Fethiye: 12 Islands Boat Tour, Lunch Included, Hotel Transfers

Exploring the Fethiye: 12 Islands Boat Tour — An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day on the water along Turkey’s famed Aegean coast, the Fethiye 12 Islands Boat Tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of sun, sea, swimming, and a delicious onboard lunch, all with convenient hotel transfers. We’ve taken a good look at what this tour offers, and here’s the scoop to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What immediately appeals to us about this trip is how it combines beautiful scenery with practical comforts—free transfers, a tasty included meal, and plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. Plus, the route covers some truly iconic spots in the area, from Bedri Rahmi Bay to Cleopatra Baths. On the flip side, a potential downside is the chance of variable weather, which could impact the day’s plans, depending on the wind and sea conditions. Still, if you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic escape that’s suitable for most travelers, this tour might fit the bill.

This experience seems especially good if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure, and if you’re comfortable with a group setting. It’s a solid choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of the coast’s best without fuss. If you’re after something more adventurous or with a focus on exploring underwater ecosystems deeply, this might feel a bit light. But for those craving a relaxed, well-organized day on the water, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful, well-known stops like Bedri Rahmi Bay and Cleopatra Baths provide memorable sights.
• Comfortable boat experience with sunbeds, shade options, and a good crew.
• Included lunch and transfers add value, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Swimming and snorkeling stops give you chances to explore under the sea.
• Flexible route based on weather conditions keeps the experience safe and enjoyable.
• Mixed reviews highlight friendly staff and stunning views, but also note some variability in the overall experience.

The Full Breakdown of the Fethiye: 12 Islands Boat Tour

Starting Out: Hotel Transfers and Departure

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel in either Fethiye or Ölüdeniz, making the start smooth and stress-free. The transfer takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to sit back and check out the coastline or chat with fellow travelers. Once you arrive at Fethiye Port, you’ll meet your boat—an important moment, because the vessel sets the tone for the rest of the day.

The departure time is around 10:30 a.m., but keep in mind that the route isn’t fixed—it depends on weather and sea traffic. This flexibility can be a plus, allowing the crew to choose the best spots on the day, but it also means you should be prepared for some slight variation in your schedule.

The Boat Experience

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with sunbeds and shade options. According to reviews, the staff are friendly and speak multiple languages, which makes the whole experience more accessible and relaxed. The boat’s size is enough to host a group comfortably, giving plenty of space to lounge, take in the views, or enjoy the music onboard.

A notable highlight is how the boat’s design caters to sunbathers, with shaded areas and sunny decks. You can spend your time basking in the sun or cooling off in the water during designated swimming stops.

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Route and Key Stops

The itinerary includes stops at several renowned spots. Here’s what you might expect:

• Red Island and Flat Island: Known for their scenic beauty and calm waters—ideal for snorkelling or just floating around.
• Yasscalar Bay: A peaceful bay offering a break from the open sea.
• Bedri Rahmi Bay: Famous for its vibrant fish and the historic fish mural painted on the rocks, this is a favorite among visitors.
• Shipyard Island and Cleopatra Baths: The latter are legendary for their natural thermal waters and Roman history, making them a popular photo op.
• Samanlk Bay and other bays: These are typically used for swimming and relaxing, with options for snorkelling.

The actual route can shift depending on conditions, so flexibility is key. Several reviews praise the long stops for swimming, with one traveler noting that their daughter “really enjoyed” the extended swimming time.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing

The tour includes designated times for swimming and snorkelling. The seas around Fethiye are clear and inviting, with fish and underwater sights to explore. You’ll have goggles and snorkels available, and many find these moments highlight the trip’s fun and refreshing nature.

From our review of traveler feedback, many say the swimming spots are “10/10,” and the water is just the right temperature for a good splash around. The boat’s layout makes it easy to sunbathe or find shade, depending on your preference. Be sure to bring your water shoes, as advised, for rocky or pebbly beaches.

Lunch and Refreshments

Lunch is included and received generally positive comments. It’s described as delicious, with some reviews highlighting the quality of the food. The onboard menu isn’t detailed, but it’s enough to satisfy hungry travelers after a morning of swimming and sunbathing.

Drinks are available at the bar, but they cost extra. If you prefer soft drinks, water, or alcohol, you might want to bring your own or be prepared for the additional expense. A practical note: the tour is good value considering lunch and transfers are included in the $65 price, which covers a substantial part of the experience.

Ending the Day

The boat typically returns to Ölüdeniz Beach around 5:30 p.m., giving you ample time to freshen up or perhaps enjoy an evening stroll. From there, transfers back to your hotel are arranged, wrapping up a relaxed and scenic day.

Real Traveler Thoughts

One traveler from the UK called the trip “great, everything was on time, and the staff ‘very polite and always smiling’,” which really captures the friendly vibe of the crew. Another noted that the service before the tour was “very good,” and found the boat “comfortable” with “a very good tour” overall.

However, not everyone loved every aspect. A less favorable review simply said “…”—perhaps hinting at some inconsistencies, which can happen with weather-dependent tours. But overall, the consensus leans toward a positive experience, especially praising the stunning views and good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a leisurely day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and take photos. It’s ideal if you’re after a well-organized, straightforward excursion with good food and scenic stops.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a stress-free way to see some of Fethiye’s most beautiful islands, this tour ticks those boxes. If you’re looking for a more adventurous or underwater-focused experience, you might want to explore other options, but for most, this offers a balanced, enjoyable adventure.

FAQs About the 12 Islands Boat Tour

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, departing at approximately 10:30 a.m. and returning by 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to relax and explore.

Are transfers included?
Yes, hotel transfers are part of the package, making it a stress-free start and end to your day.

What should I bring with me?
Make sure to pack sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and water shoes. These will help you stay comfortable during the day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is provided onboard. It’s generally considered tasty and filling, perfect after swimming and sunbathing.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkel gear is available, and the tour includes stops for snorkelling and exploring underwater life.

What about drinks?
Drinks are available for purchase at the bar, but aren’t included in the price. Many travelers bring their own or buy drinks at the bar.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand to confirm your specific needs.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Fethiye 12 Islands Boat Tour offers a lovely way to see some of the coast’s most scenic spots without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. It combines beautiful sights, enjoyable swimming stops, and good food—all wrapped into a friendly, well-organized package.

While the route can shift with weather conditions, most travelers find value in the experience and the chance to unwind on the water. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day with friends or a scenic family outing, this tour provides a good balance of adventure and comfort, at a reasonable price.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic cruise with plenty of swimming, tasty lunch, and hotel pickup, it’s worth considering. Just remember to pack sun protection and water shoes, and enjoy the trip!

You can check availability for your dates here: