Private Butterfly Valley & St. Nicholas Island Cruise from Fethiye
Spend a private half-day cruising Fethiye’s most dramatic coast: swim in the Blue Cave, walk among wildflowers in Butterfly Valley, and explore 5th-century churches on St. Nicholas Island. This flexible boat trip combines snorkeling, light fishing, and history with a relaxed, family-friendly pace.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin and underwater life — apply before boarding and reapply after swims.
Wear water shoes
Pebbled beaches and rocky landings make sturdy water shoes helpful when boarding from the boat and climbing at Gemiler.
Hydrate and pack light snacks
Although lunch and soft drinks are provided, bring a refillable bottle and any personal snacks for the boat.
Respect fragile habitats
Do not pick wildflowers or disturb butterflies; follow the skipper’s anchoring rules to avoid damaging seabeds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Blue Cave swim-in grotto — best early to avoid crowds
- •Pebble coves below Butterfly Valley accessible only by boat for quiet snorkeling
Wildlife
- •Common dolphins often ride the bow
- •Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) occasionally seen in protected bays
Conservation Note
Butterfly Valley and adjacent bays are ecologically sensitive; avoid littering, use reef-safe products, and follow skipper instructions to minimize anchor damage.
St. Nicholas Island (Gemiler) contains multiple 5th-century church ruins tied to early Christian pilgrimage and maritime trade along the Lycian coast.
What to Bring
Swimwear & quick-dry towelEssential
Essential for swims and drying off quickly between stops.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment from harmful chemicals.
Mask/snorkel (or rent onboard)Essential
Allows you to explore the shallow seafloor and rocky crevices at each swim stop.
Light wind jacket
Useful for cooler mornings or late-afternoon breezes on the open water.
Common Questions
Is lunch included on the cruise?
Yes — a light lunch and all-day soft drinks are included in the private tour price.
Can I go snorkeling and fish on the trip?
Yes — snorkeling and basic fishing equipment are available on the boat; skilled guidance from the crew is provided.
Where does the boat depart from and how long is the trip?
Most departures are from Fethiye’s marina or nearby piers; the charter runs about 5 hours total.
Is the trip suitable for children and non-swimmers?
The cruise is family-friendly but non-swimmers should wear life jackets provided by the crew and remain cautious during water transfers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Fethiye, Muğla
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to step on and off a small boat and climb short rocky sections.
Ready to Explore Fethiye?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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