Sail Turkey: Gulet cruise Fethiye to Olympos

If you’re dreaming of a getaway that combines the charm of traditional Turkish sailing with the chance to explore some of the country’s most scenic coastline, a four-day gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos offers a compelling option. Operated by SAILNSTAY, this voyage takes you along the Lycian coast, offering a mix of swimming in crystal-clear waters, visiting ancient ruins, and enjoying authentic Turkish cuisine. I’ve looked into this experience from various angles and found it to be a well-balanced trip, especially appealing for travelers craving a combination of relaxation and adventure.

A couple of things stand out: first, the delicious on-board meals, including tapas-style Turkish dishes, are genuinely praised. Second, the chance to snorkel and swim in some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful spots really makes this stand out. That said, one thing to consider is that the itinerary involves a lot of moving parts, which means early mornings and some busy days—so if you prefer a slow-paced vacation, this might feel a bit packed. Still, for those eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each stop, this cruise offers good value.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Turkish experience: Traveling on a traditional gulet offers a cozy, authentic feel compared to larger boats or resorts.
• Culinary delights: The trip includes 8 meals, with homemade Turkish dishes like cheese rolls and pancakes, along with fresh seafood and tapas while at sea.
• Scenic stops: Highlights include Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, the Sunken City of Kekova, and charming villages like Kas, giving a variety of landscapes and historical sites.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Expect plenty of time in the water, with some of the best Mediterranean snorkeling, especially around Gemile Island and Gokkaya Bay.
• Cultural and historical views: From Kas’s ancient theatre to the UNESCO-protected Kekova Sunken City and Simena Castle, history buffs will find plenty to explore.
• Flexible arrangements: End your cruise with a transfer to Olympos or nearby destinations, with options for private transportation, making onward travel simple.

Setting the Scene: What’s the Experience Like?

This 4-day cruise along Turkey’s Lycian coast promises a blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and culinary treats. As someone who appreciates well-organized yet authentic trips, I find the appeal lies in the combination of sailing aboard a traditional Turkish gulet and visiting some of Turkey’s most iconic spots. Prices start at around $516 per person, which covers three nights on the boat and six meals, making it a decent deal for the convenience and immersion it offers.

What makes this experience particularly interesting is the opportunity to sail scenic coastlines, snorkel in the Mediterranean, and explore ancient ruins—all without the hassle of arranging each element individually. The crew, operated by SAILNSTAY, reportedly is friendly, professional, and eager to share their knowledge. The itinerary is well-structured, starting with Butterfly Valley, then moving to Oludeniz, Kas, Kekova, and finally ending in Olympos, giving a taste of both nature and history.

Two aspects I especially like: First, the homemade Turkish dishes served on board, which are a highlight for many travelers—they genuinely add to the sense of authenticity. Second, the snorkeling opportunities are plentiful, with some reviews praising the clarity of the waters and the variety of marine life. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the busy schedule, especially if you prefer a leisurely pace. Be prepared for early starts and a lot of moving from one stunning spot to the next.

Key points / Takeaways

• Traditional gulet sailing offers an intimate, authentic experience compared to larger cruise ships.
• Delicious homemade food enhances the journey, including Turkish tapas and fresh seafood.
• Varied itinerary includes natural highlights like Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Gemile Island, and historical sites like Kekova and Kas.
• Snorkeling and swimming are integral parts of the trip, with the best spots being Gemile Island and Gokkaya Bay.
• Cultural sights such as the Sunken City of Kekova and Simena Castle give a historical dimension to the trip.
• Flexible transfers at the end of the cruise make onward travel straightforward, whether to Olympos or other Turkish destinations.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, and St. Nicholas Island

The adventure begins at Fethiye Harbour around 10:30 am, when you board your gulet—a traditional wooden sailing boat. The crew, likely friendly and efficient, will set sail along the Lycian coastline, heading towards Butterfly Valley, famous for its butterfly species and stunning cliffs. Expect a walk and swim here—an ideal spot to stretch your legs after the journey.

Next, the boat takes you to Oludeniz, renowned for its calm, turquoise waters and the iconic Blue Lagoon. Here, your options are relaxing or trying paragliding off the nearby mountains (though most cruise-goers just enjoy swimming and snorkeling). As day turns to evening, you’ll reach St. Nicholas Island, offering breathtaking sunset views and a chance to explore ancient ruins, including the remnants of a Byzantine monastery.

Day 2: Kas and the Coastal Beauty of Patara

Your crew will navigate early morning through the coast of Patara, a UNESCO-protected stretch known for its long, sandy beach and historical ruins. Breakfast on board is served before you jump into the water for a swim or snorkel.

