Gulet, catamaran or motor yacht? Seven criteria for choosing the right boat

For first-time charterers, the hardest decision is the type of vessel. Each of the three has its own strengths and weaknesses, and seven criteria make the choice easier.

1. Group size and cabin layout

Guletler carry 6-16 guests, with mostly small double cabins. On catamarans 8-10 guests is ideal, with roomy cabins and a separate saloon. Motor yachts offer a more private layout for 6-10.

2. Budget

For the same capacity, guletler are usually the best value. A mid-season weekly charter costs about €10,000 for eight guests on a gulet, €12,000 on a catamaran and €14,000 on a motor yacht.

3. Motion and seasickness

Catamarans are the steadiest thanks to their two hulls. A gulet heels more in the wind; a motor yacht reduces that with stabilisers.

4. Speed and places seen

A motor yacht cruises at 18-22 knots and shows the most coves in a week. Guletler and catamarans sail at 7-9 knots, for those who are not in a hurry.

5. Food and service

Gulet chefs specialise in traditional Aegean cooking. On luxury motor yachts a chef and hostess team offers a restaurant-style service.

6. Children and safety

A catamaran's flat deck is the safest for small children. Guletler may have stepped access; the captain prepares nets and jackets for children.

7. Atmosphere

If you want teak decks, traditional build and a holiday that flows slowly, choose a gulet. For modern design and generous living space choose a catamaran or motor yacht.

Sample scenarios

Two couples, one week: a four-cabin gulet protects the budget and gives each couple a private bathroom. The Göcek route uses the engine little thanks to its short distances.

Two families and four children: a catamaran with four or five cabins lets children play safely on its flat deck and netting. The shared saloon is where everyone meets in the evening.

Eight friends, a birthday week: a motor yacht with three or four cabins shows many coves in a short time; you strike a balance between speed by day and fun by night.

A large family reunion: for twelve to sixteen guests only guletler offer enough cabins and dining table; simply share the bed layout in advance.

Short decision summary

• Best price and classic atmosphere: gulet
• Children, balance and wide decks: catamaran
• Speed, luxury and many coves: motor yacht

If you are still undecided, ask for offers on two different types for the same week; the price difference and cabin layout often give the answer.

If no clear answer emerges, take the Which Boat Suits Me quiz and let our advisors review the result with you.