Testimonials
Some esteemed visitors…
We recently organised a family holiday for the British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson. Mr Johnson and family rented a gulet, a wooden sailing boat designed for leisurely cruising along the Turkish Riviera. They visited many secluded bays and islands, some of which are only accessible by water.
At the end of the trip the Johnsons told Ahmet Guler, Director of Gulet Escapes (picture left with Mr Johnson), that they saw many amazing places, ate delicious food and had an absolutely relaxing holiday. Mr Johnson thanked Ahmet for organising the trip adding everything had gone like clockwork. They clearly experienced excellent Turkish hospitality.
We would like to thank the Johnsons, who were very humble with the requests and very polite, which made it a pleasure to organise this holiday.
On press: Hurriyet Daily News
We also hosted the delightful Kelly Brook on one of our gulets who said:
“We had an amazing experience on board and the service and food was impeccable. It was our first but definitely not our last time on board a Gulet. Thanks again and I will be in touch about a Trip for next year!!”
We were also happy to welcome a number of other high profiles guests including: fashion designer Alice Temperley, the musician Gary Numan, and two members of the House of Lords who were all extremely happy with their gulet trips.
A few quotes from our guests…
“Such an amazing holiday. The boat was beautiful and the staff were amazing – so kind, welcoming, amazing food, great itinerary. We had just the best time, thank you so much.”
-Cressida Blanshard, Aug 2022 (Facebook review)
“Thank you very much for the organization of our trip on Babosch. It went really well. My wife, at first, not so sure she would like it was surprised and enjoyed very much the hole experience. The crew was very kind and professional, Nazmieh the cook was really great. The captain had excellent ideas for our itinerary, and Urug was very kind and helpful. The boat was very comfortable, in good condition with enough room for us 4 adults and 3 7 years old boys.”
-Care Geneva, Aug 2022 (Facebook review)
“One week on board M/Y Cataleya – South Dalmatian Route – July 2022
Its fantastic !!! – it has exceeded our High expectations.
The captain and his crew were excellent – clever and very, very service minded and creating a friendly relaxed atmosphere, so the whole family ( 17 people ranging from 6 to 74 years) was enjoying every minute on board or swimming or in town in the evening.
The yacht is so well equipped – clean, teak deck, mahogany varnished by experts, air condition, wi-fi and god design. – and of course all the water toys for the youngsters. – and not to forget the dinning and drinking!
Ahmet, Gulet Escapes in London, did an outstanding job professionally orchestrating all the preparations incl. transfers in Dubrovnik area – great thanks to Ahmet!
On a scale from 1 to 5 we are all on 10!
Posted by Ulrik Krag Morell on behalf of his parents Inge & Hans Jørgen Krag, Denmark (who invited the whole family celebrating their Golden Wedding)”
-Ulrik Krag Morell, July 2022 (Facebook review)
“We have just had the most amazing week on Dear Lila in Turkey. The food was superb and the crew that were looking after us were truly exceptional!
The boat has ample space, the scenery stunning and I really don’t know how the chef created the meals she did for 12. Nothing was any problem.
Swimming with turtles was certainly a highlight.”
-Claire Peers, July 2022 (Facebook review)
“Wonderful crew and gorgeous boat – highly recommend Gulet Escapes.”
-Jan MacAdoo, June 2022 (Facebook review)
“We have just spent a week on Dear Lila in Turkey and the boat and crew where absolutely amazing!
It was the most incredible holiday, the food was delicious and the crew where always happy to help.
We got to see some beautiful places with the most stunning sunsets!
Thank you for making us feel welcome and looked after
We were absolutely gutted to be leaving! Thank you so much again”
-Katie Beecham, July 2022 (Facebook review)
“We had an amazing trip from Gocek to Bodrum on Flas VII last week. This is our second time on Flas. Beautiful gulet, great route and fantastic crew and we met some great people along the way. Looking forward to booking our next one!”
-Zoe Smith, July 2022 (Facebook review)
“Thank you so much Ahmet. You put together an amazing yacht experience that we will never forget. 9 friends and I have just came back from a week in Greece. Gulet escapes managed the full booking process seemingly. Our boat Ecce Navigo was stunning. The crew really made our trip even better with total professionalism, incredible food and always going the extra mile. I have literally 0 negatives about the full experience. Can’t wait to book another trip with Ahmet. Thank you so much.”
-Stefan Leone, June 2022 (Facebook review)
“We recently returned from the most beautiful holiday with Gulet Escapes.
We travelled as a large group of family and friends to celebrate my mum’s 70th birthday and stayed on Grace, departing from Bodrum.
Communication from the very first query was prompt and professional. Once the booking was confirmed they answered all my emails asking for general information.
From the moment we were on the boat the service was phenomenal. The staff were amazing and managed to anticipate what we wanted before we even realised. They all helped me to arrange a surprise evening for my mum and even joined in with the belly dancer performance.
We were happy to go with the Captain’s recommendation for our route but were kept up to date each day and shown the route. Captain was very visible ensuring that we were happy and satisfied with our trip.
However what was by far the best part was the food. Our chef had the unenviable task of cooking for 11 people and he certainly achieved it. From the breakfast which always had something new, to a wonderful long (and boozy) lunch, a baked cake at tea time and the tastiest dinners I have ever had. Food was hot, tasty and beautifully presented. We were all stunned by the quality of food he produced daily.
I loved my holiday on Grace, it was a true bucket list trip. I can genuinely recommend Gulet Escapes to provide you with a holiday of a lifetime.”
-Emma King, June 2022 (Facebook review)
“I booked a gulet for 17 people in September and all of our party loved the trip, it’s just a pity we didn’t have a couple more days to spare to enjoy it even more. The boat really had the wow factor, the staff were just wonderful .. and joined in our impromptu party after dinner. The food was absolutely fantastic.. we had two vegetarians and a couple of people with allergies, and all were catered for. We docked in quiet bays in breathtaking scenery and had a fun climb up to the top of Gemiler island to watch the sunset. Would love to go back again to explore more. Thanks to Ahmet and all the team at Gulet escapes !”
-Hala Saleh, Sep 2022 (Google review)
“Gulet Escapes are Heaven on the High Seas.
Our trip – involving eighteen people flying in from multiple destinations at different times – was flawless from the point of booking to the point of departing the boat.
I will really struggle to give them credit.
We chartered Prenses Selin in October 2022 with eighteen people aged from three to fifty three and everything from eleven, sixteen, twenty and forty in-between. The trip was perfect for everyone.
Our boat was large and comfortable with multiple places to relax and sunbathe, comfortable beds, plenty of storage and remarkable stability even when underway. Nothing – literally nothing – was too much for the crew.
We moored in the best bays for snorkelling and space, never wanted for a cup of coffee or a drink and our cabins were cleaned daily.
The food was spectacular. Four meals daily – with assorted dishes to meet everyone’s needs: breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner cooked absolutely fresh with more than we could collectively consume. We never saw the chef he was always in the galley whipping up another masterpiece. Fresh fish and seafood, salads, a variety of meat dishes – beef, chicken and lamb – pastas, rice and potatoes, gorgeous desserts, cakes, pancakes, eggs and omelettes, breads and sauces, stews and soups. The captain cooked a barbecue on the bow two nights.
Ahmet, who runs the UK side of the business is a pleasure to deal with. A whatsapp group is created with reps on the ground to organise excursions and transfers ahead of the trip.
Turgay, Mehmet, Murat, Ferro and Omar were the most wonderful team backed up by Melissa and Deniz.
The cruising location is nothing short of paradise: breathtaking green bays teeming with marine life and heavy with the fragrance of pine and woodsmoke. Glorious sunsets and shimmering seas.
Our Captain areanged an excursion up the Dalyan river to see Lycian ruins, enjoy mud baths and have lunch ashore. We had an hour with majestic turtle playing around our boat.
I have always been a fan of Turkey, I find the people warm, respectful, hospitable and gentle. The men adore children and even young men dote on them. It was a privilege to share this vessel with such lovely people.
This holiday is an affordable taste of luxury an unforgettable experience. I cannot recommend more highly.
Just make sure you save a boat for me!!”
-Misty Gale, Oct 2022 (Google review)
“We’d like to say thank you for a wonderful and relaxing family holiday on board Grace. Ali is a great chef, Sami’s bar skills put Tom Cruise to shame and Captain Mustafa planned a great trip for us. Deniz and everyone else we met were very kind and helpful. Hope to come back soon!”
-Tabitha Potts, Oct 2022 (Google review)
“We had the most amazing week, celebrating my 30th birthday. Grace really exceeded my expectations.
The crew were so great, the food even better and everyone just went above a beyond to make it the most memorable week. I did not know turkey was so beautiful. We will be back, thanks so much!!
Janna and Michael Georgiou”
-Janna and Michael Georgiou, Sep 2022 (Google review)
“We spent an amazing week on Lotus in late Aug/early Sept. Captain Roko and crew were fantastic. The quality of everything – the boat, the food, the service, the interactions with the crew were all first class. We were able to completely relax and everything was done effortlessly, or so it seemed from our perspective. Of the crew it is hard to pick out anyone for special mention but if anyone it goes to the chef. Every meal was a feast ! The quality of the food, the range of different courses and meals were amazing. To say the crew were relaxed yet professional is an understatement. Nothing was too much a burden and we never even noticed them despite the boat being kept in perfect conditions at all times. With the Split/Split week we did got to see some amazing islands and very quaint private inlets. I dont know how this holiday could have been better other than by staying for another week. But by then we would have needed to go on a serious diet ! Highly recommend Lotus for the finishings of the boat, the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the food. Captain Roko and Lotus will give you a very enjoyable holiday.”
-Robert Coughlan, Aug 2022 (Google review)
“Highly recommend this as a holiday option. Everyone from aged 1 to 76 had the best time. The crew were thoughtful, knowledgeable, super friendly and extremely professional. The accommodation was immaculate, the food was delicious and Croatia an absolute jewel. Hope to join Filip and his team again next year.”
-Lee Ann Mounter, Aug 2022 (Google review)
“Ahmet and the team at Gulet Escapes were fantastic.
The trip itself was beyond all expectations… an amazing boat, super attentive staff and a set of breathtaking locations”
-Henry Farrant, Aug 2022 (Google review)
“One week on board M/Y Cataleya – South Dalmatian Route – July 2022
Its fantastic !!! – it has exceeded our High expectations.
The captain and his crew were excellent – clever and very, very service minded and creating a friendly relaxed atmosphere, so the whole family ( 17 persons ranging from 6 to 74 years) was enjoying every minute on board or swimming or in town in the evening.
The yacht is so well equipped – clean, teak deck, mahogany varnished by experts, air condition, wi-fi and god design. – and of course all the water toys for the youngsters. – and not to forget the dinning and drinking!
Ahmet, Gulet Escapes in London, did an outstanding job professionally orchestrating all the preparations incl. transfers in Dubrovnik area – great thanks to Ahmet!
On a scale from 1 to 5 we are all on 10!
Posted by Ulrik Krag Morell on behalf of his parents Inge & Hans Jørgen Krag, Denmark (who invited the whole family celebrating their Golden Wedding)”
-Julie Morell, July 2022 (Google review)
“Gulet Escapes were very helpful, excellent service. We had a fantastic week on Fortuna.”
-Denise Crombie, July 2022 (Google review)
“I was on the Anna Marija in July. Just wanted to acknowledge the hard work and how nice the crew was! We were in good hands with Captain Ogi. Very professional and very nice. A man of few words, but very pleasant and a pleasure to be around. That also goes for Dominik and Paulina. Both very enjoyable. And they really worked hard. This all-star crew really enhanced the experience!”
-Chris Rawland, July 2022 (Google review)
“This was our second holiday booked through Gulet Escapes, despite all the difficulties presented by the pandemic Ahmet and his team at Gulet Escapes delivered another amazing holiday for us all.
We hired Maske 2 again as we had enjoyed our first trip so much and it was great that Mohamed was our Captain once again ably assisted by a very attentive crew. Once again the chef presented us with excellent food throughout our trip.
Following my experience over the past couple of years I cannot recommend Gulet Escapes highly enough.”
-Nigel Giles, June 2022 (Google review)
“Wow – A fantastic week aboard ‘Dear Lila’ booked through ‘Gulet Escapes’ May 2022
I cannot speak highly enough of this fantastic Gulet, the crew, the service, the food were absolutely amazing. The boat is beautiful, so elegant and spotlessly clean. Its stunning. The friendly professional staff cannot do enough for you. They work so hard day and night.
11 of us celebrated my 50th birthday, (guests aged from 15 to 70) and all said it was the best holiday ever.
We are already planning our next Gulet holiday for next year and will 100% book again through ‘Gulet Escapes’”
-Lucy Brown, May 2022 (Google review)
“Fantastic holiday, very well organised and we all had a truly wonderful time.”
-Ali Belford, May 2022 (Google review)
“Hi Ahmet,
We are having a wonderful time. The crewmen are excellent—very helpful and very responsive. The food is scrumptious. I think the only issue—I can’t call it a complaint—is that they’re serving us too much food! As a family, we eat a light breakfast and an even lighter lunch; so we’re just not used to having so much delicious food put in front of us.And when I say delicious, I mean delicious. The fruits, the eggs, the pastries, the fish, the sauces, the vegetables, the salads, the cheeses: they’re all amazing.I should also note that the Croatian wines are superb. We’ll definitely add those to our home wine cellar when we’re back home. I’ll check back with you on Friday but, so far, this has been everything we hoped for…and more. Thank you!”
-Bill D., Sep 2022 (Email Feedback)
“We had a brilliant week on Cataleya and everything went perfectly for my fathers. 80th ( 17 of us age 8-80 yrs!)
I’m not very good at social media but I’ll send this email to my children and get them to do the feedback.
I recommended our trip to my neighbour David Price who might be looking for a similar family trip so hope he might get in touch with you.
Many thanks
Celia”
-Celia B.R., Sep 2022 (Email Feedback)
“Dear Ahmet,
As we are now back in Denmark, I shall be pleased to give you our feed back on the Capricorn 1 cruise primo august.
Expectations were high – prior everyone in the family had studied all aspects of a gulet cruise in The Aegean on the internet – and nobody were disappointed. You surely live up to what is expected!
The pre-booked transports from the airport were efficient and we arrived to Capricorn 1 in time with a warm welcome from the entire crew. The ship was maintained in perfect condition and so was all the cabins, which suited our needs fine. All 10 of us was satisfied with the accommodation.
But most of all we enjoyed the professionalism of the crew. With captain Eren we laid out a rough sailing schedule to the south of Kos – this due to experience with more windy conditions to the north of Kos. The captain knew his ship in all details and confidently moored in the most extraordinary places.
His wife Oz was service minded with a warm, friendly, professional attitude in all aspects, – the chef prepared a variation of wonderful meals for us – especially the Greek/Turkish salads, which were served with all meals, were delicious. The remainder of the crew were efficient and helpful – especially when the kids were swimming or played with the various water gear, the crew members held a discrete, but watchful eye on what was going on. Again very professional.
The preference list of provisions seems to have worked as intended. Except from having purchased some additional bottles of wine in Symi harbor the APA was OK according to the captains accounting. The split between the gasoline consumption of the main engine and the generator was a bit surprising, though. The generator used gasoline almost double of the main engine. But AC, electricity, kitchen stove, freezer etc probably consume more than you expect.
Sailing in the Dodecanese waters was highly interesting and we visited beautiful places both on the Greek and Turkish side.
So, Ahmet, our family had the most wonderful cruise on Capricorn 1 – she is a fine ship with superb accommodations and a professional crew.
Kind regards
Jan M.”
-Jan M., Aug 2022 (Email Feedback)
“Lovely to meet you in person last week – the gulet trip was a great success – Q. Lila was perfect so comfortable, well equipped and immaculately looked after by the crew. We had a super time especially the two idyllic moorings in kekova when the seas were calmer and the scenery stunning.
The crew were all marvellous, a great team nothing was too much trouble and they were such friendly charming characters to have around. Meals were thoughtful and delicious – their professional care exceeded expectations and we certainly felt very spoilt.
Thank you so much to you and Melissa as well for all your behind the scenes help and organisation ”
-Lizze E., July 2022 (Email Feedback)
“Ahmet! We are on the boat in Brac and wanted you to know it is all perfect! Great boat, great crew!
Thanks again for all you’ve done for us!
Mitch”
-Mitch L., Sep 2022 (Email Feedback)
“Ahmet & Team
I just wanted to say a big thank you for a fabulous week on Prenses Lila.
The boat was fabulous and the crew brilliant.
Can we book next year!
Peter”
-Peter M., Aug 2022 (Email Feedback)
“My Dear Ahmet, and other Operations Team Members,
We are now all safely back home, albeit with only a few minor travel delays at UK airports – nothing to do with Gulet Escapes!
I can safely say that, without exception, all 16 of us had the most wonderful week on-board Prenses Selin, thanks entirely to everyone – the London and Fethiye teams of Gulet Escapes and, of course, the exemplary Captain and Crew of the vessel. None of the above deserves other than the highest possible praise for their attention, conduct, professionalism, care and courtesy, all of which contributed to this being, by far, the best of the four similar gulet holidays we have had over the years (all of the others being with other companies, and on other vessels)
The accommodation, food, cabins and facilities were all of the highest quality – although some cabins’ air conditioning was not as efficient as others – and the Captain was so accommodating in working with us to find a route/itinerary which suited us.
The vessel was, overall, in very good condition, with the interior and, particularly, the cabins in good decorative order. Any problems which arose were quickly and efficiently dealt with. The only adverse comment that I would make – and this is intended as constructive criticism – is that much of the woodwork on the exterior of the vessel, and particularly the forward rail, midships rail and taffrail appeared to be in need of enhanced treatment and maintenance; and the paintwork of the hull – especially close to the waterline – was in need of “touching-up” and, in some places it was bubbled and flaking badly.
One other very slight criticism was that, even after the first day or so – when the Crew would have been able to gauge to size of our appetites – meals tended to be “over-provided” in terms of the quantity of food (but the quality was excellent): this resulted in large quantities of food being left unconsumed at most meals with, presumably, a high degree of waste?
However, I am delighted to be able to report that every one of our group indicated that the whole experience had far-surpassed their expectations, and all expressed the wish to do something similar in 2024, with a very strong desire to use the same vessel and, if possible, the same Crew!
Perhaps you could kindly let me know whether, at this time, you have any idea if this may be possible?
Ahmet, I, finally, thank you once again for your kindness, consideration, courtesy and businesslike manner in our recent dealings, and I hope very much that we shall be able to work together again on a future occasion.
With thanks and very best wishes,
Yours,
Peter”
-Peter R., June 2022 (Email Feedback)
“We booked a last minute trip through Gulet Escapes on Sirena B in Croatia. From the start Ahmet was very helpful and accommodating considering the considerable eleventh hour of the booking. The week that we had on Sirena B was a very special holiday indeed (it was for my wife’s 40th). The crew were fantastic and really made us feel at home, the half board meals were tasty (especially the fresh chocolate croissants each morning), and the places that the crew took us were spectacular. Captain Miro really knows how to get the boat into the best anchor spots with turquoise water all around). Would definitely recommend Sirena B and booking through Gulet escapes because Ahmet has a very good relationship it seems with many of the boat owners. 5 stars.”
-Sam Greg, Sep 2021 (Facebook review)
“Hey Ahmet! Just got back to Moscow. Thank you so much. It was really something special. The crew on Caneren was fantastic. They took care of us very well. Nature is so beautiful in Turkey… so I guess I opened a new place for gulet travel.”
-Yuri K., Aug 2021 (Email Feedback)
“Everything ! Highly professional, extremely friendly and flexible giving us help and guidance all the way. We have used many companies over the years and this is the best. Our boat had the most amazing crew and our Captain made all 13 of us fall in love with Croatia to top all of that we had THE BEST chef – such an amazing holiday Clair Tribe”
-Clair Tribe, Sep 2021 (Facebook review)
“I booked Gulet Kadena for a week visiting islands in Croatia (September 2021). The gulet passed expectations for all 12 of us passengers and Captain Tome and his crew were excellent throughout. Great breakfasts and lunches. Ahmet was always helpful (if a little slow sometimes at responding to emails) and everything ran smoothly. I would strongly recommend Gulet Escapes and Gulet Kadena to anyone looking to book a luxurious trip from Trogir.”
