Oludeniz: 6-Island Boat Trip with Swim Stops and Lunch

Oludeniz: 6-Island Boat Trip with Swim Stops and Lunch

Starting with a quick overview: This 6-hour boat trip from Oludeniz takes you to some of the most photogenic spots along Turkey’s Aegean coast — including Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island, Aquarium Bay, Cold Water Bay, and Camel Beach. For $79 per person, you’ll enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling in vibrant bays, and tucking into a hearty buffet lunch.

What we genuinely love about this experience is how accessible and relaxed it feels — with numerous opportunities to swim and explore at each stop, making it perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone craving a straightforward day on the water. Plus, the inclusion of delicious, plentiful lunch options and guides who know their stuff adds real value.

Of course, there are a couple of considerations. Some reviews mention that stopping points aren’t always ideal for snorkeling, and vegetarian options may be limited or not available, so planning accordingly is wise. This trip suits folks who enjoy a laid-back day on the water, want to see the coast’s iconic sights, and love swimming and picture-taking.

Key Points

• Visit multiple highlights: Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley, and St. Nicholas Island among others.
• Swim and snorkel in beautifully clear waters at each stop.
• Enjoy a tasty buffet lunch included in the price.
• Flexible swimming stops mean you can stay as long as you like in each bay.
• Guide expertise adds context and helps you appreciate the sites.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at what to expect from this boat trip

The route offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and fun in the sun. Starting at the Blue Cave, you’ll be enchanted by its dark, mysterious waters and the chance to swim into its depths. The real treat here is the underwater scenery — a favorite for snorkelers, although some reviews note the fish for snorkeling aren’t always plentiful or varied.

Next, the trip visits Butterfly Valley, one of the most famous stops on this coast. Surrounded by towering cliffs, it’s a place that looks almost untouched by modern development. You’ll see a waterfall that cuts through the steep landscape, and perhaps most notably, you’ll walk through a valley home to over eighty butterfly species. This spot is perfect for photographers and nature lovers, and it’s a highlight many travelers remember fondly.

St. Nicholas Island holds a different appeal, offering both historical intrigue and a chance to stretch your legs. Named after the saint, the island features ancient ruins and a small church, perfect for a quick exploration before enjoying the buffet lunch. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of history and leisure, noting that the food is plentiful and flavorful.

Aquarium Bay offers some of the clearest waters on the route, with a vibrant underwater scene that divers and swimmers adore. The bay’s varying shades of blue are stunning, making it a favorite for photos and relaxation. Divers particularly enjoy this spot, and many travelers mention how beautiful the underwater scenery is.

Cold Water Bay is a unique stop where sea water and fresh water meet, creating an ultra-cold, refreshing experience. Surrounded by pine trees and mountain slopes, this bay feels like a peaceful retreat. Some reviews highlight how refreshing and cold the water is — a perfect way to beat the heat before heading to the last stop.

Finally, Camel Beach provides a calm, small sandy spot ideal for a laid-back final swim. From here, the boat heads back to Oludeniz Beach just in time to catch a sunset and wrap up a memorable day.

What makes this trip special

The ability to stop and swim at every bay is a key feature that keeps this tour engaging. Unlike some boat trips that only skim the surface, this one lets you jump in and enjoy the waters whenever you wish, creating a truly personalized experience. The guide’s local knowledge enriches each stop, with commentary that adds context about the area’s natural and historical significance.

The included buffet lunch is another highlight, offering a satisfying meal after a morning of swimming and exploring. Many reviews mention the delicious food and thoughtful presentation, which adds value to the overall experience.

However, not everything is perfect. Some travelers found the stopping points not as engaging or impressive as expected, citing limited snorkeling fish and extra charges for extras like chips or vegetarian options. This suggests that it’s worth bringing your own snacks or being prepared for limited dietary choices.

This tour is best suited for relaxed travelers who want a scenic, comfortable day on the water, enjoy swimming, and appreciate the natural beauty of Turkey’s coast. It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for intense snorkeling or a highly curated historical experience, but it excels at providing a fun, scenic, and restful outing.

A detailed breakdown of the itinerary

Blue Cave

The adventure begins with Blue Cave, the first of many highlights. Expect to swim into the dark depths of this underground marvel, peering into the underwater world where you might see marine life and formations. The cave’s deep blue waters create a striking contrast with the lighter surrounding seas, perfect for photos.

While some reviews mention that snorkeling conditions aren’t always ideal, the experience of floating in this unique environment is memorable for most. You’ll definitely want your waterproof camera ready for this.

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Butterfly Valley

Next up is Butterfly Valley, arguably the most Instagram-worthy spot. Surrounded by high cliffs, it looks like a painting come to life. The waterfall cascading into the sea is a major photo opportunity, and walking through the valley allows you to experience the lush environment that’s home to over eighty butterfly species.

Many travelers love the natural, untouched feel of the valley, but some mention that the stopping time might be a bit short if you’re keen to explore more deeply. Still, it’s a photo-rich, peaceful spot that’s worth every moment.

St. Nicholas Island

This stop combines history and leisure. The island’s ruins and the church offer insight into the area’s past, while the buffet lunch provides a much-needed energy boost. After eating, you can explore further or simply relax on the small beach.

Some reviewers note that the food is delicious and plentiful, making it a satisfying break from the water activities. If you’re interested in history or just want a scenic place to wander, this is a good stop.

Aquarium Bay

Known for its vibrant underwater life, Aquarium Bay is a favorite for snorkelers and divers. The fifty shades of blue create an almost surreal setting, with clear waters and abundant marine life. Though some guests mention the fish aren’t as plentiful for snorkeling, the visual spectacle remains impressive.

Cold Water Bay

This is the most unusual stop, where freshwater and sea water meet. The ice-cold waters provide a refreshing dip, especially after a few hours in the sun. Surrounded by pine trees and mountain slopes, it offers a peaceful, natural environment. Many find it a perfect spot to cool down and relax.

Camel Beach

The tour closes at Camel Beach, a small, calm beach ideal for a last swim. The gentle waters and scenic setting make it a perfect place to unwind before heading back to Oludeniz. As the day ends, you’ll be able to reflect on the varied experiences of the trip.

Practical considerations

The trip’s price of $79 includes lunch and the boat tour, which makes it a good value given the number of stops and swim opportunities. Keep in mind, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet at the Hanuman Paragliding office. Be sure to bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear—and remember that food and drinks are not included apart from the buffet lunch.

The duration of six hours means you’ll spend a full day on the water, which is manageable even with young children or older travelers. The live English-speaking guide helps keep everyone informed and engaged.

Reviews indicate that some stops may feel rushed or less exciting than expected, but overall, most travelers find the tour well-balanced and enjoyable. If you’re a fan of swimming, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed pace, this trip will likely meet your expectations.

Final thoughts: Who should consider this tour?

This boat trip is perfect for those who want a laid-back, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. If you enjoy exploring natural bays and don’t mind a busy schedule with multiple stops, you’ll love the variety of landscapes. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch makes it suitable for travelers who want a full-day experience without fussing over meals.

Travelers interested in a mix of nature and light history will appreciate the stops at Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island. However, those seeking excellent snorkeling conditions or vegetarian meal options might find the experience somewhat limited or need to plan accordingly.

This tour offers a fun, memorable way to see Turkey’s stunning coastline without breaking the bank. It’s best suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day filled with swimming, exploring, and good food.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes six hours of boat cruising, swimming stops at six different locations, and a buffet lunch.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You should meet at the Hanuman Paragliding Turkey office at the designated start time.

Can I swim at all the stops?
Yes, you are encouraged to swim at each bay. The stops are designed for swimming and relaxing, with plenty of time allotted.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. You might want to bring your own water or beverages.

Is vegetarian food available?
The tour mentions a buffet lunch, but some reviews note limited vegetarian options. It’s best to prepare accordingly or check directly with the provider.

Can I expect good snorkeling?
Snorkeling conditions vary; some travelers mention limited fish or less-than-ideal snorkeling. Bring your own gear if you’re focused on underwater viewing.

How many people typically join this tour?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, it’s generally a shared group on a boat, which allows for a friendly, social atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially for families who enjoy swimming and exploring scenic spots. Keep in mind the length and the need for basic safety in water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and possibly snacks or drinks if you prefer more variety. Remember, food and drinks are not provided except for the buffet lunch.

This boat trip from Oludeniz offers a beautifully balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and leisure. It’s a great way to see Turkey’s coastline, relax amidst stunning scenery, and enjoy a day on the water. Whether you’re here for the landscapes, the swimming, or the food, this tour provides a solid, value-packed adventure—just be prepared for some busy stops and a lively group atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: