Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise

Planning a trip along Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast? If you’re between 18 and 39, looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and vibrant social vibes, this 4-day gulet cruise could be just what you need. With a stellar 5.0 rating from nine reviews and a price of $470 per person, it’s clear many travelers find it worth every penny.

The cruise promises crystal-clear waters, ancient sights, and lively social atmospheres — all aboard a traditional Turkish wooden boat, or gulet. We love that this experience combines exploring historic sites with swimming in secluded bays, but it’s worth noting that it’s designed for those who enjoy being active and social. If solo travel, meeting new people, and scenic adventures sound appealing, this tour is a fantastic fit.

One thing to consider: the group size is capped at 18, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded experience. Also, if you’re not comfortable with a flexible schedule that involves some walking and water activities, you might find this tour a bit fast-paced. But overall, it’s ideal for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a fun, social vibe in a stunning setting.

Key Points

• Ideal for young adults seeking vibrant social experiences and scenic coastal views.
• 4-day, 3-night itinerary offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.
• Price point of $470 offers good value considering included meals, boat transport, and multiple stops at iconic spots.
• Limited group size of 18 ensures personalized attention and a lively atmosphere.
• Variety of stops includes Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Kekova, and ancient ruins, making it a well-rounded journey.
• Authentic experience aboard a traditional Turkish gulet for a comfortable, intimate cruise.

An In-Depth Look at the 4-Day Cruise

Starting Point: Fethiye

Your adventure begins at the Fethiye harbor at 10:00 am, where you’ll meet the crew, check in, and receive a briefing about the cruise. The small group size means you’ll quickly get to know your fellow travelers and the friendly staff, setting the tone for a relaxed journey. The departure from Fethiye is smooth, and you’ll already feel the excitement building for what’s ahead.

Day 1: From Fethiye to Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz

The first day packs a punch. Your boat will cruise to Butterfly Valley, home to over 136 butterfly species — a photographer’s paradise and great for a swim or a short hike if you’re feeling energetic. Note that the entrance fee is not included, but many reviews mention this fee is around 1 Euro, which is minimal.

Next, the boat heads to Oludeniz, one of Turkey’s most photographed beaches, famed for its tranquil, shallow waters and stunning crescent-shaped bay. If relaxation is your goal, this is the spot — the lagoon’s calm waters are perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun.

That evening, the boat anchors at St. Nicholas Island, famous for its ruins and sunset views. You may want to explore the ancient remains or just unwind watching the sky change colors. The dinner onboard offers a chance to mingle with fellow travelers over good food, often praised for its quality.

Day 2: Kalkan and Kas, the charming coastal towns

The second day starts with a morning swim at Aquarium Bay near Kalkan, a peaceful spot to enjoy breakfast and a quick dip. The cruise then moves to Kas, a lively fishing village known for its shopping and unique jewelry. The freedom to explore Kas on your own means you can hunt for souvenirs or just enjoy a coffee in the town square.

Later, you’ll cruise to Kekova, a site famous for its underwater ruins and calm waters. Many reviews mention the highlight: swimming over the Sunken City — an ancient town submerged after an earthquake. The boat anchors in secluded bays, often in quiet, peaceful waters, perfect for relaxing or water sports.

Day 3: Ancient ruins and Gokkaya Bay

The third day is a blend of history and nature. You’ll first visit the Castle of Simena, with its Lycian necropolis and Roman theater, offering spectacular views. This site is only accessible by boat or a scenic hike, so you’ll enjoy a sense of discovery.

Post-visit, your boat heads to Gokkaya Bay. The bay is famous for water sports, and many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to try activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters. The peaceful surroundings and natural beauty make Gokkaya a highlight for many.

Day 4: Demre and Olympos

Your final morning involves a leisurely breakfast and a swim before disembarking at Demre. From here, you’ll catch a bus transfer to Olympos, known for its ruins and relaxed vibe. The transfer is flexible; if fewer travelers are heading to Olympos, a public bus can be used instead, making logistics straightforward.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The cruise provides meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), Wi-Fi, and unlimited water, which ensures you stay refreshed and connected. Entrance fees for butterfly valley, Nicholas Island, and Simena castle are extra, but they’re relatively inexpensive (ranging from 1 to 4 Euros). The flexibility in meals and optional water activities allows you to customize your experience to suit your tastes.

Travel Style & Group Dynamics

This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or friends who enjoy socializing and meeting like-minded people. With a maximum of 18 guests, the crew can give personalized attention, while the lively atmosphere keeps the energy high. Many reviews mention the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the food, often praising the captain and staff for their calm, attentive demeanor.

The Experience: What Travelers Love Most

Multiple reviews highlight the stunning scenery, especially the sunsets, the clear waters, and the ancient sites. Travelers also appreciate the balance of free time and organized stops, giving you a chance to explore or relax. The opportunity to sleep under the stars or in a private en-suite cabin adds a touch of comfort and romance to the adventure.

Possible Downsides

While most find the experience memorable, some mention that the schedule can be fast-paced. Expect to move between sites, swim frequently, and socialize a lot. If you prefer a very relaxed or solo-focused trip, this might feel a bit hectic. Also, some entrance fees are not included, so budgeting an extra few euros may be wise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Turkish gulet cruise appeals most to adventurous young adults who thrive in social environments and enjoy scenic journeys. If you’re eager to explore multiple sites, swim in turquoise waters, and meet new friends, you’ll find this trip incredibly rewarding. It suits those who are comfortable with flexible schedules and physical activity, like swimming and walking around ruins.

Travelers looking for a luxurious, all-inclusive experience might find this more modest and authentic. The focus is on authenticity, adventure, and social connection, which makes it a memorable option for those wanting to experience Turkey’s coast in a lively, intimate setting.

Final Thoughts

This 18-39’s gulet cruise offers an exceptional way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline. The combination of beautiful bays, historic sites, and social atmosphere makes it ideal for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with meeting new people. The value is strong when considering the well-planned itinerary, included meals, and the unique experience of sailing on a traditional Turkish boat.

The reviews consistently praise the stunning views and the friendly crew, emphasizing how memorable the trip is, whether for the sunsets, the crystal waters, or the lively camaraderie onboard. It’s a great choice if you want a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and social fun in one package.

In summary, if you’re a young adult looking for an active, scenic, and social holiday that takes you along Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines, this cruise is a fantastic pick. Just prepare for some busy days and a vibrant atmosphere — it’s all part of the fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting great friends and enjoying the social atmosphere. The small group size encourages interaction.

What’s included in the price?
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), Wi-Fi, unlimited water, and the boat transportation are included. Entrance fees for certain sites are extra.

Can I customize my experience?
While the schedule is set, you can explore stops on your own during free time, especially in towns like Kas or during swimming stops.

Is it suitable for those with limited physical fitness?
The tour requires a moderate level of fitness due to walking around ruins, swimming, and some boat maneuvering. Reviewers with average fitness levels found it manageable.

How many people will be on the boat?
A maximum of 18 travelers ensures a lively but intimate setting, ideal for socializing without feeling crowded.

Are the cabins comfortable?
Yes, travelers report sleeping peacefully under the stars or in private en-suite cabins, making the nights restful after busy days.

How flexible is the travel transfer at the end?
You can be dropped off at Demre bus station or Olympos, with public buses available to Antalya, Kas, or Fethiye. The transfer options are straightforward and flexible.

Whether you’re seeking the perfect mix of history, nature, and new friendships or just want to soak up Turkey’s incredible coastline, this gulet cruise is a trip you won’t forget.