Boat Trip, Cleopatra Island from Marmaris w/Lunch and Soft Drinks

The Boat Trip to Cleopatra Island from Marmaris offers a well-rounded day out for those looking to enjoy the Turkish coast, with a focus on relaxing at the famous Cleopatra Beach, swimming in scenic bays, and exploring the island’s ruins. Priced at $45.30 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this tour is ideal for families and travelers seeking a mix of leisure and light sightseeing. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch on the island, and soft drinks, making it a practical and straightforward choice. However, some reviews suggest that the boat and beach facilities might not meet all expectations, so it’s best suited for those looking for a casual day rather than archaeological exploration.

This trip departs from Marmaris, with pickup starting early around 9:00 am, and travels across the Gulf of Gökova to reach Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island. The tour is curated to balance activity with relaxation, with plenty of swimming stops and a generous amount of time on the island. It’s a popular choice, booked on average 18 days in advance, reflecting good demand among visitors to the region.

Key Points

• Price of $45.30 per person includes lunch, soft drinks, and hotel pickup.
• Duration of 8 hours, with the trip starting early in the morning around 9:00 am.
• Stops at Cleopatra Island, Incekum Bay, Gökova Bay, and Caml Bay for swimming and relaxation.
• Visit the iconic Cleopatra Beach, rumored to have been imported by Cleopatra herself.
• Tour suitable for families and those wanting a laid-back day on the coast.
• Limitations include older boat conditions and a small beach area at Cleopatra Beach, which may not satisfy archaeology enthusiasts.

Departure and Logistics from Marmaris

The tour begins with hotel pickup from most hotels in Marmaris, with a pickup time around 9:00 am. The pickup involves a bus or minibus transfer, lasting approximately 30 minutes to the boat departure point at Çaml Bay. Guests are advised to be ready early, as the tour start time is fixed, but exact pickup times will be confirmed upon booking. The return journey concludes around 5:00 pm, with drop-off back at the original meeting point.

The meeting point is centrally located in Marmaris, making it easy to access, and the entire trip is designed to accommodate up to 200 travelers, which can create a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Exploring Cleopatra Beach and Sedir Island

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the visit to Cleopatra Beach, which is famous for its seashell sand and its legendary connection to Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Visitors can choose to purchase an entrance ticket on the boat, costing 13 TL per person, to access the beach, where they can sunbathe, swim, or explore the nearby ruins.

The two-and-a-half-hour stay provides ample time to enjoy the beach or explore the island’s ancient remains. However, some reviews note that the beach is quite small and often closed off, with limited facilities such as broken chairs, which may impact the experience for those hoping for a pristine archaeological site.

Lunch and Swimming Breaks at Incekum Bay and Gökova Bay

After leaving Cleopatra Island, the tour offers a one-hour lunch break on the boat, where a lunch is included. The food provided is designed to keep travelers fueled for the day. Following lunch, the boat anchors at Incekum Bay for a 45-minute swim, allowing travelers to cool off in clear waters.

Later, the boat visits Gökova Bay, where Lacivert Bay and Rabbit Island offer additional swimming opportunities for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. These stops showcase the scenic beauty of the Turkish coast and provide relaxing moments amid stunning natural surroundings.

The Boat and Facilities

The boat used for this trip is described as comfortable, with sufficient space for the group. It departs around 10:00 am and stays anchored at various points throughout the day. Soft drinks are included, but alcoholic beverages, additional drinks, and DVDs are available for purchase. Some reviews suggest that the boat may be older or less luxurious compared to other options, which could influence overall comfort.

The End of the Day at Camli and Marmaris

The return journey begins around 5:00 pm, with a 30-minute stop at Caml Bay to relax before heading back to Marmaris. The trip concludes with a 40-minute bus transfer back to the main street near your hotel, wrapping up a full day of coastal exploration and leisure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The included elements are lunch, soft drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making this a convenient option. Additional costs include entrance fees for Cleopatra Beach (13 TL) and the Sedir Island entrance fee, which is not included in the base price.

Guests should note that the boat may not be the newest, and the beach facilities might be limited or crowded, especially during peak season. The timing is strict, and the pace of stops is designed to balance sightseeing with leisure, though it might feel rushed for those wanting more archaeological or culture.

Final Thoughts on the Cleopatra Island Boat Trip

This tour provides a practical, straightforward approach to enjoying some of the Turkish Riviera’s most scenic spots. The stunning views at Gökova Bay and the legendary allure of Cleopatra Beach are key highlights. The lunch and soft drinks are a nice touch, offering refreshment throughout the day.

However, travelers should manage expectations regarding the small beach size and older boat conditions. It’s best suited for families or those seeking a relaxing day with swimming, rather than serious archaeological exploration. The value for money is reasonable, considering the full-day itinerary and included amenities, but those seeking a more immersive or luxurious experience might prefer other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most hotels in Marmaris, starting early on the day of the tour.

How much does the Cleopatra Beach entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee is 13 TL per person and must be purchased separately if you wish to access the beach.

What activities are available during the stops?
Guests can swim, sunbathe, or explore the ruins on Sedir Island. The stops at Incekum Bay and Gökova Bay are primarily for swimming and relaxing.

How long do we stay on Cleopatra Island?
The stay at Cleopatra Island lasts around two and a half hours, giving enough time to enjoy the beach and some ruins.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as comfortable, but some reviews note it may be older or less luxurious than other vessels.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, soft drinks are included, but alcoholic drinks and additional beverages are available for purchase.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring swimming gear, sun protection, and cash for optional purchases such as the entrance fee or souvenirs.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 18 days in advance on average, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice results in no refund.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Arbek Travel, with contact details available for further inquiries.

This boat trip to Cleopatra Island from Marmaris offers a balanced day of scenic cruising, leisure activities, and a legendary beach experience, making it a practical choice for those looking to enjoy the Turkish coastline without extensive planning.