The best time for a blue cruise: sea, wind and price month by month

There is no single right month for a blue cruise; the right month is the one that best fits your expectations. On sailings from Bodrum, Göcek and Marmaris the season runs from late April to late October. Here is a month-by-month summary.

April and May: calm and good value

The sea is around 17-20 degrees: swimming is brisk, but sunbathing on deck is wonderful. The coves are almost empty, there is no trouble finding a berth in the harbours, and the charter fee is 20-35% lower than in high season. It is the best time for walking, ancient sites and photography. A light sweater and windbreaker are enough.

June: balanced and ideal

The sea warms to 22-24 degrees, the air stays below 30 and the crowds have not started yet. It suits even families with children and is the month most often chosen by couples seeking a new experience. The wind is mostly light and from the north.

July and August: hot, lively, full

The sea is 25-27 degrees, making it the best time to swim all day and watch the night sky. However, the north-westerly known as the meltem strengthens in the afternoon and prices rise by about 30% over mid-season. Book at least four months ahead for these months. Captains usually start early and anchor in sheltered coves by the afternoon.

September and October: tasty and quiet

The sea keeps the heat of summer; 25 degrees is still possible in September. The crowds thin, sunsets come earlier and prices fall. In October some island restaurants close for the season, but it is ideal for quiet coves and low prices. The chance of rain rises from the end of September.

Which family suits which month?

• Families with babies or small children: June and September, with light wind and not-too-hot weather.
• Young people and groups of friends: July-August for lively nights and warm sea.
• Couples and honeymooners: May, June and September for quiet coves and good prices.
• Budget-conscious groups: April and October.

About wind and sea state

The summer meltem of the Aegean starts quietly in the morning, reaches 3-5 Beaufort from the north-west in the afternoon and eases towards evening. Captains therefore plan long legs for the morning and swim and lunch stops for the afternoon. The gulfs of Göcek and Gökova are the areas best sheltered from this wind, while the waters off Datça and Knidos can be rougher. If you are prone to seasickness, prefer May-June and September, sheltered gulfs and a catamaran.

Share your dates and we will send the sea and price outlook for that week in writing.