Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

Exploring the Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Turkey’s beautiful southern coast, this 18-39’s Olympos to Fethiye gulet tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a laid-back yet adventure-filled experience that combines scenic views, cultural highlights, and time to relax.

What makes this tour appealing are two standout factors: the chance to see some iconic spots like the Sunken City and Butterfly Valley, and the promise of delicious, well-cooked meals on board. What might give some pause is the group size—max 16 travelers—which means it’s a cozy, social vibe but not a private or ultra-exclusive cruise.

This trip seems suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and unwinding on the water. If you’re comfortable with a moderate pace, enjoy meeting new people, and are looking for a memorable way to experience Turkey’s coast, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Ideal for those craving a scenic, relaxed cruise along Turkey’s coast with plenty of cultural stops.
• Includes well-organized logistics, with pickup from specific locations and all meals on board.
• Affordable price point considering four days of cruising, sightseeing, and meals included.
• Limited to 16 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Main highlights: Sunken City, Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, and walking through traditional villages.
• Some entry fees apply for certain sites, so budget extra for those.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Olympos to Kekova

The adventure kicks off with pickups from Olympos, which is great if you’re staying nearby—just note that it involves a few transfer points, including Demre. Once on the boat, you’ll cruise over the Sunken City of Simena, a Lycian archaeological site submerged after an earthquake. The fact that no swimming is allowed here is a bummer if you’re a water lover, but the view from the boat makes up for it.

The highlight for many is the Kekova Island and Simena Castle. Walking through cobbled streets and exploring the castle provides a taste of local life and history. We read that this area is often praised for its relaxed vibe and picturesque scenery, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 2: Kas and Coastal Charm

The second day brings you to Kas, a charming fishing village renowned for its handcrafted jewelry and laid-back streets. You’re given time to browse shops, enjoy fresh coffee, and really soak in the local flavor. The contrast between the bustling town and the tranquility of the boat is part of what makes this trip special.

Later, the boat moves past Kalkan, anchoring near Aquarium Bay or Frnaz Bay for the night. This flexibility allows you to choose your perfect spot for the evening, whether you want to relax on deck or take a swim.

Day 3: Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, and Gemiler Island

The third day is packed with some of the most iconic sights. Butterfly Valley is described as a home to over 136 butterfly species—although, in summer, spotting them can be tricky as they head deeper into the valley. Still, the scenery and the chance to swim in the crystal blue waters give this spot its allure.

Next, the boat heads to Oludeniz, famous for its Blue Lagoon and paragliding views. Many reviews mention how photogenic and lively this area is, making it a highlight for those who love a good beach day. The optional hike to the waterfall adds a bit of adventure if you’re up for it.

In the late afternoon, the boat moors at St. Nicholas Island, where you can take a walk among ruins and enjoy the sunset. This spot gets high marks for its atmosphere and the chance to unwind after a day of exploring.

Day 4: Fethiye and Final Relaxation

On the last day, you wake up at St. Nicholas Island for an optional morning swim and fishing—an authentic way to connect with the surroundings. The cruise then moves around nearby bays for a final swim and lunch before heading back to Fethiye Harbour. Disembarkation usually happens around 2 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore or catch onward transport.

What We Love About the Experience

The stunning scenery is front and center, with many reviewers emphasizing the visual beauty of the stops—especially the Sunken City, Butterfly Valley, and Oludeniz. The boat’s crew is praised for being friendly and organized, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.

Another big plus is the food. Reviewers consistently mention how delicious and well-cooked the meals are, often highlighting their homemade quality. This adds a comforting touch, especially after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

The value for money also comes up repeatedly. With all meals, some entry fees included, and transportation sorted, the price of roughly $470 per person feels reasonable for a 4-day adventure on Turkey’s coast.

Things to Keep in Mind

While this trip is quite well-reviewed, there are a few considerations. The group size maxes out at 16, which is nice for intimacy but means you should expect some camaraderie and shared spaces. Also, the itinerary involves some walking and moderate physical activity—good for most but worth noting if you have mobility concerns.

Entry fees for sites like St. Nicholas Island, Butterfly Valley, and Simena Castle are minimal but do add up, so plan accordingly. The tour is also mainly designed for those comfortable with boat travel, with no mention of specific accommodations or private rooms—it’s a shared boat experience.

Why This Tour Might Be Just Right for You

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic way to explore Turkey’s coast with like-minded travelers, this cruise delivers. Its focus on iconic sights, combined with good food and comfortable boat accommodations, makes it suited for those who want a balance of adventure and downtime.

It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy water-based activities, exploring small villages, and taking in beautiful scenery without the hassle of planning each detail. The moderate group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends.

However, if you’re seeking a luxury experience or want to customize every aspect of your trip, this might not be the best fit. Still, for a solid, well-organized cruise with a touch of history and nature, it’s a strong choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with boat travel and some walking. While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children and teenagers who enjoy adventure and sailing might find it enjoyable.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on all four days, with some reviews mentioning the food is particularly tasty and thoughtfully prepared.

What are the entry fees I need to budget for?
You should expect to pay small fees for sites like St. Nicholas Island (€2), Butterfly Valley (€1), and Simena Castle (€1).

How many people are on the boat?
The tour is limited to 16 travelers, creating a cozy and social atmosphere but still manageable for a small group.

Can I organize transfers to my hotel?
The tour provides pickups from specified locations, but transfers to hotels in Fethiye are not included. You can arrange onward travel with the crew or on your own.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about a month in advance, which seems to be the sweet spot for securing a spot at the current price of $470.

Final Thoughts

This Sail Turkey gulet cruise offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and comfortable on-board living. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to experience Turkey’s coast in a relaxed yet adventurous way, especially if you’re traveling with friends or solo and looking to meet like-minded explorers.

The experience’s strength lies in its scenic spots, the quality of food, and the friendly crew, making it a memorable way to spend four days. While it isn’t a luxury cruise, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable trip that’s good value.

If you’re after a scenic, social, and well-rounded way to see Turkey’s coastline, this cruise could be just what you need to create lasting memories on your trip.