Marmaris: Cleopatra Island Boat Trip with Lunch and Transfer

Experience the unspoiled beauty of Cleopatra Island and its surrounding bays on this 7-hour boat trip from Marmaris. For $40 per person, you’ll enjoy three swimming stops, a traditional Turkish lunch, and the comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour also visits highlights like Fine Sand Bay, Deep Blue Bay, and Lighthouse Island, making it a well-rounded day at sea.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines relaxation and exploration. The clear waters at Cleopatra Island and the chance to walk among Roman ruins are genuinely special, especially in a setting that feels far removed from crowded tourist spots. Plus, the friendly guides and included soft drinks make it a comfortable, hassle-free day.

One thing to keep in mind is the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island (13 TL), which isn’t included in the tour price. Also, since it’s a boat trip, it’s worth considering your comfort with motion on the water, particularly if you’re prone to seasickness. This trip is perfect for travelers looking for a blend of scenic beauty, light history, and leisurely swimming.

If you enjoy being on the water, exploring peaceful beaches, and having a flexible schedule, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Marmaris visit.

Key Points

• Unspoiled Cleopatra Island offers Roman ruins, a peaceful atmosphere, and a famous beach loved by Queen Cleopatra herself.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in clear waters at bays like Fine Sand Bay and Deep Blue Bay.
• All-inclusive value with hotel transfer, lunch, and soft drinks, making it a convenient day out.
• Flexible free time on Cleopatra Island to explore or relax as you wish.
• Guided experience with friendly guides speaking English, Russian, and Turkish.
• Additional costs like the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island (13 TL) are not included, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Cleopatra Island Boat Trip

The Departure and Transfer

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which we found to be straightforward and punctual. The transportation is included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating to the departure point yourself—whether you’re staying in central Marmaris or nearby areas, the pickup is a hassle-free way to start your day. The journey to the port takes about 20-30 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and get excited for the day ahead.

Once at the port, you’ll board a boat—often described as a comfortable vessel suited for a group, but not crowded. The crew is generally friendly and helpful, setting a welcoming tone for the day.

The First Stop: Fine Sand Bay

Your first destination is Fine Sand Bay, located within the Ince Kum National Park. The name says it all: a beautiful stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling. The reviews mention that the water here is especially inviting, with one traveler noting that they spent a relaxing, peaceful time there, and the water’s clarity made snorkeling particularly enjoyable.

This stop gives you a taste of the natural beauty without feeling rushed. You’ll have enough time to swim, explore the underwater world, and soak in the scenery—an experience that many find refreshing after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Second Stop: Deep Blue Bay

The next stop is Deep Blue Bay, named for its notably darker, deeper waters. It offers a different experience: a chance to see a more dramatic, less shallow part of the coastline. The water’s depth creates a vibrant color, and the scenery surrounding the bay is stunning, with green mountains framing the vista.

Guests appreciate these varied stops, as they break up the day and provide different environments for swimming and relaxing. As one reviewer pointed out, this bay’s deep waters made it an ideal spot for a peaceful swim away from the busier tourist areas.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Highlight: Cleopatra Island

Midday is reserved for Cleopatra Island itself, a highlight of the trip. Access to the island involves a small entrance fee (13 TL), which isn’t included in the package, so be prepared for that. Here, you’ll find a famous beach that Queen Cleopatra allegedly loved visiting, along with Roman ruins and charming cafeterias.

Visitors often comment on the tranquility of the island—it’s a place where you can stroll among ancient remains or simply relax on the sands. The beach is well-maintained, with clean facilities and toilets. The free time here typically lasts around 2 hours, which is enough to explore the ruins, grab a snack, or just unwind with your feet in the sand.

Lighthouse Island and Return

After visiting Cleopatra Island, the boat heads to Lighthouse Island, a more secluded and quiet spot where you can sunbathe or swim. It’s a peaceful finale to the day, with fewer crowds and more space to relax.

The return trip to Marmaris is smooth, with the crew making sure everyone’s comfortable. The shuttle buses will take you back to your hotel, ending a day filled with scenic beauty, light adventure, and good company.

What to Expect: Practical Details

The entire trip lasts about 7 hours, which includes transfers, boat time, and free time on the islands. The tour operates with live guides speaking English, Russian, and Turkish, providing useful commentary and ensuring you know what you’re seeing. The price includes lunch and unlimited soft drinks, so you can enjoy a refreshing beverage throughout the day, though alcohol isn’t included.

Since the experience is suitable for most travelers, the boat’s size and stops are designed to be accessible. Just remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and sunglasses. The tour explicitly states that drinks are not allowed onboard, but soft drinks are provided. Plus, it’s worth noting that the tour is flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Reviews Confirm the Experience

Travelers consistently praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer called it an “incredible tour at an amazing price,” highlighting the peacefulness of Cleopatra Island and the diversity of stops. Others appreciated the easy pickup and the good value for the price, especially considering the included lunch and soft drinks.

There’s also recognition that the water clarity makes for excellent snorkeling, and the timing allows enough free time on the island for exploration without feeling rushed. The addition of a historical touch with Roman ruins is a nice bonus for those interested in a little cultural flavor amid their beach holiday.

Considerations and Tips

A couple of points to consider include the entrance fee for Cleopatra Island, which adds a small extra cost. Also, if you’re sensitive to boat movement, you may want to take seasickness precautions, especially in choppier waters. The tour is a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing day on the water.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day out without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. If you love swimming in beautiful waters, exploring historic sites, and enjoying scenic boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here. The relatively short free time on Cleopatra Island is enough for a quick visit, so those hoping for a detailed historical tour might want to look for something more specialized.

For anyone seeking an uncomplicated, affordable way to enjoy Marmaris’s coastal beauty, this boat trip offers a good balance of leisure and scenic discovery.

The Sum Up

This Cleopatra Island boat tour from Marmaris balances affordable pricing with a memorable experience, blending relaxation, light history, and stunning scenery. The included hotel transfers and lunch make it a convenient choice for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day. You’ll appreciate the friendly guides, the diverse stops, and the crystal waters that invite you to dip in and unwind.

It’s especially ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at sea, with enough variety to keep things interesting. While the entrance fee to Cleopatra Island is an extra, most travelers agree that the overall value is good, given the scope of the trip and the natural beauty you’ll encounter.

If your idea of a perfect day involves floating in clear waters, exploring ruins, and basking in the sun, this tour provides a straightforward way to experience some of Marmaris’s best coastal spots without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the whole trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, from pickup to return.

What is the price, and what does it include?
The tour costs $40 per person and includes the boat trip, a guided commentary, lunch, and unlimited soft drinks.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, there’s a small entrance fee for Cleopatra Island (13 TL), which isn’t included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen for comfort and protection.

Is alcohol available on the trip?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included or permitted onboard, but soft drinks are unlimited.

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

Is this suitable for children?
Most likely, yes. The stops are relaxed, and swimming is optional, but always consider your family’s comfort with boat trips.

How crowded does it get?
The boat tends to be less crowded later in the season or off-peak, offering a more peaceful experience. Some reviews mention that visiting at the end of September meant fewer people.

This boat trip from Marmaris offers a practical, scenic, and restful way to enjoy the coast, perfect for those seeking a laid-back day with a touch of history and plenty of time in the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: