Sail Turkey: Mix Age Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise

Thinking about sailing along Turkey’s celebrated Turquoise Coast? This 4-day Gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos is a favorite among travelers looking for a mix of scenic beauty, history, and relaxed sea days. Whether you’re a first-time sailor or a seasoned traveler eager to explore from the water, this trip offers a compelling blend of nature, culture, and genuine Turkish hospitality.

What makes this cruise stand out? For one, the chance to sleep under the stars or in cozy en-suite cabins offers a taste of authentic boat life that many travelers find irresistible. Plus, the itinerary is packed with legendary stops—Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Kekova, and more—each with its own unique charm. We also love the friendly crew and the value-packed meals included in the price.

A potential consideration? The tour’s group size is capped at 16, which keeps things intimate, but it also means booking well in advance (average 94 days ahead) is wise. This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, scenic relaxation, and cultural exploration. If you’re after a lively party scene, you may want to consider other options, but for genuine adventure and peaceful vistas, this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters make this a visual feast
• Rich historical sites like the Sunken City and Simena castle add cultural depth
• Great for social travelers with a maximum of 16 people on board
• Comfortable en-suite cabins or sleeping under the night sky
• All meals included, with flexibility for dietary restrictions
• Advance booking recommended due to high demand and limited availability

An Authentic Coastal Adventure

The Fethiye to Olympos Gulet cruise offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and cultural discovery. Traveling on a traditional Turkish gulet—a wooden sailing boat—means you’ll experience the romance of the sea while visiting some of Turkey’s most iconic spots. This is a tour that emphasizes authentic experiences, from swimming in secluded bays to wandering ancient ruins.

The tour’s appeal lies not just in the scenery, but in the feeling of being part of a small crew, sharing meals, stories, and sunsets with fellow travelers. The group size maxes out at 16, making it intimate and lively without being crowded, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fethiye to Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz

Your adventure kicks off at the Fethiye harbor around 10 am, where you’ll check in and meet your crew. The first stop is Butterfly Valley, a natural paradise home to over 136 butterfly species. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming, and if you’re feeling energetic, you can hike up to the waterfall—though the hike is optional.

Next, you’ll visit Oludeniz’s Blue Lagoon, arguably Turkey’s most famous beach, known for its tranquil, shallow waters and stunning backdrop of mountains. This is a prime spot for sunbathing, wading, or just soaking in the scenery.

In the late afternoon, you’ll anchor at St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore ancient ruins and watch the sunset. It’s a peaceful setting to end your first day at sea, with the option to relax on deck and enjoy the starry night sky.

Day 2: Kalkan, Kas, and Kekova

Morning begins with breakfast in Aquarium Bay near Kalkan, perfect for a swim with breakfast in hand. Later, you’ll cruise to Kas, a charming fishing village famous for its markets and handcrafted jewelry. You’ll have a few hours to stroll, shop, or simply enjoy the relaxed vibe of this seaside town.

In the afternoon, your boat heads toward Kekova, known for its submerged city ruins. Swimming here offers a glimpse into the past—an ancient Lycian town destroyed by an earthquake 2000 years ago. The clear waters allow for fantastic snorkeling and underwater viewing.

At night, you’ll stay anchored in secluded bays between Kas and Kekova, giving you an authentic feeling of being far from bustling tourist spots.

Day 3: Kekova, Sunken City, and Gokkaya Bay

The highlight of day three is Kekova’s Sunken City, where you can see ruins that have become a part of the underwater landscape. It’s a unique experience that many reviewers find unforgettable—like peering into history beneath the water.

Following this, you’ll visit Castle of Simena, a quaint village with well-preserved ruins and stunning views. The castle’s medieval walls and Lycian necropolis offer a peek into the area’s layered past.

Post-lunch, you’ll cruise into Gokkaya Bay, known for its crystal waters and watersports. Here, you can relax, swim, or try some of the optional water activities—adding a fun and active element to your day.

Day 4: From Demre to Olympos

Your last morning begins with a leisurely breakfast and a final swim at Demre (Kale). Afterward, your boat departs for the mainland, where you’ll disembark around midday.

The transfer to Olympos involves a scenic two-hour bus ride, offering the chance to enjoy Turkey’s countryside. The tour concludes here or at Demre bus station, with convenient options to continue your travels to Antalya, Kas, or Fethiye.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and peaceful anchorages, often describing the experience as a “relaxing adventure.” One reviewer exclaimed, “Sleep on the deck is a MUST,” highlighting how memorable it is to wake up under the stars. Another shared, “The crew was amazing, and the food was to die for,” emphasizing the quality of meals and service onboard.

Despite the focus on tranquility, many appreciate the opportunity to see ancient sites like the Sunken City and Castle of Simena, blending cultural interest with natural beauty. The small group size and friendly crew are often mentioned as key factors that enhance the overall experience.

Practical Considerations

The price of $470 per person covers most essentials—meals, Wi-Fi, and guided visits—making it a solid value given the inclusions and the unique experiences. Meals are prepared daily, with options for special diets; just be sure to mention dietary restrictions when booking.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some stops involve walking or optional hikes. The group size ensures a more personalized experience, but booking early (generally 3 months ahead) is advised due to high demand.

Weather can influence the trip—sailing and swimming are best enjoyed during warm months, typically from late spring to early autumn.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This Gulet cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching experience along Turkey’s coast. It suits those eager to sleep under the stars, snorkel in crystal waters, and explore ancient ruins without the hassle of organizing each stop individually.

If you enjoy small-group travel, genuine hospitality, and stunning coastal vistas, this trip offers excellent value and memorable moments. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful yet adventure-filled adventure will find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a lively party atmosphere or extensive land-based sightseeing, you might find this tour too tranquil or limited in cultural depth. But for authentic boat life combined with beautiful stops, it’s a standout.

FAQ

Is transportation included at the start and end of the tour?
Yes, the tour begins at Fethiye harbor and ends with a bus transfer from Demre to Olympos or Demre bus station.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers Wi-Fi, unlimited drinking water, three breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners.

Are there any additional fees for sights?
Yes, some sites like Butterfly Valley, Simena castle, and St. Nicholas Island have entrance fees ranging from 1 to 4 euros, payable locally.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers onboard is 16, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs—just indicate your preferences when booking.

How far in advance should I book?
Given that the tour is popular (booked on average 94 days in advance), early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

What’s the best time to take this cruise?
While specific dates aren’t provided, similar cruises are best enjoyed from late spring through early autumn, when the weather is warm and sea conditions are ideal.

Is sleeping on deck comfortable?
Many reviews highlight the experience as unforgettable, especially sleeping under the stars. It can be a bit chilly or windy depending on the season, so bring appropriate gear if you plan to sleep on deck.

Can I extend my stay or customize the itinerary?
The tour ends in Olympos or Demre, with options to continue traveling to nearby destinations like Antalya or Kas via public buses, which run frequently.

To sum it up, this Fethiye to Olympos Gulet cruise offers a scenic, culturally rich, and relaxed way to explore Turkey’s coast. Its value lies in the combination of beautiful anchorages, immersive sites, and the simple pleasure of boat life. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful yet adventurous escape, eager to enjoy authentic Turkish hospitality with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and star-gazing. If those elements appeal, this cruise will leave you with lasting memories of the Turquoise Coast’s natural beauty and historic charm.