Sail Turkey: Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to explore Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast in style and comfort, this Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise might just be what you’re after. It’s a popular four-day journey that takes you along some of the most breathtaking parts of Turkey’s Aegean coastline, from ancient ruins to crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. While I haven’t personally sailed this route, I’ve looked into what makes it a standout experience for many travelers, and I think it offers a lot of value—especially if you appreciate a mix of history, stunning scenery, and good food.

What I really like about this cruise is how it balances sightseeing and relaxation. You’ll visit iconic spots like Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz, both picture-perfect, and get a taste of Turkey’s ancient past with stops at St Nicholas Island and the ruins of Simena Castle. Plus, the chance to indulge in Turkish cuisine onboard makes it feel like a genuine cultural experience. A potential consideration is the price—while it includes meals, water, Wi-Fi, and some activities, drinks and certain excursions are extra, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a curated, comfortable way to see a variety of sights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s also great for those who enjoy being on the water, love exploring ancient sites, and don’t mind sharing a boat with a small group. If you’re after an adventure that combines history, nature, and good company, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable gulet experience with private en-suite cabins and limited air conditioning hours for a cozy, traditional vibe.
• Iconic stops like Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, and St Nicholas Island offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Delicious Turkish meals are included, often with fresh and abundant options, plus options for optional activities like diving and paragliding.
• All logistics like port fees, taxes, and fuel are covered, making it straightforward to book.
• Wi-Fi is available onboard, but connections might be spotty in some remote spots.
• A balanced itinerary that mixes cultural exploration with relaxation in beautiful bays and beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Departure

Your journey begins in Fethiye, a lively harbor town known for its vibrant market scene and scenic waterfront. Boarding your gulet, a traditional wooden sailing boat that’s been upgraded to high standards, you’ll notice how the cabins are thoughtfully designed—private, with ensuite bathrooms. The boat’s common areas are well-maintained, with shaded sunbeds and water toys, making it easy to relax and soak up the sun.

Day 1: Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz

The cruise kicks off with a cruise to Butterfly Valley, which is a favorite for many. The name hints at the lush surroundings, and you’ll have the chance to hike in the valley or take that first swim in the vivid blue waters. It’s a gentle intro to your trip, and the reviews highlight how the scenery here is absolutely stunning.

Next stop is Oludeniz, often called Europe’s most photographed beach. The back of the Blue Lagoon offers calm waters perfect for swimming, and the views are truly postcard-worthy. You’ll anchor here for the evening, giving you time to enjoy the sunset and perhaps wander around or relax onboard.

Day 2: St Nicholas Island and Kas

The next morning, the boat heads towards St Nicholas Island, famous for its ancient ruins and spectacular sunsets. Exploring the remnants of old churches and fortifications is a highlight for history buffs, while the views from the island are breathtaking. Be sure to catch the sunset here—many reviews emphasize how magical the atmosphere is at dusk.

Later, you’ll sail towards Kas, a charming town with a lively atmosphere and plenty of shops for browsing. Here, you’ll have the chance for some shopping or a quick explore of the ruins of Simena Castle. Many travelers enjoy the relaxed vibe of Kas and the chance to enjoy local culture.

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Days 3 and 4: Kekova Region and Additional Stops

The cruise continues with visits to Kekova, known for its Sunken City, which you can see from the boat or explore on a short swim or small boat tour. The region’s underwater ruins are a striking reminder of past civilizations, and many guests find it fascinating.

Over the next day, the boat will take you past other beautiful bays, giving plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. You might also have optional activities like paragliding or diving, although these are not included in the base price.

Onboard Comfort and Amenities

The gulet itself is well-equipped, with air-conditioned cabins, private bathrooms, and communal spaces that are kept very clean. Water, linen, and towels are provided to keep things simple. The limited air conditioning hours mean you might feel warm during the hottest part of the day, but that’s typical of traditional gulets and part of the authentic experience.

The onboard meals are a major highlight. Expect Turkish dishes and hearty buffet-style meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a 5 PM tea. Many reviews praise the tasty, fresh food and generous portions—something that adds real value to the trip.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While most essentials are included, some extras are not. Drinks beyond water, optional activities like paragliding or diving, and entrance fees are additional. You’ll need to bring your own beach towel or buy one locally—a minor but worth noting detail.

Wi-Fi is available but not guaranteed everywhere, especially in more remote areas. So don’t plan on streaming movies or heavy browsing—think of it as a way to stay connected without expecting constant connectivity.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

The positive reviews are telling: one traveler mentioned that “everything went perfectly,” highlighting the friendly staff, delicious food, and stunning stops. They appreciated the cleanliness of the common areas and the overall smooth experience.

Another reviewer called the cruise a “dream,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the itinerary and the scenery. These insights suggest that the experience is genuinely enjoyable and memorable for most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed yet adventure-filled way to see Turkey’s coastline. It’s perfect if you enjoy good food, scenic views, and a touch of history without the hassle of planning each stop. It also works well for those comfortable sharing small spaces and who appreciate a mix of guided and independent exploration.

If you’re curious about Turkey’s ancient sites, love being on the water, or want a hassle-free way to visit multiple spots, this trip checks a lot of boxes. However, if you’re looking for a luxury experience with nonstop amenities or strictly private accommodations, this might not be the right fit.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $511 per person?
The price covers accommodation on the gulet with private en-suite bathrooms, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea), water, port and marina fees, taxes, and fuel. Linen and towels are also provided.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package. You cannot bring your own drinks onboard, and all beverages are sold separately. A bar tab is set up and paid at the end of your cruise.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring a beach towel, as these are not provided. Comfortable clothing for sightseeing, swimwear, sun protection, and some cash for optional activities or extras are recommended.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available but not guaranteed everywhere. Expect some patchy connections in remote locations.

How long is the cruise and when does it start?
The cruise lasts four days and three nights, with departure times varying by date. Always check availability when booking to find a schedule that works for you.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the departure for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise offers a wonderful way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline with a good balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Its well-maintained boats, delicious food, and carefully curated stops make it a solid choice for those wanting an authentic, hassle-free adventure on the water.

While it’s not a luxury, all-inclusive experience, what you get—beautiful scenery, friendly service, and a taste of local life—feels quite special. Perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and leisure, this cruise can turn a vacation into a memorable story to tell.

If you’re someone who values comfort but also craves authentic moments and stunning views, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to budget for drinks and optional activities, and you’ll be set for a fantastic trip along Turkey’s famous coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: