Thinking about a trip along Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast? Then you’ll want to check out this 4-day, 3-night gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye offered by Farout Turkey. It’s a popular route for good reason — it combines ancient ruins, picture-perfect bays, and lively fishing villages all in one memorable voyage.
What really makes this cruise stand out are the stunning views and the well-organized itinerary. We love the way it balances sightseeing with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean’s clear waters. Plus, the included meals and onboard hospitality add to the experience. But a heads-up — you’ll be on a shared boat, and some of the rooms could use an update, which might matter if you’re after modern comforts.
This cruise suits travelers who want a mix of adventure, history, and relaxation without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those eager to see the highlights of Turkey’s coast in a compact timeframe. Whether you’re traveling with friends, a couple, or just craving some downtime in beautiful surroundings, this trip offers a lot.
Key Points
- Beautiful coastal scenery and historic sites make this cruise a visual treat.
- All meals and some activities are included, making it good value.
- Itinerary covers must-see stops like Kekova, Kas, Butterfly Valley, and St Nicholas Island.
- Balance of free time and guided excursions helps you customize your experience.
- Onboard amenities include private bathrooms, linen, towels, and WiFi.
- Some entry fees apply for certain sites, so budget accordingly.
What to Expect from the Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise
This cruise offers a unique way to experience Turkey’s coast—by sailing along on a traditional Turkish gulet yacht. It’s perfect if you’re after a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of adventure. We’ll break down what you can expect, from the itinerary to onboard life.
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The Itinerary and Major Highlights
Day 1: Olympos / Demre Harbour to Kekova and Simena Castle
Your adventure kicks off in Olympos or Demre Harbour, where you’ll meet your crew and set sail. The first stop is Kekova, famous for its Sunken City—an archaeological site submerged in the calm waters. Exploring Kekova feels almost like stepping back in time, with ruins visible beneath the surface.
Next, you’ll visit Simena Castle and St Nicholas Island. The castle’s vantage point offers unforgettable sunset views, and the ruins at St Nicholas Island give a glimpse into the past. The entry fees for these sites are modest—€3 for St Nicholas Island and €4 for Simena Castle—but they’re well worth it for the photos and history.
Day 2: Kas Town and Hidden Bays
On the second day, the cruise takes you to the charming fishing village of Kas. This lively town is great for wandering, shopping, or just soaking in the atmosphere. You can visit local markets, grab a coffee, or explore the narrow streets.
Between stops, there’s plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. The boat anchors in crystal-clear bays—perfect for cooling off after some exploration. This is where you’ll really get to unwind, with the peaceful Mediterranean as your backdrop.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 3: Butterfly Valley and Ölüdeniz
Early morning, you’ll wake up near Butterfly Valley. The name alone hints at a serene spot—here, you can hike or simply enjoy the view. The valley is well-known for its natural beauty and tranquility.
Later, you’ll cruise past Ölüdeniz, often called Europe’s most photographed beach. The Blue Lagoon is stunning, with calm, turquoise waters. The boat anchors nearby, giving you time to swim, relax, or take in the scenery. Keep in mind, there’s an entrance fee (€1) for Butterfly Valley, and you’ll want to bring your beach towel and sunscreen.
Day 4: St Nicholas Island and Fethiye
On your final day, you arrive at St Nicholas Island, where you’ll have a chance to explore the ruins and enjoy your last hours on deck. The island’s archaeological sites and panoramic views make it a great spot for photos and wandering.
By late morning, the cruise concludes at Fethiye harbor, where you can disembark and start your next adventure. The whole trip wraps up in about four hours, making it easy to plan onward travel or a relaxed afternoon.
The Boat and Onboard Experience
Traveling on a standard Turkish gulet, you’ll find it equipped with everything needed for a comfortable cruise. Each cabin has private bathrooms, and there’s plenty of space to store your belongings. Linen and bath towels are provided, which is handy.
The crew is known for their hospitality, serving plenty of Turkish dishes that celebrate local flavors. Meals are served full board, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a late afternoon tea—perfect for fueling your days of exploring.
WIFI is available onboard, which can be a bonus for sharing your trip in real-time or catching up on messages. Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and other equipment are included, so you can make the most of the water activities.
Optional Activities and Extra Costs
If you’re feeling adventurous, optional activities like paragliding or diving are available. These are not included in the base price, so budget for extra fun if they appeal. Entrance fees for sites like St Nicholas Island, Simena Castle, and Butterfly Valley are modest but worth planning for.
The Price: Does It Offer Good Value?
At $511 per person, this cruise offers a solid value proposition considering the all-inclusive meals, accommodations, activities, and site visits. The price reflects a three-night trip on a well-equipped boat along a coastline packed with history and natural beauty.
Some reviews mention the cruise being well-organized and offering excellent meals, which adds to the overall value. However, a few guests noted that some rooms could benefit from modernization, so if you’re looking for ultra-luxury, this might not hit the mark. But for most, the combination of scenery, comfort, and inclusiveness makes it a worthwhile buy.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Bring sunscreen, swimwear, and sunglasses—the sun is strong, and you’ll be spending lots of time outdoors.
- A beach towel can be useful, despite linens being provided.
- Be prepared for some entry fees (€1-4) for certain sites—these are small but add up if you visit multiple locations.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as some days involve sailing in open water.
- The cruise departs from Bayram’s Tree House or Demre Bus Station—plan your transport accordingly.
Who’s This Cruise Best For?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation without the hassle of organizing individual transport or accommodations. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate historic sites, natural beauty, and comfortable onboard living.
While not the most modern in terms of cabins, the authentic gulet experience, combined with the variety of stops, makes it a standout for those seeking a memorable coastal adventure. It’s also good for those traveling in groups or couples who enjoy shared experiences and socializing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of exploring Turkey’s coast on a boat with a crew that’s friendly and knowledgeable, this cruise ticks many boxes. The route covers all the iconic sights—Kekova, Kas, Butterfly Valley, and St Nicholas Island—and offers enough flexibility to enjoy your way.
The value for money is solid, especially with full board and included water activities. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it delivers on scenery, history, and relaxed water days. The onboard environment is warm and hospitable, perfect for travelers who want to experience Turkey’s coast authentically without breaking the bank.
This cruise is best for those looking for an active, scenic, and culturally rich short getaway—an excellent way to get a taste of Turkey’s diverse coastline.
Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise
“The coast was very beautiful and the cruise was well organised, the meals were excellent and the rooms needed to be modernised.”
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
It lasts 4 days and 3 nights, making it a manageable trip for most travelers and a great way to see the coast without a lengthy commitment.
What is included in the price?
The price covers meals (full board), drinking water, WIFI, snorkeling equipment, paddle board, linen, and bath towels. Some site entrance fees are extra.
Are there optional activities?
Yes, options like paragliding and diving are available, but they are not included in the price. You’ll need to pay additionally if you want to participate.
What are the main sightseeing stops?
Highlights include the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, Kas Town, Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, and St Nicholas Island.
Is the accommodation onboard comfortable?
The gulet provides private bathrooms and plenty of space inside, though some reviews suggest that rooms could use modernization. It’s a traditional boat experience rather than a luxury stay.
Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, and a beach towel. Budget for some entrance fees (€1-4) and optional activities if you’re interested.
This Olympos to Fethiye gulet cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s coast, combining history, scenic beauty, and relaxation in a way that’s both accessible and memorable. If this adventure sounds like your kind of trip, it’s worth considering—just be ready for a lively, authentic sailing experience.
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