When you think of Turkey’s turquoise waters and ancient ruins, a week-long gulet cruise along the Lycian coast may be just what you need for an authentic maritime adventure. Set from Fethiye, this 7-day voyage offers a gentle blend of scenic sailing, historic exploration, and relaxing swims, perfect for a mixed group of ages. At $959 per person, this trip balances a fair price with rich experiences, making it appealing for those wanting both comfort and adventure.
What we love most about this cruise? First, the variety of stops — from the sun-drenched Butterfly Valley to the underwater mysteries of Kekova’s Sunken City, every day offers something unique. Second, the participatory nature of the trip — with onboard cooking classes and chances to explore on your own — keeps the experience engaging without feeling rushed.
A possible drawback? The itinerary’s packed schedule might be a stretch for travelers seeking total relaxation. If you prefer more downtime or luxury accommodations, this active, adventure-heavy cruise might be less suited.
This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers, history buffs, or families and friends wanting a taste of authentic Turkish maritime life. If you’re eager to see diverse sights from ancient castles to lively local villages, but still want some time to snorkel and soak up the sun, it’s a great fit.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines scenic sailing with cultural and historical sightseeing.
- Active and Relaxing Balance: Swimming, hiking, and exploring balanced with leisure.
- All-Inclusive Value: Full board meals, snorkeling gear, and guided excursions included.
- Variety of Stops: From Butterfly Valley to Kas, Kekova, and Oludeniz.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with activities that appeal across generations.
- Authentic Local Flavor: Cooking classes and visits to historic sites enrich the journey.
An In-Depth Look at the Gulet Cruise Experience
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Setting Sail from Fethiye: The Launch Point for Your Turkish Adventure
The trip kicks off at Fethiye Harbour, a lively port city famed for its bustling market and vibrant marina. Check-in begins around 9:30 am, giving everyone ample time to meet the crew and get settled before setting sail at 10:30 am. From here, the scenic Lycian coastline becomes your backdrop, a ribbon of rugged cliffs, secluded bays, and historic ruins.
Day 1: From Fethiye to St. Nicholas Island — A Welcome to the Mediterranean
Your first stop is Butterfly Valley, famous not just for its fluttering inhabitants but also for its striking natural beauty. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim and hike, with the bonus of seeing a diverse array of butterflies. The highlight is a hike up to a viewpoint, where the panoramic vista of the valley leaves a lasting impression.
Next, it’s a short sail to Oludeniz, home to the world-renowned Blue Lagoon. Here, you can indulge in paragliding, soaring over the lagoon for a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling water and surrounding mountains. The day wraps up at St. Nicholas Island, where you can enjoy sunset views over ancient ruins — a perfect end to a busy first day.
Quote from a guest: “The sunset at St. Nicholas was breathtaking, and the history of the ruins added a special touch.”
Day 2: Coastal Charm of Kas
Early in the morning, the crew guides the gulet to Hidayet Bay near Patara, famous for its long, sandy beach. After a refreshing swim there, sailing continues to Kas, a fishing village with a lively vibe and great shopping opportunities. You’ll love wandering the narrow streets, discovering local cafes, or exploring the ancient theatre.
In the afternoon, a cooking class onboard introduces you to Turkish cuisine with dishes like Cheese Rolls and pancakes. This hands-on experience makes the trip feel more personal and authentic. Afterward, the boat anchors in a secluded bay between Kas and Kekova for the night.
Quote from a guest: “The onboard cooking class was such a fun way to connect with local flavors — I’ll try making those pancakes at home.”
More Great Tours NearbyDay 3: The Mysterious Sunken City of Kekova
The boat’s first stop is the Sunken City of Kekova, a UNESCO site famous for its submerged ruins caused by a 2nd-century earthquake. While swimming isn’t allowed here, you can cruise by and appreciate the ghostly remains beneath the water. Later, you’ll anchor near Kekova Island, where you’ll visit Simena Castle. The views from the castle overlook a beautiful bay, perfect for photos and absorbing the peaceful atmosphere.
Quote from a guest: “Seeing the ruins from the boat was fascinating, and the views from the castle were unforgettable.”
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Day 4: Exploring Lycian Tombs and Local Villages
Cruising to Demre Harbour, you’ll get a glimpse of Lycian tombs carved into cliffs and, if you choose, visit St. Nicholas Church — the original inspiration for Santa Claus (an extra fee applies). The morning includes swimming at Turtle Beach, where you might spot turtles nesting and swimming, a reminder of the area’s natural treasures.
The afternoon allows for exploration of Saraylar Village or relaxing at Aquarium Bay and Kocakari Bay, anchoring at a tranquil spot for the night.
Quote from a guest: “Swimming at Turtle Beach was magical; we saw turtles in their natural habitat, which made the trip extra special.”
Day 5: Back to Kas and Cooking Delights
Revisiting Kas, you’ll get a chance to revisit favorite shops or enjoy a coffee by the harbor. The onboard cooking class repeats, allowing everyone to perfect Turkish recipes. Later, the boat cruises to Firnaz Bay near Kalkan, a charming spot to relax for the night.
Day 6: Last Flings at Butterfly Valley & Oludeniz
Early morning, the boat heads back toward Butterfly Valley, giving you a second chance to swim or hike amid natural beauty. The waters of Oludeniz beckon for a relaxing swim, and you might want to paraglide again for those who loved it on Day 1.
The day ends with a sunset at St. Nicholas Island, casting a golden glow across the ruins and water — a fitting farewell to the coast.
Day 7: Return to Fethiye
The cruise winds down with a leisurely morning, including a final swim and breakfast. Before heading back to Fethiye Harbour, there’s a last chance to dip into the blue waters at a bay near the city. The trip concludes around 1:30 pm, leaving you with memories of stunning scenery, engaging cultural stops, and the chance to relax on deck.
Practical Details and What to Expect
Transportation, Schedule, and Group Size
The entire journey takes place aboard a traditional Turkish Gulet, a wooden yacht that’s both charming and spacious enough for group comfort. The group size tends to be small and intimate, allowing for personalized attention from the crew and plenty of space to unwind.
The itinerary is quite full, with daily stops at scenic locations and historic sites, balanced with plenty of swimming and relaxing time. The check-in time ensures everyone is ready to set sail around 10:30 am, with most days wrapping up by late afternoon or early evening. This means significant time spent on the water or exploring.
Meals and Included Amenities
The full board includes breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner, with fresh, flavorful cuisine reflecting Turkish traditions. The snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can easily explore beneath the surface. The inclusion of guided excursions, such as the visits to Kekova and local villages, means you won’t need to worry about planning your own site visits.
Costs and Additional Fees
While the trip covers most meals and activities, there are small entrance fees for specific sites: Butterfly Valley (€1), Gemiler Island (€3), and Simena Castle (€4). These are paid on-site and are quite reasonable considering the value of the sites.
Authenticity, Value, and Who It’s For
This cruise offers a genuine taste of Turkish coastal life — from local cuisine to historic sites — with the added comfort of a well-maintained gulet and attentive crew. The value lies in the combination of guided sightseeing, cultural activities, and the chance to sail along one of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines.
It’s especially suited for families, couples, or friends who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure, without the need for luxury but with a desire for authentic experiences. If you’re looking for stunning views, rich history, and hands-on cultural activities, this tour hits the mark.
However, if you prefer total leisure with minimal activity, or if luxury accommodations are your priority, you might find this more rustic and busy than you’d like.
The Sum Up
This 7-day gulet cruise along Turkey’s Lycian coast offers a well-rounded experience packed with scenic sailing, historic exploration, and authentic Turkish flavors. The combination of stunning vistas, friendly guides, and a variety of stops makes it a standout for travelers eager to see the real Turkey from the water.
While the schedule can be brisk and the focus on active exploration might not suit everyone, those who value a balance of adventure and relaxation will find plenty to love here. The inclusive meals, snorkeling gear, and guided visits make it a good value for a memorable week at sea.
Ultimately, this cruise is best for curious adventurers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic local experiences, all while enjoying the comfort and camaraderie of a small group on the Mediterranean waters.
FAQ
What is included in the price of $959 per person?
The price covers full board meals (breakfast, lunch, tea time, dinner), snorkeling equipment, and guided excursions. You pay small entrance fees for specific sites like Butterfly Valley (€1), Gemiler Island (€3), and Simena Castle (€4) on-site.
How many days does the cruise last?
It is a 7-day journey, with daily stops and activities, starting from Fethiye and returning there at the end of the trip.
Is the cruise suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is designed for mixed age groups, with activities like swimming, hiking, and cultural visits that appeal across generations.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen — essentials for sun exposure and water activities. Comfortable clothing for sightseeing and hiking is recommended.
Are there opportunities for free time on the trip?
Absolutely. You’ll have time to explore towns like Kas, relax on beaches, or enjoy the onboard amenities, depending on each day’s schedule.
Can I participate in the cooking classes?
Yes, the onboard cooking classes are part of the trip and offer a fun, hands-on introduction to Turkish cuisine.
This gulet cruise promises a delightful mix of scenery, history, and authentic experiences on Turkey’s beautiful Mediterranean coast — perfect for travelers eager to see the coast from a different perspective.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Oludeniz
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