Packing for a Blue Cruise in Turkey

One of the quintessential experiences of traveling in Turkey’s Mediterranean region is going on what’s known as a “blue cruise.” Named for the Turkish boats called gulets that sail the crystal blue waters, it’s a way to see the region’s ruins and history while soaking up the sun and eating the best food the country has to offer. Here you’ll find some of the most colorful sunsets and the friendliest people. So if Turkey is on your itinerary, be sure to go on a blue cruise.

Most tours leave from the port towns of Bodrum, Antalya and Fethiye. Tour companies each have their own offers, but most are similar packages, running three to seven days and docking along the way. Most do a lap and return to their embarkation point.

Food and accommodation are included, but you’ll need to pay extra for drinks and entry into attractions. Due to the hospitable climate, you can go on these types of tours as late in the season as November, as I did a few years ago.

When it comes to packing for a blue cruise in Turkey, or really any small cruise excursion, remember to pack light, as you won’t need much. If you’re returning to your original destination, I might even recommend bringing a small day bag onto the boat and leaving the rest at the hotel you previously stayed at.

There isn’t much room for baggage storage on these boats, so keep this in mind. Soft bags are best, as they can be pushed under your bed while suitcases can be difficult to maneuver down the dock and onto the boat itself. I brought a 45-liter backpack, which was a good bag to have. Before you go, find out what is included on your specific cruise. Towels and sheets are typically included, so you can leave them behind.

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What to Pack for a Blue Cruise

Clothing

Packing for a blue cruise can be a simple affair when it comes to clothing. It’s okay to wear the same few clothing items repeatedly, especially if you’re spending most of your time in a swimsuit. Despite the fact that some regions of Turkey are conservative, the coastal regions tend to be more laid back.

• 4 tops– For only a few days, bring tops to wear with skirts and shorts.
• 2 swimsuits– Bring one to wash while you wear the other.
• 2 pairs of shorts– If you’re doing more adventurous activities, you might want to swap one pair for athletic shorts.
• 1 skirt– Mix up your wardrobe with a skirt to go with your tops.
• 2 dresses– Pack one maxi dress for visiting mosques and one for going out. They can also serve as a cover up for swimsuits.
• 1 hat– Keep yourself from getting sunburnt with a floppy or baseball hat.
• 1 scarf– A big scarf can be used to cover up your swimsuit or for your head when visiting mosques.
• 1 rain jacket– A light windbreaker can be worn at night to protect from breezes or in case of storms.
• 3 pairs of shoes– Pick only three, but I recommend one pair of sporty sandals, one pair of cute sandals and one pair of either flats or sneakers.

Odds and Ends

Apart from your standard toiletries and items you bring on just about any trip, here are a few more to consider.

• Sunscreen– I didn’t bring any because I was flying carry on only and ended up spending a small fortune on a bottle when I arrived. Bring your own if possible!
• Books or Kindle– I went through at least 2 books, including a huge 900+ page one, in that week. There were a few left on the boat and swapped around, but be prepared with reading material.
• Decks of cards– We played a number of card games and backgammon, but it’s nice to bring your own games as well. Cards Against Humanity is always a hit!
• Travel clothesline and clothespins– You’ll want to have something to hang your wet clothes on without them flying off when the boat moves.
• Chargers– It’s tricky to charge your electronics on the boat since outlets are limited and they only work when the engine is on. I recommend a travel surge protector with USB outlets like the Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Travel Swivel Charger Surge Protector.
• Seasickness pills– Even if you don’t get motion sickness it’s good to bring motion sickness pills. You might hit rough waters and wish you had them.
• Eye mask and earplugs– Some of your travel companions may be drinking late night while you might want shut eye.
• Lock– Our doors didn’t lock, but I had no problems with anyone taking anything. But if you’re worried about it, bring a lock for your bag and keep your valuables in there. But if possible, leave them at home.
• Goggles– Scuba diving is popular in this area, but even if you’re not certified, it’s good to bring your own goggles for snorkeling and swimming. Some ships will have their own, but there might not be enough pairs or some may be broken. You can also bring floats if you like!

Other things to consider is a small purse for going out to keep your essentials. Our group only went out two nights, as the rest were docked in coves rather than in cities, including one night in Kas and another at Smuggler’s Cove and their famous pirate bar.

Meals are included, typically family-style, but if you have special dietary requirements, be sure to let your tour company know well in advance. Also bring some snacks, particularly if you’re a vegetarian as the dishes can be meat-heavy. Most of the port towns also don’t have major airports and Dalaman is the closest, still a few hours from Fethiye. But arriving by bus is easy and efficient.

So is a blue cruise in Turkey now on your bucket list?

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This post may include Amazon affiliate links that provide no extra cost to you. I traveled to Turkey in partnership with BusAbout.