The Gulet: A Rich Maritime History Arrives in Costa Rica

Brisa Elegante
Jul 1
2 min read

The Brisa Elegante is a unique sailing vessel in Central America. Built in 2010 in Fethiye, Türkiye, she belongs to a classic class of custom wooden ships known as Gulets.

Ancient Origins

Shipbuilding in this region of Türkiye spans millennia. Over 2,000 years ago, ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians and Egyptians utilized these same protected bays to construct their fleets. The historical significance of the region's maritime craft is well-documented; for instance, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology displays a shipwreck dating back to the Bronze Age, around 1,400 BC.

The characteristic hull design of a modern Gulet—distinguished by its wide beam and rounded aft—evolved from ancient cargo ships used during the Byzantine era. This design prioritized stability and volume, making the vessels exceptionally sturdy even in rough seas. Historically, these ships were used not only for trade but also for fishing and sponge diving.

The Modern Gulet

The contemporary version of the Gulet began to take shape in the 1970s, evolving to meet the growing demand for luxury coastal tourism. Builders shifted focus toward creating generous cabin spaces below deck and expansive dining and social areas above. By the 1980s, production surged, and Gulets established themselves as premier motor-sailing vessels throughout Croatia, Greece, Italy, France, and Spain.

To this day, master craftsmen build these vessels using traditional methods, hand-shaping premium wood, such as pine or mahogany planks over robust oak frames.

A Mediterranean Classic in Central America

While commonplace in the Mediterranean, Gulets remain exceptionally rare in the Americas. Brisa Elegante was brought to Costa Rica in 2021. She features a custom layout tailored for the tropics, incorporating a large, open foredeck to maximize outdoor space and allow guests to fully enjoy the climate.

True to the Gulet tradition, the interior is built as a spacious cabin cruiser, featuring a refined salon and staterooms with ensuite bathrooms. It offers the comfort of a boutique hotel, combined with the timeless romance of the sea.