Fethiye: 12 Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Transfer Option

Fethiye: 12 Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Transfer Option

Imagine spending a day sailing along Turkey’s captivating Turquoise Coast, hopping between tiny islands, swimming in clear waters, and soaking up scenic views. That’s essentially what this full-day boat trip offers — a relaxing yet adventure-packed voyage with plenty of opportunities to unwind and explore. With a solid 4.6-star rating from 11 travelers, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, light history, and good food.

There’s a lot to love here: the chance to swim in tranquil bays, the included delicious onboard lunch, and the convenience of hotel transfers (if you choose that option). One potential downside? The tour involves quite a bit of boat travel and multiple swimming stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with open water and some physical activity. Overall, if you enjoy being on the water and want a well-organized, scenic experience, this tour could be just right for you.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authentic scenic moments, local history, and comfortably paced excursions. It’s family-friendly, but keep in mind that it involves some physical effort to board the boat and swim. Those prone to seasickness or with mobility challenges might want to consider their comfort level before booking.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: You’ll explore the 12 Islands of Fethiye, renowned for their beauty and tranquil waters.
• Swim & Snorkel: Multiple swimming stops at spots like Yassica Islands and Kızıl Ada offer warm, shallow waters perfect for relaxation.
• Historical Interest: Visit Tersane Island to see ancient shipyard ruins dating back centuries.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared meal onboard, with vegetarian options available.
• Transfer Options: Hotel pickup and drop-off included if selected, making the day seamless.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from 5 to 7 hours, depending on the day’s pace and weather.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Experience: A Deep Dive into the 12 Islands Boat Tour

Starting the Day: From Hotel to the Harbor

The journey kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup, an aspect many reviewers appreciate. The tour provider, Capella Tourism, arranges transfers from most Fethiye hotels — just be sure to meet at the main entrance rather than the reception, especially if your hotel has strict privacy rules. This seamless start means you’re not worrying about logistics and can just look forward to the day ahead.

Once at the harbor, you’ll be welcomed aboard a spacious, well-equipped boat. It’s worth noting that the boat has a friendly crew, and a brief safety and activity overview is provided before departure. People mention that the crew is attentive and helpful, making the whole experience feel relaxed and personable.

Navigating the Turquoise Coast

The boat sets sail through the illustrious Turquoise Coast, with close-up views of the rugged coastline and lush islands. The route is designed to maximize scenic beauty and swimming opportunities, with the itinerary often including stops at hidden bays and uninhabited islands.

A common stop early on is at the Yassica Islands. Reviewers note these shallow, warm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The greenery surrounding the islands adds a lush, untouched feeling. You might find yourself floating in water so clear you can see to the bottom without effort, a perfect way to beat the heat and unwind.

Exploring the Islands: History & Relaxation

Next, the boat heads to Tersane Island, the largest in the bay. Here, ancient shipyard ruins await exploration, dating back to Byzantine and Ottoman times. One reviewer, who describes the ruins as “a peaceful spot to wander,” appreciated the chance to see a touch of local history without it feeling overly touristy.

Further along, you’ll visit Kızıl Ada (Red Island), famous for its reddish sands and sunset views. Many guests mention that Kızıl Ada offers an ideal spot for sunbathing or a gentle swim. The calm waters and scenic backdrop make it a favorite for relaxing and capturing photos.

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Lunch on the Water

Midday, the boat anchors in a tranquil bay for a delicious onboard meal. The typical menu includes grilled chicken or fish, fresh salads, and side dishes, with vegetarian options available if requested in advance. Reviewers highlight that the food is surprisingly good considering it’s served on a boat — fresh, well-seasoned, and satisfying.

Many describe the meal as a highlight, especially since it’s served with a view. Guests often comment on how the fresh, simple flavors complement the day’s laid-back vibe. After lunch, the tour continues with visits to Flat Island, Dockyard Island, and Göcek Island, each offering different landscapes and swimming conditions.

The Final Stops & Return

As the afternoon winds down, the boat makes its way back toward Fethiye harbor. Guests love the chance to lounge on deck and soak in the last panoramic views. Many mention that the gentle sea breeze and calm waters make the return journey a perfect wind-down.

Once back at the harbor, your transfer (if booked) will whisk you back to your hotel. Travelers appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to rest after a full day of activity.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration and Schedule

The trip lasts between 5 to 7 hours, depending on the day’s conditions and how long you spend at each stop. Most tours start in the late morning, with precise timings available at booking. Be sure to arrive at the meeting point early — the main location is Cumhuriyet, Bekaza Meydan — to avoid missing the boat.

What’s Included & Not Included

The included elements are a hotel transfer (if you choose that option), the boat tour, a guide, full insurance, and the lunch. You’ll want to bring cash for drinks (which are not included) and any personal expenses ashore.

What to Bring

Pack essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towels, camera, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. The weather on the water can be intense, so protective gear is a good idea. Remember, food and drinks (apart from the meal on board) are not provided, so carry cash if you plan to purchase additional refreshments.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour is family-friendly but involves some physical effort to board the boat and swim. It’s not suitable for those with severe mobility issues or who are prone to seasickness. If you have concerns, consider your comfort level with boat travel.

Weather & Safety

The itinerary can change due to weather conditions for safety reasons. This flexibility means your experience will depend on the day’s weather, but it also ensures safety takes priority.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer described the experience as “super,” emphasizing the beauty of the views and the relaxed vibe. Another appreciated the delicious, simple lunch served amid the stunning scenery. Several guests mentioned the friendly crew and their helpfulness, making the day flow smoothly.

The focus on swimming in warm, shallow waters was consistently praised, with some saying it’s the perfect opportunity for families or less experienced swimmers. The presence of ancient ruins at Tersane Island added a touch of history without overwhelming the relaxing nature of the trip.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 12 Islands boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, historical interest, and relaxation. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy spending time on the water, appreciate good food, and want a day that’s not overly strenuous. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it a convenient choice for those seeking a hassle-free experience.

If your idea of a perfect day involves crystal-clear swimming spots, beautiful islands, and a laid-back atmosphere, this trip delivers. It’s a great way to escape the busy town and enjoy Fethiye’s natural charm from the water.

Those looking for a full, value-packed day with options to relax, explore, and enjoy delicious local food will find this tour offers more than enough to justify its price. Keep in mind, the journey includes some boat travel and physical activity, so tailor your expectations accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking. Be sure to meet at the main entrance of your hotel.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is between 5 and 7 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

What’s the meal like?
A freshly prepared onboard lunch typically includes grilled chicken or fish, salads, and sides. Vegetarian options are available if requested.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s family-friendly, but children must be supervised. The tour involves some physical effort for swimming and boarding.

Can I buy drinks on the boat?
Drinks are not included in the price, so you should bring cash to purchase beverages or other personal items.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It might not be ideal, as boarding and disembarking require some physical effort, and swimming stops require comfort in open water.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towels, a hat, a camera, and a change of clothes are recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change for safety reasons, but the company strives to make the experience enjoyable regardless of conditions.

This full-day boat tour around Fethiye’s 12 Islands offers a memorable mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation. Whether you’re in search of scenic swimming, stunning views, or a peaceful day on the water, this trip has a lot to offer wanting to enjoy Turkey’s spectacular coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: