Sail Turkey: Fethiye Kekova Fethiye Mix Age Gulet Cruise

Exploring Turkey’s Turquoise Coast by boat offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and invigorating activities, all wrapped in the comfort of a traditional gulet. This 7-day all-inclusive cruise from Fethiye to Olympos, offered by Farout Turkey, promises a well-rounded experience—featuring swimming, hiking, historic site visits, and plenty of downtime. With a price tag of around $971 per person, it’s an investment in a relaxing, adventure-packed week on Turkey’s famed waters.

What really draws us to this cruise is the chance to revisit many sights—like Butterfly Valley and Kekova—twice, offering a more relaxed, flexible pace. Plus, the all-inclusive setup simplifies planning: meals, drinks, and onboard amenities are taken care of. However, as with all trips, there are some considerations. The cruise is non-guided, so if you’re craving detailed histories or guided tours, this might not be your perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of relaxation and exploration, enjoy being on the water, and appreciate authentic, low-key experiences over structured sightseeing.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery & Water Activities: Expect incredible views, swimming in secluded bays, and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.
• Relaxed, All-Inclusive Format: Meals, water, and some amenities are included, making it easier to unwind and focus on the experience.
• Flexibility & Repetition: Visiting some sites twice allows you to explore on land or stay aboard for quieter moments.
• Limited Guidance: No guides onboard, so self-exploration and a sense of adventure are part of the charm.
• Good Value for Money: Given the inclusions, the price offers a solid balance for a week-long cruise.
• Potential Weather Changes: The schedule might shift due to weather, so flexibility is key.

Why a Gulet Cruise Along the Turquoise Coast Makes Sense

On paper, a week-long cruise might seem indulgent, but it’s actually an efficient way to absorb Turkey’s coastal beauty without the hassle of packing and unpacking every day. The gulet itself is a lovely, traditional vessel—large enough for comfort but intimate enough to feel cozy. The crew, friendly and attentive, takes care of most logistics, leaving you free to relax, soak in views, or hop into the water.

This particular cruise is designed to take you on a journey from Fethiye to Olympos, with several famous stops along the way. What sets it apart is the choice to revisit some highlights like Butterfly Valley and Kekova, giving you a chance to explore further or simply lounge with fewer people around. We love that the cruise offers water sports, hiking, and snorkeling, catering to active travelers and leisure seekers alike.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

One of the best things about this cruise is its blend of iconic sites and hidden gems. Starting at Fethiye Harbour, you’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere of Turkey’s popular coastal town. The cruise then heads out to Butterfly Valley, a well-known natural reserve famous for its stunning scenery and, naturally, the butterflies. Here, you can swim in the waters or hike up to enjoy panoramic views—an activity highly praised by previous guests, notably for the chance to “swim and hike in beautiful surroundings.”

Next, the cruise visits Kekova, home to the famous Sunken City, a fascinating archaeological site visible from the surface or through snorkelling. You can explore the ruins, which provide a glimpse into ancient Lycian civilization, or simply enjoy the calm waters. Walking through Simena Castle ruins offers a taste of history intertwined with stunning vistas over the bay, often described as a highlight by travelers.

Aquarium Bay is another stop famed for its clear waters and vibrant marine life—perfect for snorkelers. Many reports mention how the water transparency exceeds expectations, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim and underwater photography.

The cruise also includes visits to St. Nicholas Island and Oludeniz—with the option to stay on board or explore on land. If you’re into paragliding or diving, the area offers plenty of opportunities, which the cruise may complement with additional activities.

What to Expect Onboard

The gulet is equipped with basic amenities, linen, and bath towels, but remember that drinks are not included in the package, and you cannot bring your own alcohol onboard. The onboard bar offers a variety of beverages, with tabs settled at the end of the trip—cash only. WiFi is available but unreliable in some remote spots, so don’t plan on streaming movies or heavy browsing.

Meals are included—think hearty breakfasts, seafood lunches, and fresh dinners—prepared by the crew. The emphasis is on simple, tasty food that suits a warm coastal climate. The “5 o’clock tea” ritual adds a cozy touch to afternoons onboard, often enjoyed while watching the sun dip into the water.

Water is supplied daily, and linen is fresh, ensuring comfort after a day of adventures. However, travelers must bring their own beach towels, as these are not provided.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Incredible scenery and water-based activities make every day feel like a postcard.
• All-inclusive meals and water simplify the logistics and keep you focused on relaxing.
• The flexible schedule allows multiple visits to key sites, offering variation.
• Friendly crew and traditional gulet charm add authenticity.
• The price reflects good value, considering the inclusions and the experience.

Cons:

• No guided tours or detailed site explanations onboard—if you want rich history, you’ll need to do some research or wander on your own.
• Drinks are not included, and alcohol must be purchased onboard, which might surprise some.
• The schedule is weather-dependent and may change, so flexibility is essential.
• Not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users due to physical and logistical constraints.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic escape with plenty of water activities and some historic sights. It suits those who prefer independent exploration over guided tours and are comfortable with a non-guided experience. If you’re keen on experiencing the beauty of Turkey’s coast at a slower pace, with the option to swim, snorkel, and hike, this trip hits the spot.

It’s also a good choice for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers who enjoy social environments but also appreciate quiet moments onboard. Keep in mind the lack of guided commentary; if you’re a history buff craving in-depth stories, you might want to supplement this cruise with a land-based tour.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this gulet cruise offers substantial value for its price. With stunning vistas, friendly crew, and the opportunity to explore some of Turkey’s most famed coastal sites, it’s a compelling way to see the Turquoise Coast. The combination of relaxing days, active water sports, and scenic walks means it appeals to a broad range of travelers.

While it isn’t a guided historical tour, the flexibility to explore at your own pace and revisit favorite spots makes it a refreshing alternative to more structured vacations. The all-inclusive setup removes much of the hassle of daily planning, allowing you to focus on unwinding or adventuring as you see fit.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back experience with beautiful views and memorable water-based activities, this cruise is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort and simplicity but don’t want to sacrifice scenery or adventure.

FAQ

Are meals included in the cruise?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and 5 o’clock tea are all included during the cruise, with delicious, simple dishes served onboard.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, bringing your drinks isn’t allowed. All beverages are sold onboard, and a bar tab is set up for the duration of your cruise.

Is WiFi available?
WiFi is available on the gulet but cannot be guaranteed in more remote locations, so don’t expect to stay connected constantly.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials such as sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for drinks or optional activities.

Is this cruise suitable for children or wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users due to physical and logistical constraints.

What if the weather is poor?
The schedule may change in bad weather, including altered daily plans or overnight stops. The crew will communicate possible options, but flexibility is important.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.

To sum it up, this Fethiye to Olympos gulet cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and laid-back luxury. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Turkey’s coast without the fuss of guided tours but still enjoy a well-organized, memorable trip. Whether you’re looking to relax, swim in pristine waters, or explore historic ruins, this cruise provides a wonderful taste of the Turquoise Coast’s many charms.