Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Gulet Cruise Olympos to Fethiye
Set against the backdrop of Turkey’s beautiful Antalya Province, this 4-day gulet cruise offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local charm. Priced at $516 per person, it’s designed specifically for those aged 18 to 39 seeking an active social experience on Turkey’s coast. The trip takes you from the historic ruins of Olympos, past sunken cities and ancient castles, all the way to the lively harbor of Fethiye.
What we love about this cruise is how it combines stunning natural scenery with unique cultural sights—like snorkeling in the Mediterranean with a chance to spot turtles, and exploring the ruins of Kekova, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The onboard cooking class is a bonus, giving you a taste of Turkish cuisine you can try recreating at home.
A possible consideration is the group size and active itinerary—it can be busy, with plenty packed into four days. So, this trip is best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy socializing and outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a quiet, leisurely cruise with lots of free time, you might find this experience a bit fast-paced.
In general, this tour is perfect for adventurous young adults eager to explore Turkey’s coast with new friends, enjoy fun activities like snorkeling and paragliding, and appreciate authentic sights at a reasonable price.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Focused on shared adventures, mixing cultural sights with natural beauty.
- Active Days: Includes swimming, snorkeling, exploring ruins, and even a cooking class onboard.
- Flexible & Value-Driven: Full board included, with some entrance fees and drinks extra.
- Ideal for Young Travelers: Designed for ages 18-39, fostering a lively, social atmosphere.
- Beautiful Stops: Kekova Sunken City, Simena Castle, Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz Blue Lagoon.
- Not for Quiet Relaxation: The itinerary is busy, with lots packed into each day.
Detailed Review of the Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise
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Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere
This cruise begins at Demre Harbour, after a convenient pickup from Olympos. The atmosphere is lively and informal, perfect for those looking to meet like-minded travelers. You’re traveling with a group of mostly young adventurers, many eager to share stories as the boat moves from one scenic spot to another.
Day 1: Olympos / Demre to Gokkaya Bay
Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Olympos, a charming town known for its ruins and relaxed vibe. After a brief stop at Demre, famous for its church and connection to Saint Nicholas, you’ll board your gulet at Demre Harbour.
The first highlight is Turtle Beach, where you have the chance to spot several Mediterranean turtle species in their natural habitat. Many travelers appreciate this as a rare opportunity to see wildlife up close while enjoying a swim. The waters here are clear, making snorkeling a real treat.
Later, you’ll visit Kekova’s Sunken City, a UNESCO site with ruins partially submerged since ancient earthquakes. Watching the captain steer the boat over the ruins is a surreal experience—you can imagine the bustling port as it was centuries ago.
In the afternoon, you’ll explore Simena Castle, perched atop a hillside overlooking a quaint fishing village below. The village’s narrow, cobbled streets and colorful boats tug at your camera’s shutter, and many find the peaceful atmosphere a refreshing contrast to busier tourist spots.
The day winds down with anchoring at Gokkaya Bay, near the intriguing Pirate Cave. The bay’s calm waters make for a relaxing evening, and you’ll likely enjoy chatting with fellow travelers under the stars.
Day 2: Kekova to Kas
The second day starts with a sail to the lively town of Kas, a hub for both local crafts and vibrant nightlife. The morning includes a swim stop, giving you a chance to enjoy the turquoise waters.
Kas itself is a highlight—its cobblestone streets, lively market stalls, and waterfront cafes make it a perfect place to wander freely. Many guests love to explore the town at their own pace and grab lunch at a local café, sampling fresh seafood and Turkish specialties.
What sets this day apart is the onboard Cooking Class, where you’ll learn to make Turkish Cheese Rolls and pancakes. Several reviews mention how fun and interactive this experience is, and that the food is delicious enough to enjoy for brunch afterward.
Afterward, the boat sails to Firanaz Bay for an overnight stay, providing ample time to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 3: Kas to St. Nicholas Island & Oludeniz
The third day is packed with highlights. Early in the morning, you’ll cruise from Firnaz Bay to Butterfly Valley, a stunning natural reserve teeming with butterflies. It’s a highlight for nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful walk amid lush scenery.
Next, you’ll cruise past the famed Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, renowned for its tranquil waters and stunning backdrop. Many travelers mention the opportunity to swim here or even try paragliding off Baba Dagi mountain—a thrill that adds an adventurous touch to the trip.
The centerpiece is St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore the ancient ruins and climb to the top for a spectacular sunset. Several reviews point out how breathtaking the view is—truly a picture-perfect moment you won’t want to miss. The sunset here is often described as unforgettable.
Day 4: St. Nicholas Island to Fethiye
The final day starts with a quick swim and breakfast before heading back towards Fethiye. You’ll stop at a scenic bay for lunch, often appreciated as a relaxed way to end the trip.
By around 1:30 PM, you’ll arrive in Fethiye Harbour, where the crew and new friends bid farewell. This last stretch offers a sense of closure, with plenty of memories and photos to take home.
What’s Included and What’s Extra?
The full-board package covers three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners, making it quite good value considering the included activities like snorkeling and a cooking class. The snorkeling equipment is available on board, so you can explore the clear waters directly from the boat.
However, a few entrance fees are additional—like Simena Castle (4 Euros), Butterfly Valley (1 Euro), and St. Nicholas Island (3 Euros)—small prices for access to these iconic sites. Drinks are not included, so budgeting for beverages is wise.
What to Bring and Practical Tips
Travelers should pack sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. The weather in Turkey’s Mediterranean coast can be hot and sunny, especially during peak season, so sun protection is crucial. Comfortable shoes for wandering and a hat also come in handy.
The tour is conducted in English, and the group size tends to be lively and friendly, fostering a fun atmosphere.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, who make the experience memorable. One reviewer mentions how the guides “made everything fun and easy,” while another appreciated the “delicious Turkish food and engaging cooking class.”
Many find the stunning views — from sunset atop Simena Castle to the dramatic cliffs near Oludeniz—worth every moment. The chance to snorkel in clear waters and see turtles in their natural habitat is a standout feature for nature lovers.
The experience offers a great balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and socializing. Travelers enjoy sharing meals, stories, and swims with new friends, making it ideal for solo travelers or groups of friends.
A few reviews note the fast-paced nature of the trip—there’s a lot to see and do, so if you prefer slow mornings and free afternoons, this might feel a bit hectic.
The Sum Up
This 4-day gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye offers a lively, well-rounded taste of Turkey’s coast. From exploring ancient ruins and sunken cities to snorkeling with turtles and enjoying scenic sunsets, it’s a trip that’s hard to beat for young, active travelers eager to experience Turkey’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
The onboard cooking class adds a fun, interactive element, and the full-board meals keep things simple and convenient. While the itinerary is packed, it rewards those who love a mix of adventure and social fun.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to meet other young travelers, enjoy spectacular scenery, and get a taste of Turkey’s history and coastline all in one trip, this cruise could be your perfect match. Just keep in mind that it’s energetic and busy, so come ready for a lively adventure.
FAQ
What is the price of this cruise?
It costs $516 per person, which includes most meals and activities, with some entrance fees and drinks paid separately.
How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts four days, with different start times depending on availability.
Are meals included?
Yes, full board is included—three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners—plus a cooking class onboard.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available on the boat for exploring the waters.
What are the main sights visited?
You’ll see Turtle Beach, Kekova Sunken City, Simena Castle, Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, and St. Nicholas Island.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to certain sites like Simena Castle (4 Euros), Butterfly Valley (1 Euro), and St. Nicholas Island (3 Euros). Drinks are extra.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming is part of the experience, snorkeling is optional. If you’re comfortable near water, you should enjoy it.
What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, towels, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. A hat and light clothing for sun protection are also recommended.
What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
This cruise promises a memorable, lively adventure along Turkey’s stunning coast, perfect for those wanting a mix of history, natural beauty, and social fun—an authentic way to see the best of the Mediterranean in just four days.
You can check availability for your dates here: