Antalya/Kemer: Porto Genoese Boat Trip and Mud Bath w/ Lunch

If you’re seeking a day that combines scenic boat cruising, relaxing mud baths, and a taste of authentic Turkish hospitality, the Antalya/Kemer Porto Genoese Boat Trip might be just what you need. This full-day adventure, lasting about 7 to 8 hours, takes you from Antalya’s coast to some of Turkey’s most breathtaking bays—Akseki Bay, Porto Genoese, and Korsan Bay—with hotel transfers included if you choose that option.

On this trip, you’ll enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, mud bathing in a fun, messy experience, and sampling a tasty lunch onboard. It’s a well-rounded day aimed at travelers craving authentic, more intimate experiences away from crowded tourist spots.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit secluded coves where the waters are so clear you’ll want to bring your snorkel gear, and the small group size (max 35 people) ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Plus, the delicious Turkish lunch and tea & fruit onboard make the day feel like a generous, well-organized outing.

One thing to consider is that the bus ride to the port can be around two hours and might involve some waiting at crowded parking areas—so don’t expect a quick hop. This is best suited for those comfortable with a longer transfer and looking for a more personal, less commercial experience.

This trip appeals most to travelers who appreciate authentic scenery, good value, and a relaxed vibe—and who aren’t bothered by a bit of travel time to get there.

Key Points

• Secluded Bays: Visit Akseki Bay, Porto Genoese, and Korsan Bay with plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
• Authentic Experience: Small group boat (max 35 people) for a more personal, boutique-style adventure.
• Fun Mud Bath: Enjoy the playful mud experience, followed by rinsing off in the sea—great for skin and laughs.
• Delicious Turkish Lunch: Fresh fish and local flavors served onboard, plus tea and fruit.
• Transport & Timing: Around 2-hour transfer to the port, with hotel pickup available, and about 7-8 hours total.
• Considerations: The journey can be long, and the parking area at the port is crowded, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting the Day: Transfers and Breakfast

The trip begins with a pickup from your hotel in Antalya, Lara, or Belek if you opt for the hotel transfer option. Expect to wait at the outside security area of your hotel, with drivers arriving several hours before the tour departs around 10:00 AM. The transfer to the port involves roughly a two-hour ride, so a light breakfast or snack before departure might be wise, especially if you’re not stopping at the breakfast restaurant en route.

A helpful tip from reviewers: “Take a picture of the bus plate number” because the port parking area gets crowded, making it tricky to find your vehicle later.

The Boat Ride: Smaller Boats, Intimate Atmosphere

Once at the port, you’ll board a small, boutique-style boat—a big plus for those who dislike large, crowded vessels. The reviews highlight that these boats are family-owned, making the environment more relaxed and personal. Expect a cruise of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with three main stops for swimming and relaxing.

The boat is equipped with lunch and snacks, and you’ll get to enjoy Turkish tea and fresh fruit—a simple but thoughtful touch that keeps you energized. The boat crew generally speaks English and Russian, with guides translating important info at each stop, ensuring everyone stays in the loop.

Akseki Bay: Wild but Beautiful

The first stop is Akseki Bay, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim and unwind. The waters here are more wild, with sea urchins visible on the sea floor, making it a prime spot for snorkelers. “Nice to snorkel and watch but not to touch,” as one reviewer noted.

This stop offers a taste of more natural, less touristy scenery. It’s perfect for those who love to explore marine life up close, though it’s less suited for small children or those with mobility issues due to the rocky bottom.

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Porto Genoese Bay: The Main Attraction

Next is the star of the trip, Porto Genoese Bay—a true highlight. Reviewers rave about its breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. You’re given about an hour here, plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy the environment.

Here, you’ll also indulge in a delicious Turkish lunch. Many describe the fish, especially fried dorada, as cooked to perfection, emphasizing the quality of the onboard food. You’ll also get to try the mud bath, which is more fun than functional—a bucket of mud you slather on yourself, followed by rinsing off in the sea. As one reviewer said, “getting covered in mud and washing it off was great fun!” and it leaves your skin feeling surprisingly smooth.

Korsan Bay: A Final Swim and Relaxation

After a breezy 25-minute cruise, the boat arrives at Korsan Bay for the last swim break of about 40 minutes. This is a great spot to unwind, take photos, and soak in the peaceful surroundings, all while relishing the cool waters.

Ending the Day: Return Transfers

After the final swim, the boat heads back towards the port, and the bus begins the roughly two-hour return journey. The trip ends back at your hotel or the original meeting point, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights and experiences.

Authenticity and Value

This tour’s appeal lies in its balance of natural beauty, intimate group size, and cultural authenticity. Unlike crowded, large-group excursions, this boat trip emphasizes personalized attention and high-quality scenery. The reviews consistently mention good value for money—you’re not just paying for the boat ride but also for delicious food, a mud bath, and multiple scenic stops.

While the long transfer may seem like a drawback, it’s a small price to pay for access to these hidden bays and the chance to enjoy Turkey’s coast away from the crowds. The small boat size and family-run atmosphere add to the authenticity, making it more than just a touristy cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and nature, and are looking for a relaxed, authentic day out. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate vibe rather than a large, commercialized tour. If you appreciate delicious local food, mud bathing, and stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Antalya, Lara, or Belek. Just be ready at the outside security area, and be aware that drivers might arrive several hours before the tour departs.

How long is the transfer to the port?
The transfer takes approximately two hours. This means the overall experience is about 7-8 hours from pickup to return, so plan your day accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. If you plan to snorkel, bring your gear, though it might be available on the boat. Also, a bottle of water for the bus journey can be helpful.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch, along with tea and fruit, is served onboard. Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or additional beverages if desired.

Is the mud bath worth trying?
Absolutely—reviewers find it fun and a good skin treatment, with some saying it leaves their skin very smooth. Just be prepared to rinse thoroughly afterward.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy swimming and mud baths should have a good time. However, those with mobility issues or claustrophobia might find the long bus transfer or certain stops challenging.

Final Thoughts

This Porto Genoese Boat Trip with Mud Bath and Lunch offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s coastline—its clear waters, secluded bays, and local flavors. With a small group atmosphere, you’re more likely to relax and enjoy each stop rather than just ticking boxes. The delicious lunch, fun mud experience, and multiple swimming spots make it a well-rounded day.

It’s perfect if you value authentic scenery, good value, and a personal touch, especially for travelers who prefer avoiding overly crowded tours. The longer transfer might not suit everyone, but for those willing to spend a little extra time on the road, the reward is a memorable day spent in some of Turkey’s most beautiful spots.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day in nature, a fun family outing, or a chance to explore Turkey’s secret coves, this tour has the ingredients for a satisfying adventure. Just remember to bring your sense of humor for the mud!

You can check availability for your dates here: