Kusadasi Full-Day Boat Trip & BBQ

Imagine cruising along the stunning coastline of Kusadasi, Turkey, on a traditional boat, with turquoise waters inviting you to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy delicious food—all in a relaxed, friendly setting. Priced at around $76 per person, this full-day boat trip offers a mix of scenic beauty, engaging entertainment, and tasty local cuisine. Visitors typically spend from mid-morning to late afternoon exploring three different bays and beaches, with ample opportunities for swimming, lounging, and sampling Turkish treats.

What we love about this experience is how it balances active leisure with laid-back relaxation. First, the beautiful natural scenery—the bays, coves, and inlets of Kusadasi Gulf—are truly picture-perfect. Second, the onboard barbecue lunch offers hearty, flavorful Turkish dishes, making the trip feel like a genuine taste of local hospitality.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost of extras, such as drinks and souvenirs, which can be expensive on the boat’s shop. Also, since the tour involves swimming and lounging, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchairs. This cruise suits those who enjoy being on or near the water, appreciate good food, and want a relaxed day out with stunning coastal views.

This trip is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those craving a scenic adventure with a touch of Turkish culture and lively entertainment. If you’re after a stress-free day with plenty of swimming and good food, this cruise could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Sail through idyllic bays and coves of Kusadasi Gulf, perfect for photography and appreciating nature.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Comfortable, traditional cruise boat with deck space for sunbathing and enjoying the breeze.
• Swimming Opportunities: Multiple stops at natural beaches for swimming in clear turquoise waters.
• Delicious Turkish BBQ: Hearty lunch featuring fish, meatballs, chicken, salads, and fresh fruits.
• Entertaining Experience: Live music and belly dancing provide lively entertainment on board.
• Value Considerations: Onboard shop prices can be high; bringing your own snacks might save you money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It’s Structured

This full-day cruise is organized by the Ephesus Tour Company, starting at the Kusadasi boat port located on Guvercinada Cad. The tour begins in the late morning and ends around 5:00 PM, making it a manageable day trip for most travelers. The package covers the boat trip, delicious barbecue lunch, and live entertainment. However, alcohol, hot drinks, and transportation to/from your hotel are not included, so you may want to plan accordingly.

The day’s itinerary involves sailing in and out of three different bays and beaches. You’ll want to keep your camera ready—these are the spots where the natural beauty of the Aegean truly shines. The boat stops at each location, giving you time to swim, relax, and soak up the sun.

What Makes Each Stop Special

Each bay offers distinct scenery—some with calm, shallow waters ideal for families or less confident swimmers, and others more suitable for adventurous water lovers. Several reviews highlight the stunning nature of these beaches, with Lindsey mentioning, “The bays are lovely that you stop to swim in.” The natural beaches are often untouched, giving an authentic feel to your experience.

The Food: Turkish BBQ at Its Best

One of the highlights of this trip is the barbecue lunch served on board. Expect a generous spread of fish, meatballs, chicken, salads, and fresh fruits. Travelers frequently praise the quality of the food—Naomi simply states, “Great way to spend a day away from the hotels. Sun, sea, swimming & BBQ.” The onboard staff aim to provide a hearty, satisfying meal after a morning of swimming and relaxing.

Some guests, like Lindsey, point out that bringing your own food and drinks could be a smart move, as the onboard shop can be pricey. So, if you’re budget-conscious or have specific dietary preferences, packing some snacks might be worth considering.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The boat features live music and belly dancing, adding an energetic and cultural touch to the day. The music creates a lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or even dancing along. Many reviewers, such as Mihaela, express their enjoyment: “We maximum enjoyed! Well done guys!” The friendly, welcoming crew ensures everyone feels part of the fun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour departs in the late morning, with a return around 5 PM, so plan your day accordingly.
• Cost of Extras: Alcoholic drinks aren’t included, and souvenirs or extra drinks on the boat can be expensive.
• Mobility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
• Self-Preparation: Bringing your own snacks and drinks might save money and improve your experience.
• Booking: Reserve in advance, but keep your plans flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Several reviews add color to what you can expect. Boni notes, “The trip was great, the boat was nice and fun,” but also mentions that prices on GetYourGuide appeared inflated compared to what you actually pay on the boat. Steven reports a minor hiccup with transportation but still rates the experience highly, highlighting the spectacular bays and good food.

One less positive review from a GetYourGuide traveler mentions a smoking incident and nationalist music, which reminds us that onboard experiences can vary and might not suit everyone. However, overall, most travelers find the trip to be relaxing, scenic, and fun.

If you’re looking for a laid-back day on the water with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying Turkish cuisine, this trip fits the bill beautifully. It’s especially suited for families with children, couples seeking a romantic escape, or solo travelers wanting a casual break from sightseeing. If you enjoy lively entertainment and scenic coastlines, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a more active or culturally immersive experience, or if mobility is an issue, this might not be the best choice. The focus is on relaxation, natural beauty, and good food—ideal for unwinding.

The Sum Up

This Kusadasi full-day boat trip stands out as a great way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty, engage with lively local entertainment, and indulge in a traditional Turkish barbecue. The multiple swimming stops mean you can tailor your day—whether you’re a confident swimmer or just want to relax on deck. While onboard prices and minor logistical hiccups are worth noting, most travelers find the experience authentic, enjoyable, and well worth the cost.

For those craving a scenic, leisurely day on the water with friendly guides, delicious food, and spectacular views, this cruise delivers. It’s especially perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of the coast, a touch of Turkish hospitality, and a fun, relaxing escape from the busy city life.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, the trip is suitable for families, and children can enjoy swimming and relaxing on the deck. Just note that the boat and activities are generally family-friendly.

What should I bring with me? Consider packing sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and possibly some snacks or drinks if you want to avoid the onboard shop’s prices. Swimsuits and flip-flops are also recommended.

Are drinks included in the price? No, alcohol and hot drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase these separately if desired.

How long is the boat trip? The cruise runs from late morning until around 5 PM, giving you a full day of coastal exploration.

Where does the tour start and end? The meeting point is at the Kusadasi boat port on Guvercinada Cad. The tour concludes back at this same location.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, this experience isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel my reservation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Enjoy your trip along Kusadasi’s beautiful coast—this boat adventure might just become one of your favorite memories in Turkey.

You can check availability for your dates here: