FAQ

Embark on a memorable journey with our Blue Cruise or Cabin Charter options, offering unparalleled experiences along the stunning Turkish coastline. Whether you prefer the intimacy of a private cabin or the camaraderie of a shared cruise, our Blue Cruise options cater to diverse preferences, ensuring an unforgettable voyage.

When do the cabin cruises depart?

Alaturca offers cabin cruises departing almost every day of the week, starting from April and continuing through till the end of October. The departures take place from either Olympos or Fethiye, providing flexibility for travelers. It is noteworthy that booking online enhances the overall experience, as upon confirmation, you will receive a comprehensive pre-departure pack containing valuable information regarding your upcoming cruise. For further details, you may refer to the provided booklet or continue reading below.

The scheduling of these cruises allows for a broad range of options, catering to diverse preferences and travel plans. By offering departures on an almost daily basis, Alaturca aims to accommodate various itineraries and ensure accessibility for travelers throughout the specified period.

Do I need to book ahead?

Alaturca highly recommends making reservations in advance rather than opting for spontaneous bookings on the spot. In the past, guidebooks suggested heading to the harbor and directly booking with the boats. However, due to the increasing popularity of these cabin cruises in recent years, relying on last-minute bookings may result in disappointment as the cruises are prone to being fully sold out.

Moreover, there are significant advantages to booking online ahead of time. These benefits may include savings on the cruise cost itself and the possibility of availing discounts on optional excursions during the cruise. It is crucial to note that during peak seasons, the cabins can be fully booked two to three weeks ahead of departure. Therefore, booking ahead, especially in peak season, becomes essential to secure a spot and avoid any inconvenience.

What are the sleeping arrangements on board?

The sleeping arrangements on board the cabin cruises are diverse, and Alaturca strives to cater to individual preferences at the time of booking. Passengers are encouraged to specify their preferences for a twin, double, or shared cabin during the booking process. However, it is important to note that the cabin layouts may vary depending on the specific boat.

Some boats offer exclusively double rooms, while others may have a mix of doubles, twins, or even triples with a combination of one large double bed and one single bunk. In some cases, quad cabins are also available. Alaturca acknowledges that cabin requests may not always be within its control, as they depend on the scheduled boat for the day of the cruise. Nevertheless, it is guaranteed that all cabins come equipped with a private bathroom and a hot shower.

For solo travelers, sharing a cabin with another solo traveler is standard practice unless the boat is not at full capacity. Private cabins are also an option, albeit at an additional cost in the form of a single supplement. Interestingly, during peak summer cruising months, many passengers prefer to sleep on the deck under the stars, enhancing the overall experience.

Where are the other passengers from?

A significant portion of Alaturca’s customer base is comprised of individuals from English-speaking countries. However, the cruises attract a diverse international crowd, including guests from various European and Asian nations. There is no dominant nationality among the passengers, leading to a rich mix of cultures and backgrounds.

This international diversity adds to the unique experience of the cabin cruises, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Travelers have the opportunity to interact with people from around the world, creating a vibrant and dynamic social setting throughout the journey.

Can I specifically book cabin cruises as a quiet relaxing trip or a party boat?

Alaturca adopts a flexible approach to passenger preferences, refraining from seeking specific information about the desired atmosphere during the booking process. The cruise operator does not inquire about ages or demographics, maintaining an inclusive booking process. Consequently, passengers are not aware of the composition of their fellow travelers until the morning of departure.

The atmosphere on the gulet is largely shaped by the passengers themselves, and Alaturca’s crew endeavors to make the experience enjoyable for everyone. While the cruise operator cannot guarantee whether a particular trip will be characterized as a quiet, relaxing journey or a lively party boat, it assures travelers that departures occur every day. With multiple gulets departing on some days, Alaturca takes into consideration age groups and any special requests when allocating passengers to a specific boat, enhancing the potential for a tailored and enjoyable experience for all.

How many crew members will be on the trip?

There are typically three dedicated crew members on each gulet. This crew consists of a Captain, Chef, and Skipper, ensuring a well-rounded and efficient team to manage the various aspects of the cruise. Depending on the specific size and conditions of the gulet, there might be a slight variation in the crew count, with the possibility of one less or one extra crew member on board. This flexibility allows for optimal service and safety depending on the unique characteristics of each gulet.

Will the crew speak English?

While English may not be Turkey’s first language, you can generally expect at least one crew member on board who can communicate fluently in English. The crew is well-versed in handling international guests, and efforts are made to ensure effective communication throughout the trip. The presence of English-speaking crew members enhances the overall experience for travelers, providing essential assistance and information during the cruise.

What do I need to bring on board?

Upon receiving your confirmation ticket, an essential pre-departure information pack is attached to the email. This pack contains crucial details about your upcoming cruise, including what is included and what is not. To avoid surprises on the day of departure, it is imperative to thoroughly read and understand the information provided.

The essential packing list includes

1. Passports for check-in.
2. Towels (Note: Bath or swimming towels are not provided by alaturca).
3. Personal items such as sunblock, after sun lotion, mosquito repellent, seasickness tablets, sunglasses, swimsuit, camera, and shoes for        onshore visits. (Note: Shoes are not allowed to be worn on the boat.)
4. Cigarettes or snacks, as they are not sold on board.
It’s important to note that bringing any drinks on board, including water, is not permitted. However, you can purchase drinks along the way at some of the harbors you visit.

What’s included and what’s not included?
Included

• Accommodation in a cabin with a private bathroom.
• Three meals a day, plus afternoon tea.
• All gulet taxes, port fees, and harbor departure paperwork.
• Bed linen.

Not Included

• Drinks.
• Entrance fees.
• Optional extras like water sports or other offered activities.
• Tips for the crew.
• Bath and swimming towels.
• Snacks.

Do you provide towels?

Swimming towels are not provided on board, and alaturca only offers bath towels. Therefore, it is essential for passengers to bring their swimming towels for use during the trip. An additional towel or light sarong is recommended for use on sunbeds, protecting them from sunscreen and salt on the body.

Am I allowed to bring my drinks on board?

No, bringing any drinks on board, including water, is not permitted. Alaturca requests passengers to refrain from bringing any beverages on board. All drinks are available for purchase on board at reasonable prices. The Captain has the discretion to charge passengers caught with their drinks on board or confiscate them, returning them at the end of the trip.

Is there snorkeling gear and water sports equipment on the gulet?

Yes, most alaturca boats provide snorkeling equipment and some water sport flotation devices. The availability of this equipment may vary from boat to boat, and passengers will share it with others on the cruise. For those keen on snorkeling or desiring a floatable sunbed at every swimming stop, it is advisable to bring along personal gear to ensure a more personalized and enjoyable experience.

Is there anywhere that I can charge my camera, phone, or other electrical items on the gulet?

All gulets are equipped with standard power plugs providing 12W or 24W power, which may not be sufficient for charging larger electrical items such as laptops or for using devices like hair dryers or hair straighteners. However, this power is suitable for charging smaller devices like phones, iPods, or camera batteries. While in the harbor, passengers have access to 220W power, which is ideal for charging larger items if necessary.

Some gulets are equipped with generators that allow charging at 220W, although this is only operational at specific times. Additionally, certain gulets operate solely on solar power, enhancing sustainability and environmental consciousness.

Do the gulets have air conditioning?

All our gulets are Classic Turkish Wooden Gulets. Gulets on tours departing on Saturdays and Sundays offer the option of air conditioning, while on other days, there is no air conditioning available on board. This information ensures passengers are aware of the amenities provided and can plan accordingly for their comfort during the cruise.

What if I am on a special diet? Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

For passengers with special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, or allergies, alaturca makes every effort to accommodate specific needs. It is advised to email ahead of the cruise to inform the crew of any dietary restrictions. Additionally, passengers are encouraged to remind the crew member during check-in, allowing the chef to be informed promptly. This proactive approach ensures that dietary requirements are met, enhancing the overall experience for passengers with special dietary needs.

Are all transfers included?

For the Olympos to Fethiye cruise, passengers are transferred from Olympos to Demre as part of the cruise package. Upon arrival in Fethiye, no transfers are provided. For Fethiye to Olympos cruises, passengers are collected from centrally located hotels in Fethiye (excluding Calis, Oludeniz, Hisaronu, and Ovacik) and transferred to Olympos at the end of the cruise. While no other transfers are included, passengers can arrange special pick-up and drop-off arrangements by consulting with a member of the alaturca crew before the cruise.

Is there WiFi onboard?

All gulets operated by alaturca are equipped with WiFi, providing passengers with connectivity during the cruise. While free WiFi options are available onboard, reception may vary in certain locations. Nonetheless, the provision of WiFi enhances passenger experience, allowing for communication and connectivity during the journey.

Do you accept credit card payments?

All cruise balances, optional activities, and bar tabs must be settled in cash, as credit card payments are not accepted. This policy ensures clarity regarding payment methods and facilitates smooth transactions during the cruise. Passengers are advised to plan accordingly and carry sufficient cash for any additional expenses incurred during the trip.

Land Tours

Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Turkey through our meticulously crafted Land Tours. Led by experienced guides, these tours offer immersive experiences, allowing you to discover the hidden treasures and cultural marvels of this enchanting destination.

What is the difference between door-to-door and semi-door-to-door tours?

A full door-to-door service entails the convenience of being picked up directly from your hotel and dropped off at the doorstep of your next accommodation. This comprehensive service ensures a seamless and hassle-free transition between locations.

In some instances, especially with bus services, achieving a complete door-to-door service may not always be feasible. In such cases, passengers are required to use the public bus system, which is pre-organized by the tour operator. This more limited service, where certain legs of the journey involve public transportation, is referred to as a semi-door-to-door tour. This distinction is essential for travelers to understand the extent of the transportation services provided during their tour.

What do I do with my itinerary?

If you have booked a tour lasting longer than one day, you will receive a detailed itinerary from an alaturca staff member. The itinerary serves as a comprehensive breakdown of your tour, providing day-to-day details such as pick-up times, pick-up locations, booked accommodations, and inclusions for each day. It is crucial to read and familiarize yourself with the itinerary as it contains essential information for the duration of your trip.

While you may not need to show the itinerary to individuals along the way, having it readily accessible is a good practice to ensure a smooth and organized travel experience. The pre-booking of all details in the itinerary contributes to a well-planned and coordinated tour.

Who do I contact if I have any questions along the way?

It is advisable to ensure that you are comfortable with your itinerary before departure. However, should you have any questions or require assistance from the alaturca team during your tour or trip throughout Turkey, various contact methods are available.

Your itinerary will include our office number, a 24-hour mobile number, and a fax number for communication. Additionally, the team can be reached online through E-mail or WhatsApp. Notably, the mobile number provided in your itinerary is available 24 hours a day, ensuring accessibility in case of emergencies day or night. For a comprehensive list of confirmed contact details, you can visit the “Contact Us” section on the alaturca website.