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Kas, a lively fishing village with a charming old town and boutique shops. Many enjoy exploring the ancient theatre and wandering the streets, soaking in the relaxed local vibe. For those interested in cooking, a special Turkish cooking class on the boat teaches how to make cheese rolls and pancakes, adding a fun, interactive element.

Later, you’ll anchor in a secluded bay between Kas and Kekova. This is your overnight stop, ideal for unwinding under the stars after a day of exploring.

Day 3: Kekova’s Sunken City and Castle Ruins

The highlight of this day is a visit to the Sunken City of Kekova, a UNESCO site. The ruins underwater tell of a 2,000-year-old settlement submerged after an earthquake. While swimming here isn’t permitted to protect the site, you’ll cruise nearby, admiring the submerged remains.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Kekova Island and Simena Castle, which offers spectacular views of the bay. The town of Simena is lovely for a quick walk and some shopping. The evening is spent in Gokkaya Bay, a perfect spot for swimming or relaxing in the quiet.

Day 4: From Gokkaya Bay to Demre and Olympos

After breakfast, your boat will dock at Demre harbour. This marks the end of your sailing adventure, with a complimentary shuttle service available to Olympos or nearby locations. If you’re continuing your travels, buses from Demre run frequently to other Turkish cities such as Antalya or Kas, making onward travel straightforward.

For a relaxing stay afterward, many guests recommend Bayrams Tree Houses in Olympos, a quirky and tranquil spot in nature, perfect for unwinding after the busy days.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The price of $516 per person includes three nights on a traditional gulet and eight meals—a good deal considering the value of comfort, scenery, and food. Meals are homemade with traditional Turkish flavors, often including fresh seafood and tapas-style dishes.

Additional costs include entrance fees for Butterfly Valley (€1), Gemiler Island (€4), and Simena Castle (€4), which are minimal but worth budgeting for.

While the experience offers great value, remember that the itinerary is quite packed—expect early mornings and some days with multiple stops. Those seeking a very laid-back, slow-paced holiday may find it a tad busy, but most find the mix of activities and scenery invigorating.

Who This Cruise Is Best For

This trip suits adventurous spirits who love exploring a mix of natural and historic sites, along with good food. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with moving around and who enjoy being on the water. The included meals and authentic gulet atmosphere make it attractive for those wanting a taste of traditional Turkish sailing with the convenience of a guided itinerary.

It’s also perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of planning each day’s logistics—everything is arranged, from transfers to activities—so you can focus on relaxing and soaking up the scenery.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—these are essentials for days spent swimming or relaxing on deck.
• Opt for comfortable clothing for daytime exploring and a light jacket or sweater for evenings.
• If you’re interested in the cooking class, consider bringing a notebook to jot down recipes.
• Be prepared for a busy schedule—early starts and multiple stops—so bring patience and an open mind.
• For onward travel, the provided shuttle to Olympos is a convenient way to continue your Turkish adventure without fuss.

A gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos offers a wonderful way to see Turkey’s coast from an authentic, relaxed perspective. The blend of scenic sailing, historic sites, and delicious food makes it a memorable trip for those seeking a mix of adventure and culture. The experience provides good value, especially considering the included meals, comfortable accommodations, and expert crew.

While it’s not for travelers looking for a slow, leisurely escape, if you enjoy active days with plenty of water activities, charming villages, and tasty Turkish cuisine, this cruise will hit the mark. Think of it as a moving feast of the Mediterranean, with plenty of opportunities for striking photos, good stories, and perhaps even a new favorite spot or two.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but given the schedule and water activities, it’s best for children who are comfortable on boats and can handle early mornings and busy days.

Are vegetarian or special diets accommodated?
While the included meals are traditional Turkish fare, it’s worth checking with SAILNSTAY in advance if you have specific dietary needs—they may be able to accommodate.

What language is spoken on board?
The host and crew speak English, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

How many people will be on the boat?
The reviews suggest a small, intimate group size, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed.

Can I customize my itinerary?
The itinerary is set, but some options like private transfers at the end offer flexibility. For specific changes, it’s best to contact SAILNSTAY directly.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
While not explicitly mentioned, the emphasis on snorkeling suggests gear may be available; it’s best to confirm when booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

If you’re after a trip that combines scenic sailing, historic explorations, and authentic Turkish flavors, this gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos stands out as a memorable way to experience the Turkish coast. Just pack your sense of adventure—and your swimsuit.