Boat Trip From Oludeniz Blue Lagoon to Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island With Lunch

Situated along Turkey’s picturesque Turquoise Coast, the Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is renowned for its striking natural beauty. Now, travelers can embark on a captivating full-day sightseeing cruise that unveils the region’s hidden gems. From spotting dolphins and sea turtles to exploring the Byzantine ruins of Gemiler Island and discovering the lush Butterfly Valley, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression. With a freshly prepared lunch and knowledgeable crew providing live commentary, the journey offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to witness the elusive butterfly that lends its name to one of the region’s most enchanting natural wonders.

This experience made our list of the 24 Best Lunch Experiences In Fethiye.

Key Points

• Full-day sightseeing cruise from Oludeniz Blue Lagoon to Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island, with opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and live commentary from the crew.
• Explore the island where Saint Nicholas was buried and hike through Byzantine ruins on Gemiler Island.
• Discover the natural beauty and wildlife of Butterfly Valley, including the elusive Lycian butterfly.
• Convenient booking options available through online platforms, local tour operators, and the tour provider’s website.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day sightseeing cruise takes travelers from Oludeniz’s iconic Blue Lagoon to the stunning Butterfly Valley and the historic Gemiler Island, offering opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles along the way.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and live commentary from the crew.

Visitors can explore the island where Saint Nicholas was buried, hike through the Byzantine ruins on Gemiler Island, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the bay.

The tour is family-friendly, making it a great option for travelers of all ages.

With entrance fees to Butterfly Valley included, this cruise provides a comprehensive and memorable experience.

Inclusions and Highlights

The tour includes a range of amenities and sights that enhance the overall experience. Travelers receive hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to their day.

Lunch is provided, allowing them to refuel during the journey. Live commentary from the crew offers insights into the destinations visited, bringing the history and natural wonders to life.

The highlights include visiting the island where Saint Nicholas was buried and spotting dolphins and sea turtles. Entrance to Butterfly Valley is included, inviting guests to explore this unique natural wonder.

With a family-friendly atmosphere, this tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, from the stunning Oludeniz Blue Lagoon to the Byzantine ruins of Gemiler Island.

Pickup and Meeting Point

Guests are picked up from their hotels in Fethiye, Oludeniz, Hisaronu, Calis, or Ovacik, with the meeting point located at the Oludeniz Beach pier, directly across from the police station. This convenient location allows for a seamless start to the tour, with the boats departing right from the pier. The meeting point is easily accessible and well-known, ensuring a hassle-free gathering of the group before setting sail.

Pickup Location	Approximate Distance	Travel Time
Fethiye	12 km	20 minutes
Oludeniz	2 km	5 minutes
Hisaronu	4 km	10 minutes
Calis	8 km	15 minutes
Ovacik	6 km	12 minutes

Tour Schedule and Availability

After being picked up from their hotels, guests can expect the tour to operate daily from July 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025, with schedules varying by season.

The tours typically run from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

This full-day sightseeing cruise departs from Oludeniz Beach pier, opposite the police station. Guests will have the opportunity to explore Butterfly Valley and the island of Gemiler, where Saint Nicholas was buried.

Along the way, they may spot dolphins and sea turtles.

The family-friendly tour includes lunch, live commentary, and entrance to Butterfly Valley, as well as drinks.

With an itinerary that combines natural beauty and historical significance, this tour promises an unforgettable day on the Turkish Riviera.

Exploring Butterfly Valley

Upon arriving at Butterfly Valley, visitors can enjoy the serene natural beauty of this stunning canyon, where vibrant butterflies flutter amidst the lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls.

The valley offers visitors a chance to explore at their own pace and discover its hidden gems:

1. Hike along the well-marked trails that wind through the valley, leading to panoramic viewpoints and hidden swimming holes.
2. Spot the elusive Lycian butterfly, the valley’s namesake, as they dance among the wildflowers and ancient olive trees.
3. Cool off in the crystal-clear streams and pools, fed by the waterfalls that tumble down the canyon walls.
4. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.

Visiting Gemiler Island

Following their exploration of Butterfly Valley, the cruise sails onward to the intriguing Gemiler Island, where visitors can discover the remains of a once-thriving Byzantine settlement. This island was home to the original tomb of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for the modern-day Santa Claus. As the boat docks, guests disembark to hike the island’s trails, weaving through the crumbling Byzantine churches and houses. Along the way, they’ll marvel at the stunning vistas of the surrounding blue waters and lush landscapes. After the informative guided tour, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the tranquil bay before rejoining the boat for the return journey to Oludeniz.

Key Features	Details
Historical Significance	Original burial site of Saint Nicholas
Archaeological Remains	Byzantine churches, houses, and ruins
Hiking Trails	Allowing exploration of the island
Scenic Viewpoints	Panoramic vistas of the coastline
Swimming Opportunities	Refreshing dip in the bay

Onboard Activities and Amenities

The cruise offers a range of engaging onboard activities and comfortable amenities to ensure a pleasant and memorable journey for guests. Travelers can relax on the spacious outdoor decks, taking in the breathtaking coastal vistas as the boat glides across the turquoise waters.

Onboard, a knowledgeable guide provides live commentary, sharing insights into the history and significance of the sights along the route.

The cruise experience includes:

• Freshly prepared lunch served onboard
• A selection of refreshing drinks, including local Turkish tea and coffee
• Opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life
• Comfortable seating and shaded areas to enjoy the scenic voyage

Booking and Contact Information

Travelers can book this boat trip through various online platforms and local tour operators in the Oludeniz and Fethiye region. Guests may contact the tour provider directly to inquire about availability, pricing, and customization options. Reservations can typically be made in advance, with options for hotel pickup and drop-off services in the surrounding areas.

Booking Channels	Contact Information
Online Platforms	Phone: +90 252 617 1234
Local Tour Operators	Email: [email protected]
Direct with Provider	Website: www.tourprovider.com
Advance Reservations	Address: Oludeniz Promenade, Fethiye
Hotel Pickup/Drop-off	Operating Hours: 9AM – 6PM, 7 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

According to the information provided, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour includes lunch, but guests have the option to bring additional snacks or beverages if they prefer.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour appears suitable for people with disabilities, as it includes hotel pickup/drop-off and live commentary on board. However, the hike on Gemiler Island may pose challenges for some. It’s best to inquire about accessibility accommodations when booking.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour generally allows unrestricted photography, with the exception of any restricted areas or rules at the visiting sites. Guests can freely take photos throughout the cruise and during stops, unless otherwise indicated by the tour guides.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration can’t be extended beyond the scheduled 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM range, which varies by season. However, guests can request to spend more time at certain stops if they’d like to explore further within the allotted timeframe.

How Often Do the Boats Depart From Oludeniz Beach Pier?

The tours depart from Oludeniz Beach pier on a daily basis, with departures varying by season. During the peak summer months, the boats typically leave every 1-2 hours between 9 AM and 8 PM.

Recap

This full-day sightseeing cruise from Oludeniz Blue Lagoon offers a chance to explore the stunning Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island.

Along the way, you may spot dolphins and sea turtles while enjoying a freshly prepared lunch and live commentary from the crew.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and you’ll have the opportunity to hike through Byzantine ruins on Gemiler Island and discover the natural beauty of Butterfly Valley, including its elusive namesake butterfly.