Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

Discover the Charm of the Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a sailing adventure along Turkey’s breathtaking coastline, this 4-day gulet cruise offers a rare chance to explore some of the most iconic spots on the Mediterranean. Starting from Olympos and ending in Fethiye, the trip is designed for adventurous spirits aged 18-39 eager to see ancient ruins, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy authentic Turkish hospitality. For $470 per person, you get not just a boat ride but an experience packed with history, stunning scenery, and lively seaside towns.

Two aspects we particularly like? First, the chance to see well-preserved archaeological sites like the Sunken City and Simena Castle from the comfort of your boat — no diving required. Second, the delicious onboard meals, which reviewers rave about, make this journey feel like a floating feast. The only potential downside? The group size is limited to 16, which is great for intimacy, but might mean a more crowded scene during popular stops like Butterfly Valley or Oludeniz.

This tour suits travelers who love a blend of history, nature, and cultural exploration, especially those who enjoy laid-back days on the water with opportunities for spontaneous swimming, hiking, and exploring small villages. It’s perfect if you want a high-value experience that combines adventure with relaxation.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with visits to ancient sites like the Sunken City and Simena Castle
• All-inclusive meals and Wi-Fi make the trip comfortable and convenient
• Stunning scenery with multiple opportunities for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere
• Value for money considering the rich itinerary and included meals
• Active itinerary with a mix of cultural, historical, and natural stops

An In-Depth Look at the Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

This 4-day cruise strikes a fine balance between adventure and relaxation, giving travelers a chance to see Turkey’s coastline from a perspective few get to experience. We’ll break down what makes each day special, what you can expect, and some practical tips along the way.

Starting Point: Olympos and the Journey Begins

The tour kicks off early with pickups from Olympos, a village famous for its ruins and lush surroundings. The logistics are straightforward — pickups from Bayram’s Tree House and Olympos Junction, followed by transfer to Demre and then to the harbor at Ucagiz. This setup keeps the journey smooth and minimizes hassle, which is crucial when you’re eager to start your adventure.

Once aboard the boat, you’ll likely be greeted with a friendly briefing from the crew and a hearty lunch. The first highlight is visiting the Sunken City of Kekova, a Lycian-era settlement that was destroyed by an earthquake 2,000 years ago. The ship cruises slowly over the ruins, offering a unique view of a submerged ancient town — no diving, but a fascinating sight to behold.

Reviewers love the peaceful way the boat glides over this UNESCO-protected site, appreciating the opportunity to see history from a comfortable vantage point. One mentioned, “We cruised over this protected World Heritage site in a friendly manner and slow pace,” which enhances the sense of a gentle introduction to Turkey’s history.

Day 1: Ancient Ruins and Coastal Charm

After the Sunken City, the cruise visits the Kale (Demre) area, adding another layer to the historical experience. The highlight, however, is the Sunken City of Simena. With no swimming permitted here, the focus remains on visual appreciation of the ruins and the colorful cobbled streets of nearby Simena village. From here, the boat anchors near Kekova Island, where you can walk through Simena Castle or simply enjoy the panoramic views.

A nice touch is the relaxed pace — you have about two hours to take pictures, explore, or just soak in the scenery. The reviews praise the trip here, with one saying, “The cruise over the protected site was very friendly and slow,” making it suitable for those who prefer a calm, scenic experience.

Day 2: Kas — A Charming Coastal Town

Moving further west, the boat arrives in Kas, a quaint fishing village with a lively atmosphere. This is a highlight for those who love shopping for handmade jewelry and browsing local cafes. Our favorite aspect? The authentic feel of Kas, with its cobbled streets and friendly vibe. The stop here is about a day, giving plenty of time to explore at your leisure.

After exploring Kas, the boat heads to Aquarium Bay or Franz Bay for the night, which offers a peaceful setting to unwind after a day of wandering.

This part of the trip is praised by travelers for its value — a lively town with unique shops and the chance to relax in a scenic bay, all included in the cruise.

