What is a cabin charter and do you offer them?

Cabin charters are bookings for individual cabins aboard a vessel with fixed itineraries and fixed departure dates. At this time, Zephyria Yachting does not offer cabin charters.

Isn't Turkey dangerous?
 
Those of us who discovered paradise long ago sit blissfully in small cafes along the seaside browsing through the Herald Tribune and The Financial Times (with the occasional Hello! magazine) while sipping cappuccino, aghast at the state of the world and slightly bewildered that our idyllic paradise might be lumped into that great stewing pot called "The Middle East".  
 
Turkey's geographical position in the Eastern Mediterranean often begs the question of safety for Westerners. However, it is also precisely Turkey's strategic position which has shaped its secular ideologies, long-standing NATO alliances, and its full standing associate membership of the European Economic Union. Turkey has always taken pride in being a staunch NATO ally and continues in its efforts to uphold the strict economic demands necessary for full membership in the European Union.

Okay, but I am not European - I am an American. Surely I am open fodder for somebody?

There are a number of foreigners, including Americans, in Turkey who have lived here peacefully and happily for decades, raised and schooled their families here, and still worry about slipping in the bathtub when they visit home for the holidays.
 
 I want to see Istanbul/Cappadocia/Ankara while I am in Turkey before or after my Blue Cruise.

Zephyria will be happy to recommend a travel agent who will assist you with your hotel and connecting flight travel plans while in Turkey or put together a suggested itinerary for you, with hotel, flight and sightseeing recommendations.

I want to see some Greek Islands too.

We can design an itinerary that includes one or more of the following Greek islands: Samos, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos, Kos, Rhodes, and Symi. Please be aware that there are Greek port duties not reflected in the charter rates which must be paid directly to the Greek authorities when entering Greek harbours.
 

What if I get seasick?

Most of your time on the gulet will be spent on the fore or aft deck. Because you are always in full view of the horizon, your body, even if susceptible to seasickness, is unlikely to feel queasy because your vision is in full coordination with its surroundings  However, there are excellent seasickness remedies available on-board, either in the form of a patch applied to the skin, or a pill should you feel a tinge of nausea.

 What should I bring?

Pack your bags with everything you think you might need, and then eliminate most of it. You will find life aboard Zephyria's gulets so relaxing and comfortable that you may wonder why you brought a suitcase instead of carry-on luggage.
Our suggestions are comfortable walking shoes, deck shoes, extra swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, toiletries, a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings, shorts, t-shirts, and prescription medicines. On board you will find reading material, towels, and hair dryer.

How hot will it get?
In general, temperatures at sea are comfortable throughout the summer and ample shade is always available. However, Zephyria offers both air conditioned and non-air conditioned vessels for those who desire individual climate control in their cabins.


I am a diabetic, lactose intolerant vegetarian and do not eat fish.
Zephyria will enquire as to your exact food and beverage preferences before your arrival and with the abundance of fresh Mediterranean produce, our excellent cooks will make each meal one to remember.

I am large. How big are your beds?
Double beds on most of our gulets are 140 x 200 cm and single beds are either 80 x 200 or 90 x 200 cm. Master cabins often have double beds with 160 x 200 cm dimensions.

How often will we actually sail with no engine power?
While most of Zephyria's itineraries are based upon approximately four hours of motoring daily, our crew will hoist sails as the weather conditions and routes allow. If you are a sailing enthusiast, we will be happy to design an itinerary with optimal sailing opportunities.

What is the tipping policy?

Gratuity is a very individual decision.  As a guideline, we suggest tipping the crew either individually or via the captain similarly to what you would tip in a fine hotel or restaurant (approximately 10% of the charter fee not including extras)  for the services rendered.

How far ahead of time do I need to book?
We suggest that you enquire as early as possible to arrange for the gulet and dates which best suit you.

What is your cancellation policy?

No refunds shall be payable in the event of cancellation by the charterers after the agreement is signed unless the charter week is resold, in which case a refund of the deposit can be made.  If the cancellation is due to exceptional circumstances, you have the option of rescheduling your trip for the following season based on availability.