Icmeler: Day-Cruise to Cleopatra Island & Gokova Bay

Icmeler: Day-Cruise to Cleopatra Island & Gokova Bay

If you’re looking for a full day of sunshine, swimming, and scenic views along Turkey’s Aegean coast, this 8-hour boat trip from Icmeler might be just what you need. For around $42, you’ll hop on a first-class Turkish boat, travel through crystal-clear waters, and explore some of the most captivating spots in the Gulf of Gökova. Expect to visit Incekum Beach, Cleopatra Island, and Dark Blue Bay, with opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a freshly grilled barbecue.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of the open sea with several laid-back stops in nature’s best spots — especially the chance to walk around the ruins on Cleopatra Island, and the calming waters of Dark Blue Bay. Plus, the inclusion of hotel transfers makes the day hassle-free. On the flip side, the entry fee to Cleopatra Island isn’t included, which might catch some off guard, so bring some cash if you want to explore the ruins or grab a snack.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of swimming, light history, and scenic cruising, and who don’t mind a bit of a boat ride. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing day out will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes
• Multiple swimming stops including Incekum Beach and Dark Blue Bay
• Historical exploration at Cleopatra Island ruins
• All-in-one day with lunch, transfers, and guided commentary
• Limited entry fee not included, so plan accordingly
• Ideal for travelers seeking a balance between relaxation and adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Icmeler Day-Cruise: Cleopatra Island & Gokova Bay

Heading out from Icmeler, this cruise offers an inviting blend of natural beauty, history, and fun. It’s designed to be an 8-hour escape that takes you through some of the region’s most stunning waters, with plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy Turkish hospitality. Here’s what you can expect.

Starting Point: From Icmeler to Camli Harbour

The day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel or apartment, conveniently included in the price. The buses are air-conditioned, making the half-hour drive to Camli Harbour quite comfortable even in the heat. We appreciated the smooth transition from hotel to boat, with clear instructions about pickup times, which helps keep the day stress-free.

Once at Camli, you’ll board your double-decker wooden boat—a charming vessel with sunbeds on top, perfect for relaxing while cruising. The boat is first-class, and the crew is friendly, speaking English, Turkish, and Russian, so communication is easy.

The First Swimming Stop: Incekum Beach

The trip officially begins with a 60-minute swim break at Incekum Beach, a designated National Park famed for its fine sand and spotless, transparent waters. This is a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging with a drink. The reviews mention that Incekum is “very popular in the region for its crystal clear waters,” and you’ll understand why as you float in the gentle waves.

This stop is particularly good if you enjoy natural beaches without crowds, and it sets the tone for the relaxing day ahead. You get about 40 minutes here, which is enough to dip in, explore the shallow waters, or snap some photos of the scenery.

The Lunch Break: Fresh Barbecue on Board

Midday, everyone gathers on the boat for a delicious barbecue lunch. The menu includes BBQ chicken, salad, pasta, and fresh bread — simple but satisfying, especially after a swim. You can also enjoy soft drinks, which keep you refreshed in the warm sun.

The lunch is included, making this part of the experience good value; however, some reviews mention that additional treats like crisps or ice-cream aren’t included, so if you have a sweet tooth or want extra snacks, bring some extra cash.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cleopatra Island: Walk Among Ancient Ruins & Relax on the Sand

After lunch, the boat heads toward the highlight: Cleopatra Island. You’ll have about 3 hours on the island itself, giving plenty of time to explore. The island is famous for its white sandy beaches and the ancient ruins, including a small amphitheater and fortifications.

History buffs enjoy strolling around the remains, imagining Queen Cleopatra lounging here centuries ago. Most visitors find this part intriguing, especially since you can walk across the famous sandy beach, often called the “Turkish Maldives,” with its soft, warm sand.

Some reviews note that “apart from the ruins, there are cafeterias and toilets,” making it a comfortable spot to relax. The freedom to swim or just lounge makes Cleopatra Island a memorable stop. Keep in mind that entry fee to the island isn’t included in the tour price, so you might want to have some cash ready.

Dark Blue Bay: The Deep Blue Escape

The final swim stop takes you to Lacivert Bay, or Dark Blue Bay, known for its deep, dense blue waters. This location is popular among yachters and boaters, and it’s the perfect place to reflect on the day while floating in the serene, cool water. The high visibility and vibrant color of the bay are why it’s a favorite among photographers and sea lovers.

Returning to Icmeler

After a relaxing couple of hours, the boat turns back toward Camli Harbour and then to Icmeler. The journey back is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights while enjoying the sea breeze. The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, swimming, sightseeing, and food.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

One standout feature of this cruise is the knowledgeable crew and guides. Even if they aren’t giving detailed historical lectures, their friendly attitude and helpfulness make the experience more enjoyable. We loved the way they handled the boat smoothly, ensuring everyone felt comfortable.

Another highlight is the balance of active and relaxing moments. Whether you’re snorkeling at Incekum Beach, exploring ruins, or lounging on Cleopatra’s sands, the day’s pacing suits travelers who want variety without feeling rushed.

However, a consideration is the additional cost for Cleopatra Island’s entry fee. Some travelers might find it inconvenient if they weren’t expecting to pay extra, but overall, the value is good considering the included lunch, transfers, and multiple scenic stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers yearning for a relaxed day on the water. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, historical sites, and moderate physical activity like swimming or walking. The boat’s leisurely pace and scenic stops make it especially appealing if you want to see the highlights of Gökova Gulf without strenuous travel.

If you enjoy snorkeling, seaside exploration, and fresh seafood, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s also a good choice if you prefer organized, all-inclusive day trips that handle the logistics so you can focus on soaking up the scenery.

The Sum Up: Who’s It Best For?

This boat trip from Icmeler to Cleopatra Island and Gokova Bay offers a well-rounded day of swimming, history, and stunning views. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to experience Turkey’s beautiful coastline without the hassle of organizing multiple transport and meal options themselves. The included BBQ lunch and hotel transfers add convenience, while the stops at Incekum Beach, Cleopatra Island, and Dark Blue Bay provide enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

Travelers who enjoy laid-back days in nature, with opportunities to cool off in pristine waters and explore historical ruins, will find this tour fits well into their itinerary. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic experiences and comfortable surroundings, rather than high-adrenaline adventure.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and reasonably priced cruise that captures the essence of Turkey’s coast, this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour includes free pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or apartment, usually from the main security gate.

How long is the boat trip?
The total experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, swimming stops, lunch, and free time on Cleopatra Island.

What’s the price?
The tour costs approximately $42 per person, which includes lunch, soft drinks, and transfers. The Cleopatra Island entry fee is not included.

What should I bring?
You should bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for extras.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian alternatives are available for lunch; just request this at booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind the boat ride and walking around ruins may need supervision for very young children.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems or wheelchair users, as some walking and boatboardings are involved.

---

This cruise offers a delightful slice of Turkey’s coast, blending natural beauty, history, and relaxation. It’s a memorable way to spend a day, especially if you’re eager to see the best of Gökova Bay without too much fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: