Oludeniz: Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island incl. Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip that combines scenic boat cruising with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy delicious local food, this tour around Oludeniz’s bays and islands might just be what you’re after. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, based largely on traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary, to help you decide if it suits your style of travel.

What we love about this tour is how it balances multiple highlights—visiting the famous Blue Cave, wandering through the lush Butterfly Valley, and exploring St. Nicholas Island’s ancient churches. Plus, the onboard lunch, served in a relaxed setting, is a nice touch. A potential consideration is the fact that drinks aren’t included, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to indulge or need hydration.

This trip appears well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic cruising, enjoy swimming in pristine waters, and have a curiosity for history and nature alike. It’s especially appealing if you want an active but relaxed day out on the water, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

Key Points

• Beautiful stops for swimming and snorkeling in caves and secluded bays.
• Rich history and scenic views at St. Nicholas Island’s ancient ruins.
• Wildlife and nature spotlighted at Butterfly Valley, with a chance to see rare butterflies.
• Comfortable boat experience, with a spacious upper deck and a good guide.
• Fresh, tasty onboard lunch included, though drinks are extra.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

This tour typically begins with a pickup or meeting at the Grand Vega boat at Oludeniz Belcekiz Beach. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable two-deck boat. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the sea breeze as you cruise along the coast.

First Stop: The Blue Cave

Your first highlight is the Blue Cave, a natural wonder with waters that glow a vivid blue. You’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel here, exploring the bright, inviting waters and peering into the cave’s depths. One traveler noted, “The cave where we had time to swim was particularly memorable,” highlighting how special this spot can be for water lovers.

Butterfly Valley: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Next, the boat heads to Butterfly Valley, famous for its lush setting and rare butterflies, especially the colorful Tiger Butterfly. Here, you can walk along the paths, search for butterflies, and enjoy the wildflowers and waterfalls. Some reviews mention that lots of room on the boat and a calm atmosphere make this stop a relaxing yet engaging experience. A traveler shared, “The wildflowers and colorful butterflies flying around make it feel like a natural paradise.”

Seaside Lunch

After the exploration, it’s time for a delicious onboard lunch. The food, often described as generous and freshly prepared, typically includes options like chicken, fish, or salads, catering to various preferences. Travelers have found the meal to be a highlight, with comments like “Lunch was lovely and very generous.” Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages separately.

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Climbing and Exploring at St. Nicholas Island

The journey continues to St. Nicholas Island, where history buffs and nature fans are both in their element. The ancient churches from the 5th century are accessible to visitors, and the viewpoint at the highest point offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. One review points out, “Climbing to the viewpoint and seeing the church ruins was a highlight,” emphasizing how this stop combines history and scenic beauty.

Final Swim at Cold Spring Bay

The last swimming stop is at Cold Spring Bay, famous for its freshwater spring flowing into the sea. Here, you can cool off in the spring waters and enjoy a peaceful end to your day. Many find this a perfect way to wrap up a busy day of exploring.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Traveler reviews consistently highlight the quality of guides and crew, describing them as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The fact that the boat has a spacious upper deck with lounge beds allows guests to relax comfortably, enjoy the sun, and take in the views.

Many reviewers also appreciate the calm atmosphere; unlike some other boat trips, this one is not overly loud or party-focused. One comment states, “This trip was calm and very well-organized,” which speaks to the overall vibe.

Food quality and the variety of stops are also praised. Multiple reviews mention that the food exceeded expectations, with freshly cooked chicken, and generous servings. The timing at each destination seems well-managed, giving travelers enough time to swim, take photos, or explore.

Considerations for Travelers

While the experience is generally praised, some travelers note that ticket entry for Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island isn’t included and that drinks are extra—something to consider if you’re on a budget or prefer all-inclusive options.

Plus, the length of the trip—around 7.5 hours—means you should be prepared for a full day. If you’re prone to motion sickness, the boat ride might be a consideration, especially if the sea is choppy.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water-based activities, such as swimming and snorkeling, in some of Turkey’s most scenic spots. It’s also well-suited for those interested in history and nature, given the ruins and butterfly reserve.

If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates calm, relaxing days on the water rather than loud parties, this cruise offers a laid-back atmosphere. Families might also find it enjoyable, especially if they like active outings and exploring nature.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, this boat trip around Oludeniz offers a lot of value. With stops at stunning caves, a butterfly reserve, and historic ruins, plus a tasty onboard lunch, it packs in the highlights without feeling rushed.

While it’s not a party boat, the friendly guides, spacious deck, and varied activities make it a great choice for those wanting a scenic, engaging day out. Just remember to bring some extra cash for drinks and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim.

This tour is a well-rounded way to experience the natural beauty and history of the Turkish coast, especially if you enjoy combining adventure with relaxation.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the calm atmosphere, plenty of swimming opportunities, and friendly guides suggest it could work well for families with older kids who enjoy water activities.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring your own water or purchase beverages on the boat.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with starting times varying so check availability when booking.

Do I need to bring anything specific?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. The boat provides a guide, but bringing your own snacks or extra water could be helpful.

Is the tour suitable if I don’t want to swim?
Yes, though swimming is a major part of the experience, you can also enjoy the scenery and explore the ruins from the viewpoints.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the upper deck has lounge beds and plenty of space to relax, making it a comfortable way to spend the day at sea.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island are not included, and drinks are extra.

In all, this tour offers a friendly, scenic, and activity-rich day that balances nature, history, and relaxation. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day on the coast, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: