Experience the very best of Turkey on this 12-day adventure from Istanbul to Fethiye, blending the country’s captivating history with the laid-back charm of a Blue Cruise along the Turquoise Coast. Explore ancient cities, iconic landmarks, and hidden bays as you journey through western Turkey before setting sail on a traditional Gulet yacht through the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters.
Dates and Prices:
27 April to 19 Oct Every Monday
First Departure: 27 April 2026
May 2026
June 2026
July 2026
August 2026
September 2026
October 2026
This 12-day Istanbul to Fethiye Tour with Gulet Cruise offers the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Explore ancient wonders, sail through pristine bays, and discover the authentic beauty of Turkey by land and sea. Ideal for travellers seeking a complete and immersive experience, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy Turkey’s history, hospitality, and Mediterranean charm.
On these captivating Turkey exploration cruises, guests can delve into renowned sites such as Istanbul, Gallipoli, Ephesus, Fethiye, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia with the guidance of knowledgeable historians and cultural experts. Following the discovery of these remarkable cities and ancient sites, travelers will set sail on a luxurious Gulet Cruise, allowing them to unwind in serene waters, uncover secluded bays, and visit charming islands along the stunning Turkish Riviera.
These hybrid journeys provide a perfect blend of experiences: a deep dive into Turkey's rich history through immersive land tours paired with the thrill of a gulet yacht experience. Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive Turkey holiday package, these excursions are coordinated by Farout's skilled professionals. Whether your desire is to explore Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, and other historical marvels or simply to bask in the serene beauty of the Turkish coastline, this fusion of cultural exploration and Blue Cruise presents an unmatched way to discover Turkey.
Comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and light layers for evenings. For your cruise, please ensure you bring the following essential items: your passport (required for check-in), bath and swimming towels (as these are not provided onboard), and personal items such as sunscreen and after-sun lotion, mosquito repellent, seasickness tablets if needed, sunglasses, swimwear, a camera, and comfortable shoes for shore visits and excursions. Please note that shoes are not permitted to be worn onboard the gulet. Cigarettes and snacks such as chocolate or crisps are not sold onboard, so you are welcome to bring your own. You will also have opportunities to purchase supplies at certain harbour stops during the cruise. Kindly note that drinks of any kind, including bottled water, are not permitted to be brought onboard.
Your gulet cruise package includes cabin accommodation with a private bathroom, three meals per day plus afternoon tea, all gulet taxes, port fees and harbour charges, harbour departure paperwork, and bed linen. Items not included in the cruise price are drinks (available for purchase onboard), entrance fees to historical sites, optional excursions such as water sports or other additional activities, crew tips, bath and swimming towels, and snacks.
Arrive in Istanbul, the cultural hub of Turkey. Meet your guide and enjoy an introductory evening wandering through Taksim Square and Istiklal Street. Savor a meal at a classic Turkish tavern and immerse yourself in the city’s lively nightlife.
Highlights: Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Turkish Cuisine.
Meals: Dinner
Explore the heart of Istanbul by visiting renowned landmarks such as the majestic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Conclude your day with a picturesque Bosphorus boat ride, taking in the city views where Europe gracefully meets Asia.
Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Bosphorus Voyage.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Gallipoli, a site of great historical significance from the First World War. Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair, reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of those who fought here.
Highlights: Gallipoli, ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, The Turkish Positions from The Beach at ANZAC, Meet Local Villagers at Mustafa Kemal's former HQ in Bigali Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, we embark on an exploration of the legendary city of Troy. You will see the famed Trojan Horse, ancient Sacrificial Altars, the impressive 3,700-year-old city walls, and the fascinating Houses of Troy I.
Next, we will continue our journey to the historic city of Pergamon. Our tour will cover remarkable sights such as the Temple of Athena, the Acropolis, the renowned Ancient Library of Pergamum, the majestic Altar of Zeus, the bustling lower Agora, the Gymnasium that features terraces, the stunning Hellenistic Theater, and the Temple of Dionysus, the deity of wine.
Following this, we will travel to the Ephesus region for our overnight accommodation. After we settle into the hotel, you will have leisure time to unwind.
Highlights: Troy, Pergamon, Temple of Athena.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Visit the Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis, and Great Theatre before travelling to the coastal town of Fethiye.
Highlights: Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, Library of Celsus.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast you can leave your luggage at the hotel and explore the town. Around noon, you will board your traditional wooden Gulet in Fethiye Harbour. After settling in, cruise to Butterfly Valley, a lush canyon filled with waterfalls and wildlife. Continue to the famous Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz) for swimming and optional paragliding.
Highlights: Butterfly Valley, Blue Lagoon, Paragliding over Oludeniz.
Regarding the Gulet cruise section of the tour: You have the option to choose between the regular group or the 18–39 group on Gulets. Please note that entrance fees are not included, and cruises are non-tour-guided, as our Captain and crew operate them instead.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
Sail towards St. Nicholas Island, home to ancient Byzantine ruins and breathtaking sunset views. Stop for a swim at Aquarium Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters.
Highlights: St. Nicholas Island, Aquarium Bay, Snorkelling.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
Arrive in the charming seaside town of Kas, known for its boutique shops and local markets. You will have your breakfast in Kekova, then we sail past the 2,400-year-old Sunken City, where ancient walls and harbours lie just below the turquoise waters. Next stop is Kalekoy (ancient Simena), a small village of fewer than 50 houses, accessible only by boat or on foot. Explore Lycian sarcophagi, wander bougainvillea-lined paths, and climb to Simena Castle for stunning views before enjoying the village’s famous homemade ice cream. In the afternoon, we will visit peaceful Gokkaya Bay, ideal for swimming and relaxation. Optionally, you could visit the Smugglers Inn Bar at night. This rustic bar is located on a remote island and is only accessible by boat. It offers a unique atmosphere under the stars, complete with music and dancing.
Highlights: Kas, Diving, Limanagzi Bay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
Sail to Demre and visit Karemlik Turtle Bay, where the endangered Caretta-caretta turtles nest. Swim, snorkel, or relax on board surrounded by serene blue waters. In the afternoon, we cruise back to Kalekoy (Simena Castle), passing the Sunken City. Here you can paddleboard around or explore the Lycian Tombs, some of which rise impressively from the water. Later, we return to Gokkaya Bay, a turtle breeding ground. In the evening, you may revisit Smugglers Inn Bar for another lively night.
Highlights: Turtle Bay, Demre Harbour, Lycian Coastline.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
After breakfast, we set sail from Kekova towards the tranquil Limanagzi Bay, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and lush green surroundings. This hidden gem offers the perfect setting for a refreshing morning swim or simply relaxing on deck. You’ll also find charming beachside restaurants where you can enjoy a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
We continue our voyage to the lively town of Kas, one of the Mediterranean’s most beloved harbours. Take time to explore its boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés. For those interested in history, a short walk leads to the ancient Antiphellos Amphitheatre, offering spectacular views over the bay. Just steps from the town centre lies Kucuk Cakil Beach, a picturesque cove perfect for a cooling dip in the clear blue sea.
Optional Activity: Diving in Kas
Kas is renowned as one of the best diving destinations in Turkey. Join an optional scuba diving session to explore underwater caves, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life beneath the surface of the Mediterranean.
As the day draws to a close, we anchor at Firnaz Bay (Aquarium Bay) — a stunning natural inlet famous for its calm, translucent waters. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling, or simply unwinding as the sun sets. Dinner will be served onboard under the starlit sky, followed by a relaxing evening surrounded by nature’s tranquillity.
Highlights: Limanagzi Bay, Firnaz Bay, Kas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
Awaken to the breathtaking beauty of Butterfly Valley, one of the Turkish coast’s most spectacular natural wonders. Nestled between dramatic cliffs that rise over 350 metres, the valley takes its name from the rare Jersey Tiger butterfly that inhabits the area. Enjoy a refreshing morning swim in the crystal-clear waters or follow the trail to a hidden waterfall surrounded by lush greenery — a peaceful start to the day.
We then continue to the world-famous Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz, often featured in postcards and travel magazines as Turkey’s most photographed beach. With its calm turquoise waters and pristine white sandbar, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the stunning coastal scenery.
Optional Activity: Paragliding over the Blue Lagoon
For the adventurous, experience one of the world’s best paragliding flights — soaring 2,000 metres above Ölüdeniz Beach and the Blue Lagoon. The 30–45-minute flight offers unforgettable panoramic views of the coastline and is a true highlight of any Turkish Blue Cruise. Pre-booking is essential.
As the day winds down, we anchor near St. Nicholas Island (Gemiler Island). Wander through the ancient Christian ruins and chapels that dot the island, believed to date back to Byzantine times. Climb to the island’s summit, known as Sunset Point, to witness one of the most mesmerising sunsets along the Mediterranean — a fitting end to a day filled with adventure, beauty, and serenity.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 5 O'clock Tea, Dinner, Fruit Platters
On your last day in Fethiye, after breakfast, we will sail to Samanlik Bay for a swim before returning to Fethiye Harbor. Then you bid farewell to your new friends and crew. Depart with unforgettable memories of Turkey’s cultural treasures and turquoise coastline.
Highlights: Swimming in Samanlik Bay
Meals: Breakfast