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A Gulet is the traditional Turkish two masted wooden boat. They were originally used mainly as fishing boats and for cargo transportation around half a century ago. These days they are primarily used for the purpose of tourist charter adventures, cruising the azure blue coast line of Turkey. The consruction of gulets started in the Bodrum area. Then, to cater for a growing market, contruction expanded to the areas of Bozburun , Marmaris , Fethiye and Istanbul. Gulets are hand-crafted by specialist carpenters and ship builders who use long lasting wood for the construction.
These lastings woods are Teak , Mahogany and Iroko.
Teak : Teak trees grow in Muson and the wood is known for its durability in heavy weather conditions. Teak is a very valuable wood. It is expensive and is generally imported to Turkey. Boat builders use the teak mostly on the decks of the boat. The colour of the teak seems grey but it doesn’t mean that its old, on the contrary the colour shows the quality of the product.
Mahogany : Mahogany originates from middle America and the west of India, but Mahogany trees also grow in Africa.Carpenters use the mahogany in the interior of gulets for cabins and hull design. its an elastic material that has many uses.
Iroko: Iroko is more expensive than both Teak and Mahogany. It is generally grown in Africa. Iroko is a long lasting hard wood and is used on the exterior and the deck of a gulet.We see the use of Iroko mostly in delux gulets and higher standards.
Gulets are generally two masted. These days they are built of either wood or iron, they can cruise under both motor and sails and are commonly termed 'Motorsailors'.
The main saloon on a gulet generally includes a bar and lounging area for watching tv and relaxing, and for having dinner. They are also have air conditioning facilities in the saloons of most gulets.
On deck, the gulets have a large area for sunbathing or lounging in the shade of a sun awning. All the gulets have enough sun cushions for relaxing and sunbathing for all guests on board. The aft deck has wide lounging space and a table for outside dining and entertainment.
The size of the gulets is between 17 – 40 meters (55 – 131 feet).
The number of cabins on a gulet is between 3 – 12. These are usually doubles and all have their own ensuite bathroom and shower as well as storage space and wardrobes to hang your clothes. Cabins come with linen, a blanket and towels.
Although gulets are most famously Turkish, they can also be found in many other countries such as: Greece
- England
- Spain
- Croatia
- italy
- America
- Caribbean
- Maldives |
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