Oludeniz: Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island incl. Lunch

Exploring the coast of Oludeniz on a boat trip that includes Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island is a classic way to enjoy Turkey’s stunning waters and rugged scenery. This 7.5-hour cruise on a two-deck boat offers plenty of chances to swim in crystal-clear bays, hike among wildflowers and butterflies, and explore ancient ruins—all with a relaxed pace and friendly guides. From reviews, it seems like a well-organized trip that balances sightseeing, swimming, and good food, making it a great option for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it covers multiple highlights in one day — from the Blue Cave’s bright waters to the historic churches on St. Nicholas Island, and the chance to spot the rare Tiger Butterfly in Butterfly Valley. The fact that lunch is included on the boat is a nice touch, especially since the reviews mention it’s freshly prepared and plentiful. I also appreciate how almost all reviewers comment on the knowledgeable, friendly guides and the calm, non-party atmosphere, ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting to escape loud music and crowds.

One thing to consider is that drinks aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy your beverages onboard, which might add to the cost if you’re thirsty. Also, the tour doesn’t include entry fees to Butterfly Valley or St. Nicholas Island, so if seeing butterflies or exploring ruins is your main goal, you might need a bit of extra time or money for those. This trip seems to strike a good balance between value and memorable sights, especially given the positive reviews praising the staff and quality of the lunch.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Comfortable, well-organized boat with plenty of space and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those avoiding loud party boats.
• Multiple swim stops in stunning, clear waters—frequently praised for the quality of swimming and the calm environment.
• Guided hikes and ruins exploration at St. Nicholas Island provide a mix of history and panoramic views.
• Butterfly Valley’s wildflower and butterfly sightings are a highlight, particularly for nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful retreat.
• Delicious onboard lunch with generous servings, cooked fresh and included in the price, making this a good value.
• No included drinks, so budget extra for beverages; the guided experience, however, is praised for friendliness and helpfulness.

Exploring the Full-Day Cruise Experience in Oludeniz

If you’re considering a day on the water around Oludeniz, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, history, and relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of multiple sights without the hassle of organizing separate excursions or transport. I’ll walk you through what you can expect, why it’s worth your time, and how to make the most of it.

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The trip begins at Oludeniz Belcekiz Beach, where you’ll meet at the Grand Vega boat. From the reviews, it sounds like the crew is professional and helpful, making sure everyone’s comfortable from the start. The boat itself is a two-deck vessel, with a covered top deck fitted with lounge beds, which is perfect for soaking up the sun in a relaxed setting. The boat’s design and the way the trip is laid out help keep it calm and family-friendly, avoiding the loud music and partying vibe some other tours might have.

Navigating the Coastline: A Scenic Journey

As you set sail, you’ll enjoy open views of Turkey’s coast, passing by changing landscapes of rocky cliffs, lush coves, and secluded beaches. It’s a chance to get a feel for the region’s diverse scenery — from the famous Oludeniz lagoon to quiet bays you might not see otherwise. Many reviews mention the friendly crew, who keep the mood light and entertaining, so even if you’re not in the mood for nonstop activity, there’s a welcoming atmosphere onboard.

The Blue Cave: First Stop for Swimming

Your first big highlight is the Blue Cave, known for its intensely blue waters and the chance to swim inside or just admire from nearby. The water here is often described as bright and inviting, and many travelers love this as a peaceful, stunning spot to cool off. The guides typically give you plenty of time to enjoy the water — important, since some tours rush past. A reviewer, Dimitria, mentions that the lounge beds on top make a perfect spot to relax after swimming, which adds to the trip’s comfort.

Butterfly Valley: Nature’s Quiet Sanctuary

Next, the boat reaches Butterfly Valley, a haven for wildflowers and rare butterflies, including the Tiger Butterfly. The reviews find this stop particularly charming, as you get to walk through nature trails, watch butterflies flutter around, and enjoy the peaceful beach. The short hike to see waterfalls and the wildflowers makes it more than just a swimming stop; it’s about experiencing the tranquility of this protected reserve. The chance to search for butterflies makes it special for nature enthusiasts, and the photos here tend to come out beautifully, especially with the colorful butterflies and lush backdrop.

Lunch on the Water: Fresh and Generous

A standout feature, based on reviews, is the lunch served onboard. It’s described as fresh, hearty, and cooked on the boat, with options like chicken or fish — and for vegetarians, a salad with grains and bread. Travelers consistently praise the quality and the generous portions, making it one of the best value aspects of the trip. No need to worry about finding a restaurant or packing a lunch; this onboard meal is a real time-saver and adds to the overall enjoyment.

St. Nicholas Island: Exploring Ancient Ruins and Panoramic Views

After lunch, the boat sails to St. Nicholas Island, famous for its 5th-century church ruins and panoramic vistas. The climb up to the viewpoint is manageable, and many reviews highlight the spectacular views from the top, which are worth the effort. The ruins themselves provide a tangible link to history, and wandering among the stones gives you a sense of the island’s past. The guides often share stories about the site, making it more meaningful.

Cold Spring Bay: A Refreshing Finale

The last stop is Cold Spring Bay, where you can enjoy a final swim in the freshwater spring that flows into the sea. Many reviewers mention how refreshing it is, especially after a full day in the sun. It’s a laid-back way to cap off the trip, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing on the boat or in the water.

Return to Oludeniz: Relaxed and Content

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and hiking, the boat heads back to Oludeniz Harbor. The trip typically wraps up by late afternoon, giving you ample time to relax or explore more of the area afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is an excellent choice for travelers wanting a mix of natural beauty, history, and leisure. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a calm, well-organized experience. The guided hikes and historical sites are accessible enough for most, and the cruise’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for those who want to avoid loud, party-style tours.

If you’re someone who enjoys snorkeling, scenic views, and a good meal, this trip delivers on all fronts. On the other hand, if your main goal is to explore Butterfly Valley in depth or visit specific sites independently, you might need extra time or look for a more specialized tour.

Price and Logistics

Pricing appears to be reasonable considering the included features: a boat cruise, lunch, and a guided experience. Since drinks are not included, bring your own or buy on board, which is typical for such trips. The duration of 7.5 hours offers enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, but keep in mind the actual start and end times can vary based on availability.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward—Oludeniz Belcekiz Beach is a popular spot, and the cruise company is known for punctuality and helpful staff. No mention is made of hotel pickups, so you’ll need to plan your transport to and from the meeting point.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Oludeniz offers a well-balanced day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation, with friendly guides and tasty onboard meals. It’s a good pick if you want to see Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island without hassle, and if you value peaceful environments over loud party boats. The reviews consistently praise the calm atmosphere, the quality of the lunch, and the knowledgeable guides, making it clear that this experience offers genuine value.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and comfortable pacing makes it stand out as a memorable day out. Just remember to bring some extra cash for drinks and maybe a light jacket for the boat, especially if you’re sensitive to wind.

FAQs

• Is lunch included in the tour?
  Yes, a freshly prepared lunch is included, with options like chicken or fish, and vegetarian choices like salads with grains.

• Are drinks included?
  No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase beverages onboard or bring your own.

• Does the tour include entry fees for Butterfly Valley and St. Nicholas Island?
  No, those are not included in the price, so you may want to budget a bit extra if you wish to explore the ruins or butterfly reserve more extensively.

• How long is the cruise?
  The full experience lasts about 7.5 hours, with multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and hiking.

• Is the boat suitable for families or those with mobility issues?
  Yes, the boat is described as comfortable and friendly, with help available for getting on and off, making it suitable for families and less mobile travelers.

• What should I bring?
  Swimwear, sun protection, and possibly a camera. Be prepared for a sunny day and bring extra cash for drinks if desired.

In all, this cruise offers a practical, scenic, and comfortable way to enjoy some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal sights. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a peaceful, well-guided day on the water with chances for swimming, hiking, and sampling good food in a relaxed atmosphere.