As seasoned charter brokers in Turkey, we see hundreds of gulets. The Gulet Admiral consistently stands out for one critical reason: its ability to comfortably host large groups. Finding a high-quality gulet charter in Turkey for more than 20 guests is a significant challenge. This makes the Admiral our go-to solution when clients require both space and a premium experience.
An Expert Look at the Gulet Admiral
On the Turkish charter market, a gulet like the Admiral is a strategic asset for executing exceptional group voyages. Our role as brokers is to assess what a charter will actually feel like. With the Admiral, her intelligent design and recent upgrades deliver a genuinely superior guest experience.
Built in 2013 and extensively refitted in 2023, this 45-metre yacht exemplifies modern Turkish craftsmanship. She blends classic wooden gulet charm with the comforts today's travellers demand. Her 16-cabin layout accommodates up to 36 guests, placing her in an exclusive category for large family reunions or corporate events on the Turquoise Coast. You can learn more about how these incredible vessels have shaped Turkish maritime tourism.
Let's review the specifications that directly impact your charter.
Gulet Admiral At a Glance
This table focuses on the features that have the biggest impact on your week at sea.
Feature
Specification
Why It Matters to You
Length
45 metres (147 ft)
Provides extensive deck space for sunbathing, dining, and lounging. This prevents any feeling of being crowded, even with a full guest list.
Guest Capacity
Up to 36 guests
One of the few premium options in Turkey for large corporate events, weddings, or multi-family holidays.
Cabins
16 cabins (all en-suite)
Guarantees every guest a private space with a bathroom. This is crucial for group harmony on a week-long charter.
Year Built
2013
A modern build means better systems, layout, and comfort were part of the original design, not an afterthought.
Recent Refit
2023
Ensures interiors, amenities, and technical systems are fresh and reliable. You are chartering a well-maintained, up-to-date vessel.
Engines
2 x 500 HP
Redundancy is key. Two engines secure your itinerary and significantly reduce the risk of mechanical delays.
These details are the foundation of a smooth, comfortable, and memorable charter.
The Importance of a Modern Refit
A refit is common; the quality of the refit is what counts. The Admiral’s 2023 update was comprehensive. We always pay close attention to recent refits because they demonstrate an owner's commitment to guest comfort. The work improved communal areas, modernised cabins, and ensured all technical systems are top-notch. For us, this is a clear indicator of a well-managed yacht and a reliable charter.
Dual Engines: A Non-Negotiable for Reliability
One of the Admiral’s most important features is something guests rarely see: her twin engines. Each 500-horsepower engine provides critical redundancy.
For a vessel of this size, cruising the long coastline from Bodrum to the Göcek bays, having two engines is a non-negotiable safety feature. It provides peace of mind and keeps your itinerary on track.
This is a detail we always verify for large gulets. It allows the captain to navigate with total confidence and ensures your holiday runs smoothly, without the delays a single-engine issue can cause. This is a core reason we confidently recommend the Admiral for large-scale charters.
What It's Like Onboard
Life aboard the Admiral is about space, comfort, and a crew that anticipates your needs. Unlike many gulets where a large group feels constrained, the Admiral is laid out like a private floating resort, giving everyone ample room to enjoy the Turkish coastline.
The huge foredeck is lined with sunbeds, perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean sun. The shaded aft deck, however, is the true social hub. In our experience, this is where guests spend most of their time, enjoying long, alfresco meals prepared by the gulet’s talented chef.
Smart Cabins and Active Days on the Water
We recommend the Admiral for large, mixed groups primarily because of its versatile cabin setup. She has 16 well-appointed, en-suite cabins with a mix of configurations rare on most yachts:
Double Cabins: Ideal for couples.
Twin Cabins: Excellent for friends or colleagues.
Triple Cabins: A practical solution for small families or groups of three.
This flexibility solves the logistical challenge of accommodating diverse groups without compromise.
Beyond the cabins, the Admiral is well-equipped for an active holiday. The yacht carries a solid selection of water toys for those who want more than just sunbathing.
Having water sports gear right on board is what turns a good charter into a great one. The crew are experts at safely deploying the canoes and paddleboards, turning any quiet bay in the Gulf of Gökova into your private playground.
It's the Crew That Makes the Difference
As impressive as the yacht is, the professional crew truly defines the experience. A gulet of this size requires a seasoned team, and the Admiral’s crew operates with the quiet efficiency that is the hallmark of genuine luxury service.
From the captain who knows the most secluded anchorages to the deckhands assisting with water toys and the chef tailoring menus to your tastes, their expertise is the invisible engine that powers your holiday. Their local knowledge is priceless, ensuring you visit the calmest bays and avoid the crowds. This level of service makes a charter on the Admiral feel effortless.
Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary from Bodrum
From our experience, a great charter is built on a well-paced itinerary. Since the Gulet Admiral is based in Bodrum, we've outlined two distinct 7-day routes that showcase the best of the Turquoise Coast.
A good itinerary balances cruising with quiet time, shore excursions with long afternoons on the water. This is how a typical day usually unfolds onboard, blending activity with relaxation.
This natural rhythm keeps your days full but never rushed.
The Gulf of Gökova Classic
We recommend the Gulf of Gökova for groups seeking tranquillity and a touch of ancient history. This route is about serene bays, crystal-clear water, and ruins often accessible only by sea. It’s the perfect choice to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
A typical 7-day Gökova itinerary:
Day 1-2: Cruise from Bodrum to Orak Island, then anchor off the pine-clad shores of Çökertme.
Day 3-4: Explore the Seven Islands marine area before visiting the famous Cleopatra Beach on Sedir Island.
Day 5-7: Anchor in peaceful English Harbour, discover ancient ruins, and enjoy a final swim at Kara Ada (Black Island) before returning to Bodrum.
This itinerary is less about hopping between towns and more about experiencing the raw beauty of the Turkish coast. It’s where you find quiet, empty coves, even in high season.
The Dynamic Bodrum to Marmaris Route
For groups wanting a mix of seclusion and vibrant coastal life, we suggest the route from Bodrum to Marmaris. This journey combines quiet anchorages with stops in charming towns like Datça, striking a fantastic balance between relaxation and cultural exploration.
A sample Bodrum to Marmaris journey:
Days 1-2: Depart Bodrum for the ancient port of Knidos. Wander through impressive ruins with panoramic sea views.
Days 3-4: Cruise to the Datça peninsula, known for its beautiful harbour and excellent local restaurants. We recommend an evening ashore here.
Days 5-6: Navigate towards Selimiye and Bozburun, two picturesque fishing villages famous for their waterfront eateries.
Day 7: Enjoy a final morning of swimming before disembarking in the lively port of Marmaris.
Both itineraries are completely customisable. Our job is to understand what your group wants—more history, more water sports, or more time in coastal towns—and work with the Admiral's captain to craft the perfect route for you.
Understanding Your Charter Costs and Booking
We believe in total transparency. As your broker, our job is to ensure you understand exactly what you're paying for, so there are no financial surprises.
The pricing for a luxury charter is broken into two parts: the charter fee and the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA).
The Charter Fee Explained
The charter fee is the hire price for the gulet. It secures the exclusive use of Admiral and her professional crew for your chosen dates.
This fee covers:
The Gulet Admiral: Your private use of the vessel and its onboard equipment.
The Crew: Salaries and food for your captain, chef, deckhands, and stewards.
Standard Fuel: For up to four hours of motoring per day, which is ample for most Turkish coast itineraries.
Turkish Port Dues: Fees for mooring in municipal harbours within Turkish waters.
Yacht Insurance: Comprehensive insurance covering the vessel.
This fee ensures the yacht is perfectly crewed, insured, and ready for you in Bodrum.
What is the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA)?
The APA is not an extra fee. It is your onboard expense account, managed transparently by the captain. It covers all variable costs unique to your group's preferences.
We advise clients to think of the APA as a household account for the week. It pays for the specific food and drinks you want, fuel for water toys, and any private marina fees.
For a gulet charter in Turkey, the APA is typically 25% to 30% of the charter fee. This is a realistic budget for a full group on Admiral.
APA funds are used for:
Food and Beverages: All meals, snacks, and drinks, purchased according to your preference sheets.
Extra Fuel: For extensive use of water toys or if your itinerary requires more motoring.
Private Marina Fees: If you choose to moor in a high-end marina.
Special Requests: Any other specific items or services needed during your charter.
The captain maintains a running tally of all expenses, with receipts available for your review. At the end of the charter, the account is settled. Any remaining funds are returned to you. If expenses exceed the APA, you settle the difference before disembarking.
When to Book Your Charter
To secure your preferred dates on Admiral, especially during the peak months of July and August, advance planning is essential. The demand for high-capacity gulets in Turkey consistently exceeds supply.
We strongly recommend booking 9 to 12 months in advance for a high-season charter. This secures your spot and provides ample time for our team to meticulously plan your itinerary and provisioning.
Is the Gulet Admiral Right for Your Group?
Our job as your charter broker is to ensure a perfect match between your group and your gulet. The Gulet Admiral is a fantastic vessel, but its suitability depends on your holiday goals. We provide our honest, professional assessment to ensure your trip meets your expectations.
The Admiral’s defining feature is her capacity. With 16 cabins for up to 36 guests, she is one of the few high-quality options in Turkey for large-scale private events.
An Ideal Match for Large Groups
We confidently recommend the Admiral for several types of charters. Her size and layout are purpose-built for events where guest comfort and private space are paramount.
Corporate Events & Incentives: The yacht's scale is perfect for professional gatherings. There is ample deck space for team activities and quiet areas for focused work while cruising the stunning Bodrum peninsula.
Large Family & Multigenerational Reunions: The mix of double, twin, and triple cabins provides the flexibility needed for complex family groups. All generations can have comfortable, private en-suite cabins.
Specialised Retreats: We have seen the Admiral used successfully for yoga and wellness workshops. The huge decks are perfect for group sessions, and the number of cabins ensures every participant has a personal sanctuary.
The real advantage of the Admiral is her ability to host a large group without sacrificing luxury or personal space. Every guest feels well looked after, which is the key to a successful large-group charter.
Client Profile Match for Gulet Admiral
A quick guide to see if this gulet meets your charter needs.
Group Type
Suitability Rating (1-5)
Our Professional Insight
Corporate Incentive Trips
5
Her layout and multiple deck zones are perfect for mixing business with leisure. She feels professional and impressive.
Large Family Reunions (20+ guests)
5
The variety of cabin types is a huge advantage. Everyone getting private space is key for harmony on a week-long trip.
Wellness & Yoga Retreats
4.5
Expansive, uncluttered decks are ideal for group activities. The number of cabins gives attendees the privacy they expect.
Weddings & Celebrations
4.5
She can host a large, elegant liveaboard event with ease. She is not intended for single-day charters.
Small Groups (under 12 guests)
2
For smaller groups, she is simply too large. We would recommend a smaller gulet to provide a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Performance Sailing Enthusiasts
2
She is a comfortable, stable motor-sailer, not a nimble sailing yacht. If you want to spend most of your time under sail, we would suggest other options.
This table shows where the Admiral truly shines—with larger groups that need space, privacy, and quality service.
When Another Gulet Might Be a Better Fit
Being upfront is how we build trust. While the Admiral is superb for many, she isn’t the right fit for everyone. We would be the first to guide you to another gulet if it better suits your vision.
For smaller groups of 8-12 guests, the Admiral’s size can feel impersonal. A more intimate gulet provides a cozier atmosphere, which is often what smaller families seek.
Additionally, while she is a stable motor-sailer, the Admiral is not built for high-performance sailing. If your group dreams of an authentic, wind-powered journey, we would recommend a different style of gulet. Our job is to listen and find the yacht that ticks all your boxes.
Common Questions About Chartering Gulet Admiral
Here are straight answers to the questions we hear most often from clients considering Admiral, based on our direct experience with the gulet and her crew.
How Do You Vet Admiral for Safety?
Safety is our top priority. Every yacht in our fleet, especially a large-capacity vessel like Admiral, undergoes a strict vetting process. We personally inspect her annually, checking everything from fire extinguishers and life rafts to the cleanliness of the engine room.
We also maintain a long-standing relationship with the owner and captain. We verify that all their documentation—commercial registration, insurance, and crew licenses—is current and fully compliant with Turkish maritime law. Admiral meets the rigorous safety standards required for a commercial passenger vessel of her size.
Can We Really Customise the Itinerary and Menu?
Absolutely. The sample itineraries are conversation starters, not fixed schedules.
Before your trip, we send a detailed preference sheet. This is where you specify your desires:
Pace: Do you prefer active cruising or long, lazy afternoons in a quiet cove?
Interests: Are you interested in ancient ruins, lively port towns, or total seclusion and water sports?
Food and drink: List any allergies, dietary needs, favourite dishes, or specific beverage requests.
The captain and chef build your entire experience around this information. While we help lock in a general route beforehand, the crew can almost always accommodate spontaneous changes if conditions permit.
What's the Standard Practice for Tipping the Crew in Turkey?
Crew gratuities are standard in the charter industry and are a significant part of their income. The amount is at your discretion and should reflect your satisfaction with the service.
As a guideline, a gratuity of 10% to 15% of the base charter fee is customary in Turkey. You typically give this to the captain at the end of the charter, and he distributes it fairly among the entire crew.
This acknowledges everyone who contributed to your trip, including those working behind the scenes.
Is There Wi-Fi Onboard?
Yes, Gulet Admiral has Wi-Fi, but it is important to have realistic expectations. The system uses coastal 4G networks, similar to a mobile phone.
In popular areas like the bays around Bodrum or Göcek, the signal is usually adequate for checking emails and light browsing. In remote coves or further offshore, the connection will likely become slow or unavailable. It is not suitable for streaming video or conference calls. We recommend downloading any necessary media or work files before you board.
Ready to plan your group charter on the Turquoise Coast? The team at DMA Yachting is here to match you with the perfect vessel and craft an itinerary that exceeds your expectations. Explore your options and start your journey today. Find out more at https://myturkishcharter.com.
