12 Island Boat Trip from Fethiye

Thinking about a day out on the water in Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean? The 12 Island Boat Trip from Fethiye offers a relaxed way to explore the region’s beauty, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. It’s a popular choice for families, friends, or couples looking for a hassle-free day that mixes sightseeing, fun, and good food—all for a reasonable price.

One of the standout features is the all-inclusive onboard barbecue and round-trip transfers that make the logistics simple. However, as with any large boat tour, there are some caveats, like the crowded boat and limited island exploration. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic cruise with a touch of Turkish hospitality, this tour might be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation but aren’t expecting in-depth island exploration.

Key Points

Comfortable group size: Up to 100 travelers, which balances social buzz without feeling too crowded.
All-in-one experience: Includes transportation, lunch, and several swimming stops.
Limited island stops: Only four or five islands are explored closely, despite the tour’s name.
Value for money: Reasonably priced at around $48 per person, with food and transport included.
Reviews vary: Some travelers praise the guides and scenery, while others report issues with boat cleanliness and crowdedness.
Focus on fun: A relaxed, social day perfect for those wanting a straightforward Mediterranean adventure.

Overview of the Experience

The 12 Island Boat Trip from Fethiye is more about the journey and the vibe than in-depth exploration. It’s designed to deliver a scenic cruise with multiple opportunities to swim and relax, without the hassle of planning multiple transport or meal options. It’s a six-hour trip, starting around 9:30 AM with pickup from designated locations, and returning in the late afternoon around 5:05 PM.

The tour is operated by Arbek Travel, a reputable provider offering round-trip shared transfers from places like Hisaronu, Oludeniz, Ovacik, and Calis. The pickup times start as early as 9:05 AM, giving you a gentle start to your day, and the return journey wraps up around 5:30 PM, allowing for a good full day out.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Gocek and Nearby Islands

The journey begins with sailing into the beautiful waters of Gocek Bay, an area known for its crystal-clear blue and turquoise waters. The cruise passes by islands like Flat Island, Dockyard Island, and Red Island, which are perfect for a quick walk, sunbathing, or jumping straight off the boat into the refreshing sea.

Reviewers mention that the boat may not always stop at all these islands; instead, you’ll see many from the boat and may get brief stops for swimming. One guest noted, “We only stopped at 4 of the islands, but saw the others on the way,” highlighting that full island exploration isn’t always on the agenda. Still, the views are striking, and the swimming spots are generally safe and inviting.

Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities

You’ll love the way you can just slide directly into the sea from the boat. The water is described as “crystal blue,” and the scenery is truly stunning. If you have your own snorkeling gear, it’s worth bringing along, as some reviews suggest that bringing your own equipment can make the experience more satisfying. The crew is friendly and helpful, offering briefings and assistance during swimming stops.

Lunch and Food

A key highlight for many is the included barbecue lunch served directly on the boat. The food is generally described as tasty, with some guests mentioning it was “delicious” and well-prepared, adding to the value. One reviewer pointed out that the staff pays high attention to hygiene, and the lunch includes some classic Turkish barbecue flavors.

However, some reviews flag issues with the catering, noting that food can make some travelers sick or that the selection may be limited. The tour notes that drinks aren’t included, and you should be prepared to purchase beverages onboard or bring your own. Also, note that outside food or drinks are generally not permitted, which might be a downside for those with specific dietary needs.

Additional Activities

Beyond swimming, the tour is flexible—you’re welcome to relax on the deck, dance to music, or just enjoy the scenery. Some travelers appreciate the cheerful, friendly guides who provide relevant commentary and help during stops.

The Crowded Reality

One recurring theme in reviews is the large group size, with the boat holding up to 100 people during high season. This can mean a crowded experience, especially during peak months. Some travelers, like Amina E, felt the experience was “very cheap,” with no real exploration, and crowdedness made it feel less intimate.

Another issue raised was the cleanliness of the boat. While not everyone had this experience, some found it less than ideal, which might depend on the day and season. The crew, however, is generally described as friendly and accommodating, with English-speaking staff providing briefings and assistance throughout.

Value for Money and Practical Tips

At approximately $48 per person, the tour offers decent value—especially considering the included transport and lunch. Compared to booking similar activities independently, the convenience of pickup, drop-off, and a ready-made itinerary saves both time and hassle.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day with sightseeing, swimming, and a tasty barbecue, this trip can tick all the boxes. However, if your priority is in-depth island exploration or avoiding crowds, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

Pro tip: Some reviewers suggest that buying tickets from local guides in the city can be cheaper than booking online, and this may help you avoid some of the crowds or ensure a more personalized experience.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day out with minimal planning. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to kick back and enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty without worrying about logistics. If you’re okay with a potentially crowded boat and limited island stops, you’ll likely enjoy the friendly guides and stunning views.

It’s not the best choice for those seeking exclusive access, private beaches, or in-depth island exploration—those travelers might prefer private boat rentals or smaller group tours.

Final Thoughts

The 12 Island Boat Trip from Fethiye offers a good balance of scenic cruising, swimming, and Turkish hospitality at an accessible price. The included barbecue lunch and round-trip transfers add to the ease of this experience, making it a popular choice among visitors to the region.

While some reviews highlight issues like crowds and boat cleanliness, most travelers appreciate the overall fun, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful scenery. For those who want to enjoy a laid-back, social day exploring the Mediterranean’s coastline, this tour delivers on expectations.

If you’re after a simple, value-packed day of sunshine, swimming, and delicious food, this trip is definitely worth considering—just keep your expectations aligned with the boat’s capacity and the tour’s style.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip shared transfers from Hisaronu, Oludeniz, Ovacik, and Calis are included, making the logistics hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The trip runs for approximately 6 hours, starting around 9:30 AM and ending in the late afternoon, around 5:05 PM.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages onboard or bring your own, although outside food and drinks are generally not allowed.

How many islands will we visit?
Despite the tour’s name, you will mainly stop at 4 or 5 islands for swimming and exploring, with some other islands visible along the way.

Is the boat crowded?
Yes, especially during high season, the boat can carry up to 100 people. Some travelers find it lively but crowded.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are popular activities here, especially if you bring your own gear. The clear waters are ideal for a quick dip and exploring underwater life.

In summary, the 12 Island Boat Trip from Fethiye offers a fun, scenic, and affordable way to experience the Mediterranean. It’s perfect for those seeking a social, relaxed day with the convenience of included transport and food. Just be prepared for some crowds and limited island exploration—yet, with friendly guides and beautiful scenery, it remains a solid choice for many travelers.