A private gulet charter is one of the easiest ways for a family to travel together. No packing and unpacking, no traffic, no restaurant reservations – your boat, hotel and restaurant are all in one place.
This guide is for families who are thinking about booking their first gulet holiday with children and want to know what to expect.
Why a Gulet Works So Well for Families
A gulet holiday is very different from a crowded resort. For families, it has some clear advantages:
- You have the whole yacht to yourselves.
- Children can move around freely in a controlled environment.
- The crew quickly learn names, routines and favourite snacks.
- The route is flexible – you can change plans if the kids are tired or excited about a certain bay.
Most family groups travel with two or three generations together. Grandparents, parents and children can all enjoy the same week, at their own pace.
Choosing the Right Gulet for Children
When you ask for options, tell your broker clearly that you are travelling with kids. It helps to mention:
- Number and ages of the children
- If you need side-by-side cabins for parents and kids
- If any child needs a baby cot, safety net or high chair
For families, look for:
- Comfortable outdoor spaces with shade for naps and reading
- Easy access to the sea with safe swimming ladders
- Simple, bright cabins rather than dark, cramped ones
- A friendly, patient crew used to working with families
If your group is large, a 6–8 cabin gulet with a wide aft deck is often ideal.
Keeping Kids Happy on Board
Children usually love gulet life, as long as you keep a simple rhythm:
- Swim stops several times a day
- Some time on land every couple of days: a village walk, ice cream, a small market
- A box of toys, colouring books or games for the hottest hours of the day
- Early dinners for younger kids, then a slower meal for the adults
Water toys such as paddle boards, kayaks and snorkelling gear are great for older children and teens.
Safety Tips for Families
A few basic rules will make everyone feel more relaxed:
- Explain to the children that they must ask before going to the bow or swimming.
- Use life jackets for younger kids near the railings or in the tender.
- Keep the deck tidy – no toys or bags on the main walkways.
- Listen to the captain’s advice about weather and sea conditions.
Ask your broker in advance if the yacht can provide a safety net along the guardrails. Not all gulets have one, but many can arrange it on request.
Food, Routines and Special Requests
One of the biggest advantages of a private gulet is the onboard chef. Before your cruise:
- Share food preferences and allergies
- Mention if you prefer simple dishes for children and more varied menus for adults
- Let the crew know if you want to celebrate a birthday or graduation on board
Most families keep a similar daily rhythm:
- Easy breakfast
- Swim, move to another bay, more swimming
- Light lunch, siesta time
- Afternoon activities, maybe a shore trip
- Sunset, dinner and stargazing
A Week Your Children Will Remember
For children, a week on a gulet feels like something between a floating treehouse and a small adventure ship. They remember:
- Jumping from the boat into clear water
- Feeding fish, exploring small islands, meeting new people
- Falling asleep with the soft sound of the sea
With the right yacht and a little planning, a family gulet holiday is not only possible – it can easily become everyone’s favourite holiday story for years to come.