Sail Turkey: Mix Age Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise

Travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, history, and relaxed sailing often find themselves drawn to Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast. This 4-day gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos offers a taste of everything — from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to ancient ruins and charming villages. While the itinerary is packed with highlights, it’s also a leisurely way to soak in the landscape and unwind on deck.

What really sets this cruise apart is its focus on authentic experiences. You’ll sleep under the stars or in private en-suite cabins, dine on delicious local cuisine, and explore some of Turkey’s most captivating sights. The personalized vibe—with a small group of up to 16 travelers—makes for a friendly, intimate atmosphere. That said, the main consideration is that four days might leave you craving more, as many guests note they’d happily extend the trip.

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want to combine comfort, adventure, and cultural discovery without the fuss of busy tourist crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, the itinerary balances activity with downtime, making it ideal for a wide range of ages and travel styles.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views along the coast, especially during anchor stops in secluded bays.
• Authentic Exposure: Visit ancient sites like Kekova’s sunken city and Castle of Simena, adding a historical flavor.
• Relaxation & Adventure: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and optional hikes, with plenty of opportunities to unwind.
• Small Group Experience: Max 16 travelers, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Excellent Value: All main meals and Wi-Fi are included, making it a fuss-free, all-in-one adventure.
• Consideration: Four days may feel brief; many guests wish they had more time to explore at each stop.

What Makes This Cruise Special?

This blue cruise offers a classic Turkish experience—sailing on a traditional gulet, a wooden sailing vessel, which adds to the charm and authenticity of the journey. The price of $470 per person is quite competitive, especially considering the included meals, Wi-Fi, and a carefully curated itinerary. Though some entrance fees are not included, they are generally modest, and you’ll get plenty of value from the stops and sights.

One standout feature is how well the itinerary balances well-known sights with quieter, less crowded spots. From Butterfly Valley, home to over 136 butterfly species, to the famous Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, you get a mix of natural beauty and iconic landscapes. The cruise also ventures into areas like Kekova’s Sunken City, which is a treat for history buffs.

The Day-by-Day Experience

Day 1: Fethiye to Butterfly Valley and Olympos

Starting in Fethiye, you’ll check in at the harbor at 10:00 am and meet your crew. The briefing gives a helpful overview of the trip and safety instructions. Once aboard the gulet, the first stop is Butterfly Valley, a dream for nature lovers. Though the admission fee isn’t included, the opportunity to swim, relax, and hike to the waterfall makes this a memorable start. Keep in mind, the hike is optional, and the valley itself is home to a huge variety of butterflies and moths, which adds a special touch to the experience.

Next, you’ll visit Oludeniz, arguably Turkey’s most photographed beach, with its shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming and lounging. This spot is perfect for unwinding or snapping photos of the iconic Blue Lagoon. The final anchor for the day is St. Nicholas Island, where you’ll explore ancient ruins and enjoy a beautiful sunset, a highlight for many guests.

Day 2: Kalkan, Kas, and Kekova

Waking up in the calm waters of Aquarium Bay near Kalkan, you’ll enjoy breakfast with stunning views. Swimming here is a peaceful way to start the day. Afterwards, the cruise moves to Kas, a lively fishing village known for its unique handmade jewelry and quaint streets. Many reviews rave about the time spent exploring Kas’s shops and relaxing in a laid-back atmosphere.

In the afternoon, the cruise heads toward Kekova, famous for its turquoise waters and the sunken Lycian city. The stops here include swimming in tranquil bays and exploring the ruins, which many guests find fascinating. The seclusion of these coves is part of the appeal, providing a break from crowded beaches.

Day 3: Kekova and Gokkaya Bay

The highlight of this day is visiting the Sunken City, where ruins submerged since an earthquake 2000 years ago are visible from boats. It’s a vivid reminder of Turkey’s ancient past. Next, the Castle of Simena offers impressive archaeological remains and panoramic views. The castle’s historical significance, combined with its peaceful setting, makes it a must-see.

Later, the cruise moves to Gokkaya Bay, where water sports options are available. The bay’s clear waters make it perfect for swimming, and the tranquil environment makes it easy to relax or enjoy a paddleboard session. A favorite among travelers is the chance to unwind in natural surroundings with the least amount of crowds.

Day 4: Demre and Olympos

The final morning involves a laid-back start with breakfast and swimming at Demre. You’ll then be transferred by bus to Olympos or Demre bus station, depending on your travel plans. The transfer is straightforward, and buses run frequently, making onward connections hassle-free.

What Do Travelers Love?

Reviews consistently praise the crew and the food, highlighting how much they enjoyed the local Turkish cuisine served on board. Many mention that sleeping on deck under the stars is a “must,” and the intimate size of the group fosters a friendly, communal vibe. The peaceful anchor points in secluded bays seem to be a big hit, with guests loving the chance to swim in calm, clear waters each evening.

Guest feedback also emphasizes how well-organized the stops are, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on deck makes this cruise feel both adventurous and restful.

What Could Be Improved?

Some travelers note that four days can feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore every site more thoroughly. Entrance fees for certain sights, like Butterfly Valley and Simena Castle, aren’t included, which can add up slightly for budget-conscious travelers. Also, if you’re not into hiking or ruins, some stops might feel less engaging, but overall, the experience caters well to a variety of interests.

Practical Details and Value

The inclusion of unlimited drinking water, Wi-Fi, and most meals makes this an attractive package. Meals are generally praised for their quality, often described as delicious Turkish dishes prepared with care. The small group size enhances the experience, making interactions more personal and less touristy.

Timing-wise, the cruise departs at 10:00 am from Fethiye, giving ample time for check-in and briefing. The duration—roughly four days—is perfect for a quick escape, but many find themselves wishing they could stay longer to soak in the scenery and relax. The price point of $470 per person, considering meals and Wi-Fi, offers good value, especially compared to booking separate tours or multiple accommodations.

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a balanced blend of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to meet like-minded explorers. If you enjoy stunning views, swimming in secluded coves, and exploring ancient ruins in a friendly setting, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While the pace is generally relaxed, travelers seeking a more leisurely, extended experience might wish for additional days. It’s also suited for those who appreciate small groups and personal attention, as the maximum capacity is just 16 people.

In short, if you’re after an authentic Turkish sea adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and good company, this gulet cruise ticks all the boxes.

How many days does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately four days long, starting and ending in Fethiye and Olympos respectively.

What is included in the price?
The price covers Wi-Fi, unlimited drinking water, and three meals each day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some entrance fees such as Butterfly Valley (€1), Simena Castle (€4), and St. Nicholas Island (€3) are not included but are generally affordable.

What kind of boat is used?
A traditional Turkish gulet, which offers a comfortable and authentic sailing experience.

Is this suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for a wide age range, but moderate physical fitness is recommended for optional hikes and exploring ruins.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs if you specify when booking.

How do I get from the end of the cruise to other destinations?
Transfers are provided to Demre bus station or Olympos, with frequent buses to Antalya, Kas, and Fethiye.

What’s the best part of the experience?
Most guests rave about the stunning anchor bays, the friendly crew, and the opportunity to sleep under the stars on deck.

Is Wi-Fi reliable onboard?
While Wi-Fi is included and available, expect some variability in connectivity due to the remote locations.

Can I extend my stay or customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed, but you can arrange additional accommodations in Olympos or other destinations afterward.

This Fethiye to Olympos gulet cruise offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich way to explore Turkey’s prized Turquoise Coast. The combination of historic sites, breathtaking views, and relaxing anchor spots makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want a taste of everything. The small group setting, delicious meals, and memorable sunsets create an experience that’s both personal and engaging.

While four days might leave you wishing for more time, the trip provides a perfect snapshot of Turkey’s coastal charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or someone just looking to unwind on a boat, this cruise delivers authentic moments and stunning vistas in a well-organized package.

If you value intimate, scenic sailing with a friendly crew and fantastic food, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Note: Always check for updated details or any travel restrictions before booking.