Organizing a company event on a blue cruise is a unique way to bring team members together, promote relaxation, and encourage creative collaboration in a beautiful, serene setting. A “blue cruise,” or “Mavi Yolculuk” as it’s called in Turkey, is a sailing trip along the stunning Turkish Riviera and nearby Greek islands, making it an ideal location for corporate retreats, team-building activities, or incentive trips.
Here’s a guide to planning a successful company event on a blue cruise:
1. Choose the Right Yacht
For company events, selecting the right type and size of yacht is crucial. Consider:
- Capacity: Make sure the yacht can comfortably accommodate your group. For larger groups, a luxury gulet or motor yacht with multiple cabins and communal areas is ideal.
- Amenities: Depending on the nature of the event, amenities like Wi-Fi, onboard conference facilities, a dining area, and entertainment options may be necessary.
- Crewed Yachts: Opt for a crewed yacht to ensure your guests are taken care of. A crew typically includes a captain, chef, and host/hostess, ensuring smooth sailing and excellent service.
2. Plan an Engaging Itinerary
The blue cruise is as much about relaxation as it is about exploration. Combine leisure time with planned activities to create a balanced experience:
- Day 1: Welcome aboard! Start with an orientation, followed by a welcome dinner on deck. The first night could be docked in the departure city, like Bodrum or Marmaris, for easy access.
- Day 2-4: Explore various destinations. For instance:
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- Bodrum-Gökova Gulf Route: Includes scenic stops at Orak Island, Cleopatra Island, and English Harbor.
- Göcek-Fethiye Route: Visit the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, and several secluded bays.
- Marmaris-Datça-Bozburun Route: Beautiful coastal villages, quiet bays, and nature preserves.
- Activities: Include optional team-building activities like water sports (snorkeling, jet skiing), group excursions to historical sites, or on-deck yoga sessions in the morning.
- Greek Islands (optional): For international experience, you could incorporate nearby Greek islands like Rhodes, Kos, or Symi, if travel time permits.
3. Incorporate Team-Building Activities
A blue cruise offers plenty of creative team-building options that are fun, memorable, and beneficial for bonding:
- Water Sports Challenges: Organize friendly competitions in swimming, paddleboarding, or snorkeling.
- Scavenger Hunt: At certain stops, plan a scavenger hunt that involves collecting photos or answering questions about landmarks and local culture.
- Group Dinners & Themed Nights: Each night, host a different themed dinner (Turkish night, seafood night, etc.) to keep the atmosphere engaging.
- Onboard Workshops: Schedule time for creative brainstorming or skill-sharing sessions, using the relaxed environment to inspire new ideas.
4. Arrange for Catering and Onboard Dining
Coordinate with your yacht agency to arrange meals and beverages. Options typically include:
- All-Inclusive Packages: Many yachts offer all-inclusive packages covering meals, snacks, soft drinks, and some alcoholic beverages.
- Special Requests: Inform the chef in advance of any dietary requirements or preferences, and consider arranging special dinners for specific nights (e.g., seafood night, Turkish cuisine night).
- Onshore Dining: Occasionally, disembark for dinner at local seaside restaurants to add variety and explore regional cuisine.
5. Consider Optional Excursions
Enhance the experience by organizing land excursions to significant sites along the coast. Some popular options include:
- Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island): A beautiful island with white sandy beaches and ancient ruins.
- Fethiye & Ölüdeniz: Known for the Blue Lagoon, it’s a top spot for paragliding, hiking, and exploring.
- Ancient Ruins: Include stops at ancient cities like Knidos, Kaunos, or the Lycian tombs to explore Turkey’s rich history.
6. Decide on Budget and Booking Details
Determine your budget and book well in advance, especially if planning during the high season (June-September). A corporate cruise requires coordination with the yacht charter agency on:
- Charter Fees: Fees vary based on yacht size, season, and amenities. Discuss with the agency to find a yacht that fits your budget.
- Additional Costs: Be clear about what’s included in the package. Additional costs might include fuel, port fees, and excursions.
- Insurance: Ensure appropriate travel and liability insurance are in place for the event.
7. Coordinate Transportation and Logistics
Plan for smooth arrival and departure logistics for your team:
- Airport Transfers: Many yacht charters include transfers from nearby airports to the marina (Bodrum, Dalaman, or Antalya airports).
- Welcome Kits: Prepare a welcome kit for each guest with essentials like sunscreen, reusable water bottles, itinerary details, and perhaps branded items for a corporate touch.
8. Select a Reputable Yacht Charter Agency
To ensure the event goes smoothly, work with a reliable yacht charter agency experienced in organizing corporate events. They can help with yacht selection, itinerary planning, and catering to specific corporate needs.
A corporate blue cruise is an unforgettable way to build team spirit and enhance workplace connections. By blending luxury with nature, these cruises provide an inspiring backdrop that’s both relaxing and invigorating, making it a highly rewarding experience for any company team.
MIRYA YACHTING is offering best blue cruise holidays in Turkey & Greek Islands
