Oludeniz: Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island incl. Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along Turkey’s beautiful Aegean coast, this Oludeniz boat tour offers a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic local charm. The experience includes stops at iconic spots like the Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley, and St. Nicholas Island, making it ideal for travelers looking to combine adventure with some relaxed downtime.

One standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to explore Butterfly Valley, not only for its scenic beauty but also for the chance to see rare butterfly species fluttering around. Plus, the visit to St. Nicholas Island with its ancient ruins and panoramic views makes this a well-rounded day.

A slight consideration is that drinks are not included, so if you’re a fan of beverages, you’ll want to bring some along or plan to purchase on board. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, appreciate historical sites, and love a good dose of nature. It’s a solid choice for families, couples, or anyone craving an authentic, scenic day out in nature.

Key Points

• Variety of Stops: Includes swimming in the Blue Cave and Cold Spring Bay, exploring Butterfly Valley, and visiting St. Nicholas Island.
• Authentic Experience: Nature, history, and local wildlife all in one tour.
• Great for Relaxation: Plenty of time to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the scenery.
• Delicious Onboard Meal: A freshly prepared lunch offers good value for the day.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about each location.
• Some Extras: Reviewers highlight the friendly crew and comfortable seating, making the day enjoyable even for small children or less mobile travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins at Ölüdeniz Harbor, where you’ll meet the Grand Vega boat at Belcekiz Beach. The boat itself is a two-deck vessel—a familiar sight on the coast—that promises plenty of space and comfort. As you set out, you’ll enjoy breezes and panoramic views of the changing coastal scenery, with the water shimmering beneath you.

Many reviews note the relaxed atmosphere on board—not a party boat, but a calm, family-friendly environment. The seating is comfortable, with some guests mentioning lounge beds on the upper deck, perfect for soaking up the sun during the cruise.

First Stop: The Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is a highlight, thanks to its striking, bright blue waters. You can swim into the cave, with the guide often pointing out the best spots for photos. The clarity of the water makes this a favorite for snorkelers too. We appreciated the smooth transition from sailing to swimming, with plenty of time allocated for this stop.

Butterfly Valley: Nature and Wildlife

Next is Butterfly Valley, a real treat for nature lovers. The walkthrough involves a short hike, leading you to a beautiful beach surrounded by lush greenery. Interestingly, visitors frequently spot colorful butterflies, especially the rare Tiger Butterfly. One reviewer mentioned being enchanted by the sight of butterflies flying freely around them, noting that the wildflowers and natural waterfalls add to the valley’s peaceful ambiance.

The swimming here is also popular, with many guests commenting on the crystal-clear waters and the chance to relax on the sandy beach. The hike and waterfall views offer a different perspective—prompting some to say they felt like they had discovered a hidden paradise.

Lunch Onboard

A significant plus is the lunch served on the boat. Many reviews praise it as generously portioned and tasty, often featuring chicken cooked fresh on board. Vegetarians can expect a salad option, as noted by a guest who appreciated their grains and fresh bread. The lunch turns out to be excellent value, especially considering it’s included in the tour price.

St. Nicholas Island: Historical and Panoramic

After lunch, the boat heads toward St. Nicholas Island, famous for its 5th-century church ruins and historic significance. The climb to the highest viewpoint rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and coast. Guests rave about the photo opportunities here, capturing the ancient ruins with the sparkling sea in the background.

A couple of reviewers highlighted the friendly guides helping everyone with the ascent and sharing interesting facts about the historical sites—though details are limited, the added insights make the visit more engaging.

Cold Spring Bay: A Refreshing Finale

The last stop is Cold Spring Bay, where you can swim in the freshwater spring as it flows into the sea. This final dip offers a refreshing contrast to the saltwater swims earlier, with many guests praising the crystal-clear waters and the tranquil setting. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take photos, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Return to Ölüdeniz

The journey wraps up back at Belcekiz Beach, where many feel satisfied with the entire day—balancing scenic exploration, fun swimming, and historical discovery.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• The guided commentary enriches the experience, helping you understand the historical context of St. Nicholas Island and the natural importance of Butterfly Valley.
• The timed stops allow for swimming, exploring, and relaxing—not rushing from place to place. Several reviews mention the ample time at each location, which contributes to the overall enjoyment.
• The crew is consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially in assisting guests onto the boat and during the hikes.

The Value of the Tour

At around 7.5 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive day out at a reasonable price, considering the included lunch and multiple swimming stops. It’s a good way to see some of the most celebrated spots around Oludeniz without the hassle of organizing separate excursions.

Considerations

• Drinks are not included, so bring water, or buy beverages on board or at stops.
• The duration might feel long for very young children or those with mobility issues, especially during the hike at Butterfly Valley.
• Timing can vary depending on the season and weather, so check availability and start times before booking.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers craving a mix of relaxation and adventure. It suits those interested in nature, history, and scenic views all in one day. Families with kids, couples seeking a romantic outing, or solo travelers who enjoy meeting others on the water will find this tour rewarding.

It’s especially good if you appreciate authentic local experiences—from the friendly crew to the chance to explore a rare butterfly habitat and ancient ruins. If you’re not keen on loud, party-style boats, you’ll appreciate the calm, comfortable environment that many reviewers mention.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides a freshly prepared lunch onboard, which is often praised for its generous servings and tasty options like chicken and grains. Vegetarians can expect salad options.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to bring your own or purchase beverages during the stops, as alcohol and other drinks are not provided by the tour.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, from departure at Belcekiz Beach to return in the late afternoon. The timing can vary slightly depending on the day and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. If you want to explore Butterfly Valley, comfortable shoes for the hike are recommended.

Is this suitable for children or elderly guests?
Yes, many reviews mention that the crew is helpful and accommodating, making it suitable for families and older travelers. However, the hike at Butterfly Valley might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. You can reserve now and pay later, offering some flexibility with your plans.

Final Thoughts

This Oludeniz boat tour offers a well-rounded day filled with swimming, scenic views, and some history—perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time along Turkey’s stunning coastline. The friendly guides and comfortable boat create a relaxed environment where you can soak up the sun, explore natural beauty, and learn about local history, all while enjoying a delicious onboard lunch.

If you’re after a value-packed day that balances adventure and downtime, this tour is certainly worth considering. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking to enjoy the water, it’s an experience that delivers on multiple fronts.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those who love outdoor activities, appreciate authentic natural encounters, and want a hassle-free way to see some of the most beautiful spots near Oludeniz. The combination of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and relaxed boat vibes makes it a memorable outing—one you’ll carry with you long after the sail.