This Fethiye – Kekova – Fethiye Blue Cruise offers a relaxed and scenic journey along Turkey’s beautiful Lycian coast aboard a luxury gulet, combining comfortable cruising with the opportunity to explore some of the region’s most stunning bays, historic sites, and charming seaside towns.
Over eight days, guests sail through turquoise waters and discover the highlights of the Lycian coastline. The itinerary includes swimming in the famous Butterfly Valley, visiting the Blue Lagoon at Oludeniz, and exploring the atmospheric ruins on St. Nicholas Island. The cruise also stops in the lively harbour town of Kas and the picturesque hillside village of Kalkan, both known for their relaxed Mediterranean charm.
A highlight of the journey is sailing through the historic region of Kekova, where you will pass over the fascinating remains of the Sunken City of Kekova and visit the small coastal village of Ucagiz and nearby Simena with its hilltop castle and Lycian sarcophagi.
Along the way, there are many opportunities to swim in secluded bays, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore ancient ruins, and enjoy relaxed evenings in charming harbours. Life onboard a luxury gulet offers spacious decks, comfortable cabins, attentive service, and freshly prepared Mediterranean meals, creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the cruise.
This itinerary is perfect for travellers seeking a comfortable gulet cruise experience that combines beautiful coastal scenery, historic discoveries, and relaxing time at sea along one of Turkey’s most captivating sailing routes.
Day 1 – Fethiye
This afternoon, around 4:00 PM, you will board your gulet and begin your unforgettable blue cruise. After a warm welcome from the crew, you will check into your cabins and receive a short briefing about the journey ahead. If you have time before boarding, you may wish to explore Fethiye. Options include visiting the Lycian rock tombs, browsing the old bazaar for souvenirs, or relaxing at one of the town’s charming cafés. In the late afternoon, we will sail to a nearby bay where you can enjoy a refreshing swim before spending your first night onboard. Included Meals:Dinner
Day 2 – Butterfly Valley – St. Nicholas Island
After breakfast, we set off towards our first stop, Butterfly Valley, a breathtaking cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. You may swim in the crystal-clear waters or go ashore for a hike through the valley, where, during the summer months, various butterfly species can be seen. We then continue cruising to Oludeniz Beach, one of the most photographed beaches in the world. You can swim in the Blue Lagoon or climb the rocks behind the beach for panoramic views. In the afternoon, we arrive at St. Nicholas Island, known for its Byzantine church ruins and spectacular sunset views. You will have time to explore the island or relax in the bay before we anchor here for the night. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 3 – St. Nicholas Island – Kas
Early in the morning, while you enjoy a relaxed sleep-in, we cruise towards Yesilkoy Bay, a peaceful spot surrounded by olive trees. Breakfast is served here, followed by time for swimming in calm waters. Later, we continue to Kas, a charming coastal town with a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, browse the famous jewellery shops, or enjoy a drink at one of the stylish cafés. After dinner onboard, you are free to explore the town before spending the night in Kas Harbour. Included Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 4 – Simena Castle – Ucagiz Village
This morning, we sail to Simena, an ancient Lycian settlement. You may go ashore and climb up to Simena Castle, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding ruins. Lycian sarcophagi can be seen scattered around the bay, some partially submerged in the water. After exploring Simena, we cruise to Ucagiz Village, a peaceful and picturesque seaside village. Enjoy swimming in calm waters, strolling along the shoreline, or relaxing onboard with a drink. We anchor in a nearby secluded bay for the night. Included Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 5 – Sunken City – Gokkaya Bay
After a relaxed morning, we cruise past the Sunken City of Kekova, an ancient Lycian settlement submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. From the deck, you can clearly see the remains of buildings beneath the water. Swimming is not permitted here due to its protected status, but the views are truly fascinating.We continue with several swimming stops before arriving at Gokkaya Bay, a beautiful bay surrounded by green hills and turquoise waters. In the evening, you may choose to visit Smuggler’s Inn, a unique open-air nightclub accessible only by boat. Your crew can assist with arrangements if you wish. Alternatively, you may prefer a quiet evening onboard under the stars. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 6 – Aquarium Bay – Kalkan
After breakfast, we head to Aquarium Bay, famous for its exceptionally clear waters and ideal snorkeling conditions. Later, we cruise to Kalkan, a former Greek fishing village known for its stone houses, narrow streets, boutique shops, and rooftop restaurants. You will have time to explore the town, shop locally, or relax at a seaside café. Optional excursions can be arranged to Patara Beach or the ancient cities of Xanthos and Letoon. After dinner onboard, we anchor in a secluded bay outside Kalkan for the night. Included Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 7 – Kalkan – Camliburun
Early in the morning, the crew sets sail while you sleep. Upon waking, we arrive at Camliburun Bay, a beautiful natural bay surrounded by pine-covered hills. Enjoy breakfast in this tranquil setting before spending the day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. In the late afternoon, we begin our return journey to Fethiye Harbour, where we spend our final night onboard. Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea, Fruit Service
Day 8 – Fethiye
After breakfast, disembarkation takes place at 9:00 AM. Following this memorable journey, you leave Fethiye with unforgettable experiences and new friendships. Included Meals:Breakfast
More Information
Kekova - (Dolchiste -Sunken City)
Kekova, also known as Caravola (Greek: Dolichiste), is a small, uninhabited Turkish island located near the town of Demre in Antalya province. With an area of 4.5 square kilometers, the island lies opposite the villages of Kaleköy (ancient Simena) and Üçagiz (ancient Teimioussa). Historically significant, Kekova is home to the partly submerged ruins of the ancient town of Dolchiste, which was devastated by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. The town was later rebuilt during the Byzantine era but eventually abandoned due to Arab raids.
The island and surrounding region have a rich cultural and natural heritage. Notable historical sites include the Tersane Bay, the location of ancient Xera’s dockyard, and the remnants of a Byzantine church. In 1990, the Turkish Ministry of Environment declared Kekova a specially protected area, placing restrictions on diving and swimming to preserve its underwater ruins.
The wider Kekova region, encompassing 260 square kilometers, includes not only the island but also the villages of Kaleköy and Üçagiz, along with four ancient Lycian towns—Simena, Aperlae, Dolchiste, and Teimioussa. Kaleköy, accessible only by sea, offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its fortress and submerged ruins, while Üçagiz, meaning “three mouths,” reflects its unique geography with three exits to the open sea.
