Bodrum: Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch and Swim Stops

Bodrum: Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch and Swim Stops

Imagine setting sail from the charming Halikarnas Port aboard a colorful pirate-themed boat, with the promise of swimming, sunbathing, and lively music. For about $40 per person, you get six hours of fun exploring the bays of Bodrum, with stops at Black Island, Rabbit Bay, and Akvaryum Koyu. The boat, called Cey Cey, features three spacious decks, wooden tables on the first floor, and plenty of sunbeds upstairs—perfect for relaxing or catching some rays. The trip usually departs around 11:30 AM, so arriving early at the port by 11:00 AM is essential to board smoothly.

What we like most is the combination of beautiful scenery and authentic experiences—the chance to swim in mineral hot springs and crystal-clear bays, plus enjoy a delicious onboard lunch. The included meal of chicken, salad, pasta, and fresh fruit is surprisingly good value for a day trip. Plus, the lively music and party atmosphere make for a fun, carefree day on the water.

However, a key consideration is that some travelers report discrepancies between the advertised stops and actual experience. The reviews reveal that the stops may not always match expectations, and activities like a foam party or specific snorkeling options might be missing. Also, drinks are extra, and there’s a 3-euro entrance fee to Cleopatra Island, which can add up.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy casual, social excursions with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy scenic bays—especially if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere. It’s less ideal if you’re after precise, advertised activities or detailed guided insights, but perfect for those who want to soak up the sun and have some fun with little planning.

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Key Points

• Scenic Bays and Swimming: Visit beautiful spots like Aquarium Bay and Meteor Bay, with ample time for swimming and snorkeling.
• Thermal Springs: Black Island’s hot springs offer a unique mineral-water experience.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a hearty meal on board, adding value to the trip.
• Lively Atmosphere: Expect music, dancing, and a party vibe, especially on the first deck.
• Variable Stops: Be aware that some stops may not match advertised activities, based on traveler reviews.
• Easy to Book & Flexible: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.

The Experience in Detail

Setting Off from Halikarnas Port

Starting at skele Cd. No:24, the trip kicks off around 11:30 AM, with the boat Cey Cey waiting at the dock. Arriving by 11:00 AM ensures you’re settled and ready to set sail. The group is usually a mix of travelers looking for fun, sun, and a touch of adventure on the water. Expect a lively departure, with music and a festive atmosphere as the boat begins to glide out of the harbor.

The First Stops: Black Island Hot Springs

One of the trip’s big draws is a visit to Black Island, famous for its thermal springs. The hot springs provide a chance to bathe in, or snorkel around, mineral-rich waters that are said to have therapeutic qualities. The review from a traveler named Ophelie mentions the “splendid landscapes” and highlights the “great and entertaining” activity. Be prepared for an entrance fee of 3 euros, and note that swimming or snorkeling opportunities may vary.

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Rabbit Bay: A Perfect Swim Spot

Next is Rabbit Bay, where the group typically spends about 1.5 hours. This bay is praised for its calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Some reviewers mention that the scenery is truly stunning—a perfect backdrop for a lazy afternoon. However, others note that the snorkeling gear mentioned might not always be available, and activities can sometimes fall short of expectations.

Aquarium Bay: A Jewel for Snorkelers

The trip’s highlight for many is Akvaryum Koyu (Aquarium Bay). The name hints at the abundance of marine life, and the bay’s tranquil waters make it a favorite for swimming and snorkelers. Travelers can expect a generous amount of free time to enjoy the water, but be aware that some might find the snorkel gear and fish-spotting less thrilling if the activity isn’t well-organized.

Lunch on Board: Unexpectedly Good

Unlike many similar tours, the onboard lunch receives praise. The menu includes chicken, salad, pasta, and fresh fruit, served on wooden tables or sunbeds. Travelers appreciate that the meal is decent quality, making it a worthwhile addition at this price point. The “meal onboard” is often a highlight, especially since it breaks up the day and provides fuel for more swimming.

The Evening Return

Around 5:30 PM, the boat begins heading back to Halikarnas Port, offering one last chance to relax, enjoy the music, or snap photos of the coast. The trip ends with a gentle approach back to the starting point, leaving you with memories of a lively day on the water.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

While the trip offers a lot of fun and scenery, some reviews suggest it doesn’t always match the advertised stops or activities. The lack of foam parties and absence of promised snorkeling gear can be disappointing if you’re expecting those specific features. The guide’s language skills—noted as perfect French—are a plus for French-speaking travelers, but the lack of detailed commentary during stops might leave some wishing for more info about the sights.

The music is a mixed bag: some love the “great and entertaining DJ”, while others find it too loud or incompatible with their preferences. Travelers who prefer a relaxed, quieter experience might find the party atmosphere overwhelming, particularly if they’re not keen on loud Turkish music.

Pricing is reasonable, especially if you value the all-inclusive lunch and swimming stops. But remember, all drinks are extra, and small fees like the 3-euro entry fee should be factored into your budget.

This tour is best suited for casual travelers, groups looking for fun, and those who enjoy a lively social scene. If you’re after serious sailing or guided storytelling, you might be left wanting. Still, the stunning views and friendly guides make it a memorable day for many.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, social, and scenic experience on the water. It’s perfect if you’re looking to swim in beautiful bays, enjoy local music, and have a meat-and-potatoes lunch while soaking up Bodrum’s casual vibe. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or as part of a group, it’s a great way to connect and share some unforgettable moments.

However, if your main goal is precise activities or a quiet day, this may not be the best fit. The variable stops and sometimes loud atmosphere might be less appealing if you prefer a more subdued experience.

Final Thoughts

This Bodrum pirate boat trip offers a lively, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying beautiful views of the Aegean coast. The hot springs, bays, and lunch make it a good value for the price, especially if you’re ready for a party-like atmosphere. The friendly guides and stunning landscapes add to its appeal, even with some inconsistencies reported in the stops and activities.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys social settings, authentic local scenery, and casual fun without too much fuss, this tour might be just right. But if you prefer well-structured activities or quiet time, consider other options or be prepared for some surprises.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
The trip begins at skele Cd. No:24 at Halikarnas Port, with the boat “Cey Cey” waiting to depart around 11:30 AM. Arrive by 11:00 AM to ensure smooth boarding.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, ending around 5:30 PM back at the port.

Are all stops included in the price?
The main stops—Black Island, Rabbit Bay, and Aquarium Bay—are part of the itinerary. However, there is a 3-euro entrance fee to Cleopatra Island, and drinks are not included.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, an onboard lunch is included, featuring chicken, salad, pasta, and fresh fruit. It’s generally well-received for the price.

Can I swim and snorkel during the stops?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are main activities, especially at Aquarium Bay and Black Island. However, the availability of snorkel gear and fish may vary.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen. Some stops allow for swimming, so be prepared.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially if your family enjoys casual, fun outings. Just be aware of the lively atmosphere and loud music.

Are there any restrictions or limitations?
The stops may not always match advertised activities, and some reviewer comments mention missing features like foam parties or specific snorkeling gear.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

In short, this Bodrum pirate boat trip offers a spirited day on the water with stunning scenery and good value, perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed yet lively experience with plenty of swimming and scenic stops. Just keep in mind the potential for some discrepancies between expectations and reality, and you’ll find it can be a memorable addition to your Bodrum adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: