Sail Turkey: Gulet cruise Fethiye to Olympos

Imagine spending four days gently sailing along Turkey’s breathtaking Lycian coast, stopping at secluded beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages—all from the deck of a traditional Turkish gulet. For $516 per person, this cruise offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural highlights, making it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a typical boat tour.

What we love most are the opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and the chance to explore historic sites like Kekova’s sunken city. The food also receives high praise, with the included meals serving up fresh local flavors in a setting that’s both casual and scenic. On the flip side, boat trips like this tend to attract groups and can sometimes feel busy during peak hours, so it’s best for those comfortable with shared experiences.

This cruise is ideal for travelers craving a balanced mix of nature, history, and local culture. If you love being on the water and want to discover the Turkish coast at a relaxed pace, this trip could be exactly what you’re looking for. Just keep in mind that some entrance fees are extra, and the schedule is quite packed, so flexibility is helpful.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Traditional Turkish gulet with a friendly crew and a focus on local culture.
• Varied itinerary: Visits to Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Kas, Kekova, and more, offering a blend of nature and history.
• Food and drink: Included meals are plentiful, with a highlight on delicious Turkish dishes and snacks.
• Active options: Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing—perfect for adventure lovers.
• Convenient logistics: All transfers are arranged, and flexible booking options with free cancellation.
• Authentic towns: Kas and Demre both add a local flavor with shopping, ruins, and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sailing Experience

The journey begins early in the morning at Fethiye Harbour, where the lively buzz of the town gives way to the peaceful rhythm of the sea. As you step aboard a traditional gulet, you’ll quickly notice that these boats are more than just vessels—they’re floating social hubs with a long, storied history. The crew tends to be friendly and skilled, often sharing stories and tips that enrich your experience.

Day 1: Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, and St. Nicholas Island

Our first day kicks off with a sail at 10:30 am along the scenic Lycian coast. The first stop is Butterfly Valley, a lush, narrow canyon renowned for its natural beauty and the delicate butterflies that call it home. Here, you’ll have time for a walk, a swim, or snorkeling—just be sure to bring your gear. The fee to enter Butterfly Valley is a small €1, but it’s worth it for the chance to see this protected area.

Next, you’re whisked to Oludeniz, famous for its blue lagoon—a perfect spot for relaxation or light adventure. Whether you take a dip or just soak in the views, it’s a relaxing highlight.

As the sun begins to set, the boat anchors near St. Nicholas Island. You’ll enjoy a spectacular sunset, and perhaps a quick explore of the ruins on the island, which add a layer of history to the scenery. Many say that this is a truly memorable way to end the day.

Day 2: From Kas to Kekova

The next morning, the crew steers the gulet along the coast of Patara, a famous sandy beach, before arriving at Hidayet Bay for breakfast. The day is dedicated to exploring Kas, a picturesque fishing village with a lively atmosphere and excellent shopping. According to travelers, Kas offers some of the best handicraft stores and a lovely ancient theatre to visit.

Most guests enjoy having lunch in Kas, savoring local flavors and fresh seafood. The afternoon features a cooking class on board, where you learn to prepare Turkish Cheese Rolls and Pancakes—a fun, hands-on experience that garners many “delicious” comments.

Later, the boat moves to a secluded bay between Kas and Kekova, where you’ll spend the night. This quiet spot allows for swimming and relaxing under the stars.

Day 3: Exploring Kekova and Simena Castle

The highlight of this day is visiting Kekova’s Sunken City—an impressive archaeological site that’s been underwater for around 2,000 years after a devastating earthquake. Passengers can enjoy scenic views from the boat but won’t be able to snorkel or swim directly around the ruins, which is a slight disappointment for some.

In the afternoon, the boat anchors near Simena Castle, where you can explore the ancient fortress and enjoy magnificent views across the bay. The nearby village offers shopping and local sightseeing, giving you a taste of authentic village life.

That night, your boat finds a cozy spot in Gokkaya Bay, a tranquil setting perfect for swimming and relaxing, and perhaps a visit to the famous Smugglers Inn.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: From Gokkaya Bay to Olympos

The last morning begins with breakfast on board before docking at Demre harbor. This marks the end of your cruise, but not the end of your journey. From here, a complimentary shuttle is available to the charming village of Olympos, or you can arrange private transfers depending on your plans.

If you’re heading to nearby cities like Antalya, Kas, or Fethiye, buses run regularly from Demre, making onward travel simple and flexible.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the most praised features of this cruise is the delicious, plentiful food. Guests often mention the local Turkish dishes served onboard as a highlight, with some even trying to replicate the recipes at home. The meals are well-balanced, offering a mix of hearty dinners, fresh lunches, and simple breakfasts, all in a convivial setting.

Another aspect that travelers consistently enjoy is the opportunity for snorkeling and swimming in some of Turkey’s clearest waters. Whether it’s the bays around Butterfly Valley or the tranquil Gokkaya Bay, the chance to cool off and see underwater life is a big plus.

However, it’s worth noting that entrance fees for certain sites—like Gemiler Island (€4), Kekova Sunken City, and Simena Castle (€4)—are not included. These are small costs, but they do add up if you’re planning to visit all the sites.

Some reviews mention the group size can be on the larger side, which might feel a little crowded during busy times. It’s a shared experience, after all, but most find the atmosphere lively and friendly.

The Practical Side

The itinerary is packed, with each day offering a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery. Expect early mornings and full days, but also plenty of opportunities to relax. The transfer arrangements are straightforward, with free shuttles included, and the reservation process offers flexibility—book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What you’ll need to bring includes sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—simple essentials that will make your days on deck much more comfortable. The English-speaking host ensures that communication is smooth, and the crew is generally friendly and accommodating.

Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates historic ruins, and enjoys authentic local food, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for adventurers looking for active days, as well as those seeking relaxation in beautiful settings. The mix of guided excursions and free time allows for a personalized experience.

This tour suits travelers comfortable with group activities and who don’t mind sharing a boat with others. It’s also perfect for those looking to explore the less visited corners of Turkey’s coast, away from the busier resorts.

Final Thoughts

This 4-day gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos offers an excellent balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. The scenic sailing along the Lycian coast, combined with visits to historic sites and peaceful bays, makes for a memorable trip. The delicious food, friendly crew, and well-organized itinerary help ensure that you get the most out of your time on the water.

While the extra entrance fees might be a minor inconvenience, they are small compared to the value of the sights and experiences you’ll enjoy. The tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic Turkish coast experience—especially those who love swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages and ruins.

If you want a relaxed but activity-packed adventure that immerses you in Turkey’s natural beauty and historical richness, this cruise is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 4 days and 3 nights, with daily activities and stops planned throughout.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 8 meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners), accommodation on a traditional Turkish gulet, and transfers to Olympos from Demre.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for Gemiler Island (€4), Kekova Sunken City (€4), and Simena Castle (€4) are not included. You may also want extra snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Comfortable clothing for sightseeing and some cash for optional entrance fees or shopping are also advisable.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Swimmers will love the swimming and snorkeling opportunities, but non-swimmers should be cautious, especially around water. The tour’s focus on scenic sailing makes it generally suitable for families and all ages.

Can I customize the trip?
The itinerary is quite fixed, but you can choose private transfers at the end if you prefer more flexibility.

How do I book or cancel?
Reservations can be made online with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

This gulet cruise blends the best of Turkish natural beauty, history, and cuisine into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or an active exploration, it’s a trip that offers real value and authentic experiences that will stay with you long after you leave the deck.

You can check availability for your dates here: