A September gulet cruise offers the chance to explore quiet bays, historic coastal towns and clear Mediterranean waters from the comfort of a traditional wooden yacht.
Diamond Star Experience has three featured September gulet cruises in Turkey and Greece: a full-board cruise from Fethiye aboard Seyhan Cann, an Ionian Islands cruise from Corfu and an island-hopping cruise through Rhodes and the Dodecanese.
Each cruise offers a different route, style and onboard experience. This guide compares the three options to help you decide which September gulet cruise is right for you.
Why choose a gulet cruise in September?
September is an appealing time to explore the Mediterranean by gulet. The weather remains warm, the sea is comfortable for swimming and the busiest part of the summer season has started to ease.
A gulet cruise combines relaxed days on the water with opportunities to visit islands, coastal villages, historic sites and secluded bays. Most itineraries include several stops each day, giving you time to swim, explore ashore or relax on deck.
Unlike a large cruise ship, a gulet carries a smaller number of passengers and can reach anchorages and bays that larger vessels cannot access. The atmosphere is informal, with meals served on board and plenty of time to enjoy the coastline at a slower pace.
The featured September departures include return flights and private transfers, making it easier to arrange the full holiday as one package.
You can also explore our full range of gulet cruise holidays, including private hire, shared cabin charters and gulet and stay holidays.
What is the weather like in September?
September generally offers warm weather and comfortable cruising conditions across Fethiye, Corfu and Rhodes. Daytime temperatures remain suitable for swimming, sightseeing and relaxing on deck, while evenings are often more comfortable than during the hottest weeks of July and August.
Fethiye in September
Fethiye and Turkey’s turquoise coast remain warm and sunny through September. The sea has retained much of its summer warmth, making this a good time for swimming, snorkelling and spending time in secluded bays.
The reduced intensity of the midsummer heat can also make visits to coastal towns and historic sites more comfortable.
Corfu in September
Corfu and the Ionian Islands remain warm in September, with good conditions for cruising, swimming and exploring ashore. The Ionian landscape is greener than many parts of the eastern Mediterranean, with tree-covered coastlines, sheltered bays and clear water.
Occasional changes in weather are possible as the month progresses, but itineraries can be adjusted by the captain where required.
Rhodes in September
Rhodes and the Dodecanese generally experience warm, dry weather in September. The islands are well suited to swimming, island hopping and spending evenings in local harbours and tavernas.
As with every gulet cruise, the final itinerary remains subject to sea conditions, weather and the captain’s safety decisions.
What should you expect on board a gulet?
Gulets are traditional wooden motor yachts designed for relaxed coastal cruising. Although the layout and level of comfort vary between vessels, most gulets provide cabins, shared deck areas, indoor seating and space for outdoor dining.
Cabins
Gulet cabins are generally compact because much of the vessel’s space is dedicated to the deck and communal areas. Cabins normally include storage, an en suite bathroom with a shower, WC and hand basin, and air conditioning subject to the operating arrangements of the vessel.
Cabin types and sizes vary. Some gulets offer double and twin cabins, while others may include larger or upgraded cabins.
Deck space
The deck is central to the gulet cruise experience. Most days are spent outside, whether you are reading in the shade, relaxing in the sun, enjoying meals or watching the coastline as the gulet moves between bays.
Gulets usually have separate sunny and shaded areas, allowing guests to find a comfortable place throughout the day.
Meals
Meals are an important part of a gulet cruise. Depending on the package, breakfast, lunch and dinner may be served on board, often using fresh local ingredients and traditional Mediterranean recipes.
Full-board cruises include three meals each day. Half-board cruises normally include breakfast and lunch, with evenings free for guests to dine ashore in local tavernas.
Drinks may not be included in the package price. Some gulets offer drinks packages payable locally.
Air conditioning
Air conditioning arrangements vary by gulet. It may operate for a fixed number of hours each day and cannot normally be used continuously or while the vessel is in harbour.
Some cruises offer extended overnight air conditioning as a paid upgrade. Full details should be checked on the individual cruise page before booking.
A typical day
A typical day begins with breakfast on board, followed by a short cruise to a bay or island. There is usually time for swimming before lunch, followed by another cruise or stop during the afternoon.
