Olympos : Daily Islands Boat Trip with Lunch

A day on the water in Antalya’s stunning coastline offers more than just a pretty view. For around $113, you’ll spend roughly 6.5 hours exploring some of the most intriguing and scenic spots in the region—from pirate-histories to pristine coves—with a friendly guide, a hearty lunch, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. Starting from Olympos Beach, this boat tour provides a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and hidden gems.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances adventure with comfort. The stops at Ceneviz Cove and Aquarium Cove highlight the underwater wonders, including chances to see sea turtles and Mediterranen seals. Plus, the visit to Sazak Cove and Lover’s Cave offers a sense of secluded paradise that’s hard to find elsewhere. On the flip side, a potential downside might be the group size—up to 35 people—which could reduce the feeling of intimacy for some travelers.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who love swimming and snorkeling and those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path spots. If you’re looking for a day that mixes scenic views, cultural tales, and time on the water, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo adventurers wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s diverse marine life and stunning coastlines.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and natural coves make for memorable swimming and snorkeling spots.
• Lunch included offers a filling meal of fresh fish or chicken with salads and pasta.
• Stops at unique locations like Sazak Cove and Lover’s Cave provide a sense of adventure and discovery.
• Group size up to 35 ensures a lively, social atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if you change your plans within 24 hours.
• Multilingual guides enhance the experience, making it accessible for international travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Olympos Islands Boat Trip

This tour starts early, with a meeting at 10:00 AM at Olympos Beach, a spot famous for its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. From there, the boat—comfortable, with safety gear provided—sets sail for a day packed with crystal-clear waters, rugged coves, and fascinating tales.

First Stop: Porto Ceneviz (Pirate) Cove

Our journey begins with a 1.5-hour stop at Ceneviz Cove, a perfect introduction to the day’s aquatic delights. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, this private harbor was once a pirate refuge, which adds a hint of adventure to your swim. Calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling, and you might find the mud on the beach beneficial for skin—something locals have long sworn by. As one reviewer shared, “We loved the way the water stayed so still here, making it easy to float and see fish underwater.”

Second Stop: Aquarium Cove

Next, it’s off to Aquarium Cove, where the water’s clarity truly lives up to its name. Here, you’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of fish and perhaps even spot a Caretta-Caretta sea turtle. The water is so clear that swimming here feels like floating in an enormous, natural aquarium. During this time, lunch is served onboard—a choice between fresh fish (sea bass or bream) or chicken, along with salads, pasta, and green beans. The food is simple but satisfying, and the setting makes it feel like a picnic by the sea. Some travelers mentioned that drinks are available for purchase, so bringing a water bottle is wise.

Third Stop: Sazak Cove

Voted a hidden paradise, Sazak Cove is only accessible by boat or 4×4, which keeps it quiet and pristine. The two-hour swimming break here is the highlight for many, offering soft golden sands and clear waters. One reviewer noted, “Sazak felt like discovering a secret spot, far from the crowds, with the best swimming of the day.” The cove also features a freshwater well, adding a touch of local authenticity.

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Final Stops: Lover’s Cave and Return to Olympos

The last stop is Lover’s Cave, a fascinating natural formation where you can swim and free dive. Legend has it that passing through the hole inside the cave three times can grant wishes—perhaps a fun tradition to try! After about 1.5 hours, the boat heads back, returning to Olympos Beach around 4:30 PM.

The Experience in Detail

This tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the sea’s embrace in some of the most beautiful spots along Antalya’s coast. The group size of up to 35 ensures a lively atmosphere, but it also means you’ll want to arrive early to secure a good spot on deck, especially during the popular stops like Aquarium Cove.

The itinerary is well-paced, balancing swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. You get ample time at each location—generally around an hour—so you’re not rushed. The lunch is included, which is a bonus considering some similar trips charge extra for meals. The beverages, however, are an additional expense, so pack some water or buy drinks on board.

Many reviewers praised the friendly guides and well-maintained boats. One said, “The guides made sure everyone was safe and had fun, sharing stories about the region’s history and marine life.” During the stops, you’re free to snorkel, float, or just soak up the sun—depending on what you’re after.

Practical Tips

• Bring a swimming towel and snorkeling gear if you have your own; though gear might be available, it’s best to use your own for comfort.
• Dress in light, quick-drying clothes and wear plenty of sunscreen.
• The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• The boat departs promptly at 10:00 AM, so arriving on time is crucial.
• Children under 2 are free, making this a good family outing, but always check the group size if traveling with very young children.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for adventurous souls and nature lovers. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or exploring secluded beaches, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families with children who are comfortable in the water will appreciate the calm coves, while those interested in photography will enjoy capturing the stunning scenery and marine life.

However, if you prefer a more laid-back, land-based experience or dislike boats, this might not be the best choice. Also, consider that additional costs for drinks and the need to bring your own swimming towel might be a factor for some.

Final Thoughts

This Olympos Islands Boat Trip offers a well-rounded taste of Antalya’s coastal treasures. The combination of scenic coves, marine life, and delicious lunch makes for a memorable day that balances adventure with relaxation. The stunning views and good value for money are consistently praised, making this an attractive option for travelers wanting an authentic, active day on the water.

While the group size could feel a bit crowded for some, the lively atmosphere and variety of stops more than compensate. It’s a trip that captures the essence of Mediterranean adventure—crystal waters, beautiful landscapes, and stories of pirates and legends woven into each stop.

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a full day of exploration and fun at sea, this tour will serve up plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, it’s a chance to see a side of Turkey that’s both beautiful and uniquely welcoming.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts about 6.5 hours, from 10:00 AM to around 4:30 PM, including time at each stop.

What is included in the price?
Your price covers lunch (fish or chicken, salad, pasta, green beans) and 3 o’clock tea. Beverages are extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What should I bring?
Bring swimming towels, snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Is it suitable for children?
Children aged 0-2 are free, and those aged 2-6 get half-price tickets. Kids should be comfortable swimming and enjoy water activities.

What about safety?
Life jackets and all safety measures are provided onboard, and the guides are experienced and multilingual.

How many people are on the boat?
The boats accommodate up to 35 guests, creating a lively but manageable group size for everyone to enjoy.

This full-day boat tour from Olympos offers a fantastic way to explore Antalya’s coast with stunning scenery, marine encounters, and a hearty meal—a true highlight for anyone eager to experience the Mediterranean’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: