoes / swim shoes are a good idea if you plan to paddle near the shore.

For a full list, visit our article: All About Gulets: What to Pack for Your Gulet Cruise.

I'm worried about seasickness. Will I get sick on the boat?

Classic wooden gulets are large and stable, ensuring smooth sailing. However, each person's response to the continuous rocking motion of the boat (even while anchored) varies and some people become seasick.

If you are prone to motion sickness, we suggest consulting with your doctor or pharmacist for advice and medication in advance of your vacation. It is important to be proactive, as most medications are only effective if taken before symptoms begin.

In the event that you do become ill while on board, please advise a member of the crew immediately. (Don't be embarrassed - it can happen to the most experienced of sailors from time to time!) Captain Oktay will closely monitor the weather conditions and stay in calm, protected waters for the smoothest voyage possible, which should help help alleviate your symptoms.

For comprehensive tips about minimizing the symptoms of seasickness, please visit "Preventing Seasickness".