Fethiye 12 Islands Boat Trip With Lunch

A Full-Day Adventure in Fethiye’s 12 Islands

Taking a boat trip around Fethiye’s famous islands is often touted as a must-do experience, and this Fethiye 12 Islands Boat Trip With Lunch lives up to that reputation. For around $50 per person, you get roughly 6 to 7 hours of sun, sea, and scenic spots—making it an excellent way to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. We’ve reviewed this experience based on multiple traveler insights, and it’s clear that many find it a worthwhile, if sometimes imperfect, way to see the area’s natural beauty.

What we particularly love about this trip is the variety of stops and the opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping photos of some of Turkey’s most picture-worthy islands. The boat’s relaxed vibe, friendly crew, and good value also stand out. That said, a few considerations include the limited included drinks and the fact that the boat’s operation depends on enough bookings—so your experience might vary slightly depending on the day you go. This tour suits those looking for a chill, scenic experience with a decent mix of activities and comfort.

Key Points

Stunning Island Views: Each stop offers unique scenery, from red-stone bays to unspoiled islands with crystal-clear waters.
Good Value for Money: At $50, you get a full day of activities, a lunch, and multiple swimming breaks.
Relaxed Atmosphere: The crew creates a friendly, laid-back environment ideal for solo travelers, couples, or groups seeking a mellow day at sea.
Potential for Variability: Experiences depend partly on weather and group size, and sometimes the boat might not set sail if bookings are low.
Limited Included Drinks: Soft drinks are provided, but you’ll need to bring extra for longer stays or if you want alcohol.
Well-Organized Itinerary: Stops are well spaced, giving just enough time for swimming, photos, and exploring.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Fethiye Port

The trip begins at the heart of Fethiye at the port on Cumhuriyet Street, usually around 10:00 am. The meeting is straightforward, with most travelers reporting smooth check-ins and friendly staff. This central location makes it easy to find and convenient for most hotels nearby.

Kızıl Island – The Rabbit and Red Stones

Your first stop is Kızıl Island, famous for its red stones and rabbit population. Expect a quick, 45-minute visit, which is enough to snap some photos of the striking landscape and enjoy a brief swim. Reviewers mention this as a “picture-perfect location,” ideal for capturing the vibrant reds of the rocks and maybe spotting a rabbit or two grazing on the island.

Yassıca Ada – Natural Beauty and Relaxation

Next, the boat anchors at Yassıca Ada. This island impresses with its exceptional natural beauty and calm bay. You’ll have about an hour here, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the shoreline. Many guests appreciate the tranquility and the chance to breathe in the fresh sea air, with some even mentioning that the bay offers great photo opportunities.

Katrancı Bay Nature Park – The First Swim Spot

The trip then moves to Katrancı Bay Nature Park, where the turquoise waters and dramatic rocks create a stunning backdrop. The crew encourages everyone to jump in and cool off, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. The roughly one-hour stop is timed well, giving enough space for swimming and relaxing without feeling rushed.

Tavan Island – The Photo Break

After a delightful swim, the boat pauses at Tavan Island for about 30 minutes. This is a quick photo break, and reviewers note that the scenery here is worth capturing. It’s a great chance to stretch and soak in the views before heading to the next swimming spot.

Gocek Island – Unspoiled Waters

The most popular stop among many travelers is Gocek Island. Known for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled setting, it’s the perfect place for a longer swim or snorkel. Many guests say this is the highlight of the day, with some noting the water here is especially inviting. The island’s natural charm makes it an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying the sea.

Returning to Fethiye Port

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and relaxing, the boat heads back to Fethiye around mid-afternoon. The return trip offers a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a friendly crew speaking English, along with a lunch consisting of chicken or fish, pasta, and salad—an ample meal to refuel after hours in the sun. It’s a good value considering the length and variety of stops, but drinks are not included. Travelers often bring their own or purchase them on the boat, especially if they want something stronger or more refreshing than the soft drinks provided.

Notably, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. The start time is fixed at 10:00 am, giving plenty of time to plan your morning.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Many reviewers express high satisfaction with the day overall. For example, Michael called it a “great activity,” praising the islands’ beauty and the “just enough time” at each stop. Elizabeth appreciated the “lovely views,” and Daniel highlighted the crystal-clear waters as a key feature.

However, the experience is not without hiccups. Lee’s review pointed out that sometimes the boat might not sail if the booking numbers are low, emphasizing the importance of booking well in advance—most travelers book about two weeks ahead. Others like Lewis found the beginning a bit confusing, owing to communication issues about the boat’s status, but once underway, most found the trip enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early: Many travelers book two weeks ahead, especially in peak season, to secure their spot.
• Bring sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essentials, as you’ll spend a lot of time exposed.
• Pack water and extra drinks: While soft drinks are included, bringing additional beverages can be refreshing.
• Wear swimwear and water shoes: The swimming stops are the highlight, so dress appropriately.
• Arrive early: The meeting point is in the city center, easy to access, but arriving a bit ahead ensures smooth boarding.
• Consider your pacing: The duration at each stop is just enough for swimming, photos, and relaxing—plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Fethiye 12 Islands Boat Trip offers a relaxed, scenic day at sea, perfect for travelers seeking a balance of activity, comfort, and natural beauty. For around $50, you get a mixture of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, with a tasty lunch to keep you energized. The stops deliver impressive views and unspoiled islands, making it a worthwhile outing for those wanting to escape the land-based crowds and enjoy a full day on the water.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a laid-back vibe, are comfortable with short boat journeys, and want to see some of the most beautiful parts of Fethiye’s coastline at a reasonable price. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll enjoy the friendly crew, stunning scenery, and the chance to make some memorable moments.

Keep in mind that weather and group size can influence the experience, especially if the boat’s sailing depends on securing enough bookings. Still, with well-planned stops, good value, and beautiful scenery, this boat trip stands out as a solid choice for a day of Mediterranean adventure.

FAQ

How long does the boat trip last?
The trip is approximately 6 to 7 hours, including travel time between stops and the return to Fethiye.

What’s the cost?
It costs around $50 per person, which includes the boat ride, lunch, and swimming stops.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are provided, but alcohol and additional beverages are not included, so you should bring your own if desired.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to get to the port on your own.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book around two weeks in advance to secure their spot, especially during peak season.

Is there a limit on group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 80 travelers, but most days are smaller, making for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

This comprehensive review highlights the trip’s strengths—beautiful islands, relaxing pace, and good value—while also noting the potential for variability. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s best without breaking the bank.