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

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed yet adventure-filled break along Turkey’s southwest coast, a gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye might just be your perfect escape. This 4-day voyage, operated by SAILNSTAY, offers a blend of scenic sailing, ancient ruins, charming towns, and swimming in some of the clearest waters you’ll encounter. While I haven’t personally sailed it, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of an experience that’s both authentic and memorable.

What I find particularly appealing about this cruise is how it balances historic exploration with leisure. You’ll visit the Sunken City of Kekova, explore Kas’s vibrant streets, and relax at beautiful bays like Gokkaya and Firnaz, all while enjoying the comforts of a traditional Turkish gulet. I also appreciate that the tour includes snorkeling gear, an onboard cooking class, and multiple meals—a good value for the price of around $526.18 per person.

One potential consideration is the air conditioning issue noted by some travelers. Some found it necessary to sleep partly outside, as the cabins’ AC was disconnected due to concerns about odor and malfunction. If you’re sensitive to heat or prefer a completely cooled room, this is something to keep in mind. Still, many travelers seem to prioritize the stunning scenery and authentic experience over this minor comfort issue.

This cruise appears to be an excellent choice for adventurers, solo travelers aged 18-39, or young couples looking for an active yet relaxed coastal escape. The small group size (up to 16 travelers) enhances the sense of camaraderie and makes for a more personal journey.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Turkish Sailing: You’ll be on a traditional gulet, experiencing what it’s like to sail along the Turkish coast in style.
• Historic and Natural Sites: Stops include UNESCO-recognized Kekova Sunken City, Lycian tombs, and pirates’ caves—an authentic glimpse into the area’s layered past.
• Stunning Swimming Spots: Expect crystal-clear waters at bays like Gokkaya, Firnaz, and the Blue Lagoon, ideal for snorkeling or just floating around.
• Cultural and Food Experiences: The tour includes a cooking class and generous meals, with reviews praising the healthy, flavorful cuisine.
• Balanced Itinerary: Days blend sightseeing with plenty of time to relax, wander cobblestone streets, or chat with fellow travelers.
• Crew and Guides: Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable, professional crew, who make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

A four-day gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye offers a taste of everything—the history, the natural beauty, and the leisurely pace of life on the water. Starting in Kas, this tour zigzags along Turkey’s southwestern shoreline, offering a mix of archaeological sites, picture-perfect bays, and lively coastal towns. It’s a trip designed for those who want to combine cultural exploration with sunbathing and swimming, all aboard a traditional Turkish sailing vessel.

While I haven’t been on this exact cruise, the detailed itinerary and numerous positive reviews suggest it’s well worth considering for a youthful, energetic traveler seeking a memorable holiday. The honest feedback about the cabins’ air conditioning is a reminder that some comforts might be less luxurious than a hotel, but the trade-off is the authentic, relaxed atmosphere of sailing the Mediterranean.

Starting the Journey: Demre and Kekova

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Demre, a town famous for its ancient ruins and proximity to the famous Turtle Beach. If you love wildlife, this stop is a highlight—you can observe five of the eight Mediterranean turtle species in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful way to start, and the calm waters here make a perfect introduction to the region.

Next, you’ll sail over the Sunken City of Kekova, a UNESCO site where the submerged ruins mark a fascinating chapter of history. The slow cruise over the ruins adds a sense of mystery, as you imagine the ancient Lycian town lying beneath the waves. It’s a very Instagrammable moment, and many reviews praise the crew’s storytelling and local knowledge.

The Pirate Cave at Arl Island is another memorable stop. Accessible only from the water, this natural cave is steeped in legend—pirates once used it as a hideout. The transparent waters surrounding the cave make it perfect for photos, and many travelers appreciate the unique experience of exploring a pirate hideout on a boat.

The day ends at Gokkaya Bay, where the boat anchors overnight. This bay is renowned for its calm, clear waters and beautiful setting near Simena Castle. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful night under the stars—if you’re comfortable sleeping outside, as some reviewers have done due to the cabin’s AC issues.

Kas and Its Charm

On the second day, you’ll cruise into Kas, a lively coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll have time to explore the Hellenistic theatre, Lycian tombs, and enjoy the handicraft shops and cafes. Many travelers love walking the cobbled streets and soaking in the local vibe.

In the afternoon, the boat anchors at Firanaz Koyu, a bay known for its pristine waters. Here, you can unwind with a swim, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and savor the tranquility of untouched nature. The reviews highlight how seriously many enjoy these quiet bays, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging.

Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island

Early on the third day, the cruise heads to Butterfly Valley, one of Turkey’s most iconic natural spots. The long journey is rewarded with a relaxed breakfast and opportunities for swimming, hiking, or simply observing the fluttering butterflies—though note an entrance fee applies if you decide to hike to the waterfall.

Next, the boat slips past Oludeniz, famed for paragliding, then moors near the Blue Lagoon—a postcard-perfect spot for swimming or watching paragliders parachuting onto the blue waters. Many reviewers love the opportunity to relax here and enjoy the views.

The evening is dedicated to St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore ruins and climb to the top for a breathtaking sunset. The historical site adds a layer of depth to the trip, and many find the sunset here to be one of the highlights. Entrance fees are small but worth noting if you want full access.

Final Day and Return to Fethiye

On the last day, the boat visits Buyuk Samanlik Plaji, a great spot for a morning swim. Afterward, you’ll sail back towards Fethiye, arriving around early afternoon. The experience concludes with a friendly goodbye from the crew and fellow travelers, leaving you with plenty of memories—and sometimes new friendships.

What You Get for the Price

At just over $500, the cost includes meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), snorkeling equipment, and a cooking class, which many reviews say added value to their trip. The meals are praised for being healthy and flavorful, often a highlight for food lovers.

However, some reviews mention the cabins’ air conditioning issues, with many opting to sleep outside. If that sounds uncomfortable or you’re sensitive to heat, it’s worth preparing for that possibility. Still, the overall experience, especially the scenery, cultural stops, and camaraderie, seems to outweigh this minor inconvenience.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This trip is best suited for young travelers, adventure seekers, and those eager to connect with others. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, and the itinerary offers a good balance of activity and relaxation. If you’re someone who enjoys authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and a bit of adventure, this cruise will deliver.

It’s also a great choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting more than just a day trip—you get multiple nights on the water, meals, and access to some of Turkey’s most photogenic spots.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
It’s approximately four days and three nights, designed to give you a taste of the Turkish coast without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your package covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), snorkeling equipment, and a cooking class. Entrance fees to sites like Simena Castle and St. Nicholas Island are not included but are small.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size and lively atmosphere make it a good option for solo travelers, especially those aged 18-39 looking for social interaction.

Are there any cabin comfort issues?
Some travelers have noted the AC was disconnected due to potential odors, so sleeping outside or being prepared for warmer cabins is advisable.

What is the main highlight of this cruise?
Most reviews rave about the stunning scenery, especially the clear waters and historic ruins, along with the professional, friendly crew.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and the many bays with transparent waters are ideal for underwater exploration.

When should I book?
This tour is most popular when booked around 78 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This gulet cruise from Olympos to Fethiye offers an authentic, lively way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline. From ancient ruins to secluded bays and vibrant towns, it packs a lot into four days without feeling rushed. The inclusion of meals and activities like a cooking class adds good value, and the small group size fosters genuine connections.

While some minor comfort issues have been reported, they seem to be outweighed by the overall breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable crew, and memorable stops. It’s perfect for active, social travelers eager to explore, relax, and enjoy a slice of Turkish maritime life.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines history, natural beauty, and a dash of camaraderie, this cruise is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack a sense of adventure—and possibly a fan for those warm cabins!