This article was written by Sue Fockner, a Canadian expat who has lived in Fethiye for the past 4 years. Sue and her partner, Captain Oktay Aşıi, own Arkadaslik Yachting and host cruises in Turkey and the Greek Dodecanse islands aboard their luxury gulet Arkadaslik. At the conclusion of each cruise, they encourage guests to write honest reviews about their adventures on the boat and post on Trip Advisor, Google and Facebook.
Are you thinking about next year’s holiday in Turkey?
As the New Year approaches and winter weather sets-in, you may be dreaming about next year’s holiday in Turkey. If you’re considering a gulet cruise, NOW is the time to book. Booking early ensures you the best selection of yachts, the best prices, and maximum time to dream about your Mediterranean sailing holiday!
But, with the hundreds of gulet cruise options available, how do you find a good one?
Short of personal recommendations by friends and family, online reviews are an effective way to assess whether a boat and crew will suit your individual needs. There are plenty of sources – although Trıp Advisor is probably the most widely recognized by travellers. But be forwarned – look beyond the superficial “best trip ever” reviews to make sure you’re reading real reviews by real people.
Consider the ratings but really look at what reviewers say in their write-up
We each have our own definition of what makes a good holiday, so one person’s 5-star rating may not align with yours. Consider the ratings, but really look at what the reviewers say in their write-up. When posting a review, people usually focus on the elements of the trip that were most important to them. Foodies tend to describe the food and drinks. Parents write about family-friendliness. Budget conscious travellers mention cost and value for their money. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the most basic of accommodation or the poshest of posh, someone has probably commented on that particular aspect of their cruise.
Be wary of perfectly written reviews – especially if they sound like they were all written by the same person. You’ll quickly get a sense whether the posts are the real deal – authentic, genuine words reflecting the experiences of real guests.
Don’t be swayed by the occassional poor review – even the best businesses can’t satisfy everyone. Instead, search for common themes. Overall, does it sound like a holiday experience you’d enjoy? Do the reviewers comment on the elements that are important to you? Good or bad, use their experiences to narrow down your choices.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a New Year filled with love, laughter, and the cruise vacation of your dreams!
Arkadaslik Yachting
“We had the best time, wanted for nothing.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Wifi on the boat ensured that we could post our photos and immediately share our stories with our families.” – Click here to read the full review
“Meals were attuned to our preferences and consistently delighted us with new flavors, amazing presentation and local twists.” – Click here to read the full review
“The crew works non-stop to maintain the boat – lovely with its original teak decks and bright blue cushions, to provide delicious meals and snacks, and to ensure a comfortable, safe journey.” – Click here to read the full review.
“They are helpful, flexible, knowledgeable, and aim to please, regardless of your request.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Couldn’t ask for any more…. friendship, care and hospitality.” – Click here to read the full review
“They even had snorkelling gear on board, so we got to see a couple sea turtles as a result!” – Click here to read the full review.
“I think you would find it difficult to find a more attentive and caring crew to show you around this beautiful part of the world.” – Click here to read the full review
“The yacht itself was truly magnificent, well kept, maintained and clean. Each sleeping quarter has its own private ensuite with shower. Very much feeling like our own private hotel on water.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Sailing through the Gocek islands on Arkadaslik yachts was truly one of the most magical and memorable experiences to date.” – Click here to read the full review
“This luxury gullet has it all. Pristine cabins, luxury linens and towels, individual ensuites with full walk in showers, wifi, air conditioning, and a crew that does everything possible to make your vacation a memorable one.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Arkadaşlık, meaning ‘friendship’ is very aptly named. My high expectations were exceeded & I’m sure this trip won’t be my last.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Food was amaze. Every meal they outdid themselves with a delicious selection of local recipes & even homegrown veggies.” – Click here to read the full review.
“Some of the most beautiful coastline in the world on a wonderful yacht with the most fantastic crew.” – Click here to read the full review.
“We spent our tour sailing around the 12 Islands, absolutely beautiful! The gulet’s experienced captain, Oktay, anchored us in one stunning location after another where we snorkeled and swam in the beautiful turquoise waters. The four of us are still revelling in the great memories from such a wonderful trip” – Click here to read the full review.
“Amazing to be on board being fussed over and watching the team in action. I would definitely return for another adventure aboard Arkadaslik.” – Click here to read the full review.
“We found the boat to be very family friendly as we had 5 children with us ranging from age 5 to 14. Activity options include scuba, snorkeling, line fishing or spear fishing, hiking, paragliding, parasailing, wake boarding, tubing, water skiing, cultural tours, exploring lycian ruins…. or simply relaxing with a glass of wine to watch the sea turtles and dolphins.” – Click here to read the full review.
“The week on the Arkadaslik was the most relaxing week I have had in a decade, with delicious meals, good conversations, long naps, refreshing swims, and adventurous excursions. My two sons, ages 10 and 8, and my husband, agree that our week on the Arkadaslik was a highlight of our summer in Turkey.” – Click here to read the full review.
“One to tick off the bucket list………AMAZING.” – Click here to read the full review.
“A trip to be enjoyed by young, old and anyone in between!” – Click here to read the full review.
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