Yacht Charter from Fethiye: A Blue Cruise Itinerary to Demre, Myra & the Lycian Legacy
Yacht Charter from Fethiye: A Blue Cruise Itinerary to Demre, Myra & the Lycian Legacy
Fethiye to Fethiye: A Blue Cruise to Demre, Myra & the Lycian Legacy
An explorative yacht charter blending ancient Lycian cities, sacred heritage, and dramatic coastline—ideal for guests seeking culture, history, and a deeper Blue Cruise experience in Turkey.
This luxury yacht charter in Turkey reimagines the traditional Blue Cruise by venturing further along the Lycian coast toward Demre and Myra. Perfect for a gulet charter or a crewed motor yacht, this itinerary combines iconic turquoise bays with the most significant archaeological sites in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Unique to this journey is the opportunity to integrate segments of the famous Lycian Way. For guests who enjoy hiking, certain coastal passages of this world-renowned trekking path can be tackled on foot. Your yacht will act as a floating base, cruising parallel to your hike and waiting to pick you up at an agreed coastal spot coordinated by your Captain, allowing you to experience the rugged beauty of the mountains without sacrificing the luxury of your private deck.
This 7 days yacht charter itinerary from Fethiye includes the following stops:
Day 1: Fethiye | Embarkation & Lycian Beginnings
Day 2: Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley & Gemiler Island
Day 3: Kayaköy "Ghost Town" & The Passage to Kaş
Day 4: Kaş to Demre | The Footsteps of Saint Nicholas
Day 5: The Enchanted Waters of Kekova
Day 6: Patara | Birthplace of Apollo & St. Nicholas
Day 7: The Scenic Return | Mediterranean Serenity
Day 8: Fethiye | Disembarkation
Day 1 – Fethiye | Embarkation & Lycian Beginnings
Guests embark in Fethiye, a vibrant harbor town built upon the ancient city of Telmessos. After a warm welcome onboard and a safety briefing, you can explore the town’s famous Lycian rock tombs, including the monumental Tomb of Amyntas, which offers a commanding view over the marina. The evening is spent either in the lively port or tucked away in a nearby turquoise bay, setting a serene tone for the voyage ahead.
- Highlights: Embarkation, optional visit to cliffside rock tombs, sunset dinner onboard.
- Cruising time: Minimal
Day 2 – Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley & Gemiler Island
We cruise toward the world-famous Ölüdeniz (Blue Lagoon). For the adventurous, this is the premier spot for paragliding, offering a bird’s-eye view of the lagoon’s shifting blues. Nearby lies Butterfly Valley, a deep canyon best admired from the heights of the surrounding cliffs, though its beach remains a pristine stop for a swim. In the afternoon, we move to Gemiler Island to explore Byzantine ruins and ancient churches.
- Highlights: Paragliding over Ölüdeniz, views of Butterfly Valley, sunset at Gemiler ruins.
- Cruising time: 2–3 hours.
Day 3 – Kayaköy "Ghost Town" & The Passage to Kaş
Before leaving the Fethiye gulf area, a short land trip to Kayaköy is highly recommended. This "Ghost Town," abandoned in the 1920s, features hundreds of preserved stone houses and churches standing silent on the hillside. Back onboard, your yacht begins the scenic stretch toward Kaş. This is an excellent day for hikers to walk a coastal section of the Lycian Way while the yacht follows the shoreline to meet you for a refreshing afternoon swim.
Often described as the "Bohemian Heart" of the Turkish Riviera, Kaş enchants visitors with its narrow, bougainvillea-draped cobblestone streets and a vibrant, artistic energy that feels worlds away from typical tourist hubs. It is a town where ancient Lycian sarcophagi sit casually between chic boutiques and candlelit jazz bars, offering a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for a sunset cocktail or an evening of high-end Mediterranean dining.
- Highlights: Walking through Kayaköy, trekking the Lycian Path, arrival in bohemian Kaş.
- Cruising time: 2 - 3 hours.
Day 4 – Kaş to Demre | The Footsteps of Saint Nicholas
Leaving the boutiques of Kaş behind, the yacht cruises toward Demre, a site of immense spiritual and historical weight. This was the home of Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century Bishop of Myra. Guests can visit the St. Nicholas Church, which houses the ruins of the very court where he presided and his original sarcophagus. Nearby, the ancient city of Myra showcases a breathtaking Roman theater and some of the most intricate funerary art in Lycia.
- Highlights: St. Nicholas Church and Bishop’s Court, Myra’s Roman Theater, rock-cut tombs.
- Cruising time: 2–3 hours.
Day 5 – The Enchanted Waters of Kekova
Just a short cruise from Demre lies the Kekova region. Here, the sea hides a Sunken City, destroyed by earthquakes in the 2nd century. You will glide over half-submerged stone staircases and house foundations visible through the clear water. Across the bay sits Simena (Kaleköy), a charming village accessible only by sea, topped with a Byzantine fortress and unique Lycian sarcophagi scattered along the shoreline and even in the water.
- Highlights: Cruising the Sunken City, Simena castle views, swimming in the "Aquarium" bay.
- Cruising time: 1–2 hours.
Day 6 – Patara | Birthplace of Apollo & St. Nicholas
The charter yacht heads toward the vast, golden sands of Patara. Stretching 18 km, this beach is not only a nesting ground for Caretta Caretta turtles but was once the primary port of the Lycian League. Explore the restored Bouleuterion (Parliament Building) and the ancient lighthouse. Interestingly, Patara is the actual birthplace of Saint Nicholas, adding another layer to the "Santa Claus" legacy explored in Demre.
- Highlights: Patara’s 18 km beach, the world’s oldest parliament building, ancient sand dunes.
- Cruising time: 3 hours.
Day 7 – The Scenic Return | Mediterranean Serenity
The final full day is a leisurely return toward Fethiye. The yacht hugs the dramatic coastline, stopping in secluded coves like Kalkan or Firnaz Bay for snorkeling and water sports. This is the perfect opportunity for one final trek on a coastal path of the Lycian Way, perhaps finishing at a remote beach where the crew will have the tender waiting with cold refreshments. A farewell Captain’s Dinner is served under the stars.
Highlights: Scenic cruising, final Lycian Way hiking opportunities, farewell dinner.
Cruising time: 3 - 4 hours (flexible).
Day 8 – Fethiye | Disembarkation
Enjoy a breakfast on deck in the calm waters of Fethiye before leaving the yacht. After bidding farewell to the crew, disembarkation takes place in the morning, leaving you within easy reach of Dalaman Airport or the vibrant local markets for some last-minute souvenirs.
Discover the Lycian Coast by Yacht
From the ruins where Saint Nicholas walked to the "Ghost Town" of Kayaköy and the heights of Butterfly Valley, this itinerary offers a deeper and more meaningful yacht charter experience in Turkey. Whether focused on culture, relaxation, or exploration, each journey is fully tailored to you. Enquire now to start planning your Fethiye to Fethiye yacht charter via Demre, Myra, and the Lycian coast.
FAQ – Practical Information for Your Fethiye to Demre Yacht Itinerary
Can the yacht dock directly at places like Patara Beach or Myra?
No, most of the iconic sites along this coastline—such as Patara Beach or Myra Ancient City—are protected natural or archaeological areas and do not have yacht docking facilities, or they are located further inland. Instead, your yacht will anchor in the nearest suitable bay or marina. From there, reaching these sites typically involves a short tender ride to shore, followed by a private transfer (car with driver), water taxi, or guided excursion. Each location is different, and access logistics are planned depending on your yacht’s route and anchoring possibilities.
Are shore excursions and transfers included in the charter price?
No, yacht charter fees cover your accommodation, crew, and the yacht itself as a private floating space. All onshore experiences—including private transfers, entrance fees to historical sites, guided tours, and restaurant visits ashore—are considered additional expenses. These are usually paid from the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) or settled separately. We always recommend planning these activities in advance to ensure smooth logistics and availability, especially during the high season.
Can these arrangements be organized for us?
Yes, absolutely. We regularly assist with organizing private drivers, licensed guides, restaurant reservations, and tailor-made shore experiences along the route. Where possible, we can provide estimated costs at the time of inquiry. Final confirmations and exact pricing are typically arranged one to two months prior to your charter, once local suppliers confirm their seasonal rates.
How fixed is the itinerary? Will we visit all listed destinations?
Your itinerary should be considered a suggested route rather than a fixed schedule. Several factors influence the final route, including weather conditions, sea state, and the cruising capabilities of your yacht. Motor yachts can travel faster and cover longer distances, while gulets offer a slower, more relaxed pace. Catamarans sit somewhere in between, depending on conditions. Your captain will always prioritize safety, comfort, and overall experience, adjusting the route when necessary.
What should we keep in mind when planning this itinerary?
Think of your yacht as a luxury, moving base that allows you to explore the coastline with flexibility and comfort. Some highlights require additional planning to access, and distances may vary depending on sea conditions and cruising style. This itinerary is designed to offer a balance between iconic Lycian landmarks, secluded bays, and authentic coastal experiences.
Can we combine hiking with the yacht charter?
Absolutely. The Lycian Way runs along this entire coast. Your Captain can drop you at a trailhead and meet you at a different cove a few hours later. This "hike-and-sail" approach is the most luxurious way to experience the trail.
Is this itinerary suitable for children?
Yes. Between the legends of Saint Nicholas (the real Santa Claus), the Sunken City of Kekova, and the paragliding at Ölüdeniz, there is a wealth of "living history" and adventure that keeps younger guests engaged.
How much time is spent at sea?
This route covers more distance than a standard "Gocek-only" charter. Expect a few more hours of cruising per day, but the dramatic scenery of the Seven Capes and the Lycian cliffs makes the time on the water a highlight in itself.
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