Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz Islands Boat Trip

If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking up the sun, floating in crystal-clear waters, and marveling at the stunning coastline of Fethiye, this boat trip might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting a mix of relaxation, adventure, and gorgeous scenery.

Two things that stand out about this experience are the variety of stops — from the iconic Blue Cave to Butterfly Valley, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to swim or just enjoy the views. Plus, the included lunch and friendly crew add to the overall value, making it a solid choice for travelers on a budget.

However, a word of caution: some reviews mention the boat can get crowded, and timing isn’t always perfect, especially at Butterfly Valley, where you’ll only get about an hour. That might be a downside if you’re hoping for a more leisurely pace or more time at each location.

This tour seems best suited for those who want to see many beautiful spots in one day without spending too much. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, don’t mind group tours, and want a budget-friendly way to explore Fethiye’s coast.

Key Points

• Great value for money with a full day of stops and included lunch
• Variety of destinations including Butterfly Valley, Blue Cave, and Oludeniz Islands
• Multiple swimming opportunities in clear, calm waters
• Crowd levels can be high, especially at popular stops
• Group size around 45 travelers, offering a lively social vibe
• Timing may be tight at some stops, especially Butterfly Valley
• Food quality is generally praised, with generous portions
• Weather-dependent — the tour may be canceled in poor conditions

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This boat trip is designed for those wanting to see some of the most scenic spots along the Fethiye coast, all in one day. It offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just dip into the clear waters.

Departure from Oludeniz

The journey kicks off early, around 10 am, from Oludeniz harbor. The boat departs promptly, so arriving on time is key. The initial 30-minute ride is a gentle way to start your day, giving you your first glimpses of the coastline.

Butterfly Valley

The highlight for many is Butterfly Valley, a tranquil spot home to various butterfly species. The boat anchors here for about an hour, giving you a chance to explore or relax. Keep in mind, the entrance fee is not included, and you’ll have to pay around 2 if you want to go into the valley. Some reviews note that the time here is a bit limited — only about 60 minutes — so plan your walk or exploration accordingly.

Blue Cave (Mavi Magara)

Next, the boat heads to the Blue Cave, a favorite for its striking shades of blue. Expect to see water that makes green seem to melt into blue, with plenty of photo opportunities. This stop is free to access, making it a popular, budget-friendly highlight of the trip.

Soguksu Bay and Camel Beach

After the Blue Cave, the boat moves to Soguksu Bay, where the waters are cool and refreshing, perfect for a quick dip. The nearby Camel Beach offers a relaxed spot for a swim or a bit of sunbathing, and sometimes there’s an opportunity to see or even ride camels, depending on the day. This area is appreciated for its tranquility and the chance to cool off.

Return to Oludeniz and Lunch at Camel Beach

The tour then dips back to Camel Beach for a longer break, typically around two hours. Here, most travelers enjoy a made-on-site lunch — options include fish or chicken, served with rice, salad, and bread. Reviewers frequently mention the food as tasty, generous, and well-cooked. It’s a good chance to refuel before the last stretch of the day.

Final Stop and Return

After lunch, the boat makes a final stop near Oludeniz, allowing some more swimming or relaxing before heading back to the harbor. The return trip takes about 30 minutes, rounding out a full day of scenic cruising.

What Travelers Say: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning scenery, describing the water as “so blue” and the stops as “breathtaking.” Many mention the friendly crew and the delicious, hearty lunch as highlights, adding good value for the $45 fee.

On the downside, some travelers note the crowding, especially on the boat’s sun deck, which can be packed like sardines. One reviewer pointed out that the boat can be old and small, with some unprofessional behavior from staff — smoking being a concern despite rules. Timing at Butterfly Valley can also feel rushed, with only about an hour here, which some say isn’t enough to fully enjoy the place.

A couple of reviews mention the longer-than-expected delays and the overcrowding, with one traveler feeling that the experience was not worth the price, citing issues with staff and the boat’s condition. These points are worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed, less hectic experience.

The Value for Money

At $45 per person, this tour offers a decent deal considering the variety of stops and included lunch. The fact that most notable sights are free to access, with only Butterfly Valley requiring an entrance fee, keeps costs transparent. Many reviews emphasize that the food is delicious and plentiful, making the experience feel like good value.

However, keep in mind that some travelers find the tour somewhat crowded or timed tightly, which could diminish the laid-back vibe for those seeking tranquility. If you’re okay with a lively group and a bustling atmosphere, this trip delivers a lot for the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who want to cover several key spots along the coast in a single day. It suits those who enjoy a social, energetic atmosphere, and don’t mind sharing space with other travelers. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that includes a hearty lunch and plenty of swimming.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy laid-back days, this tour offers enough variety to keep everyone entertained. But if you prefer more time at each location or a quieter experience, you might find it a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

The Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, and Oludeniz Islands boat trip offers a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the Fethiye coastline. The combination of scenic stops, swimming in clear waters, and a tasty included lunch makes it a solid choice for those wanting a full day of exploration without breaking the bank.

While it’s not perfect — the crowding, timing issues, and occasional boat condition concerns are worth noting — the overall experience seems to leave most travelers satisfied. The stunning views, friendly crew, and the chance to relax and swim make this a popular pick for visitors wanting a lively, fun-filled day at sea.

If you’re okay with a bustling environment and want to see multiple highlights on a budget, this trip will likely meet your expectations and give you some memorable moments along Turkey’s beautiful coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children? This tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but keep in mind the boat can get crowded and involves several swimming stops. Children who are comfortable around water and in groups will enjoy it, but always check individual needs.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes a full day’s boat journey, lunch (fish or chicken with pasta, salad), and a crew that speaks English. Drinks, entrance fees to Butterfly Valley, and optional extras are not included.

How long is the trip? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 10 am and returning to Oludeniz after the final stop.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to book around 14 days early to secure a spot, especially during peak season.

Is the boat comfortable? The boat’s size and condition can vary, with some reviews mentioning that it’s old or small, which may impact comfort. Expect a lively, busy atmosphere.

What should I bring? Swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket or cover-up. Bringing extra drinks or snacks isn’t necessary, as food is provided.

Can I swim at each stop? Yes, most stops are designed for swimming or relaxing in the water, and some reviewers mention safety equipment like life jackets and noodles.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, entry to Butterfly Valley costs about 2, and if you want to visit certain places, you might need to pay extra. Be prepared for the possibility of buying drinks or souvenirs.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This boat trip offers a lively, scenic, and tasty adventure along Fethiye’s coast. It’s perfect for those eager to experience a variety of sights in one day, with the lively vibe, excellent food, and stunning water views making it a trip you’re unlikely to forget. Just keep in mind the crowd and timing, and you’ll have a memorable day on the sea.