Oludeniz Boat Trip to Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island from Fethiye

Experience the Best of Ölüdeniz on a Full-Day Boat Trip from Fethiye

Imagine spending a leisurely day exploring turquoise bays, rugged islands, and dramatic cliffs all from the comfort of a boat. For around $48, you can enjoy a 7-hour excursion that takes you from Fethiye to some of Turkey’s most eye-catching coastal spots. This tour typically runs from Ölüdeniz, starting with a pickup service (though you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point), and includes plenty of swimming, a delicious onboard lunch, and visits to places like Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island.

What really makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to swim in multiple beautiful bays—from the shimmering Blue Cave to Aquarium Bay—and second, the opportunity to hike up to St Nicholas’ ruins for panoramic views. We also love the inclusion of a homemade-style lunch and the laid-back atmosphere of the boat, which feels more intimate than the bigger pirate-style craft.

One consideration? The entrance fees for Butterfly Valley (€1) and St Nicholas Island (€3.50) are not included, so you’ll want some cash on hand. Also, during peak season (July 1 to September 15), the Blue Cave visit might be skipped due to high demand. Still, this trip is well-suited for those who appreciate relaxed exploration, stunning scenery, and a taste of authentic coastal life. It’s especially perfect if you’re after a value-packed day of swimming, sightseeing, and good food—without the hassle of planning multiple trips on your own.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and hiking with an onboard lunch.
• Value for Money: At roughly $48, the trip offers multiple stops, scenic views, and food included.
• Flexible Highlights: From the Blue Cave to Butterfly Valley, the itinerary covers several top spots.
• Group Size: The tour hosts up to 75 travelers, making it lively but still manageable.
• Cost Considerations: Entrance fees to certain sites are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Timing: Starts early, with hotel pickup, and lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but relaxed day.

Dive into the Details of the Ölüdeniz Boat Trip

If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning landscapes and fun water activities, this tour hits the mark. We loved how the itinerary touches on several iconic locations, each with its own unique charm and opportunities for photos. The overall pacing allows plenty of time to swim, relax, and explore—key to a memorable trip.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel between 8:45 and 9:15 am, but note that the transfer to the boat is not included. This means you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point at Ölüdeniz Beach. Once aboard, the boat sets sail around 10:30-10:45 am. The group size can be up to 75 travelers, which means it’s lively but still manageable, with enough space for everyone to find a comfortable spot.

The First Stop: Blue Cave

The Blue Cave, located in the Faralya region, is a highlight, especially for lovers of quirky natural formations. You’ll marvel at the shimmering waters and the bold, natural architecture. However, during high season (July 1 to September 15), the Blue Cave visit might be skipped due to crowd and weather conditions. Still, even if you miss it, the other stops compensate for this.

Butterfly Valley: A Natural Wonder

Butterfly Valley is the most talked-about part of this tour. This dramatic canyon, filled with colorful butterflies, offers a swimming break of about an hour. Some reviews note that the valley itself isn’t as scenic as hiking enthusiasts might hope—“there are much better hiking trails,” one reviewer said—but the boat’s stop here is more about the chance to wade in crystal-clear waters and soak up the atmosphere.

Guests who want to enter the valley itself can do so for a small fee (€1), but many just enjoy the beach and the views. The experience is relaxed, with some visitors noting the beach can be crowded, yet still enjoyable for a quick swim and a stroll.

Aquarium Bay and Gemiler Island

Next, the boat heads to Aquarium Bay, offering another hour to swim in calm, inviting waters. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling or just floating about. From here, the boat moves toward Gemiler Island, famous for its ancient church ruins dating from the 4th-6th centuries AD. If you decide to explore the island, there’s an entrance fee of about €3.50. Many reviews describe it as a chance to step back in time while enjoying fantastic views of the coast.

Camel Beach and Additional Swimming

The final major stops are Soguk Su Bay and Camel Beach, each offering about 90 minutes for swimming and relaxing. Camel Beach, with its soft sands and clear waters, is a favorite among travelers, often praised for its secluded feel and picturesque scenery. Many reviews highlight that the boat crew keeps the atmosphere friendly, and the stops are long enough to really unwind.

Lunch and Onboard Comfort

A notable highlight of this tour is the included onboard lunch. Many travelers comment on the delicious, homemade-style food, with plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. The food is often described as “loads of trims,” with some praising the generous servings. Drinks are available for purchase, but soft drinks during lunch are not included, as noted by some guests.

End of the Day and Return

After a full day of swimming, exploring, and sightseeing, the boat returns to Fethiye around 4 pm, with a final 30-minute stop near the harbor. From there, it’s about an hour back to your hotel, leaving plenty of time to relax after your adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

The reviews reveal some honest insights. Many travelers appreciate the value for money, especially considering the multiple stops, scenic views, and included lunch. “Great trip! We were on a smaller boat which seemed more relaxing than pirate ships,” one review said, highlighting that the boat’s size and comfort level can significantly influence your experience.

Others loved the variety of swimming locations—“beautiful beaches and valleys”—and appreciated the laid-back atmosphere. A few noted that entrance fees for Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island are extra, so budget a few extra euros. One reviewer pointed out that during peak season, some stops might be skipped, but this is understandable given the volume of visitors.

The hike up to St Nicholas Island is definitely worth it if you enjoy a bit of exercise and panoramic views. The climb is manageable, and the ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Many reviewers mention that the view from the hilltop is absolutely worth the effort.

The Food and Drink

While the onboard lunch is generally praised, some mention that drinks cost extra. If you’re a soft drink lover, bring some cash for beverages. The food, often described as delicious and plentiful, provides a good break in the middle of your day.

The Overall Atmosphere

Most travelers find the boat comfortable and the crew friendly. The mix of relaxation and activity makes this trip appealing. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, the boat’s lively yet relaxed vibe suits many types of travelers. The ability to spend ample time at each stop is a major plus and helps create a balanced experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting to see the best of the Turkish coast without too much hassle. It’s an excellent choice for those who love swimming, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, especially if you want to avoid the crowds at popular sites like the Blue Cave. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and multiple swimming stops makes it a great value for a full day out.

If you’re keen on hiking and exploring historic ruins, the visit to Gemiler Island and St Nicholas Hilltop will satisfy that craving. But if you’re after a quiet, secluded experience, some stops might be crowded or busy, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip from Fethiye to Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and cultural sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see multiple highlights in one day, with enough downtime for swimming and relaxing. The value of the included lunch and multiple swimming stops makes it especially attractive for those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality.

Families, first-time visitors to the area, or anyone looking to combine adventure with relaxation will find this trip very satisfying. However, if you’re a dedicated hiker or prefer fewer crowds, you might want to plan some extra time for the sites or consider a smaller boat option. Overall, it’s a lively, scenic, and memorable way to enjoy the coast of Turkey.

FAQs

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Oludeniz, but you must make your way to the boat at Ölüdeniz Beach, as transfers are not included.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are entrance fees included?
No, fees for Butterfly Valley (€1) and St Nicholas Island (€3.50) are not included, so bring some cash for these sites.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for extras like entrance fees and drinks. The boat does not permit outside food or drinks onboard.

Is this suitable for families or kids?
Yes, the trip is suitable for most travelers, including families, as it offers a relaxed pace and plenty of swimming opportunities. Just keep an eye on children during the hikes and in crowded areas.

Can I expect a quieter experience during peak season?
Not necessarily—the Blue Cave may be skipped during July to September due to high demand, and some stops may be crowded, but the overall experience remains enjoyable.

This boat trip offers a fantastic slice of coastal Turkey, combining natural beauty, history, and relaxation. Perfect for those who want a well-rounded day that captures the essence of Fethiye’s stunning waters and landscapes.