Some days include visits to towns, villages, historic sites or optional excursions. Evenings may be spent on board or ashore, depending on the itinerary and meal basis.
The schedule remains flexible. The captain may change the route because of weather, harbour conditions or safety requirements.
Private gulet hire or cabin charter?
There are two main ways to book a gulet cruise: private hire or a shared cabin charter.
Private gulet hire
Private hire gives your group exclusive use of the gulet. It is suited to families, groups of friends, celebrations and travellers who want more control over the route and onboard experience.
The full vessel is booked for one party, so the total price is based on hiring the gulet rather than purchasing individual cabins.
Explore private gulet hire.
Shared cabin charter
A cabin charter allows you to book one or more cabins on a scheduled departure. You share the gulet with other guests and follow a set itinerary.
This is often the better option for couples, solo travellers and smaller groups who want the gulet experience without hiring the entire vessel.
The three featured September cruises are available on a cabin-charter basis.
Explore gulet cabin charters.
Fethiye and Turkey’s turquoise coast aboard Seyhan Cann
The Seyhan Cann Premium Gulet Cruise is a seven-night, full-board cruise operating from Fethiye on Turkey’s turquoise coast.
Seyhan Cann is a family-run premium gulet with nine cabins and space for up to 18 guests. The vessel has spacious deck areas, en suite cabins and an air-conditioned saloon. The crew provides a friendly and personal service throughout the cruise, while freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served on board.
The itinerary explores the coastline around Fethiye and Gocek, with stops at secluded bays, islands and historic locations. Depending on the route and sailing conditions, highlights may include Cleopatra Hammam, Bedri Rahmi Bay, Liberty Island, Turunc Pinari and Akvaryum Bay.
Days are centred around swimming, gentle cruising and relaxing on deck. There are also opportunities to explore Fethiye and Gocek ashore.
This option is particularly suitable for travellers looking for:
- A full-board gulet cruise
- A family-run and welcoming atmosphere
- Traditional Turkish hospitality
- Quiet bays and swimming stops
- A premium gulet with a small number of guests
September prices start from £1,698 per person, including return flights, private transfers and full board. Savings of up to £200 per person are available on selected September departures.
Corfu and the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands Gulet Cruise from Corfu is a seven-night, half-board cruise through Corfu, Paxos, Antipaxos and the nearby Greek coastline.
Diamond Star Experience has an exclusive departure on 12 September, reserved for its guests. This creates a sociable group experience with travellers joining the same organised departure.
The cruise begins in Corfu and follows a route through some of the Ionian Sea’s most appealing destinations. Depending on weather and sailing conditions, the itinerary may include Sivota, Parga, Antipaxos, Paxos and Lakka.
You can swim in clear bays, explore coastal villages and spend time ashore in historic towns. Corfu Old Town, with its Venetian architecture and UNESCO-listed centre, is also an important part of the journey.
Breakfast and lunch are served on board. Some evenings are spent ashore, giving guests the opportunity to try local tavernas and explore the destinations independently.
The Corfu cruise uses a traditional standard gulet. Cabins are simple and comfortable, with private bathrooms and air conditioning subject to operating limitations.
This option is best suited to travellers looking for:
- A Greek island gulet cruise
- A relaxed and sociable group departure
- A mix of cruising and time ashore
- Corfu, Paxos and Antipaxos
- A traditional rather than luxury gulet experience
September prices start from £1,598 per person, including return flights, private transfers and half board. Savings of up to £200 per person are available.
Rhodes and the Dodecanese Islands
The Rhodes and Dodecanese Gulet Cruise is a seven-night, half-board island-hopping cruise starting and ending in Rhodes.
The itinerary combines well-known Greek islands with quieter bays and smaller coastal communities. Planned stops include Symi, Tilos, Chalki, Kalithea and several swimming anchorages along the route.
Symi is one of the main highlights, with its colourful neoclassical harbour and traditional waterfront tavernas. The cruise may also visit Panormitis Monastery, the peaceful island of Tilos and the clear waters around Chalki.
Breakfast and lunch are served on board each day. Dinners are taken ashore at the guests’ own expense, giving you the freedom to explore local restaurants and experience the food and atmosphere of each island.
The cruise operates aboard a traditional standard gulet with en suite accommodation and a professional crew.
This option is well suited to travellers looking for:
- A Greek island-hopping gulet cruise
- A varied route through the Dodecanese
- Historic harbours and traditional villages
- More opportunities to dine and explore ashore
- A balanced combination of relaxation and sightseeing
September prices start from £1,598 per person, including return flights, private transfers and half board. Early booking and loyalty discounts may also be available.
Compare the September gulet cruises
| Cruise | Route | Board basis | Duration | September price from | Main features |
|---|
| Seyhan Cann | Fethiye and Turkey’s turquoise coast | Full board | 7 nights | £1,698 per person | Family-run premium gulet, freshly prepared meals and secluded bays |
| Ionian Islands | Corfu, Paxos, Antipaxos and nearby coastline | Half board | 7 nights | £1,598 per person | Exclusive 12 September departure and relaxed Ionian island route |
| Rhodes and Dodecanese | Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, Chalki and Kalithea | Half board | 7 nights | £1,598 per person | Island hopping, historic harbours and evenings ashore |
Prices are based on the current published September rates and remain subject to availability and flight costs.
Which September gulet cruise is right for you?
Choose Seyhan Cann from Fethiye if you want a premium, family-run gulet with full-board meals and a route focused on Turkey’s turquoise coast. It is the best option for travellers who want most meals included and prefer a warm, traditional onboard atmosphere.
Choose the Ionian Islands cruise from Corfu if you want a relaxed Greek island experience and the opportunity to join an exclusive Diamond Star departure. The route offers a balance of beaches, swimming, coastal villages and historic towns.
Choose the Rhodes and Dodecanese cruise if you enjoy island hopping and want more time to explore independently ashore. This itinerary covers several islands and allows you to experience local tavernas in the evenings.
All three cruises include time for swimming and relaxation, but the routes and meal arrangements create different holiday experiences.
What is included?
The featured September package prices include return flights and private transfers.
Seyhan Cann operates on a full-board basis, with breakfast, lunch and dinner served on board.
The Corfu and Rhodes cruises operate on a half-board basis. Breakfast and lunch are included, while some or all evening meals are taken ashore at the guests’ own expense.
Additional charges may apply for drinks packages, port taxes, optional excursions, cabin upgrades and extended air-conditioning use. Full details are provided on each cruise page.
Packages booked with Diamond Star Experience include ATOL protection where applicable, providing financial protection for the flight-inclusive holiday.
September gulet cruise FAQs
Are gulet cruises suitable for couples?
Yes. Shared cabin charters are suitable for couples who want a smaller and more relaxed alternative to a large cruise ship. Couples book their own cabin and share the vessel with other guests.
Can solo travellers join a gulet cruise?
Yes. Solo travellers can book a private cabin on selected cabin-charter departures. A single supplement may apply. Shared departures can also provide a sociable way to travel, particularly when the group is made up of guests joining the same organised cruise.
Are gulet cruises suitable for families?
Many gulet cruises are suitable for families, particularly private hire and family-run vessels such as Seyhan Cann. Suitability depends on the age of the children, cabin arrangements, swimming ability and the facilities available on the individual vessel.
Families should discuss their requirements before booking so the most appropriate gulet and itinerary can be recommended.
How much luggage should I bring?
Storage space in gulet cabins is limited, so soft bags or holdalls are recommended instead of large rigid suitcases.
Bring comfortable casual clothing, swimwear, footwear for going ashore, sun protection and a beach or swimming towel. Bed linen and cabin towels are normally provided.
Are flights included?
Return flights are included in the featured September package prices. The final price may vary depending on the departure airport, flight availability and travel times.
Diamond Star Experience can arrange flights from UK and selected international airports. Private return transfers are also included in the featured packages.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended because gulets have a limited number of cabins and specific September departures may sell out.
Availability can also affect flight prices and cabin options. Contact Diamond Star Experience for the latest availability and a current quotation.
Book your September gulet cruise
View the individual cruise pages for current prices, itinerary details and package information:
Not sure which route is right for you? Akin has visited these destinations and experienced the holidays personally. Call 0333 250 0634 or request a holiday quotation to discuss the options.
