Sail Turkey: Gulet cruise Fethiye to Olympos

Exploring the Turkish Coast on a Gulet Cruise from Fethiye to Olympos

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, scenic journey along Turkey’s coast, a 4-day gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture of what to expect. It’s a journey designed for those who want a good mix of fantastic views, cultural stops, and time to unwind.

What really catches our eye is the small group size—meaning you’ll likely get a more personalized experience—and the fact that you get to sleep in a private en-suite cabin. Plus, with 10 free meals included, it’s quite the all-in-one package. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is often booked well in advance—about 93 days on average—so planning ahead is a good idea if you’re interested. Also, it’s probably best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule of stops and some time on the water.

This cruise offers a solid value for the price, which is around $539.55 per person. For that, you’re getting a well-rounded experience with enough time to explore each destination, swim in crystal waters, and relax on deck. It’s a trip tailored more toward those who enjoy scenic cruising, cultural visits, and less about luxury or high-end amenities. Still, the fact that reviewers give it a perfect 5-star rating suggests it hits the spot for most who try it.

If you’re after a trip that combines easygoing days with eye-catching scenery and interesting stops, this cruise could be a great fit. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions—everything’s organized into one smooth adventure.

Key Points

• Small group experience: Max 15 people, so you get more personalized attention.
• Comfortable accommodations: Sleep in private en-suite cabins—great for relaxing after busy days.
• Inclusive meals: 10 meals included, making it easier to enjoy the journey without constant planning.
• Flexible free time: Plenty of opportunities to explore and unwind at each stop.
• Iconic stops: From Butterfly Valley to the Sunken City of Kekova, the itinerary covers must-see sights.
• Travelers’ praise: Consistently high ratings and reviews highlight the trip’s memorable nature.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Fethiye to Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz

The trip begins in Fethiye, with departure around late afternoon—between 4 and 5 pm. The first day is packed with scenic cruising and stops at well-loved beaches and bays. You’ll start with Buyuk Samanlik Plaji (Samanlik Bay), a favorite spot for swimming and relaxing with a fresh lunch onboard. This bay is known for clear waters and relaxing vibes.

Next, the boat heads towards Butterfly Valley—a highlight for many. The natural reserve is home to over 130 butterfly species and offers a picturesque setting for a swim and some exploration, weather permitting. One reviewer mentioned how much they loved this stop, calling it unforgettable. Afterward, the cruise moves to Oludeniz, famous for its stunning blue lagoon. Here, you’ll get about two hours to swim and perhaps take a paragliding option (which many rave about). The day wraps up with a visit to St. Nicholas Island, known for its ancient ruins and panoramic views.

Day 2: Kalkan, Kas, and Kekova

The second day kicks off early with a breakfast stop near Kalkan at Firnaz Bay, perfect for some morning swimming and enjoying the peaceful setting. Then, the boat heads to Kas, a charming fishing village where you’ll spend a few hours onshore enjoying lunch and exploring. Expect to see Lycian rock tombs and Roman theatre remnants—most of which are free to visit, except the Simeana Castle (€4 entrance fee).

The highlight of this day might be the stop at Kekova, famous for its sunken city and beautiful bay. You’ll get to enjoy swimming and sightseeing in this atmospheric area, often described as a must-see. The archaeological site of Kekova is protected, which means you’ll view it from the boat, but it’s a chance to take in some ancient history without the crowds.

Day 3: Kekova Island, Gokkaya Bay, and more

Day three begins with a visit to Kekova Island and the nearby Sunken City, a real favorite for history buffs and lovers of unusual sights. The Castle of Simena is next, a cozy village with a Byzantine/Ottoman castle—most visitors find it charming, especially since it’s free to explore. You can relax in Gokkaya Bay afterward, where water sports are available if you’re feeling active. The bay’s relaxed, pirate-haven feel often earns positive reviews.

Day 4: Pirates Cave, Demre, and Olympos

On the final day, after a breakfast, you’ll cruise past the Pirates Cave, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. Then, the boat heads toward Demre, where disembarkation occurs around lunchtime. From there, a bus transfer takes you to the Olympos archaeological site and the famed tree houses, arriving around late afternoon.

What the Experience Feels Like

From the reviews and itinerary, it sounds like a trip that balances structured sightseeing with enough free time to explore on your own. Swimmers will love the crystal-clear waters at nearly every stop, and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the ancient ruins and historical sites. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with private cabins offering a restful retreat after days packed with adventure.

Many travelers highlight the stunning views as the most memorable part—the scenery along Turkey’s coast is truly breathtaking. The small group setting makes it easier to connect with fellow travelers and get personalized attention from the crew.

One potential drawback is that some destinations, like Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island, have entrance fees (around €1-4), which aren’t included in the price. Also, the weather can impact some stops, especially those depending on sea conditions, so flexibility is key. A few reviews mention that while the itinerary is full, a few stops could feel rushed if you want more time at each site.

In terms of value, this trip offers a lot for the price—combining comfortable accommodations, organized sightseeing, and meals. It’s clear why most travelers recommend it, and the high ratings reflect consistent satisfaction.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you like the idea of a relaxed cruise with scenic views, cultural stops, and plenty of opportunities to swim, this cruise hits most of those marks. It’s especially good for those who prefer a small group experience with personalized touches, rather than large, impersonal tours.

While it’s not overly luxurious, the private en-suite cabins ensure you’ll sleep comfortably, and the included meals mean you don’t have to worry about constant meal planning. It’s also a smart choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided visits and free time.

That said, if you prefer staying in one place and exploring at your own pace or dislike boat travel, this might not be your best fit. Also, at around five hundred dollars, it’s a fair price for the experience, but not the cheapest, so consider what value you place on these scenic stops and onboard comfort.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers three breakfasts, three dinners, and four lunches, along with the boat transportation, private en-suite cabins, and visits to key sights along the route.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, some entrance fees are not included—such as for Simen Castle (€4), St. Nicholas Island (€3), and Butterfly Valley (€1). Water sports at Gokkaya Bay are optional and paid separately.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to six days in advance for a full refund. Less notice may result in partial or no refunds.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about three months in advance, as the trip is popular and fills up quickly.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from 30 minutes at Butterfly Valley to several hours at Kekova or Kas, giving you time to explore or relax.

Is this suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly targeted at families, the cruise’s relaxed pace and scenic stops could work for travelers with older children interested in swimming and history. However, check individual needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts

This gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos offers a balanced, scenic way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline. It combines the comfort of private cabins with a well-planned itinerary that hits all the high points—beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and picturesque villages. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the included meals make it convenient and hassle-free.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and laid-back cruising. If you’re after a memorable journey that doesn’t feel rushed and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty and history, this trip could be a fantastic choice.

Just remember to book early, be flexible with the weather, and prepare for some entrance fees along the way. Overall, it looks like a well-reviewed, value-packed option for anyone wanting to see the Turkish coast from a unique vantage point—on a charming gulet.