Ölüdeniz Boat Trip or 12 Islands? Which Is Better?
Prime Turist local team · Updated: October 2026 · 6 min read
If you want to see the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and the Blue Cave, choose the Ölüdeniz boat trip; if you'd rather swim in more bays and have a calm day, choose the 12 Islands. Both last a full day and include lunch.
The route
The Ölüdeniz trip heads into open water and follows the coast, stopping at places such as Butterfly Valley, the Blue Cave, Soğuksu Bay and Camel Beach. The 12 Islands trip cruises among the islands in the sheltered waters of Fethiye Bay.
Sea and swimming
On the 12 Islands trip, which stays inside the bay, the sea is usually calmer — more comfortable if you worry about seasickness. On the Ölüdeniz trip the wind can pick up in the afternoon, but the scenery is more dramatic.
Which suits whom?
The 12 Islands suits families with small children and anyone worried about seasickness; the Ölüdeniz trip suits those who want photos and the famous sights. Guests with time often do both on different days.
Food and price
Both trips include lunch on board; drinks are usually sold separately on the boat. See the tour pages for current prices.
