Marmaris: Cleopatra Island Boat Trip with Lunch and Transfer

Exploring Marmaris’s Hidden Gems: A Closer Look at the Cleopatra Island Boat Trip

If you’re exploring Marmaris and looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the stunning waters and peaceful spots, a boat trip to Cleopatra Island and its surrounding bays might just be what you need. Based on many traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary, this tour offers a solid mix of beautiful scenery, history, and leisure—perfect for those who want to escape the crowds without sacrificing comfort or fun.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines several swimming and snorkeling stops with a chance to wander around Cleopatra Island, famous for its tranquil beaches and Roman ruins. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and unlimited soft drinks makes for a hassle-free day. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for that extra cost.

This tour tends to work well for those who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water, especially if you’re into swimming, exploring quiet bays, or enjoying some downtime with a good meal. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy water-based outings, this could be a hit. But if you’re after a packed sightseeing schedule or want to explore deeper historical sites, you might find it a bit light on adventure.

Key Points

• Beautiful water stops: Three swimming and snorkeling stops, including the famous Blue Bay and Queen Cleopatra’s private beach.
• Relaxed pace: Plenty of free time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring Cleopatra Island’s ruins.
• Inclusive amenities: Hotel transfers, a Turkish lunch, and unlimited soft drinks make it easy and enjoyable.
• Limited costs: The entry fee to Cleopatra Island (13 per person) isn’t included, so plan for that extra expense.
• Ideal for water lovers: Perfect for those wanting a laid-back day at sea with scenic views.
• Informative guides: Guests mention friendly, knowledgeable guides that add value to the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Picture: What’s It Like to Join This Tour?

When we think about boat trips from Marmaris, it’s often about escaping the busy harbor and diving into the calmer waters of nearby bays. This tour captures that vibe beautifully, with a well-planned itinerary that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The journey begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus—no fussing with taxis or figuring out transport.

Once on board, the boat itself is described as comfortable, and the trip lasts around 7 hours—long enough to feel like a proper getaway but not so exhausting that you’re dragging by the end. The group size isn’t specified exactly, but reviewers mention enjoying a peaceful, not overly crowded experience, especially if you go toward the end of September when the boat was half full.

The First Stop: Fine Sand Bay

The day kicks off with a visit to Fine Sand Bay, part of the Ince Kum National Park. Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, this stop is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Reviewers rave about the peacefulness of the setting and the quality of the water—it’s exactly the kind of scenic spot you hope for when escaping the hustle of the city.

Second Stop: Deep Blue Bay

Next, the boat heads to Deep Blue Bay, notable for its deep waters and darker blue hue. If you love taking photos of strikingly colorful waters, this stop is a highlight. Because the water is so deep, it’s a different experience than the shallower bays, and many enjoy the chance to just float and unwind here.

Midday at Cleopatra Island

The main event is Cleopatra Island itself. Around midday, the boat anchors here for a delicious Turkish lunch. The menu is simple but satisfying—expect typical Turkish fare—and travelers have shared that the lunch is a good value, especially considering it’s included in the price. After lunch, you’ll have free time to explore the island, which is famed for its ancient Roman ruins and the famous beach that Cleopatra herself loved visiting.

Some reviewers note that you’ll want to allow around 20 minutes max to see the ruins, so if you’re a history buff, plan accordingly. The island also offers cafeterias and toilets, making your time there comfortable. The beaches are quiet, and the water is ideal for relaxing or light swimming.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lighthouse Island and Return

The final stop on the trip is Lighthouse Island, which is more secluded and perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a final swim. As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Marmaris, with the shuttle dropping you off at your hotel.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly staff and the informative guides. One reviewer said, “The staff was very friendly,” and another appreciated the kind tour guide and easy pickup. The value for money is consistently praised, with travelers noting that the price includes lunch and unlimited drinks, which is great for a budget-friendly day out.

Many mention the peacefulness of Cleopatra Island, describing it as a “perfect” spot for swimming and relaxing. One traveler said, “The water is so clear, it was perfect,” echoing the common sentiment that this trip offers some of the best waters around Marmaris.

However, some reviews pointed out that the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island isn’t included—it’s an additional 13 per person. Also, a few travelers wished there was more time to explore the island or more information about what to see there, but overall, the balance of stops feels well thought out.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs around $40 per person, which, considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, lunch, soft drinks, and the boat ride, is quite reasonable. The 7-hour duration means you get a full day out without it feeling rushed. The trip departs at different times depending on availability, so checking your specific schedule is important.

You should bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and sunglasses. Since drinks are unlimited, you’re covered on hydration, but alcohol isn’t included—if you want beer or wine, you’ll need to buy that separately. The tour is conducted in English, Russian, and Turkish, so communication is accessible for many.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat trip from Marmaris to Cleopatra Island and its neighboring bays offers a relaxing, scenic escape at a fair price. It’s especially suited for water lovers and those seeking a peaceful day away from the busy harbor streets. If you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and trying local Turkish food in a tranquil setting, you’ll likely find this trip very satisfying.

It’s a good choice if you’re after a well-organized, straightforward tour with friendly guides and plenty of time to unwind. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t have to worry about logistics, and the multiple stops mean you get a taste of different waterscapes without having to move around too much.

While it’s not a deep-dive historical tour nor a high-adventure experience, it hits all the right notes for a laid-back day at sea. Just remember to budget for the Cleopatra Island entrance fee and bring everything you need for a full day in the sun.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so you can relax and avoid the hassle of finding a meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 7 hours, which allows plenty of time to enjoy all the stops comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and sunglasses. Drinks are unlimited on the boat, but alcohol isn’t included.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch is included in the tour price, along with unlimited soft drinks.

Is there an extra fee for Cleopatra Island?
Yes, the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island is 13 per person and isn’t included in the tour cost, so plan accordingly.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
Absolutely. The stops at Fine Sand Bay and Deep Blue Bay are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish, making communication accessible for many.

Is the boat crowded?
The reviews suggest it’s generally a relaxed experience, especially if you go toward the end of September when some trips are less full.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s a relaxing day suitable for most, it’s mainly geared toward water lovers and those comfortable spending a good part of the day outdoors. It’s not specifically designed as a family tour but can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages comfortable in water.

This boat trip from Marmaris offers a laid-back, scenic experience that’s perfect for soaking up the region’s natural beauty without the fuss. Whether you’re looking to swim in clear waters, explore ancient ruins, or just enjoy some good food and drinks in the sun, it’s a pretty solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: