Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz Islands Boat Trip

When considering a day out on the water in Fethiye, this boat trip offers an engaging blend of scenic views, swimming opportunities, and some unique stops at local landmarks. Priced at $45 per person, it promises a full day – approximately 7 hours of exploring the turquoise waters and beautiful coastlines of Turkey’s Lycian region. We’ve looked into the experiences of travelers who’ve been on this tour to give you a balanced, detailed picture of what to expect.

One thing travelers consistently appreciate is the chance to visit multiple sites in one trip, especially the famed Butterfly Valley and Blue Lagoon, both renowned for their striking scenery and tranquility. The friendly crew’s helpful attitude and the generous lunch options are also highly praised. However, some folks point out that the boat can get crowded and that certain stops, like Butterfly Valley, may be shorter than expected. This tour suits those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing at sea — perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking for an affordable, fun day out.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: The tour includes several picture-perfect locations like Butterfly Valley and the Blue Cave.
• Swimming Opportunities: Multiple stops are dedicated to swimming in clear, inviting waters.
• Good Value: At $45, the price includes lunch and an English-speaking crew, with many reviews praising the quality of food.
• Crowd and Timing: Expect a lively, sometimes crowded boat environment; some stops may be slightly rushed.
• Authentic Experiences: Several reviews highlight the friendliness of the crew and the authentic charm of the locations.
• Accessibility: Suitable for most travelers, with options for those who prefer relaxing or adventurous days.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start Point and Departure

The journey begins at the Grand Vega Ölüdeniz harbor at 10:00 am. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transport, and the tour is limited to about 45 travelers, which keeps the group manageable and more personal compared to larger boats.

Oludeniz Harbour

The trip kicks off with a 30-minute cruise from Oludeniz harbor, giving you an initial taste of the sea and views of the coastline. It’s a calm start, allowing everyone to settle in and get oriented.

Butterfly Valley

The second stop is Butterfly Valley, a 1-hour visit where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and potentially spot some butterfly species (admission fee not included, but typically around 2). Reviewers mention that this stop is a highlight for many, thanks to its lush scenery and quiet atmosphere. One traveler noted, “The butterfly valley was amazing and water was so blue.” However, some guests found their time here a bit too short, with one review mentioning only an hour allocated, which felt rushed, especially if you wanted to walk around or do some butterfly spotting.

Mavi Magara (Blue Cave)

The Blue Cave is a major point of interest, and it’s the first destination of the day. Inside, you’ll see how the water turns a riot of blue shades, blending seamlessly into the green surroundings. Visitors often comment on the incredible colors, with one reviewer saying, “Water was so blue, and the shades change as you look around.” The cave’s entrance is free, but don’t forget that boat trips here often involve getting close to the rocks, so be prepared for some splash.

Soguksu Bay and Camel Beach

Next up is Soguksu Bay, where you can enjoy a dip in cold waters that come through rocky formations—refreshing and different from the warm, shallow waters of Camel Beach nearby. After relaxing under the sun at Camel Beach, where you might spot real camels or choose to ride them, this stop offers a chance for some more swimming and photos. Reviewers appreciated the mix of warm and cold waters, describing the experience as “refreshing” and “fun for the whole family.”

Return to Oludeniz

After a few hours of exploring, the boat heads back along the coast, with a final stop at Oludeniz harbor, giving everyone a chance to soak in the last views of the day. The 30-minute return trip wraps up the adventure by early afternoon.

Lunch at Camel Beach

One of the standout aspects of this tour is the included lunch—a generous serving of fish or chicken, pasta, and salad. Several reviews raved about the quality and freshness of the food, with one guest describing it as “delicious” and portions as “very generous.” This is an important value point, as many similar tours charge extra for meals or drinks.

Additional Notes on Experience

While the general consensus is positive, some reviews highlight issues like crowded boats and timing setbacks. For example, one traveler noted the boat was full with about 80 people, which can limit space and comfort. Others mentioned that the trip started late, and the time allocated at each site, especially Butterfly Valley, felt a little rushed. Still, many appreciated the friendly staff and the overall organization, calling it “well-managed” and “beautiful destinations.”

What Travelers Say

From glowing praise about the scenery and food to critical remarks about overcrowding and the boat’s condition, reviews paint a clear picture. Multiple reviewers describe the water as incredibly blue and clear, perfect for swimming and photo ops. The crew is consistently called friendly, helpful, and accommodating—especially for those who don’t swim, as jackets and noodles are provided.

Some negative comments focus on the boat’s age and overcrowding, with one reviewer mentioning it felt “old and small,” and another feeling that the boat was overfull with cushions packed so tightly it was uncomfortable. There are also some comments about high prices for drinks and entry fees (Butterfly Valley’s entrance fee is about 2).

Despite these, many travelers feel that the tour offers “good value for money” considering the stops, lunch, and scenic views. It’s a tour that emphasizes a lively, social experience more than luxury or serenity.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: $45 per person, including lunch and a helpful crew.
• Duration: Around 7 hours, from 10:00 am to early afternoon.
• Group Size: Limited to 45 travelers, which fosters a more intimate atmosphere.
• Booking: Usually booked 14 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• What to Bring: Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps some cash for optional entrance fees or drinks.
• Onboard: The boat is equipped for swimming, with jackets and noodles for non-swimmers.
• Timing: Expect some stops to be a bit rushed, particularly Butterfly Valley, so prioritize what interests you most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals most to adventurous travelers and families who want a full day of exploring multiple sites without breaking the bank. If you’re into beautiful scenery, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying good local food, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a social atmosphere, as reviews describe a lively, friendly environment.

However, if you prefer quiet, relaxed days on the water with more personal space, you might find this tour a little crowded or hectic. The experience is more about bouncing from one stunning spot to another, making it ideal for energetic explorers rather than those seeking solitude.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Fethiye offers a solid balance of stunning scenery, engaging stops, and good value. The highlight for many travelers is the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at sites like Butterfly Valley and the Blue Cave, alongside a generous, tasty lunch. The friendly crew adds a personal touch, making the trip feel warm and welcoming, even if the boat can sometimes be a bit crowded.

It’s best suited to families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a lively, full-day adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments. While it might not satisfy those craving peace and quiet or a luxurious experience, it provides an authentic and fun way to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal spots.

If you’re ready for a day of sun, sea, and scenic stops with good food and lively company, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to book early, bring your patience, and enjoy the ride!

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable for families, especially since the boat can accommodate most ages and provides life jackets and noodles for non-swimmers.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour runs roughly 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning in the early afternoon.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the admission fee for Butterfly Valley (around 2) is not included but can be paid on-site if you wish to explore further.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat ride, lunch (fish or chicken, pasta, salad), and an English-speaking crew.

Are drinks extra?
Yes, drinks are not included and can be purchased separately on board or brought along.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits the group to approximately 45 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This detailed look at the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, and Oludeniz Islands boat trip shows it as a lively, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Fethiye’s coast. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, the combination of beautiful stops and friendly atmosphere makes it a trip worth considering — just plan ahead!