Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Exploring Kekova and the Sunken City

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

Experience 4 days of sailing along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast on a gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye, exploring ancient ruins, stunning bays, and iconic sights.

The Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise offers an engaging four-day journey along Turkey’s renowned Turquoise Coastline, with a price of $511 per person. This route, widely recognized as Turkey’s most popular Blue Cruise, takes travelers from the historic village of Olympos to the lively harbor town of Fethiye, showcasing a diverse mix of ancient sites, scenic bays, and vibrant local culture. The cruise is operated by Farout Turkey and departs from Demre Harbour, offering a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.

This cruise is especially suited for those interested in combining cultural exploration with leisure at sea. While the gulet is equipped for comfort, some reviews note that the rooms could benefit from modernization. The overall experience emphasizes authentic Turkish hospitality, delicious meals, and plenty of opportunities for active pursuits like snorkeling, swimming, and optional activities such as paragliding and diving.

Key Points

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Key Points

  • Four-day, three-night gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye along Turkey’s famous coast.
  • Includes visits to Kekova Sunken City, Simena Castle, Kas, and St Nicholas Island.
  • Highlights include sunset views, swimming in the Mediterranean, and exploring ancient ruins.
  • Full board meals are provided, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and 5 o’clock tea.
  • Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and paddle boards are included for added fun.
  • The cruise costs $511 per person and departs from Demre with pickup options at Bayram’s Tree House and Demre Bus Station.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point in Demre and Embarkation Details

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Starting Point in Demre and Embarkation Details

The cruise begins at Demre Harbour, with convenient pickup options at Bayram’s Tree House at 10:30 and Demre Bus Station at 12:30. Travelers should arrive with essentials such as sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The departure time varies, so checking availability is recommended.

Once onboard, the gulet provides ensuite private bathrooms in each cabin and plenty of storage space. The boat is a standard Turkish yacht, designed to offer comfort during the journey while allowing guests to enjoy the sea views from multiple vantage points.

Exploring Kekova and the Sunken City

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Exploring Kekova and the Sunken City

The first major stop is Kekova, home to the famous Sunken City. This site features submerged ruins that add a sense of intrigue and history to the cruise. Visitors can snorkel in the calm waters or simply admire the ancient remains from the boat.

The day in Kekova is balanced between sightseeing and relaxation, with the opportunity to explore Simena Castle. Entry to the castle costs 4 Euros, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views from this ancient fortress. The combination of archaeology and scenic vistas makes Kekova a standout part of the cruise.

Visiting the Fishing Village of Kas

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Visiting the Fishing Village of Kas

On the second day, the cruise visits Kas, a lively fishing village filled with shops, cafes, and a charming harbor. This stop offers a chance for shopping, strolling, and enjoying fresh seafood. The small town provides a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for soaking in local life and taking some memorable photos.

Guests can spend ample time swimming and relaxing in the bay, or choose to explore the narrow streets and local markets. Kas’s blend of history and seaside charm makes it a favorite among cruise visitors.

Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz: Nature and Iconic Beaches

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz: Nature and Iconic Beaches

The third day features a morning at Butterfly Valley, a rugged canyon with a stunning waterfall and hiking trails. Visitors can hike or simply enjoy the views from the boat. This natural spot is a highlight for outdoor lovers and photographers alike.

Later, the cruise approaches Oludeniz, often called Europe’s most photographed beach. The boat anchors near the Blue Lagoon, providing a chance to swim in its turquoise waters and relax on the shore. The proximity to such a famous beach makes this part of the cruise particularly picturesque and memorable.

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Sunset at St Nicholas Island and Ancient Ruins Exploration

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Sunset at St Nicholas Island and Ancient Ruins Exploration

On the final evening, the cruise sails to St Nicholas Island, where guests can explore ruins of ancient settlements. The island’s archaeological remains are accessible for those interested, with an entrance fee of 3 Euros. Watching the sunset from this vantage point offers a fitting end to the journey.

Guests usually spend their last night onboard, enjoying Turkish hospitality and the scenic views. The cruise wraps up in Fethiye harbor around lunchtime on the fourth day, concluding a well-rounded adventure along the coast.

Activities and Optional Excursions

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Activities and Optional Excursions

Throughout the cruise, guests have opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in multiple bays and secluded beaches. Equipment for these activities, along with paddle boards, is provided. Optional activities such as paragliding and diving are available at additional costs, giving travelers the chance to add more adventure if desired.

The full board meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and 5 o’clock tea, with delicious Turkish dishes served onboard. Be aware that drinks and certain entrance fees are not included in the price.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The Olympos to Fethiye cruise is suitable for travelers with moderate physical activity levels, as it involves some walking, swimming, and exploring ruins. The standard gulet offers private bathrooms and enough space for comfort, although reviews mention that the rooms could be modernized.

Booking is flexible thanks to free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. This makes it easier to plan this adventure without immediate financial commitment.

The Sum Up: A Classic Turkish Blue Cruise with Rich Diversity

The Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise delivers an engaging blend of historic sites, scenic bays, and lively towns over four days. Its popularity stems from the variety of highlights—ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and authentic Turkish hospitality—making it an attractive choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

While some rooms may need updating, the overall experience provides good value for money, especially considering included meals, gear, and sightseeing. The cruise suits those looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation in a beautiful setting.

This journey suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace combined with active discovery and are eager to explore Turkey’s coastline from the comfort of a well-equipped gulet.

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Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise



4.7

“The coast was very beautiful and the cruise was well organised, the meals were excellent and the rooms needed to be modernised.”

— GetYourGuide traveler, August 27, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this cruise?
The cruise costs $511 per person, covering accommodations, meals, and some activities.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts 4 days and 3 nights, with departures based on availability.

What is included in the price?
Included are full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea), drinking water, Wi-Fi, snorkeling equipment, and paddle boards.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to St Nicholas Island (3 Euros), Simena Castle (4 Euros), and Butterfly Valley (1 Euro) are separate. Optional activities like paragliding and diving also cost extra.

Where does the tour start?
The cruise departs from Demre Harbour, with pickups at Bayram’s Tree House and Demre Bus Station.

Is it suitable for all fitness levels?
While most activities are accessible, some walking, swimming, and exploring ruins are involved, making it best suited for those with moderate mobility.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.

What should I bring?
Travelers should pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen for comfort and sun protection.

You can check availability for your dates here:
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