Turkey Mediterranean coast Boat Tour from Antalya with lunch

Exploring the Turkey Mediterranean Coast by Boat: A Honest Look at the Antalya Tour

If you’re considering a full-day boat trip along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast from Antalya, you’ve probably wondered what it’s really like. This tour offers a chance to visit several scenic bays, enjoy swimming in clear waters, and have a relaxed lunch onboard. As travel enthusiasts who’ve seen a lot of tours, we’ll share what makes this one worth it — and where it might fall a bit short.

What We Like About This Tour
First, the value here is solid. For just over $50, you get a roughly 7-hour experience that includes multiple swimming stops and a full lunch, which is pretty good for a day on the water. Second, the scenic stops — especially the bays of Porto Ceneviz, Çral, and Phaselis — are genuinely beautiful and perfect for those who love swimming and relaxing in nature.

A Consideration to Keep in Mind
On the flip side, the overall rating is only 3 out of 5 based on nine reviews, which suggests some inconsistencies. The main issue seems to be logistical hiccups like failed pickups or coordination issues, which can be frustrating. The tour is quite popular, with a maximum group size of 540 travelers, so the experience can feel crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Who Would This Tour Suit Best?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, laid-back day with plenty of swimming and a nice setting, this tour could be appealing. It’s better suited for those who enjoy social atmospheres and are comfortable with organized group activities, rather than seeking a highly personalized or luxury experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $50, it offers a decent day of sightseeing and swimming.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: The bays and historic sites provide picturesque settings.
• Lunch Included: An open buffet lunch adds value and convenience.
• Group Size: With up to 540 travelers, it can feel crowded at times.
• Weather Dependency: Tour cancellations are possible if the weather isn’t suitable.
• Logistics: Pickup is offered, but some reviews mention missed pickups or communication issues.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

This tour departs from Kemer Marina, which is about 45km west of Antalya. The whole experience starts early, with a pickup at around 8 AM, making it manageable for those wanting a full day out. The boat departs at roughly 10:30 AM, and from there, the day is packed with stops that are meant to showcase the area’s beauty.

First Stop: Phaselis Koyu

Your first destination is the ancient site of Phaselis, just 45 kilometers from Antalya. Here, you’ll get about an hour to swim and explore. The bay itself has historical significance, with ruins that add a little extra charm to the water-based activities. The reviews mention a “swimming break for about 1 hours,” which gives plenty of time to relax in the clear waters. One reviewer appreciated the combination of swimming and sightseeing, saying, “We had enough time for swimming and exploring the ruins.”

Second Stop: Cleopatra Bay

Next, the boat cruises to Cleopatra Beach — a spot famous for its fine sands and inviting waters. Here, a lunch buffet is served, typically as an open buffet, giving everyone a chance to enjoy a variety of food while soaking up the views. The open buffet aspect is generally appreciated, but keep in mind that, as with many organized tours, the quality of food might vary.

Third Stop: Cennet Bay in Çamyuva

The last major swimming stop is at Cennet Bay, also known as Paradise Cove, with about 60 minutes allocated. It’s a tranquil area perfect for a final dip before heading back. The reviews mention that the time at each bay is sufficient for swimming and relaxing, although crowds can sometimes make it feel less private.

The Return Journey

After these stops, the boat heads back to Kemer Marina, and from there, you’ll be transported back to Antalya, typically arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s schedule.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

On the water, the boat is described as comfortable enough, with the group size large but manageable. You’ll get a chance to socialize with fellow travelers while enjoying the sea breeze. The cruise itself is a good way to see the coast from a different perspective, with some reviews mentioning the scenic views as a highlight.

One reviewer noted, “A great day out and experience from a trustworthy and helpful provider,” highlighting that, overall, the organization is decent. However, some mention logistical issues — like being canceled without prior notice, which can happen due to weather conditions.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch is an open buffet, which is convenient, and the reviews suggest it’s “well organized.” But, drinks and personal expenses are not included, so you’ll want to budget for beverages or snacks if you prefer anything beyond the meal provided.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With up to 540 travelers, expect a lively atmosphere. This isn’t a quiet, intimate boat trip — it’s a social experience with many participants. If you’re after a peaceful day, this might not be the best fit. That said, if you’re traveling in a group or with family, the shared experience can be quite fun.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

• Duration: About 7 hours from start to finish, including transfers and stops.
• Price: $52.36 per person — generally good value when considering the lunch and multiple swimming stops.
• Pickup: Offered from nearby locations, but some reviews mention issues with pickup timings or cancellations. It’s worth confirming beforehand.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. If it’s canceled due to bad weather, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.
• Maximum Group Size: 540 travelers, so expect some crowds, especially during peak season.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

The reviews give a mixed picture. One traveler with a negative experience said, “I never was picked up, they canceled me without my knowledge,” pointing out that cancellations can happen unexpectedly. Conversely, others have praised the trip, calling it a “great day out” with “excellent organization.” It’s clear that the experience can vary depending on the day and how well the logistics run.

One reviewer appreciated the value for money, noting that the trip is well-organized, with good transportation and friendly staff. They also mentioned that the stops allow enough time for swimming and relaxing, which is a big plus for anyone who wants a laid-back day.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to enjoy multiple scenic bays and a day on the water. If you enjoy social outings and don’t mind larger groups, you’ll likely find this experience enjoyable. The included lunch and several swimming stops make it a practical choice for a relaxed, straightforward day.

However, if you’re seeking a highly personalized or exclusive experience, or if you prefer quieter, less crowded settings, you might want to explore other options or smaller tours. Also, be prepared for the possibility of weather-related changes or logistical issues, as some travelers have experienced cancellations or missed pickups.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, but it’s important to confirm the details and ensure your location is covered. Some reviews mention missed pickups or cancellations, so double-check your arrangements.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The multiple scenic bays and swimming stops are the main draws, allowing plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including transfers, stops, and lunch.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a complimentary open buffet lunch is served during the cruise, offering a good variety of food.

Can I expect crowded conditions?
Yes, with a maximum group size of 540 travelers, it can feel quite lively, particularly during peak season.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day boat tour offers a convenient, enjoyable way to see some of Turkey’s most scenic coastal spots from the water. While not perfect, especially in terms of logistics and crowd size, it delivers good value with plenty of swimming, a tasty lunch, and beautiful views — perfect for travelers who want a straightforward day of relaxation and exploration along the Mediterranean coast.