Five-star blue cruise from Marmaris to world-famous bays

Interest in blue cruise holidays is increasing every year in the region, which stands out with its world-famous bays, unique natural beauties, and sea tourism.

Besides day trips and boat tours done with at least 50 people, a more private and personal holiday alternative with luxury yachts offering a more isolated holiday concept is becoming widespread. Burcu Erdemir, owner of a tourism company operating in Marmaris, made evaluations about the latest situation of the blue cruise sector, holiday preferences, and prices.

Erdemir stated that interest in boat holidays has clearly increased in the post-pandemic period and especially that the blue cruise culture, which has been preferred in Europe for many years, has recently started to become widespread among domestic tourists as well.

Erdemir pointed out that boat holidays offer different advantages compared to hotels, explaining that on a boat, an average crew of 5 people works depending on the size of the boat and the guest's preference, guests can receive service throughout the day, and they have the opportunity to wake up in a different bay or port every day.

'Options available for every budget'

Erdemir noted that there is a wide range of options from 10-meter boutique boats to luxury yachts reaching up to 50 meters in blue cruises, and prices vary according to the size, equipment, and service level of the boat.

Burcu Erdemir stated that daily boat rental fees start from approximately 1,000 Euros and added that this figure can rise to 10,000 Euros and above in the luxury segment.

Erdemir said, "As the equipment and services offered by the boats increase, prices also change. However, today, a boat option suitable for almost every budget and expectation can be found."

'Routes are determined according to guests' preferences'

Erdemir said that guests' expectations are very important in planning blue cruises, explaining that they create different routes for those who prefer regions highlighted by their restaurants, those who want to shop, or those who want to focus on water sports.

Erdemir stated that they usually recommend the Kuşadası route for guests who prefer water sports, and direct holidaymakers who want to experience restaurants and see different islands to the Göcek route.

'Interest in Greek islands continues'

Burcu Erdemir stated that there is ongoing demand for the Greek islands; however, due to changed rules after the pandemic, not every boat can operate on these routes and only boats that meet the necessary technical qualifications and service standards can organize trips to the Greek islands.

'Warning to holidaymakers about document checks'

Erdemir also gave important warnings to citizens planning boat holidays, emphasizing that the official documents of the company to be booked must be verified. She noted that social media accounts alone do not indicate reliability and that it is very important for holidaymakers to check TURSAB registrations and travel agency documents to prevent possible grievances.