Take to the Water on a Gulet Holiday
There is no better way to enjoy the water than on gulet holidays in Turkey. Spend your days relaxing as you are sailed around the waters surrounding Kalkan, mooring up every so often to explore the harbor fronts of the Turkish coast. But be sure to make the most of the ocean, by spending some time in it as well as on it.
Sailing
If you’re not yet sure whether you’re prone to seasickness or not, gulet holidays are the best way to get your sea legs. Much of the sailing is done with the help of a motor in order to keep to schedule and ensure you get the most out of your trip. However, the Captain will ensure that the sails are hoisted from time to time, to give you a real taste of travelling by water. One of the more comfortable ways to sail, these boats have been adapted from trade to comfort and will see you sailing in style.
Snorkeling
As Kalkan is located on the Turquoise Coast, it is a prime location for snorkeling. Float in the crystal clear waters of the various lagoons that you pass during your voyage, and catch a glimpse of the diverse sea-life. As you snorkel, you can expect to see stunning soft corals, moray eels, octopus, as well as larger fish such as leer-fish, tuna and the ever-impressive dusky grouper.
Canoeing
If you prefer to stay atop of the water rather than in it, why not downsize your dinghy for the day. The majority of boats used for gulet holidays have a sea canoe on board that you can enjoy to your heart’s content. See the shoreline from a different perspective, as you get as close as possible to the beachfronts and coves with a smaller vessel. Take a look over the side of the canoe as you glide over the water, and see the sea-life through the clear waters from above. When you need a break from rowing, lay back and bask in the sunshine before you head back to the boat.
Fishing
Kalkan, the starting point for many gulet holidays, has long been known as a fishing town. However, this claim is not restricted to the locals by any means. Due to the warm temperatures of the water, the best fishing tends to be offshore rather than closer to land. The gulet boat you find yourself on is will have plenty of fishing gear on board, to catch yourself some dinner. So cast your line off the side of the boat, and it will only be a matter of time before there is a bite. Catch enough fish to feed everyone on board and you’re sure to be the Captain’s favourite!
Whether you like to dive right into the water or prefer to stay on board the boat, gulet holidays are an ideal way to enjoy the Turquoise Coast. See Turkey from a different angle as you are sailed along the coastline, making the most of every aspect of being on the water.
Nick Wrightman is the founder and M.D. of The Tapestry Collection, specialist holiday tour operators who can arrange bespoke gulet holidays as well as packages for Crete, Kefalonia and Morocco. The Tapestry Collection includes boutique hotels, villas, exclusive apartments, gulet holidays and riads in a selection of delightful resorts.




