Queen of Datca: A Broker’s Guide to the Turkish Coast

When clients seek the definitive Turkish gulet experience, they want more than just a yacht. They want authenticity, comfort, and a flawless service that feels intuitive. We recommend the Queen of Datca because she delivers on all three, making her an ideal platform for exploring Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
Why We Recommend This Gulet for a Turkish Charter
In a market with hundreds of options, selecting the right gulet is the most critical decision you'll make. As brokers, we don't just review specifications; we analyse crew performance, charter history, and years of client feedback. This is where the Queen of Datca consistently proves her value.
Her traditional wooden construction offers an authentic connection to Turkey's maritime heritage, a quality often missing in newer vessels. This classic appeal is supported by modern systems, ensuring you experience the charm without sacrificing comfort.

The Ideal Size for Coastal Discovery
At 34 metres, the Queen of Datca is perfectly scaled for Turkish waters. We find this size is large enough for stability and spacious comfort, yet nimble enough to access the secluded coves that larger yachts cannot reach. This provides a significant advantage when navigating popular routes between Bodrum and Göcek.
Her five-cabin layout comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests. This makes her an exceptional choice for:

Multi-generational families: The cabin mix and generous deck space provide both social and private areas.
Groups of friends: The large aft deck is perfectly designed for communal dining and evening relaxation.

We recommend the Queen of Datca because she is a reliable, high-quality charter platform. The combination of her authentic character, ideal size, and expert crew makes her a standout choice for an unforgettable Turkish gulet charter.
An Authentic and Luxurious Experience
A gulet charter is about immersion. The Queen of Datca’s expansive decks are designed for outdoor living, whether sunbathing on the foredeck or enjoying a meal on the shaded aft deck. This direct connection to the stunning scenery is the essence of a Turkish gulet holiday.
Ultimately, we recommend her because she is a trusted vessel for discovering the Turkish coast. She offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic charm.
A Look Inside: Layout and Amenities

We step aboard dozens of gulets each year. What immediately stands out about the Queen of Datca is her intelligent use of space. The seamless flow between indoor and outdoor areas is precisely what you need for a Mediterranean charter. It feels less like a boat and more like a private villa on the water.
The interior saloon is a cool, air-conditioned retreat panelled in rich wood. It’s a perfect spot to escape the midday sun, but most of your time will be spent on deck.
Designed for Life Outdoors
The aft deck is the heart of the yacht. This is where you will gather for long, leisurely meals around the large alfresco dining table. It’s designed for memorable dinners that last late into the evening.
Forward, the uncluttered sundeck is lined with loungers and offers panoramic views. It is the best place to be while cruising from one turquoise bay to the next.
Cabins and Accommodations
The Queen of Datca accommodates 10 guests in five well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins. We often recommend her for mixed groups due to this flexible layout.
The cabin configuration includes:

Two Master Cabins
Two Double Cabins
One Twin Cabin

Crucially, every cabin has its own en-suite bathroom. This detail provides privacy and comfort for all guests.
Queen of Datca At a Glance

Specification
Details

Length
34 metres (111 ft)

Builder
Yener Yat

Built
2009 (Refit 2021)

Guest Capacity
10 Guests

Cabins
5 (2 Master, 2 Double, 1 Twin)

Cruising Speed
10 knots

Crew
5

As your broker, we advise that the five-cabin layout is a significant advantage. It offers more flexibility than many gulets of a similar size, making her a reliable choice for various group dynamics.
Onboard Water Toys
The Queen of Datca is equipped with a selection of water toys perfect for the calm, sheltered coves of Turkey. This makes her a fantastic choice for active families and groups.
Launched in 2009, this 34-metre vessel is a proven charter yacht with a solid reputation. Two reliable MAN diesel engines provide a comfortable cruising speed of 10 knots, ideal for cruising between hotspots like Bodrum and the Göcek islands. You can find more of her technical background on the Queen of Datca profile on Boat International.
The Crew: Your Professional Hosts
A great yacht provides the platform, but an exceptional crew delivers the experience. We know from years of chartering the Queen of Datca that her professional crew is one of the most consistent and intuitive teams on the Turkish coast.
Their seamless teamwork is what truly sets this charter apart. We advise clients that a good crew operates silently, powering every perfect moment behind the scenes. This team has mastered that art.
The Captain: Your Local Expert
The captain is your key to unlocking the secrets of the Turquoise Coast. Their local knowledge is encyclopaedic. This is crucial in a popular cruising area like the waters between Bodrum and Göcek, where knowing which bay offers shelter or seclusion makes all the difference.
We trust this captain to craft an itinerary that feels personal and exclusive. They know the best anchorages, the quietest times to visit historical sites, and the charming local restaurants you won't find in guidebooks.
The Chef: A Culinary Journey
The food is a highlight of any luxury charter. The chef aboard the Queen of Datca is a master of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Before your trip, we work with you on a detailed preference sheet to tailor every menu to your group's tastes.
The chef sources fresh ingredients from local markets and fishermen, ensuring every dish is vibrant and authentic. All dietary needs are handled with creativity and care.
From our perspective as brokers, crew quality is non-negotiable. The team on the Queen of Datca consistently receives outstanding feedback. Their professionalism and warmth are the cornerstones of the yacht's reputation.
The Service Team: Effortless Comfort
The deckhands and stewardesses manage the daily guest experience. They handle everything from serving drinks and maintaining the yacht to assisting with water toys. Their service is attentive yet never intrusive.
They understand the rhythm of a charter holiday, ensuring your time aboard is completely effortless.
Crafting Your Turkish Coast Itinerary
A private gulet charter offers total freedom. The true luxury is waking up in a stunning new anchorage each morning. The itinerary below is a framework we’ve developed from years of experience; the best journeys are customised along the way.
Your captain will work with you daily to adjust the route based on weather, your mood, or a new discovery. This flexibility is what defines a genuine charter adventure.
A Sample 7-Day Route: Bodrum to Göcek
This classic one-way route showcases the diversity of the Turkish coast. We recommend this direction as it moves from lively towns to tranquil, nature-focused anchorages.

