Ölüdeniz: Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley & Lunch Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day out on Turkey’s stunning Aegean coast, this Ölüdeniz boat tour could be just what you need. It’s designed to give you a taste of some of the most captivating sights along the coast — from the legendary Blue Cave to Butterfly Valley and beyond. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve looked into what makes it a popular pick—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the variety of stops—each offering something unique—and the opportunity to relax onboard with a freshly-made lunch while soaking in the views. The chance to swim in clear waters like Aquarium Bay and explore secluded spots sounds like a perfect mix of adventure and chill. One potential consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so keep that in mind if you’re a bit uneasy on water.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who love being on the water, want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning each stop, and enjoy a relaxed pace. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate friendly guides and want to see some of the coast’s most picturesque spots in one go.

Key Points

• Includes multiple stops: Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley, Aquarium Bay, Camel Beach, and Soguksu Bay.
• Swim and relax: Plenty of swimming stops in clear waters, perfect for cooling off.
• All-day experience: Around 8 hours of adventure with onboard lunch included.
• Suitable for water lovers: Best for those comfortable with swimming and seasickness precautions.
• Family-friendly? Not explicitly, but generally suitable for those who are okay with boat trips.
• No drinks included: Bring your own if you want refreshments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This boat adventure kicks off in Ölüdeniz, where your day begins with boarding a traditional wooden boat, often called a gulet. The journey is set to be a relaxed yet adventurous floating day along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to stop, swim, and explore.

The Blue Cave

Your first stop is the Blue Cave, a highlight for many visitors. The vivid blue waters and the way the sunlight hits the cave’s interior create a mesmerizing scene. Expect to spend some time admiring the vibrant shades of blue that make this spot one of the most photogenic along the coast.

Butterfly Valley

Next, you’ll head to Butterfly Valley, famed for its dramatic cliffs and peaceful, sheltered beach. This is a great chance to stretch your legs, explore a bit, and possibly see some of the many butterfly species that inhabit the area. The cliffs surrounding the valley give it a sense of seclusion and natural beauty that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Aquarium Bay and Swimming

After exploring Butterfly Valley, it’s time to hit Aquarium Bay for some swimming. The waters here are crystal-clear, providing a perfect setting for cooling off and spotting fish. The tour includes a delicious onboard lunch, typically a buffet, which you can enjoy while soaking up the sun and panoramic views.

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St. Nicholas Island & Camel Beach

The boat then visits St. Nicholas Island, where local lore suggests Santa Claus liked to spend his summer. You’ll have time to explore the ruins, enjoy the views, or paddle along Camel Beach, known for its shallow waters ideal for paddling and relaxing.

Soguksu Bay for Refreshment

Finally, your boat visits Soguksu Bay, famous for its cold but calming waters. This is the perfect spot to cool down after a busy day of sightseeing, and a comfortable way to round off your trip.

Return to Ölüdeniz

As the day winds down, you’ll cruise back to the starting point, with time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The journey back is often a peaceful moment, watching the coast slip by as you unwind from a full day on the water.

What’s Included & Not

The tour covers all the main stops and includes a buffet lunch onboard, making it good value considering the full day of activities. You’ll also benefit from swimming stops at key locations like Aquarium Bay and Soguksu Bay.

What’s not included? Drinks (so bring your own if you want some water, juice, or soda), personal expenses, and the transfer from your accommodation in Ölüdeniz. Note that the meeting point details are shared via WhatsApp or email the day before, so keep an eye out for that info.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

We love how diverse this tour is — it combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and plenty of leisure time. The stops at places like Butterfly Valley and the Blue Cave are truly memorable, driven by the stunning scenery and bright blue waters. The onboard lunch is a nice touch, giving you a break to relax and refuel.

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, which adds to the experience. One reviewer, Ewan, mentioned that “all the staff were lovely and made the experience very enjoyable,” emphasizing the importance of good guides on such trips.

However, the tour might not be perfect for everyone. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so if you get queasy easily, think twice or take precautions. Also, since drinks aren’t included, you’ll need to bring your own if you want to stay hydrated or enjoy a cold beverage.

Is It Worth It?

When you consider the duration (around 8 hours), the variety of stops, and the included lunch, it seems like a fair deal. The experience offers a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, all in one hassle-free day. If you’re looking for an easy way to see some of the coast’s best spots without worrying about transportation or planning each stop, this tour delivers.

The price reflects the all-inclusive nature and the convenience of a guided trip. For many travelers, the value lies in saving time and effort while securing a memorable day filled with stunning scenery.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, want to see iconic spots like the Blue Cave and Butterfly Valley, and enjoy a leisurely pace. It’s ideal for those comfortable with swimming and who appreciate friendly guides who can enrich the experience with local insights.

If you’re someone who prefers a very quiet, secluded experience or doesn’t like boat rides, you might find this a bit crowded or busy. But overall, it’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in one day and enjoy the natural beauty of Ölüdeniz’s coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers because the tour involves swimming stops in the clear waters. If you’re not comfortable in the water, you might want to skip the swimming parts or consider other options.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a camera, snacks if you like, sunscreen, and water. Since drinks aren’t included, you may want to carry some along.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, from the start in Ölüdeniz to the return trip back to your accommodation.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for those comfortable with boat trips and swimming. It’s not explicitly family-specific, so consider the age and comfort level of traveling with young children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak season. You can book now and pay later, which offers some flexibility.

What’s the best time of day to start?
Availability varies; check with the provider, but most tours start in the morning to make the most of daylight.

Are drinks provided?
No, drinks are not included. It’s best to bring your own water or beverages.

Is there any walk involved?
The tour involves exploring the stops, like Butterfly Valley and the ruins on St. Nicholas Island, but most activities are on the boat or in the water.

What’s the group size?
While not specified, guided boat tours like this tend to be small to medium groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some peace of mind.

If you’re after a relaxing yet adventure-filled day on Turkey’s coast, this boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic highlights, swimming, and good company. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to see some of the most beautiful spots along Ölüdeniz without all the hassle—just bring your sunscreen and sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: