Oludeniz Boat Trip to Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island from Fethiye

If you’re looking to explore Turkey’s breathtaking coastline without the hassle of driving or hiking, a boat trip around Ölüdeniz offers a fantastic way to see some of the area’s most iconic spots. This full-day tour from Fethiye takes you to shimmering bays, colorful caves, and historic islands, all while enjoying the laid-back vibe of a day at sea. With excellent reviews praising the scenery, food, and friendly staff, it’s clear this experience is popular.

One thing many travelers love is the chance to relax on the boat, swim in crystal-clear waters, and take in views that seem to belong to a postcard. The inclusion of a tasty onboard lunch and multiple swimming stops makes it great value, especially given the stunning scenery you’ll see. However, some may find the entrance fees and the crowding at certain stops a bit of a letdown, so it’s worth knowing what to expect. This tour suits anyone wanting a hassle-free, scenic day with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy being on the water.

Key Points

• Extensive itinerary: Multiple stops at bays, islands, and caves with swimming, sightseeing, and exploration.
• Value for money: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, boat cruise, and a satisfying onboard lunch.
• Scenic highlights: Butterfly Valley, St Nicholas Island, Blue Cave, Aquarium Bay, and Camel Beach.
• Entrance fees: Not included for Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island, so be prepared for extra costs.
• Group size: The tour can accommodate up to 75 travelers, which balances lively social energy with space to relax.
• Ideal for: Nature lovers, families, and anyone wanting a full overview of Ölüdeniz’s coastal gems.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and the Journey to Ölüdeniz

Most travelers are picked up from their hotels between 8:45 and 9:15 am, which makes for a smooth start. Keep in mind, the transfer is included in the package, but it’s worth confirming your pickup time and location. The drive to Ölüdeniz can be a bit bumpy—some reviews mention a lengthy, fast-paced ride through mountain roads that left certain travelers feeling motion sick—but once you arrive, the scene is well worth the journey.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Do You Actually Do?

This tour kicks off around 10:30 am to 10:45 am from Ölüdeniz Beach, with the boat cruising into the Faralya region to visit the Blue Cave. This cave is famous for its vibrant blue hues and is a favorite spot for photos. The water here is often calm, and the cave’s natural beauty makes for a great first stop. Depending on the season, visiting the Blue Cave may be limited during peak summer months (July 1 – September 15), so be prepared for possible changes.

Next, the boat heads to Butterfly Valley, one of the tour’s highlights. Visitors get about 30 minutes here to explore the beach or walk into the valley for a small fee (around 1 euro). Reviewers mention that the actual hike into Butterfly Valley isn’t the main attraction—some found the hiking trails underwhelming compared to the stunning scenery from the boat—but the chance to relax on this beautiful, butterfly-filled bay is well appreciated. The water is inviting, and many travelers spend around an hour swimming or lounging on the beach.

Following this, the boat sails towards Aquarium Bay for another hour of swimming. The bay’s clear waters and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for snorkelers and sunbathers alike. It’s a peaceful pause before heading to Gemiler Island, home to ancient ruins and reputedly the original resting place of Saint Nicholas. Entrance here costs about 3 euros, and visitors can spend an hour exploring the remnants of churches and buildings dating back to the 4th to 6th centuries. Many reviewers appreciate the historical significance, though some note the fee is not included in the tour price.

The next stops are Soguk Su Bay and Camel Beach, each offering additional swimming opportunities. Camel Beach, in particular, gets high praise for its scenic setting, and the 90-minute stop allows plenty of time to unwind and take photos. It’s worth noting that the waters here are safe and clean, making it perfect for families or those simply wanting a relaxed swim.

The View from St Nicholas Island

Climbing to the top of St Nicholas Island (also called Gemiler Island) is a favorite among hikers and photo enthusiasts. The ruins on the hill provide panoramic views of the coastline, and reviewers often describe the climb as worth every step. One guest mentioned that the view from the top was “well worth it,” and that the old ruins added a mystical touch to the experience.