-Robert, Sep 2021 (Trip Advisor review)
“We have just had the most wonderful holiday thanks to Ahmet at Gulet Escapes, We were a large family and friends group and Ahmet spent ages helping find the perfect boat –in the end Rhapsody in Croatia . We took over the entire boat –38 of us -and all this amidst the background of covid and the myriad of questions everyone was asking –Ahmet had answered every query, The boat was beyond expectation and the food ,crew and Croatia were all incredible We all agreed we are going back in two years time.”
-Keith H, Aug 2021 (Trip Advisor review)
“We had a wonderful time on Maske2 and the captain did a great job in taking us to beautiful creeks where the scenery and waters were most amazing. It’s been a wonderful and magnificent discovery and diffidently will be doing it again.Thank you again for the whole organization and taking care of all the logistics.”
-Nicole B., Aug 2021 (Email Feedback)
“One of the best vacations in my life was booked through Gulet Espaces. We spent a week on the gulet Seabreeze in Croatia which was an amazing experience with a super professional crew and delicious food.
If you are looking for an experience that you will not forget, be sure to book it on Gulet Escapes and especially Seabreeze!”
-Carl Westkamper, Aug 2021 (Google review)
“Booked a Gulet in Croatia with the hope of Croatia staying on the green list. We were very fortunate to be able to go. Had 7 nights on Angelica – starting in Dubrovnik and ending in Split. It was amazing. Friendly staff – from Captain Ivica (who owns the gulet), to Ivana his daughter, to Marin the deckhand, to Sergio the Chef – we ate a 3 course lunch every day and had not expected such fabulous meals. Dealt with Ahmet and everything went very smoothly. Would highly recommend.”
-Bronwen Raatgever, Aug 2021 (Facebook review)
“Was great trip
We all loved our trip on Son De Mar in Croatia.
Great boat. Excellent team. Made our stay very special and they were very hospitable. Nice family feel.”
-I Wilson, Aug 2021 (Email Feedback)
“This was our second time on Gulet Grace, booked through Gulet Escapes, and enjoyed it just as much second time round! We cruised the southern coast of Turkey which was gorgeous. The Chef and service were amazing, from beautifully cooked seafood to Margaritas at sunset. The whole team ensured we were well looked after. Would thoroughly recommend a gulet holiday to anyone, pure relaxation!”
-Anna Griffiths, Aug 2021 (Google review)
“Our whole family had a perfect week on MV Aurum (embarked from Trogir, in Croatia) organised by Gulet Escapes.
The captain had been well briefed by Ahmet; so they fully understood our objectives, remote bays, lots of swimming (with lots of kit including that exhilarating ringo!) and most important, exceptional food. They had the uncanny knack of anticipating our requests, almost before we thought of them.
This was due in part to the briefing Ahmet gave to the captain before we arrived and a few thorough conversations we had with him during the booking process. Gulet Escapes were also totally reliable and professional, given that covid intervened and the cruise had to be rescheduled.”
-John Birney, Aug 2021 (Google review)
“Hi Melissa. The gulet trip was AMAZING, and we had a fantastic time. We will definitely do another at some point in the future. Thanks for all your help in getting it arranged, and putting us into such great hands with Kaptan Hasan and his crew. Have a great weekend!”
-Rebecca D., Oct 2021 (Email Feedback)
“I can’t put it in words what the second time on Grace felt like, especially during these funny and perhaps not so funny pandemic times. The weather was great, we were always looked after and the food was outstanding. It was like a break from last year. I could not have wished for a better holiday, looking forward to all the swimming and water skiing next year.”
-Arturs legzdins, Aug 2021 (Google review)
We had an amazing time thanks to Gulet escape. Ahmet took the time to give us the best recommendation. The tour with the Seabreeze crew was wonderful and the staff was very professional. The boat was very clean and the service + food was amazing. We spend the entire week swimming, snorkeling and paddle boarding. Ideal holiday for families !”
-Sarah Lundqvist, Aug 2021 (Google review)