Yacht Charter Glossary
Gulet
Also known as: Turkish Gulet · Traditional Gulet · Wooden Yacht
Full explanation
Gulets are the Mediterranean equivalent of a Caribbean schooner - a traditional working-vessel design (originally sponge-diving boats) rebuilt over the last 40 years as luxury charter yachts.
A gulet's hull is solid wood (mahogany, teak, larch), the deck space is generous, the interior is typically wood-panelled cabins with en-suite bathrooms, and the deck features include large dining tables on the aft deck and sun cushions on the foredeck. Gulet sizes and pricing, Greece 2026: small gulets (20–24m, 6–8 guests): €15,000–€25,000/week.
Mid-size (25–32m, 8–12 guests): €25,000–€55,000/week.
Large luxury gulets (33–45m, 10–16 guests, but capped at 12 charter guests): €45,000–€140,000/week. Where gulets sail: historically Turkish waters (Bodrum–Marmaris–Antalya), increasingly the Greek Dodecanese (Symi, Rhodes, Kos, Patmos) and Sporades.
Greek gulets are typically Greek-flagged and Greek-crewed, distinguishing them from Turkish gulets in flag, regulation, and cruising area. The gulet aesthetic: slower than sailing yachts (cruise speed 6–8 knots under engine, sails are largely decorative on most gulets), wider beam than monohulls, lower freeboard.
The experience is closer to a floating beach villa than a yacht-charter experience.
Why it matters for UHNW charterers
Gulets occupy a specific market position: more space and lower cost than monohull sailing yachts, more authentic-Mediterranean character than modern motor yachts, but slower and with less modern amenity. Right for buyers who prioritise atmosphere and budget over speed and contemporary luxury.
Worked examples
Mid-size luxury gulet, 32m, 7 nights, Dodecanese
Charter fee: €42,000. 6 cabins, 5 crew. Cruise speed 7 knots - itinerary covers Rhodes, Symi, Kos at slower pace. Total fully loaded: ~€68,000.
Large luxury gulet, 42m, 7 nights, with full amenities
Charter fee: €98,000. 8 cabins, 7 crew, jacuzzi on aft deck, water toys, AC throughout. Total fully loaded: ~€155,000.
Frequently asked
About gulet
Are gulets sailing yachts?
Technically yes - most gulets have masts and sails. In practice the sails are seldom used at full power; gulets cruise primarily under engine. The sailing is more aesthetic than functional on most modern gulets.
Are Greek gulets better than Turkish gulets?
Different markets. Greek gulets are Greek-flagged, must comply with Greek MCA-equivalent regulations, and offer Greek itineraries. Turkish gulets often offer lower prices but cannot pick up or drop off in Greek ports without complex flag-state paperwork.
Can a gulet do a 5-day charter?
Yes, gulets are flexible on duration. 5-night charters run at a slight per-night premium to 7-night, typically 10–15% more per day.
Is a gulet more comfortable than a sailing yacht?
More social space yes - gulet decks are vast. Cabin comfort is comparable. Sailing performance is significantly lower - if you want the sailing experience, choose a sailing yacht, not a gulet.
Related terms
Other definitions worth knowing
Sailing Yacht
A sailing yacht is a yacht equipped with masts and sails as its primary propulsion. Modern luxury sailing ya…
Cabin Charter
A cabin charter is a yacht booking where the charterer rents one or more cabins (not the entire yacht), shar…
Captain
The captain is the senior officer aboard a yacht - responsible for navigation, safety, crew discipline, an…
Charter Fee (Base Fee)
The charter fee is the base weekly rate paid for the use of the yacht and its crew. It excludes APA, VAT, de…
Continue reading
Ready to charter in Greece?
George P. Biniaris and the George Yachts team broker yachts in Greek waters under MYBA-standard contracts. Speak with us directly.