Day 1: Embark in Bodrum & Cruise to Orak IslandYour trip begins in Bodrum. After settling in, a short cruise takes you to Orak Island, known for its crystal-clear water. It is a perfect, gentle start.

Day 2: The Seven Islands & English HarbourCruise to the Seven Islands, a cluster of pine-clad islets ideal for swimming and watersports. Later, move to the sheltered English Harbour for a quiet night.

Day 3: Cleopatra’s Beach & KaracasöğütVisit Sedir Island, home to the legendary Cleopatra’s Beach. Afterwards, anchor in the quiet village of Karacasöğüt for a glimpse of local life.

Day 4: Exploring the Datça PeninsulaThe Datça Peninsula is rugged and beautiful. Your captain will find a stunning, secluded bay like Knidos, where you can explore ancient ruins.

Day 5: The Quaint Town of FethiyeWe recommend an early start for the passage to Fethiye, a charming harbour town. Here you can explore the Lycian rock tombs and enjoy the bustling market.

Day 6: The Sunken City of KekovaCruise over the sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city near Kekova Island. The clear water reveals submerged foundations directly from the deck.

Day 7: Göcek’s Tranquil BaysFor your final day, explore the famous Göcek bays like Bedri Rahmi or Tomb Bay. These spots are known for their staggering beauty and calm waters.

Why We Recommend These Stops
Each destination is chosen for a specific reason, backed by years of client feedback. Fethiye offers a perfect taste of Turkish town life, while the Kekova region is a must for history enthusiasts. The Göcek bays are simply some of the most beautiful and protected anchorages in the Mediterranean.
As your brokers, our role is to help you build the perfect trip. Think of this itinerary as a well-crafted suggestion. The crew of the Queen of Datca excels at tailoring the journey to make it uniquely yours.
Charter Costs and Booking Process
We believe in complete transparency when planning a charter on the Queen of Datca.
The primary cost is the charter fee. This secures the yacht, its professional crew, and its insurance for your exclusive use.
Understanding the APA
The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a standard industry system for managing your onboard expenses. It is not an extra fee but a separate fund for variable costs like:

All food and beverages.
Fuel for the gulet and water toys.
Port or marina fees.

We recommend budgeting an APA of around 25-30% of the charter fee for a Turkish gulet charter. The captain manages this fund with full transparency. Any remaining funds are returned to you at the end of the trip.
Planning and Securing Your Charter
A sought-after gulet like the Queen of Datca books quickly, especially for the high season. Weekly charter rates for a yacht of this quality range between €27,500 and €56,000, depending on the season. She is kept in top condition with annual servicing and recent refits, as seen in various yacht charter listings for Turkish gulets.
We recommend booking early. For a July or August charter, you should confirm six to nine months in advance. The best gulets with the most experienced crews are always the first to be secured.
The booking process is straightforward. We use a standard MYBA (The Worldwide Yachting Association) contract. A 50% deposit secures your dates, with the final 50% and the full APA due one month before embarkation.
Is the Queen of Datca Right for You?
Our most important job is ensuring the yacht we recommend is the right fit for your group. The Queen of Datca is a versatile gulet that excels for specific types of charters.
Her five-cabin layout, expansive deck areas, and selection of water toys make her our go-to recommendation for multi-generational family holidays. The crew is particularly skilled at catering to different age groups.
Ideal for Families and Friends
For families, she offers a safe and fun environment. The calm, sheltered bays of the Turkish coast are a natural playground. The Queen of Datca is also a superb choice for friends seeking a relaxing and stylish escape. The elegant alfresco dining area is the perfect setting for memorable evenings.
We consistently find that crew adaptability is key to a successful charter. The team aboard the Queen of Datca understands the different rhythms of various groups and tailors their service accordingly.
A Premier Choice for Retreats
Her high standards also make her a strong candidate for more focused trips. We have seen her used effectively for small-scale corporate or wellness retreats. She offers a private, impressive setting away from distractions.
Ultimately, selecting the right vessel is the foundation of an unforgettable trip. We are here to act as your trusted advisors, guiding you to the yacht that best fits your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to the questions we hear most often from clients planning a Turkish gulet charter.
When is the best time to charter a gulet in Turkey?
We recommend the shoulder seasons of June and September. The weather is fantastic, the sea is warm, and the popular anchorages are quieter than in July and August.
How are food and drink costs handled?
These are managed through the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA). Before your trip, we collect your preferences, and the crew provisions the yacht accordingly. It is a transparent system where you only pay for what you consume.
Do we need any sailing experience?
No. The Queen of Datca is a fully crewed charter yacht. The professional captain and crew handle all navigation, sailing, and anchoring. Your role is simply to relax.
What are the payment terms?
A 50% deposit of the charter fee is due upon signing the contract. The remaining 50%, plus the full APA, is due one month before your charter begins. This is the industry standard.

Ready to create your own unforgettable journey along the Turkish coast? The team at DMA Yachting is here to guide you through every step, from selecting the perfect gulet to crafting a bespoke itinerary.
Explore our fleet and start planning at https://myturkishcharter.com.