Gulet 20m Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing performance of a 20-meter Gulet is best described as secondary to its motoring capabilities. These vessels are heavy-displacement motor-sailers, often weighing between 40 and 60 tons depending on the density of the wood used and the ballast configuration. Because they feature a relatively shallow draft and a full-length keel, they excel in directional stability and offer a comfortable, dampened motion in choppy seas, but they lack the ability to point high into the wind.

Most 20-meter variants are rigged as schooners or ketches. According to technical overviews of traditional Turkish builds, the sail area-to-displacement ratio is generally low, meaning the sails function more as stabilizers or for downwind "lifestyle sailing" in favorable breezes. Handling under power is the primary mode of transit; a single or twin engine setup (typically ranging from 240hp to 450hp) allows the vessel to maintain a cruising speed of 8 to 10 knots. The sheer mass of the hull provides a "big boat" feel, making it less susceptible to the rolling motions that can plague lighter fiberglass yachts at anchor.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The 20-meter platform is considered the "sweet spot" for private ownership and boutique chartering because it maximizes the number of en-suite cabins while remaining manageable for a small crew. A common configuration includes five to six double cabins, each equipped with private heads and often featuring marble-tiled showers—a hallmark of Turkish craftsmanship. The use of high-gloss mahogany or teak joinery creates a warm, opulent atmosphere that is rarely replicated in mass-produced Mediterranean cruisers.

Variations on the 20-meter hull include the "Tirhandil," which features a pointed stern and is historically more seaworthy for pure sailing, and the "Ketch Gulet," which provides a more balanced sail plan. The "Ayna Kic" variant is the most popular for those prioritizing interior space, as the squared-off transom allows for two large master staterooms at the stern. On deck, these boats are designed for the "Blue Cruise" lifestyle, featuring massive cushioned sunbathing areas on the coachroof and a wide, shaded aft deck for al fresco dining.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a 20-meter wooden Gulet must prioritize structural integrity over cosmetic finishes. Because these are wooden vessels, the maintenance cycle is more demanding than that of a GRP (fiberglass) boat.

• Fastener Fatigue: In older wooden hulls, "nail sickness" or the degradation of galvanized or copper fasteners can lead to plank movement. It is vital to check the condition of the hull fasteners, especially below the waterline.
• Deck Leaks: The expansive teak decks are often laid over marine plywood. If the caulking fails, freshwater can seep into the sub-deck, leading to rot that is expensive to remediate.
• Engine Room Ventilation: Due to the heavy wooden construction and traditional layouts, engine rooms can become excessively hot. Ensuring upgraded ventilation and heat shielding is essential for engine longevity.
• Solenoid and Electrical Updates: Many older Gulets were built with localized electrical standards. A buyer’s checklist should include a full audit of the 24V and 220V systems to ensure they meet modern marine safety certifications (such as CE or ABYC).

Community & Resources

The primary authority for these vessels is the Bodrum Cup, an annual regatta that celebrates the heritage and performance of Turkish Gulets. This organization serves as a central hub for technical knowledge and historical preservation of the craft. Additionally, the Turkish Chamber of Shipping (IMEAK) provides regulatory oversight and standards for the shipyards in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions that specialize in these specific hull forms.

The Verdict

The 20-meter Gulet is a soul-stirring alternative to modern plastic yachts, offering unmatched deck space and a timeless aesthetic. It is a vessel built for the journey rather than the destination, favoring long lunches at anchor and steady motoring over spirited windward beats.

Pros

• Exceptional Volume: Offers significantly more interior and deck space than a 65-foot fiberglass monohull.
• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: The thick wooden hull provides natural sound dampening and better temperature regulation than GRP.
• Aesthetic Presence: A well-maintained Gulet remains one of the most admired silhouettes in any Mediterranean marina.

Cons

• Maintenance Intensity: Requires annual haul-outs and consistent varnish work to prevent wood degradation.
• Sailing Limitations: Poor upwind performance; primarily functions as a motor yacht with auxiliary sails.
• Resale Complexity: The market for wooden vessels is more niche, requiring a specific type of buyer who understands traditional construction.