Ölüdeniz Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch

Exploring the Ölüdeniz Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch: A Detailed Look

If you’re considering a day out on the water near Fethiye, the Ölüdeniz Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch might catch your eye. This tour promises a blend of stunning scenery, refreshing swims, and a laid-back vibe — perfect if you’re after a full day of sunshine and sea. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What we really like about this trip are the diverse stops that showcase Turkey’s natural beauty, from the vibrant Blue Cave to the sheltered Butterfly Valley, and the fact that it offers a home-cooked buffet onboard. Plus, the trip’s duration of around 7 to 8 hours makes it a substantial day without feeling overly long. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include drinks or hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed outings, scenic views, and swimming in clear waters. If you’re a family, a couple, or even a solo traveler looking to soak up the coast’s best bits, it’s likely to hit the right notes.

Key Points

• Beautiful Stops: The tour hits iconic spots like Butterfly Valley and Blue Cave, offering plenty of chances for photos and relaxing.
• Delicious Buffet: The onboard lunch is freshly prepared and well-reviewed, adding value to the experience.
• Flexible Day: The itinerary is packed but balanced, with enough time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.
• Group Size & Comfort: With groups up to 80 travelers, it’s lively but not overwhelming.
• No Drinks Included: You’ll need to bring or buy your own beverages.
• Family-Friendly: The reviews suggest it’s suitable for families with kids, given the smooth organization and safe swimming spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Start: Belcekiz Plaji and the Blue Cave

Your day begins at Belcekiz Plaji in Ölüdeniz, where you’ll hop aboard a traditional gulet, a wooden boat that’s perfect for navigating Turkey’s coast. The captain and crew are English-speaking, making it easy to ask questions or get tips. Setting sail at around 10 a.m., your first stop is the Blue Cave, a highlight for many. Expect to see a swirl of different blue shades reflected in the water — it’s a real treat for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The Blue Cave isn’t just a pretty spot; it’s a chance to see how the waters shimmer with lively hues, thanks to sunlight filtering through the opening. Since the admission is free and the stop lasts about 30 minutes, it’s a quick but memorable highlight.

Butterfly Valley: Cliffs and Sheltered Beaches

Next, the boat heads towards Butterfly Valley, a natural spectacle famous for its cliffs and butterfly species. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the sheltered beach make this stop a favorite for many. It’s a place that invites exploration — whether you want to hike, take photos, or simply relax on the sand.

Some reviews emphasize how well-organized and friendly the staff are during this stop. “The whole family…hugely enjoyed the experience,” one traveler shared, highlighting how it’s suitable even for children. The calm, scenic environment is perfect for a leisurely visit.

Aquarium Bay: Swim, Snorkel, and Lunch

From Butterfly Valley, you’ll set off for Aquarium Bay, a paradise for snorkeling and swimming. The water here is crystal clear, and you’ll have the chance to swim among curious fish species, which many find delightful. Picture yourself floating in calm waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life, as you get a bit of sun on your back.

Meanwhile, lunch is served onboard — a freshly prepared buffet that many reviews praise. It’s one of the standout aspects of this trip, especially considering the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere. With options for everyone, it makes the journey not just scenic but also delicious.

Visiting St. Nicholas Island and Camel Beach

After lunch, the boat stops at St. Nicholas Island, where local lore suggests Santa Claus liked to spend his summers. The island offers some intriguing ruins and beautiful views, making it an interesting short visit.

Then it’s on to Camel Beach, known for its shallow waters perfect for paddling. It’s a good spot to cool off again before heading to Soguksu Bay, where the colder waters offer a refreshing end to the day.

The Return: Relaxing on Belcekz Beach

The trip wraps up with a relaxed cruise back to Ölüdeniz’s Belcekz Beach. Many reviews mention how this final stretch is a lovely way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Duration and Group Size

The full trip lasts around 7 to 8 hours, which is ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The boat can accommodate up to 80 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere but also chances for quieter moments on deck.

Price and Value

At $66.18 per person, the price seems reasonable given the number of stops, the food, and the scenic value. The inclusion of a buffet lunch adds a lot, especially for those who prefer not to worry about packing snacks or extra costs. No drinks are included, so plan to bring your own or buy at the stops.

Accessibility and Comfort

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific restrictions mentioned. The stops are generally short, making it manageable even for those who aren’t avid swimmers or hikers.

Reviews and Satisfaction

The overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 23 reviews points to a well-received experience. People praise the smooth organization, friendly staff, and stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, “The crew were excellent throughout, everything functioning like a well oiled machine,” which speaks to the professionalism involved.

What Could Be Better?

A few potential drawbacks include the lack of drinks included and the fact that hotel transfers aren’t provided, meaning you’ll need to get to Belcekz Plaji on your own. If you’re not staying nearby, consider arranging transportation in advance.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing without too much hassle. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or even solo explorers who enjoy meeting others on shared adventures. If you love scenic boat journeys, good food, and a flexible schedule, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if you’re after a more private or exclusive experience, or require specific dietary accommodations, you might want to explore other options or prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Ölüdeniz Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch offers a rich taste of Turkey’s stunning coastline. You get to see iconic sights like Butterfly Valley and the Blue Cave, enjoy swimming in crystal waters, and indulge in a fresh buffet meal—all in a single day. The trip’s organized, scenic, and reasonably priced, earning it solid praise from travelers.

While it doesn’t include drinks or hotel transfers, these are minor considerations compared to the overall experience. If you’re happy to bring your own drinks and organize your transport to Belcekz Plaji, you’ll likely find this boat trip a highlight of your time in Fethiye.

It’s especially worthwhile if you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys a mix of adventure and relaxation, and wants to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal spots with a friendly crew by your side.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? No, hotel transfers aren’t included. You’ll need to make your way to Belcekz Plaji in Ölüdeniz on your own.

How long does the tour last? The entire trip runs about 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time for each stop and some relaxing moments on the boat.

What food is served onboard? A freshly-prepared buffet lunch is included, and reviews mention it being tasty and well-organized. Drinks, however, are not included.

Is this tour suitable for families? Based on reviews, it’s suitable for families, including children, thanks to the smooth organization and safe swimming spots.

Can I swim at the stops? Yes, swimming and snorkeling are popular activities at Aquarium Bay, Butterfly Valley, and Camel Beach.

Are there any restrictions on group size? The tour can accommodate up to 80 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.

Ready for a scenic, relaxing adventure? This boat trip offers a well-rounded taste of Fethiye’s coastal charm — perfect for soaking up the sun and seeing some of Turkey’s best natural sights.