• 4 Days / 3 Nights
• Rating : ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.9) 156 Reviews
• Antalya , Fethiye

3-Night 4-Day Turkey Blue Cruise: A 4-Day Journey Along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast Olympos to Fethiye

• Same program is also available via verse from Fethiye to Olympos 

Embark on an unforgettable 3-night, 4-day Blue Cruise from Olympos to Fethiye, or vice versa, along Turkey’s breathtaking Turquoise Coast. This unique voyage aboard a traditional Turkish wooden gulet yachts offers an intimate exploration of ancient ruins, secluded bays, and vibrant marine ecosystems, many of which are inaccessible by land. From the submerged ruins of Kekova to the butterfly-laden valley of the same name, this cruise combines history, culture, and natural beauty, providing a rare opportunity to experience Turkey’s Lycian coast in a way few others can. This program can be catered as part of a Turkey trip including Istanbul, Antalya, Cappadocia, Pamukkale and more.

Olympos to Fethiye Blue Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: Demre, Pirates Cave, Sunken City of Kekova, Simena, and Gökkaya Bay

Departure from Demre Harbour (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM):
Your adventure begins at the ancient port of Demre, once known as Myra, a significant Lycian city famed for its rock-cut tombs and the legacy of St. Nicholas, the historical figure behind Santa Claus. Board the gulet and set sail along the turquoise waters.

Pirates Cave:
Your first stop is the Pirates Cave, a mesmerizing sea cavern accessible only by boat. This natural wonder, carved by waves over millennia, was once a hideout for pirates navigating the Mediterranean. Its shimmering waters and stalactite formations make it a perfect introduction to the cruise’s unique blend of adventure and history.

Sunken City of Kekova:
Cruise over the Sunken City of Kekova, a protected Lycian-Roman archaeological site partially submerged due to earthquakes in the 2nd century CE. Visible beneath the clear waters are ancient foundations, staircases, and amphorae, offering a haunting glimpse into a lost civilization. As a protected site, it can only be admired from the boat, making sailing the only way to witness this marvel.

Simena (Kaleköy):
Anchor at Simena, a charming fishing village unreachable by road, preserving its authentic Turkish character. Perched on a hillside, the village is crowned by a Byzantine-Ottoman castle offering panoramic views of Kekova Island. Wander its car-free paths, lined with handmade crafts and local cafes, and explore the castle’s historical significance as a Lycian stronghold.

Gökkaya Bay:
End the day in the serene Gökkaya Bay, a tranquil haven once frequented by pirates. Here, you can enjoy optional water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply relax under the stars. Savor a delicious dinner onboard and unwind in this secluded paradise.

Historical Importance: Demre and Kekova are steeped in Lycian and Roman history, with Myra’s rock tombs and Kekova’s submerged ruins showcasing the region’s ancient prominence. Simena’s castle reflects centuries of strategic importance, from Lycian times to the Ottoman era.

Day 2: Kaş, Antiphellos, and Firnaz Bay

Breakfast and Swim near Kaş:
After breakfast, sail to a quiet bay near Kaş for a refreshing morning swim. The crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings set the tone for a relaxed day.

Kaş (Ancient Antiphellos):
Dock in the picturesque harbor of Kaş, a vibrant fishing village built on the ruins of Antiphellos, a Lycian port city. Explore the well-preserved Lycian rock tombs, sarcophagi, and a Roman theater that once hosted gladiatorial contests. Kaş’s blend of ancient history and modern charm, with its bustling markets and seaside cafes, makes it a highlight of the cruise. Enjoy lunch onboard or in town.

Firnaz Bay near Kalkan:
Cruise to Firnaz Bay, a secluded cove near the upscale town of Kalkan. Surrounded by lush hills, this bay is perfect for swimming and relaxing. Spend the evening here, dining onboard under the stars.

Historical Importance: Kaş’s Lycian heritage, visible in its tombs and theater, reflects the wealth and cultural sophistication of Antiphellos as a trading hub. The region’s enduring charm lies in its ability to blend ancient relics with a lively modern culture.

Day 3: Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz, and St. Nicholas Island

Butterfly Valley (Sea Conditions Permitting):
Depart around sunrise for Butterfly Valley, a stunning canyon accessible only by boat. This natural reserve is home to 136 species of butterflies and moths, including the rare Jersey Tiger. Swim in the turquoise waters, hike to the valley’s waterfall, or simply soak in the pristine beauty of this untouched paradise. Breakfast is served onboard.

Ölüdeniz (The Blue Lagoon, Sea Conditions Permitting):
Sail to Ölüdeniz, Turkey’s iconic Blue Lagoon, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters and white-sand beach. Weather permitting, anchor here for a swim or opt for paragliding from Babadağ Mountain, one of the world’s premier paragliding sites. Lunch is served in a nearby bay.

St. Nicholas Island:
End the day at St. Nicholas Island, a treasure trove of Byzantine ruins, including churches and monasteries linked to St. Nicholas of Myra. Swim in the surrounding waters, explore the island’s historical remnants, and enjoy dinner onboard. Spend the night anchored here.

Historical Importance: Butterfly Valley’s isolation has preserved its unique ecosystem, while Ölüdeniz’s natural beauty has made it a global icon. St. Nicholas Island’s ruins highlight the spread of early Christianity, tied to the legacy of St. Nicholas.

Day 4: Samanlık Bay and Fethiye

Samanlık Bay:
After breakfast, sail to Samanlık Bay for a final swim in its calm, sheltered waters. This peaceful cove offers a last chance to enjoy the gulet’s relaxed atmosphere.

Arrival in Fethiye Harbour (9:30 AM – 10:00 AM):
Conclude your journey in Fethiye, a bustling coastal town with a rich Lycian heritage. Disembark and explore Fethiye’s marina, markets, or nearby Lycian rock tombs before departing.

Historical Importance: Fethiye, ancient Telmessos, was a major Lycian city known for its oracle of Apollo. Its rock tombs and sarcophagi remain a testament to its historical significance.

Fethiye to Olympos Blue Cruise Itinerary

The reverse route follows a similar itinerary, starting in Fethiye and ending in Demre, with slight variations in timing and stops:

Day 1: Fethiye, Samanlık Bay, Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz, and St. Nicholas Island

• Depart Fethiye Harbour (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM) for Samanlık Bay (lunch and swim).

• Visit Butterfly Valley (sea conditions permitting) for swimming and exploration.

• Cruise to Ölüdeniz ( Blue Lagoon )  for swimming or optional paragliding.

• Anchor at St. Nicholas Island for Byzantine ruins, dinner, and overnight stay.

Day 2: Firnaz Bay, Kaş, and Kekova

• Sail to Firnaz Bay near Kalkan for breakfast and swimming.

• Stop in Kaş for lunch and a visit to the ancient ruins of Antiphellos.

• Anchor in a bay near Kekova for swimming, dinner, and overnight stay.

Day 3: Sunken City of Kekova, Simena, and Gökkaya Bay

• Cruise over the Sunken City of Kekova (viewing only).

• Visit Simena for its castle and car-free village.

• Anchor in Gökkaya Bay for optional water sports, dinner, and relaxation.

Day 4: Pirates Cave and Demre

• Visit the Pirates Cave after breakfast.

• Sail to Demre (Andriake) Harbour for disembarkation before lunch.

Unique Highlights of the Blue Cruise

This Blue Cruise is a rare opportunity to access remote destinations like the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena, Butterfly Valley, and St. Nicholas Island, which are unreachable by land. The gulet’s ability to navigate secluded bays and coastal waters allows you to experience Turkey’s Lycian coast in a way that land-based travel cannot replicate. From swimming in pristine waters to exploring ancient ruins and vibrant ecosystems, each stop offers a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty.

Notes

• The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or sea conditions.

• Some stops, such as Butterfly Valley and Ölüdeniz ( Blue Lagoon) , are weather-dependent.

• Optional activities like paragliding and water sports are available at additional cost.

This Blue Cruise offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, showcasing the unparalleled beauty and history of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Whether you’re swimming in secluded bays, exploring ancient ruins, or dining under the stars, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Included and Excluded