Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch

Exploring the Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch

If you’re considering a day out on the water in the Marmaris area, this Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island boat trip offers a laid-back way to see some stunning scenery while enjoying a relaxed boat ride. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a popular choice for those looking to combine swimming, sightseeing, and good food in one day.

What really catches the eye about this experience is the chance to swim in warm turquoise waters and explore the famous Cleopatra Island, with its distinctive white sand beach. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious BBQ-style chicken lunch onboard makes it a pretty decent deal at $41 per person. But, as with all tours, there are some points to keep in mind before booking.

One potential drawback is that the admission fee for Cleopatra’s Island isn’t included—so you’ll need to budget for that separately if you want to explore the ruins or walk around the island. Also, some reviews mention that the boat can feel overcrowded at times and that the lunch might not fully meet expectations if you’re expecting a true BBQ. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of relaxing on the water, sightseeing, and light adventure without the fuss of more commercialized trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s ideal if you’re after a relaxed day with variety—swimming, exploring ruins, and enjoying good food. It appeals to those who value stunning scenery and want a straightforward outing without too many complex logistics. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace will find this trip quite satisfying.

Key Points

• Relaxing cruise with multiple swimming stops and scenic views
• Visit Cleopatra Island’s unique white sand beach, believed to be a gift from Mark Anthony to Cleopatra
• Includes a tasty onboard lunch, mainly chicken with pasta and salad, with extra options available
• Explore ancient Roman ruins on Cleopatra Island, adding a touch of history to your day
• Tour departs from Marmaris and Icmeler, with hotel pickup included
• Time on Cleopatra Island is flexible, around 3 hours or more, giving plenty of opportunity to relax or walk around

The Full Experience: What to Expect

First, let’s talk about the itinerary. This trip kicks off with hotel pickups—convenient if you’re staying locally—and heads out towards Gokova Bay. On the way, you’ll enjoy swimming breaks at Incekum Bay and near Fenerli Island, where the water is known for being warm and inviting. These stops give you the chance to dip in the sea, relax on the boat, or soak up the sun while taking in views of the bay.

Once you arrive at Cleopatra Island, you’ll have around three hours or more to explore. The island’s white sandy beach is the big draw—legend has it that Mark Anthony imported the sands as a gift for Cleopatra, and it’s a spectacle worth seeing. The sand’s tiny, shiny grains are protected as a National Conservation Area, so you’re not allowed to take any with you, but just walking on it is enough to see why it’s so celebrated.

While on the island, you’re free to stroll through olive groves, relax on the beach, or check out the Roman amphitheater ruins and fortifications. These remnants add a layer of historical intrigue, giving a glimpse into the past civilizations that called the island home. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot where you can take photos, unwind, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.

Back on the boat, a chicken lunch is served—spaghetti, salad, and a piece of chicken. Many reviews note that the food quality exceeds expectations with some describing it as “really nice” and “better than expected.” A bar on board also offers soft drinks, and for those wanting extras like prawns or fish, these are available at additional cost.

On the way back to Marmaris, you’ll make a swimming stop at Dolphin Bay, another opportunity to cool off and enjoy the clear waters. The entire day wraps up around 6 p.m., leaving you with a full but relaxed experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The stunning scenery is the highlight. The views of Gokova Bay and the islands are truly beautiful, especially when combined with the chance to swim in warm, calm waters. The legendary sands of Cleopatra Island and the Roman ruins add a bit of history and unique charm that many travelers find memorable.

The guides and crew are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Multiple reviews mention the staff going above and beyond, making the day more enjoyable. For example, one traveler complimented Veronika and the team for making their trip special.

The value for money seems solid—considering the transport, guide, boat ride, and meal, many feel it’s an affordable way to experience a mix of sights and relaxation. However, note that admission to Cleopatra’s Island isn’t included, which might add a small extra expense if you decide to explore the ruins.

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The Downsides to Consider

While the majority of reviews are glowing, some travelers mention crowded conditions on the boat, especially during peak season, which can limit your comfort or freedom to move around. The lunch, although generally well-liked, is not a barbecue as some might expect, and extras like prawns or fish can be pricey.

There are also comments about the boat feeling a bit outdated and that the size of the group can be large. If you’re someone who prefers quiet, private trips, this might not be your ideal choice. Plus, the admission fee for Cleopatra Island (around 13 euros) is paid separately, so budget accordingly.

The Bottom Line

This boat trip offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, historical interest, and leisure. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a stress-free, enjoyable outing in the Marmaris area, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and explore.

If you’re after an affordable experience that combines natural beauty with a hint of history, this trip hits the mark. The reviews suggest that most travelers leave with great memories, good food, and a feeling that they saw a unique part of Turkey’s coast.

However, if you’re highly particular about crowds, or expecting a traditional BBQ lunch, you might want to do some further research or prepare for a more casual, simple meal. This tour is a solid choice for anyone who appreciates stunning landscapes and a laid-back pace.

FAQ

• How long is the trip?
  The tour lasts around 7 to 8.5 hours, including pickup, travel, and time on Cleopatra Island.

• What is included in the price?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, boat tour, and lunch are included. Admission to Cleopatra Island is optional and not included.

• Do I need to bring anything?
  Bring swimwear, a towel, and possibly some extra money for optional extras like fish or prawns during lunch.

• Can I walk around Cleopatra Island?
  Yes, you’re free to walk around the island, explore the ruins, and enjoy the beaches during your stay.

• Is the boat crowded?
  Some reviews mention the boat can feel crowded, especially in peak season, but overall most describe it as comfortable.

• Is the lunch suitable for all diets?
  The main meal is chicken with pasta and salad; extras like fish or prawns are available at extra cost. Vegetarian options aren’t specifically mentioned.

• What about the timing?
  The trip departs at different times depending on availability, and returns around 6 p.m.

• Is transportation provided?
  Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in most cases, making the day stress-free.

• Are there swimming stops after Cleopatra Island?
  Yes, on the way back, there’s another swimming break at Dolphin Bay.

• How do reviews describe the experience?
  Most reviews are very positive, highlighting the guides, scenery, and quality of the trip, with a few mentioning overcrowding or the need for extra budget for island entry.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day out with good food, friendly guides, and a touch of history, this boat trip could be a fantastic choice. Just remember to be prepared for a potentially crowded boat and extra costs for island entry if you want to explore the ruins. For many travelers, it offers a memorable glimpse of the Turkish coast with a good balance of activity and rest.

You can check availability for your dates here: