Want a truly enjoyable and luxurious way to experience Kalkan? Then a day spent on one of the many charming gullets is our top recommendation. The quaint harbour is home to more than 40 gullets of varying sizes which offer daily cruises around the crystal-clear waters of the various bays surrounding Kalkan. Boat captains and their teams provide incredible service for great value. There is nothing more refreshing in the heat of the summer than feeling the wind in your hair as you sail from bay to bay and dive into the cool waters at the various calling points. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from a day at sea in Kalkan.

Discover Unspoiled Coves and Beaches

Tours set sail at around 9.30 a.m and you will cruise along to several beautiful bays where you can swim throughout the day. Depending on the sea conditions you can even go out as far along as Kaputas beach. This is one of the most photographed beaches in Turkey. Sat at the mouth of a towering gorge with white sands and turquoise waters Kaputas is a striking landmark.

One of the highlights of the day is the calling point at Gerenlik Beach otherwise known as ‘mud beach’. This unspoiled natural spot has walls of nutrient-full clay lining its borders. The boat crew will swim across and mix it with water for you to lather onto your body before allowing it to dry in the sun. Once rinsed off your skin feels incredibly smooth and soft. As well as being a great and comical photo opportunity this free of charge natural spa treatment goes down very well with many guests!

The pristine waters that encircle the Kalkan area are full of natural cold mineral springs. A dip in the sea gives welcome relief from the heat of the sun. As the waters are so clear snorkelling is possible at every calling point and all boats have snorkelling equipment available to use (free of charge). The salinity level of the water in this area is high. This is great for less confident swimmers as it helps you to float more easily. You can always request a noodle float from the captain to help you stay comfortably adrift if you are nervous in deeper waters.

Of course, if you are a sun worshipper then plenty of sun beds cover the bows of the gulets. You can enjoy basking in the rays whilst taking in the views and being gently rocked by the currents. With the captain and team on hand to serve beverages on request you will really feel like you are living the high life!

Nature Spotting

As well as exploring the natural landscape around Kalkan and the two islands – Snake and Mouse Island which mark the Kalkan horizon you will quite likely encounter some sea life. At lunchtime be sure to throw a little bread into the sea. You will be surprised by the shoals of swarming fish that come up to the surface. Occasionally dolphins have been spotted in the deeper waters beyond the harbour, but this is a rare sight. However, the giant loggerhead turtles which inhabit the area often pop their heads up to say hello.

A Foodie’s Delight!

If you are a lover of Turkish cuisine, then you are in for a treat. The lunches on a gulet trip are perhaps even more exciting than an evening meal at one of the fabulous Kalkan restaurants. Basically, you are getting the equivalent of Turkish tapas – but with much bigger portions. It’s a real opportunity to get a taste of a wide range of traditional, home cooked Turkish – Mediterranean dishes. A variety of freshly prepared cold and hot mezzes, chicken, fish and numerous salads are served with fresh Turkish bread. You will be amazed at what can be created in the small kitchens of these gulets.

As tempting as it is to overindulge on the delicious lunch, hold back as more food is coming! Later in the afternoon you will be served a platter of the most appetising fruit as well as cake and tea or coffee. Soft and alcoholic beverages are served throughout the day but unlike the food, are not included in the price of the trip.

How long does it last?

Typically, a daytime trip embarks on its journey at 09.30 in the morning and returns at approximately 17:30 in the afternoon. If you are not a sun-lover then you could adventure out on a sunset trip where you will sail out towards the sunset and dine under the stars. Sunset trips start from 18:30 and return at 22:30-23:00.

Is it private?

This is entirely up to you! Gulets are available for private hire for groups or families, or you can join a daily tour and take the opportunity to meet other Kalkan lovers.

How much does it cost?

Prices vary depending on which gulet you choose and whether you want to hire privately, in which case the size of your group will in part determine the price. If you are joining a shared trip the price per person ranges from £25 each to £40 (2021 prices). Prices includes your space on the gulet and all food throughout the day.

Which boat should you choose?

Now this one is difficult to answer. We have experienced great hospitality and many memorable days on numerous gulets in Kalkan so picking out one is pretty tricky. Of course, one of the deciding factors will be availability and which boat has space for your group on any chosen day. Getting your request in early is a good idea particularly in high season. If you have infants or toddlers in your group, we recommend a day on the Falcon boat. Being one of the biggest in the harbour has the advantage of spacious decks, enclosed sides, double sun beds and plenty of shade. It’s ideal for toddlers to roam around freely and safely. You will also find a well-stocked bar with a great cocktail menu, a great bonus to this boat!

Other boats that stand out for us are Muddy, Chillout and Pina X. All are suitable for an intimate group of around 12 guests with very friendly and accommodating crews and excellent captain-come-chefs! Regardless of which boat you tour with you will have a wonderful time and a very full stomach by the end of the trip.

Special Occasions

Perhaps you are planning to celebrate something special in Kalkan? Perhaps a big birthday or anniversary or even a wedding. Why not do it in style with the fantastic backdrop of the sea? All of the gulets accommodate for such occasions with enough notice and you can be sure to have a truly memorable celebration.

How can Kalkan Holiday Property Help?

We know that you want to make the best of your time in Kalkan. That’s why we offer a round the clock service to all guests staying at our properties. Our advisors are happy to help you plan your itinerary, arrange meals or book days at any of the local establishments and even plan celebrations for special occasions. Whatever the question our friendly team will be happy to advise, just contact us for more information.