12 Islands Boat Trip in Fethiye

A relaxing day exploring the famed 12 Islands of Fethiye promises azure waters, scenic spots, and a traditional Turkish gulet experience. While it’s marketed as a full-day adventure, it’s really about soaking in the views and enjoying some quality time on the water. What makes this trip especially appealing is the carefully curated stops at four of the most beautiful and accessible islands—perfect for swimming, exploring, and snapping that perfect holiday shot.

One of the standout features here is the delicious onboard lunch—a hearty meal of grilled fish or chicken, complemented by pasta, meze, and fresh salads. However, some guests have noted that the food, while plentiful, might not wow everyone. The trip is also quite flexible, offering hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to experience Fethiye’s coast. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, families, and nature lovers looking to relax and enjoy the scenery without too much fuss.

That said, a key consideration is the limited time at each island—visitors only get a short window for exploration, which might leave some feeling hurried. The group size (capped at 70) helps keep things manageable, but it’s worth noting that the experience is largely about the cruise and scenery rather than in-depth island exploration. Overall, it’s a great value trip for those wanting the classic boat day with good food and stunning views, though it’s less ideal for travelers seeking detailed cultural insights or longer island visits.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic stops: The trip visits some of the most photogenic spots like Katranc Bay, Rabbit Island, and Aquarium Bay.
• Comfortable cruise experience: Enjoying a traditional Turkish gulet with friendly crew and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or villa take the hassle out of planning.
• Limited exploration time: Short visits mean you see but may not fully experience each island.
• Delicious onboard lunch: A generous meal featuring grilled fish or chicken, pasta, meze, and salads, perfect for refueling.
• Group size: Up to 70 travelers, striking a balance between social and intimate.

The Full Lowdown: What to Expect from the 12 Islands Boat Trip

Starting the Day: Ease of Access and First Impressions

The trip kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9:00 AM, which is a helpful bonus. It means you won’t need to navigate to the harbor on your own, allowing you to relax from the moment you wake up. The transfer is usually smooth and reliable, setting a positive tone for the day. Once at the marina, you’ll board your traditional Turkish gulet—an elegant, wooden vessel that embodies the local maritime charm.

The boat’s design lends itself to a laid-back vibe—ample deck space for sunbathing, shaded areas for those wanting relief from the sun, and plenty of space for chatting or simply soaking in the surroundings. With a maximum of 70 travelers, the group is sizable but not overwhelming, making it easier to connect or find quiet corners.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit and Experience

The first stop is Fethiye Limani (Fethiye Harbour)—a scenic starting point. From here, the boat heads toward Katranc Bay, one of the region’s most beautiful spots. The bay’s calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a swim or just floating around with the provided snorkel gear. Reviewers mention the crystal-clear waters—”crystal-clear waters are waiting for you,” as one noted—making it a highlight for water lovers.

Next, the boat visits Rabbit Island, a small, uninhabited island with a distinctive shape that’s ideal for a quick walk or some photo ops. Many travelers find the short visit here fun but limited—you’ll typically get just a few minutes to step off the boat and take pictures.

The journey continues to the Yassica Islands, a cluster of small islands famous for their lush greenery and clean beaches. While the stops are brief, they’re enough to jump in for a swim or stretch your legs. Some reviews point out that there’s little time to explore on foot, but the scenery makes up for it.

Aquarium Bay is the next stop, renowned for its transparent waters. Here, you can snorkel and marvel at the sea life beneath you. The water clarity is a major plus, and many guests emphasize how refreshing it is to swim in such pristine conditions.

The final island visit is Red Island (Kzlada), which offers a different vibe—more secluded and quiet, ideal for a peaceful break before heading back.

The Meal: What’s on the Plate?

The onboard lunch is touted as a major part of the experience. The menu features grilled fish or chicken, paired with pasta—either tomato or herb sauce—plus meze, seasonal salad, and pickles. The meal is served buffet-style, generous in portion, and designed to keep you fueled for the rest of the day.

Some travelers have commented that the food was good but not extraordinary—”the food was plentiful but not particularly memorable.” Still, most appreciate the convenience of a tasty, filling meal without having to leave the boat or hunt for restaurants during the trip.

The Experience: What It Feels Like Onboard

We loved the way the boat cruise offers a blend of relaxation and scenic beauty—sitting on the deck, soaking up the sun, and watching the coastline pass by. The crew, described as friendly and attentive, keep the atmosphere light and fun. They’re there not just to navigate but to ensure guests are comfortable and safe in the water.

The trip’s timing—departing at 10:15 AM and returning around 5:00 PM—gives ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery. It’s a well-paced itinerary, though some reviewers point out the short stops don’t leave much time for actual exploration on the islands.

Practicalities and Value

For $42 per person, this trip offers good value for the experience. The transportation, lunch, and scenic stops are included, making it straightforward to budget for the day. The small group size (up to 70 travelers) allows for a social atmosphere without feeling cramped.

The booking window is around five days in advance, so it’s advisable to reserve early, especially in peak season. Canceling is free up to 24 hours before, providing a safety net in case of unforeseen weather issues or change of plans.

Considerations and Caveats

While the trip is generally well-organized, water enthusiasts should bring their snorkel gear—it’s not provided but highly recommended for the crystal-clear waters. If you’re expecting detailed cultural history or in-depth island exploration, be aware that the stops are brief and more about scenery than cultural sites.

One reviewer mentioned the food could be improved, suggesting that the onboard meal, though plentiful, lacked finesse. Also, the short visit durations might leave some feeling rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore the islands on foot for longer.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water rather than a highly educational or adventure-packed excursion. It suits those who want to swim in clear waters, enjoy beautiful vistas, and indulge in a delicious onboard meal.

It’s also great if you prefer the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics almost effortless. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a laid-back vibe will find this trip fits their holiday style.

However, it’s less suited for travelers wanting extensive island exploration or those with a particular focus on cultural sightseeing. The brief stops and quick visits mean you get a taste of the region’s beauty, not a deep dive.

The Sum Up

The 12 Islands Boat Trip in Fethiye offers a beautiful and relaxing way to experience some of Turkey’s most stunning coastal scenery. The combination of crystal-clear waters, scenic stops, friendly crew, and a hearty lunch makes it a popular choice among visitors. While the stops are brief, they are well-chosen and beautifully situated, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, photos, and unwinding on deck.

This tour provides great value for the cost, especially for those wanting a hassle-free, scenic day without the need for extensive exploration. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prioritize scenery, relaxation, and good onboard food over in-depth cultural or historical visits.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water with some of Fethiye’s best views, this trip delivers. Just keep in mind the limited time at each stop and bring your snorkel gear for the best chance to explore the underwater world.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or villa, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long is the boat trip?
The trip lasts approximately 6 hours, departing around 10:15 AM and returning around 5:00 PM.

How many islands will I visit?
You will visit four of the most beautiful and accessible islands—Katranc Bay, Rabbit Island, Yassica Islands, and Red Island—though the region is known as the 12 Islands.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a generous onboard lunch featuring grilled fish or chicken, pasta, meze, and salads is included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring your snorkel gear if you have it, sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for swimming stops. The water clarity is excellent for snorkeling.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring bottled water or purchase beverages onboard.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip. You will receive a full refund if you cancel within this window.

This Fethiye boat trip is a classic way to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline with ease—perfect for a laid-back day of sun, sea, and scenic beauty.