If you’re eyeing a full day on Turkey’s gorgeous waters, the Ölüdeniz: Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch might just be on your list. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and honest insights make it clear that this experience appeals to travelers wanting a mix of scenic beauty, swimming, and a laid-back vibe.
What I really like about this trip is its balance of activities—you get to see iconic spots like the Blue Cave and Butterfly Valley, enjoy a tasty buffet lunch onboard, and have plenty of time to swim and relax. Plus, the value for money seems solid, especially considering the number of stops and the well-reviewed service.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that some travelers found Butterfly Valley a bit underwhelming—no butterflies, and the hike up the mountain is tough in the heat. If you’re not into strenuous walks or expecting a butterfly-filled spectacle, it’s worth noting beforehand. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal waters, and simple, relaxed days out on the water.
If this sounds like your kind of adventure, read on. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know so you can decide if this trip fits your travel vibe.
Key Points
- Beautiful coastline and stops for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters
- Informative crew and guides help you get the most from each stop
- Delicious buffet lunch served onboard, with generous portions
- Relaxed, not overcrowded boat experience, ideal for a peaceful day out
- Variety of locations including Butterfly Valley, Blue Cave, Aquarium Bay, and more
- Suitable for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging
What’s Included and What to Expect
This boat trip, operated by Capella Tourism, is designed as a full-day adventure lasting around 8 to 9 hours. Starting from Ölüdeniz, you’ll board a traditional wooden gulet—a classic Turkish boat that exudes charm and comfort. The crew and captain are there to ensure your safety and enjoyment, and the price of around $54 per person seems reasonable given the stops and food.
Pickup details vary, as not all hotels are included in the transfer service. You might need to make your way to a designated meeting point, which the local team will confirm a day before. The tour is in both English and Turkish, with friendly staff ready to help.
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Itinerary Breakdown: What Will You Experience?
Starting the Day: From Ölüdeniz to the Coast
Your day begins with a pickup (if your hotel qualifies) or a meeting point near your accommodation. Once onboard the boat, the atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the views. The boat itself is well-maintained, and reviews praise its cleanliness and comfort.
First Stop: The Blue Cave
Your first destination is the Blue Cave, known for its shimmering water that reflects shades of blue so vibrant they look almost unreal. Expect to spend some time marveling at the water’s color and snapping photos. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for a first dip or just soaking in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyButterfly Valley: Enchanting or Underwhelming?
Next, you’ll head to Butterfly Valley, a highlight for many. It’s a dramatic landscape with towering cliffs enclosing a sheltered beach. According to reviews, the valley is beautiful to see from the boat, and some travelers enjoy exploring the area, whether to hike or relax on the beach.
However, some visitors note that butterflies are hard to spot—despite the name, no butterflies were seen during some visits, and the hike up the mountain to see a waterfall is steep and tiring in the heat. But for those who enjoy stunning views and a bit of exploration, Butterfly Valley remains a memorable stop.
Aquarium Bay: Snorkeling and Swimming
After Butterfly Valley, your boat will anchor at Aquarium Bay, where the water is crystal clear and teeming with actual curious fish. This stop is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with reviews mentioning that the water is refreshing and that the marine life makes for an interesting underwater experience. The reviews rave about the plenty of time allocated for swimming, so you won’t feel rushed.
St. Nicholas Island and Camel Beach
Next, you’ll visit St. Nicholas Island, which has a reputation for being a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Some mention that Santa Claus supposedly spends summers here, adding a touch of myth to the trip. There’s also a stop at Camel Beach, where shallow waters invite paddling, making it suitable for families or less confident swimmers.
Soguksu Bay and the Return Journey
The final stop is Soguksu Bay, known for its colder waters—great for cooling off after a day of sun and adventure. The trip concludes with the relaxing sail back to Fethiye, with many reviews highlighting how peaceful and scenic the ride is.
Food and Drinks: The Buffet Lunch
One of the tour’s best features, according to reviews, is the onboard buffet lunch. It’s described as delicious, freshly prepared, and with large portions that satisfy even hungry travelers. Reviews mention that the food includes options for vegetarians, with some praising the extra chips offered to vegetarians, and others noting the fish was well-cooked.
The lunch is served as the boat cruises between stops, offering a chance to refuel and socialize. Drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring extra cash or pre-purchase some beverages if desired.
The Experience and Atmosphere
This isn’t a party boat—most reviews agree that it’s a more relaxed, laid-back experience. There’s no loud music or rowdy crowds, making it ideal if you want a peaceful day on the water. You’ll have ample time to relax, sunbathe, snorkel, or chat with fellow travelers.
Several guests appreciated the knowledgeable guides who helped them navigate the stops and shared interesting tidbits, although some wish they had more commentary about each location. Still, the friendly crew ensures you feel taken care of throughout the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for those who want a scenic, peaceful, and fun day on the water. It’s great if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun without the chaos of overcrowded boats or loud music. It’s also well-suited for travelers looking for good value—especially given the variety of stops and the quality of the onboard meal.
If you’re a family with children who enjoy watersports or a group of friends looking for a relaxed day out, this tour offers enough variety without being overly active or strenuous.
Things to Consider
While most reviews are positive, a few points are worth noting. Butterfly Valley, despite its reputation, might not live up to expectations if you’re after a butterfly spectacle—it’s more about the scenery. The hike up the mountain can also be quite challenging in the heat, with some reviews mentioning ropes and steep paths.
Also, if you’re arriving from a hotel not included in the transfer, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point, which might add some planning.
Final Thoughts
In all, this boat trip offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the sea, with friendly staff and great food making it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. It balances scenic stops with plenty of relaxation time, and the reviews suggest most people come away happy.
If you’re after a calm, scenic adventure with nice food and a handful of must-see spots, this trip could fit the bill. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid overcrowded, noisy boats and prefer a more tranquil experience on Turkey’s stunning coast.
Ölüdeniz: Butterfly Valley Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch
“Absolutely fantastic, booked with Eric our guide, very thorough in making sure we knew where we were going, including a map as we were making our o…”
FAQ
Is the pickup included in the tour?
Pickup might not be available from all hotels, so you may need to come to a nearby meeting point. The local team will confirm the details a day before.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each stop, swim, and enjoy the onboard lunch.
What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $54 per person, which seems reasonable considering the stops, lunch, and overall experience.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to bring extra money if you want beverages onboard.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically aimed at children, the stops for swimming and paddling are suitable for most ages. Keep in mind Butterfly Valley’s hiking may be tough for young kids.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat are essentials. You might also want to carry some cash for drinks or souvenirs.
Can I expect a lot of noise and crowds?
No, most reviews praise the peaceful vibe, especially compared to larger pirate or party boats. It’s a relaxing, quiet experience with enough space for everyone.
This boat trip from Ölüdeniz offers a nice blend of nature, swimming, tasty food, and scenic vistas. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to spend a memorable day exploring Turkey’s coastline without the chaos.
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