Cleopatra Island Boat Trip from Marmaris with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re planning a trip to Marmaris and itching for a day of sun, sea, and history, the Cleopatra Island boat trip might be just what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered plenty of details and reviews that paint a clear picture of what to expect. This trip is designed for those who want a convenient way to explore the famed Sedir Island, enjoy some quality time on its signature pink sands, and cool off with a few swims in crystal-clear waters.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are its affordable price—just $42 per person—and the variety of stops packed into a seven-hour day. You get to visit multiple beaches, enjoy a traditional lunch, and relax in some of the most scenic spots around Marmaris. However, a thing to keep in mind is that this is a group tour with a fixed schedule, so if you prefer a more flexible or private experience, it might not be the best fit. Still, if relaxing on a boat and swimming in the turquoise waters sounds appealing, this trip is worth considering—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a laid-back pace.

Key Points

• Great Value for Money: The tour includes transport, lunch, and multiple swim stops for just $42.
• Scenic Stops: You visit Cleopatra Island, Incekum Beach, and Lacivert Koy, each offering stunning views and peaceful waters.
• Relaxing Pace: The itinerary provides ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring, without rushing.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Soft drinks are unlimited, and there’s a traditional BBQ lunch served on the boat.
• Group Size: The maximum number of travelers is around 45, promoting a friendly and intimate vibe.
• Weather & Season: The reviews mention early season visits with fewer crowds, enhancing the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Overview and Booking

This full-day adventure begins with hotel pickup around 9:00 AM, depending on where you stay in Marmaris. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it easy to relax from start to finish. Once onboard, you’re transported to Çaml, a quaint village about 17 km from Marmaris, where the boats are waiting. The 30-minute drive through pine forests and farmland sets the tone for a peaceful day ahead. From there, your boat begins its journey across Gökova Gulf, offering stunning views of the coastline and open water—the perfect introduction to the day.

The Journey to Cleopatra Island

The highlight, of course, is the visit to Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island. This island is famous for its unique pink sands and its archaeological remains, including the ruins of an ancient theatre. According to lore, Cleopatra herself loved this place, and there’s a story that Mark Antony brought Egyptian sand here so Cleopatra could enjoy a beach that reminded her of home. While the sands are a big draw, it’s not just about looks—the waters surrounding the island are a true highlight. Expect crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

The island is designated as a National Conservation Area, which means it’s protected and kept pristine. Visitors are given roughly 3 hours here—plenty of time to swim, relax, and explore the ruins. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, with some saying they saw fewer crowds if they visited early in the season or during less busy times. The soft pink sands and cool waters make for a memorable experience, whether you’re lounging on the beach or wading into the water with your snorkel gear.

Lunch on the Water

After your time on Sedir Island, a traditional BBQ lunch is served back on the boat. The reviews highlight how good and filling the meal is—nothing too fancy, but satisfying and authentic. The lunch is included in the ticket price, along with unlimited soft drinks, which really adds to the value. Traveling with a group means you’ll likely get to chat and share the meal with fellow travelers, making it a social highlight of the day.

More Swimming Breaks

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Incekum, a National Park famed for its fine sands and clear waters. It’s described as the perfect spot for your first swim break, with about 45 minutes to splash around, snorkel, or just relax on the beach. The reviews emphasize how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, and many mention how relaxing it feels to be away from busy tourist spots.

Next, the boat moves to Lacivert Koy, a dark blue bay ideal for another 45-minute swim. This break is all about unwinding, enjoying the calm waters, and soaking in the scenery. The fact that these stops are well spaced allows you to fully enjoy each without feeling rushed—a big plus for anyone who loves a leisurely pace.

Return and Hotel Drop-Off

The tour wraps up around 4 PM with the shuttle buses returning to your hotel. Reviews consistently praise the smooth logistics and timely pickups, which make the whole experience stress-free. Once back in Marmaris, you’ll feel relaxed and refreshed, with plenty of great memories from the day.

What Travelers Are Saying

The positive reviews focus heavily on the stunning views and the value for money. One reviewer called it “an affordable and fun excursion,” praising staff friendliness, and the overall experience being “wonderful.” Another mentioned how relaxing it was, with “crystal blue water” and a good mix of swimming, snorkeling, and lounging. Early-season visitors appreciated fewer crowds, which meant a more peaceful experience.

Some comments highlight the generous timing and organization, noting that schedules are respected, and there’s enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The included soft drinks and the BBQ lunch are also seen as big perks, adding a laid-back, all-inclusive vibe to the trip.

Potential Drawbacks

While many loved the trip, some might find the group setting a bit crowded or the schedule a little rigid if they prefer a more customized experience. The tour is designed for a broad audience, so it doesn’t cater to private groups or those looking for a more adventurous or active day. Also, since alcohol is not included, those wanting a drink with their meal might need to bring their own or purchase drinks separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming opportunities, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate good value and don’t mind sharing the experience with a group. Families or couples looking for a straightforward way to visit Cleopatra Island and enjoy some beach time will find this trip very satisfying.

It’s less ideal if you want a private or more adventurous outing, or if you’re seeking a tour with specific dietary or alcohol options included. Still, for a laid-back, picturesque day with excellent organization and friendly staff, this trip ticks a lot of boxes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long do we spend on Cleopatra Island?
You’ll have about 3 hours on the island, enough time for swimming, exploring the ruins, and relaxing on the pink sands.

What is the meal like?
A BBQ lunch is served on the boat, providing a tasty and filling meal. Soft drinks are unlimited during the trip.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included and are only available for travelers over 18 if they choose to bring their own.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is around 45 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the moderate pace and calm waters make it suitable for most travelers, including families with older children. Be mindful that it’s a boat trip, so younger kids should be supervised.

In summary, this Cleopatra Island boat trip offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and laid-back fun—all for an accessible price. If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized way to experience one of Turkey’s most talked-about beaches and enjoy a day on the water, this tour might just be the perfect fit. Just pack your swimsuit, bring your camera, and prepare for a memorable day in Gökova Bay.