The Food and Drink: A Hearty, Shared Meal

An onboard lunch is included in the tour price, and reviews consistently emphasize its quality. Many mention a satisfying meal with a good variety of items—perfect for refueling after swimming and sightseeing. Drinks are available for purchase; some travelers note it would be nice if soft drinks were complimentary, but generally, the prices are fair. The boat’s setup allows for comfortable seating, with some guests favoring the front for faster service.

Practical Tips: What to Know Before You Book

• Entrance fees: Budget an additional 3 euros for St Nicholas Island and about 1 euro for Butterfly Valley if you plan to explore the valley. These are not included in the ticket price.
• Timing: The tour lasts about 7 hours, with a pick-up window of roughly 30 minutes. Keep your camera ready—every stop offers photo-worthy moments.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera or phone case. No food or drinks are permitted on board, so plan accordingly.
• Group size: Up to 75 travelers, which means it can feel lively but not overly crowded—just right for socializing or relaxing solo.
• Weather considerations: During peak season (July 1 – September 15), the Blue Cave might be skipped due to high demand or weather conditions, so manage expectations accordingly.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a generally positive picture. Many loved the stunning landscapes, the variety of stops, and the delicious lunch. One reviewer called it the “best 30th birthday present ever,” thanks to the friendly staff and thoughtful touches like a birthday cake. Others appreciated the relaxed boat setup, mentioning that there’s enough space to find a quiet corner while still enjoying the social atmosphere.

However, some mentioned the crowding at certain stops and the additional costs for some attractions. One reviewer noted that the drive to the boat was a bit rough, and some found Butterfly Valley hiking trails less impressive than the scenery from the boat.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This boat trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. The variety of stops makes it appealing whether you’re interested in historical ruins, natural beauty, or just lounging in the sun. The inclusion of a hearty onboard lunch adds value, making it an easy, all-in-one experience for travelers who want to make the most of their day without stressing over logistics.

For families, the gentle pace and multiple swim stops are perfect, while solo travelers or couples will appreciate the social atmosphere and stunning vistas. It’s particularly suited if you value authentic scenic views over commercialized attractions.

The main drawback is the additional fees for certain stops, which can catch some travelers off guard, and the potential for crowding during high season. But with proper planning and a bit of flexibility, this trip delivers a memorable day on Turkey’s stunning coast.

The Sum Up

This full-day boat trip around Ölüdeniz combines scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and genuine relaxation. It’s a well-organized, value-packed experience that offers plenty of swimming, photo opportunities, and a delicious onboard meal. If you’re after a mix of adventure and calm, with the chance to see iconic sites like Butterfly Valley and St Nicholas Island from the water, this tour delivers.

Ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and those who simply want to soak up the sun and scenery, it’s a hassle-free way to tick off some of the region’s top highlights. Just remember to budget for entrance fees and consider the weather, especially during the busy summer months when certain stops might be skipped.

This tour is a straightforward choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic taste of Ölüdeniz’s coastal charms—enjoyable, scenic, and reasonably priced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most travelers are picked up from their hotels between 8:45 and 9:15 am, but confirm your exact pickup time when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Butterfly Valley (about 1 euro) and St Nicholas Island (around 3 euros) are not included—budget for these separately.

Can I swim at all stops?
Yes, there are multiple swimming stops at Aquarium Bay, Camel Beach, Soguk Su Bay, and Butterfly Valley. The water is clear and perfect for relaxing or snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof phone case. No food or drinks are allowed on board, so plan to purchase drinks separately.

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
During peak season (July 1 – September 15), the Blue Cave may be skipped due to high demand or weather, so don’t rely solely on visiting it.

This full-day boat adventure is a solid choice for those seeking a scenic, activity-packed day with good food, friendly staff, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just relaxing on the water, it’s a tour that offers a comprehensive taste of the incredible Ölüdeniz coastline.