Day 3: Nature and Water Fun

The third day is about connecting with nature. Wake up in Butterfly Valley, a secluded spot famous for its over 136 butterfly and moth species. The optional hike to the waterfall is a favorite among adventurous travelers; even if you skip it, swimming here is a treat. Be prepared for the hike, which requires a basic level of physical fitness.

Next, the cruise moves to Oludeniz, where you’ll find the iconic Blue Lagoon. The shallow, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, and the scenery is postcard-perfect. Reviewers mention the spectacular views, especially during the summer when paragliders fill the sky—this adds a lively, energetic ambiance to the area.

Finally, the day ends at Gemiler Island (St. Nicholas Island), famous for its ruins and the sunset views. The ruins here include ancient churches and other historical remnants, giving you an opportunity to walk through history amid stunning natural surroundings.

Day 4: Lazy Morning and Farewell in Fethiye

The last morning starts at St. Nicholas Island, where many guests take an early swim or try their luck with fishing — some reviews mention enjoying the simple pleasure of catching fish for lunch. After breakfast, the boat cruises around a bay near Fethiye for a final swim and relaxing before entering the harbor around 1-2 pm.

Disembarkation is straightforward, with the crew available to arrange onward travel if needed. The included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are plentiful and well-received, with reviews praising the good, fresh food and friendly service.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is designed for travelers who enjoy small-group intimacy, with a maximum of 16 guests, creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and unlimited water makes the trip convenient, so you stay connected and hydrated while exploring.

The price point of $470 offers solid value considering the meals, multiple stops, and unique sights. Keep in mind, entry fees to sites like St. Nicholas Island, Butterfly Valley, and Simena Castle are extra (€2, €1, and €1 respectively), which adds a little to your budget but is well worth the experience.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness — some hiking and swimming are optional but recommended for full enjoyment. Travelers should also note that no transfers to Fethiye hotels are included, but the crew can assist in organizing onward transportation.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers often highlight the stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly crew. One reviewer called it “perfect,” praising the well-cooked food and beautiful sunrise mornings. Another said, “The staff does not speak English but this wasn’t a problem as we felt always safe and welcomed,” emphasizing the warm hospitality.

The consensus is that this tour offers a worthwhile blend of history, relaxation, and natural beauty — especially if you’re eager to see the coastline from a boat while enjoying Turkish cuisine and meeting like-minded travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore Turkey’s coast, this cruise hits the sweet spot. It appeals most to young travelers, solo adventurers, or couples who value authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and good value. It’s perfect if you love history, swimming, and charming villages but prefer to see them from the comfort of a boat rather than on long bus trips.

This trip is also ideal for travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized service. If you’re hoping for a luxurious cruise with full-on pampering, this may not be your best fit, but for those seeking a fun, authentic, and scenic adventure, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from the boat included?
The tour includes pickup from specific points in Olympos and Demre, but transfers to Fethiye hotels are not included. The crew can help organize onward travel if needed.

How long in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 33 days ahead on average, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak season.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 16, which helps foster a cozy, friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast (3), lunch (4), and dinner (3) are included, and reviews often highlight the quality and freshness of the food.

What are the main sights?
Expect to see ancient ruins like the Sunken City, medieval castles like Simena Castle, and scenic bays such as Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to optional hikes and swimming activities, but the itinerary is flexible enough for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Sail Turkey Gulet Cruise offers a beautifully balanced itinerary that’s perfect for those wanting to experience Turkey’s southern coast in an authentic and relaxed way. With a focus on history, scenic beauty, and good food, it provides genuine value and memorable moments. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll find this journey rewarding whether lounging on deck, exploring ruins, or swimming in secluded bays.

If you’re eager to combine adventure with cultural charm and prefer a small-group experience that emphasizes authentic moments over luxury, this cruise is a fantastic choice. The friendly crew, stunning stops, and delicious meals make it a trip that many will cherish long after they’ve returned home.