Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and Oludeniz Islands Boat Trip

A Full Day on the Water: Exploring Fethiye’s Best Boat Trip

This boat excursion around Fethiye’s coastline offers a mix of scenic beauty, charming stops, and fun swimming opportunities. For around $45 per person, you’ll spend about seven hours on the water, hopping between crystal-clear bays, lush valleys, and lively beaches. It’s a popular choice—booked about two weeks in advance—to experience the area’s stunning sights with a friendly crew guiding the way.

What I find particularly appealing is how the trip balances incredible natural sights with relaxed breaks for swimming, lunch, and simple pleasures like watching the waves or snapping photos. Another plus: the food served on board tends to get high praise, with generous portions of fish, chicken, salads, and pasta. That said, one thing worth considering is the often busy group size—some reviews mention tales of large, lively crowds, which can make a more peaceful experience tricky depending on your expectations.

This trip offers a solid value, especially for those wanting a taste of multiple beauty spots in one day. It’s suited for families, solo travelers, or friends eager for a full, adventure-filled day at sea. Just keep in mind that some stops, like Butterfly Valley, might feel a bit rushed, so if you’re craving deep exploration, plan accordingly.

Key Points

Stunning Scenery: The trip hits some of the most photogenic spots around Oludeniz, like the Blue Cave and Butterfly Valley, with water that truly lives up to its reputation.

Varied Itinerary: From peaceful butterfly habitats to vibrant beaches and hidden bays, this boat tour offers a variety of experiences all packed into one day.

Good Value for Money: At $45, including a hearty lunch and a crew that aims to make your day enjoyable, it’s an accessible way to explore the coast without crowds or overpricing.

Family Friendly: The tour is suitable for most ages, with options to relax or participate in activities like swimming and even camel riding at Camel Beach.

Authentic Local Experience: Several reviews speak highly of the friendly, helpful crew, and the stops feel genuine rather than overly commercialized, especially with the opportunity to pay a small fee to visit Butterfly Valley.

Potential Overcrowding: While many guests enjoy the lively atmosphere, a few note that large groups and loud music can detract from a more peaceful cruise experience, especially on what seems to be a relatively full boat.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Oludeniz
The trip kicks off at the Oludeniz harbor, setting sail around 10 a.m. The initial 30-minute departure gives you time to get comfy and enjoy the lively start. It’s a great way to ease into the day with views of the coastline and anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Stop 2: Butterfly Valley
After cruising past the famous Blue Cave, the boat arrives at Butterfly Valley—home to a variety of butterfly species and lush natural surroundings. It’s described as a peaceful spot with a small entrance fee of 2, which many guests consider a worthwhile tiny expense to see such a tranquil place, especially if you enjoy nature. Several reviews mention that “the water was so blue,” and even if the butterfly spotting might not be a showstopper for everyone, the scenery alone makes it worth the visit.

Stop 3: Mavi Magara (Blue Cave)
Launching straight into the Blue Cave, or “Mavi Magara,” is often the highlight. Here, the waters turn a hypnotic mix of shades of blue—an Instagram highlight for sure. Free entrance means no extra charges, making it a good photo-op and a chance to marvel at nature’s artistry.

Stop 4: Soguksu Bay and Camel Beach
Next, the boat moves on to Soguksu Bay, where the cool waters provide a refreshing dip after relaxing at Camel Beach. The contrast between the warm and cold waters, created by rocks and natural channels, is often praised as a unique experience. Guests love the “breathtaking” views and the chance to cool off in these natural settings.

Stop 5 & 6: Oludeniz and Camel Beach
Return to Oludeniz for a final stop, with some enjoying leisure time in the shallow, warm waters or watching camels roaming around Camel Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even ride a camel—an unusual and memorable activity. The two-hour break here allows plenty of time for a leisurely lunch, sunbathing, or exploring local camels.

End of the Day
The boat heads back to the harbor, concluding the trip. The overall experience is described as “spectacular,” with many reviewers stating they’d happily do it again.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a generous lunch—options like fish or chicken, with pasta and salads—adding a home-cooked touch that many find satisfying. You’ll also benefit from an English-speaking crew and mobile ticket ease. Drinks aren’t included, so if you plan to sip on some cold beverages or buy more expensive drinks onboard, be prepared for extra costs. The Butterfly Valley entrance fee of 2 is extra, but many find it a small price for access to a protected natural space.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Most reviews mention the boat having a maximum of 45 travelers, which keeps it manageable. However, the reviews do indicate that some boats can feel crowded, with some guests mentioning the boat being “packed like sardines” with cushions on the sun deck. If a relaxing, quiet day is your goal, you might find the livelier, bustling atmosphere more fun than peaceful.

The crew generally gets rave reviews for their friendliness and helpfulness. Some mention that the boat’s cleanliness is good, and the guides are attentive, making sure everyone gets plenty of opportunities to swim and enjoy their surroundings.

Tips for Making the Most of the Trip

• Book well in advance: The tour is popular and often booked 14 days ahead.
• Bring your own drinks: Since beverages are extra, packing water and snacks is a smart move.
• Arrive early at the meeting point: The boat departs promptly at 10 a.m.
• Expect a lively atmosphere: If you prefer serenity, consider arriving early or choosing quieter stops.
• Prepare for some potential crowds: The boat can be busy, so expect a social vibe.
• Pack waterproof gear: Swimsuits, towels, and waterproof phone cases will help you enjoy the stops fully.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple scenic spots without hassling with car rentals or multiple bookings. It suits families, groups of friends, and solo travelers looking for a full day of outdoor fun with natural beauty, good food, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re after peace and quiet, this might not be the best fit, as some reviews mention the crowd and noise level. But if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers and soaking in vibrant, stunning sights, this trip hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, and Oludeniz Islands boat trip offers a well-rounded experience in Fethiye. For just $45, you get plenty of opportunities to swim, snap photos of the stunning coastline, and enjoy a delicious meal onboard. The stops feel authentic, and the views are genuinely breathtaking—especially the Blue Cave and the crystal waters of Butterfly Valley.

The experience’s charm lies in its combination of natural beauty, friendly crew, and relaxed yet lively vibe. While it can get crowded and busy, many guests say it’s a day they wouldn’t want to miss. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a good mix of adventure, scenery, and social fun, all at a price that feels reasonable considering the sights and experiences you’ll enjoy.

FAQ

How long does the boat trip last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, departing around 10 a.m. and returning to Oludeniz harbor in the early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat ride, lunch (fish or chicken with pasta and salad), and a friendly crew. Drinks and Butterfly Valley entrance fees are extra.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, with opportunities to swim and relax. The stops at beaches and Camel Beach provide family-friendly activities, and the relaxed pace is manageable.

Can I swim at each stop?
Absolutely. Guests frequently mention swimming at Butterfly Valley, Soguksu Bay, and other stops. Water jackets and noodles are provided for safe swimming, especially for those who are less confident in the water.

Are the boats crowded?
Some reviews note the boat can be quite full, with about 40–45 travelers. Expect lively group atmospheres and possibly some noise from music and crowds.

Do I need to carry money?
Yes, for optional entrance fees like Butterfly Valley (2) and any additional drinks or souvenirs. Food and the main tour are included.

What is the best way to prepare for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water. Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start. Consider packing extra snacks or drinks as they are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

In essence, this boat trip around Fethiye provides a lively, scenic, and memorable day at one of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines. It’s a fun, good-value experience, especially if you’re ready to splash around, snap some stunning photos, and enjoy a cultural slice of the local natural beauty.