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

Explore the Best of the Turquoise Coast on a Young Adults Gulet Cruise

The Sail Turkey: 18-39’s Fethiye to Olympos Gulet Cruise offers an engaging four-day journey along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline. Priced at $470 per person, this tour is perfect for adventurous young adults seeking a mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and vibrant social moments. With a rating of 5.0 from 9 reviews, it clearly resonates with travelers who appreciate well-organized trips that combine relaxation and exploration.

The cruise departs from Fethiye and travels down the coast to Olympos, stopping at highlights like Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Kekova, and Gokkaya Bay. The itinerary balances crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling with visits to ancient ruins and charming villages. The maximum group size of 18 enhances the intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for meeting new friends while discovering Turkey’s coastal treasures.

While this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s natural and historical charms, it’s worth noting that some stops involve entry fees, and the pace can be lively. Overall, for those seeking a well-rounded, social cruise experience in Turkey, this trip delivers a memorable blend of sights, sounds, and sunsets.

Key Points

• Four-day, three-night gulet cruise along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast
• Ideal for young adults aged 18-39 who enjoy social travel and adventure
• Stops include Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Kekova, and Gokkaya Bay
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Wi-Fi and unlimited water
• Additional entrance fees for Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island, and Simena castle
• Maximum group size of 18 travelers for an intimate experience
• Departing from Fethiye, with flexible drop-off options at Demre bus station or Olympos

The Starting Point: Fethiye Harbor and Check-In Process

The cruise begins at Fethiye harbor, where passengers check in at 10:00 am. The process includes a briefing about the cruise and settling aboard the Turkish gulet. The departure from Fethiye marks the start of scenic views along the coast, setting the tone for the days ahead. The location is easily accessible, and staff are available to help with directions, ensuring a smooth start to the adventure.

Swimming and Relaxing at Butterfly Valley

On the first day, travelers visit Butterfly Valley, famous for being home to over 136 butterfly and moth species. Visitors can enjoy swimming in this natural haven, with the option to hike up to the waterfall for a scenic view. The entrance fee is not included but costs around 1 Euro. Afterward, the cruise proceeds to Oludeniz for approximately two hours, where the iconic Blue Lagoon offers shallow waters perfect for relaxing and floating.

Exploring Oludeniz’s Iconic Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz remains one of Turkey’s most photographed beaches, renowned for its calm, shallow waters and crescent-shaped bay. Surrounded by secluded beaches, it provides a tranquil spot for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. The area’s stunning natural landscape makes it a highlight, and the free access to the lagoon allows travelers to enjoy its beauty without additional costs.

Sunset at St. Nicholas Island’s Ruins

The first day concludes with an overnight anchoring at St. Nicholas Island. Here, visitors can explore ancient ruins while enjoying a spectacular sunset. This site’s history and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Although entry fees are not included, the chance to wander among old ruins and watch the sun dip below the horizon adds a memorable touch to the trip.

Morning at Aquarium Bay and Kalkan’s Charm

Day two starts with a wake-up in Aquarium Bay near Kalkan, where breakfast is served before taking a refreshing swim. Kalkan’s nearby bay offers another opportunity for relaxation. Later, the cruise moves to Kas, a lively fishing village famed for its boutique shopping and handcrafted jewelry. Travelers have roughly four hours to explore Kas’s charming streets, browse local shops, and enjoy lunch.

Swimming and Exploring Kekova

In the afternoon, the boat moves to Kekova, known for its sunken city and ancient remains submerged after a 2000-year-old earthquake. The cruise includes a swim in Kekova’s waters, allowing visitors to experience its clear, inviting sea. Spending the night in the secluded bays between Kas and Kekova provides a peaceful setting, ideal for stargazing or relaxing on deck.

Discovering the Sunken City and Castle of Simena

On day three, the cruise visits Kekova Island to explore the Sunken City, where ancient Lycian ruins lie beneath the sea. The entrance fee is approximately not included. Following this, the boat heads to Castle of Simena, renowned for its well-preserved ruins, including a Roman theater and a medieval castle. The site offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Turkey’s historical layers, with an optional visit to Gokkaya Bay for water sports and relaxation.

Water Sports and Gokkaya Bay

Gokkaya Bay provides a perfect opportunity for water activities like swimming or paddleboarding, with optional water sports available. The bay’s crystal-clear turquoise waters and natural beauty make it a favorite stop, offering both adventure and serenity. This stretch lasts around eight hours, allowing plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Final Day in Demre and Transfer to Olympos

The cruise concludes in Demre, where breakfast and a swim cap off the trip. At 11:00 am, guests disembark and are transferred by bus to Olympos or Demre bus station. The transfer to Olympos takes about two hours, with options for public buses if needed. This flexible ending allows for easy connections to other destinations like Antalya or Kas.

Included Amenities and Optional Extras

The package includes Wi-Fi, unlimited drinking water, and three meals per day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not included are entrance fees to Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island, and Simena Castle, which cost around 1 to 4 Euros each. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options upon request.

The Social and Scenic Value of the Gulet Experience

Multiple reviews praise the social atmosphere and expert crew. Travelers highlight the stunning views, calm crew presence, and well-organized schedule. The cruise’s small group size enhances intimacy, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing creates a balanced pace that appeals to active yet leisure-minded young adults.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This blue cruise is best suited for young adults seeking a social, adventure-filled escape. The mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant stops attracts those eager to explore Turkey’s coast with like-minded travelers. The family-friendly environment and flexible drop-off points make it accessible for a variety of travel plans, especially for those who value a well-organized, fun, and scenic journey.

The Sum Up: A Balanced Coastline Adventure for Young Adults

This Fethiye to Olympos gulet cruise offers a well-rounded experience for adventurous young travelers. The four-day itinerary balances stunning scenery, historic sights, and vibrant coastal towns. The included meals, Wi-Fi, and the small group setting add convenience and camaraderie.

While some stops involve entry fees, the overall value lies in the beautiful stops, friendly crew, and social environment. It’s a trip that suits those eager to meet new people, enjoy Turkey’s natural landscapes, and relax in style aboard a traditional Turkish gulet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts for 4 days and 3 nights, starting from Fethiye and ending in Olympos.

What is included in the price?
The package covers Wi-Fi, unlimited drinking water, three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and the guided stops along the route.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for Butterfly Valley (1 Euro), St. Nicholas Island (3 Euro), and Simena Castle (4 Euro) are not included in the package.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers on this tour is 18, fostering an intimate and social atmosphere.

How do I get to Olympos after the cruise?
Guests are transferred by bus to Olympos or Demre bus station, with public bus options available if the group size is small, making onward travel flexible.