From Icmeler: Turkish Aegean Coast Boat Trip with Lunch

Introducing the Icmeler Turkish Aegean Coast Boat Trip with Lunch

This comprehensive review covers an engaging full-day boat trip along Turkey’s stunning Aegean coastline, departing from Icmeler. Priced at around $42 per person, this adventure promises a mix of scenic beauty, relaxing swimming spots, cultural sights, and a hearty BBQ lunch onboard.

One of the key elements we love about this tour is the well-maintained boat with excellent onboard facilities, including sunbeds, toilets, showers, and a bar—making it a comfortable and enjoyable day out. The itinerary’s highlights, especially the stops at Jesus Beach, Selimiye Bay, and Dlicé Island (Toothy Island), are genuinely picturesque and offer a good balance of swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

However, a potential consideration is the timing and group size—at around 8 hours, it’s a full day that might be a bit long for travelers seeking a more laid-back, shorter experience. This tour is perfect for those who love a mix of sightseeing, cultural charm, and water-based fun, especially if you appreciate a guided trip with food and drinks included.

If you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed day on the water with a friendly crew, this trip will suit travelers who want to see some of Turkey’s best bays, islands, and volcanic formations without fuss. It’s particularly ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of local beauty with added comfort.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Soft drinks, wine, beer, tea, coffee, and a BBQ lunch mean you don’t need to worry about extra costs.
• Varied Stops: From swimming at Jesus Beach to exploring Kameliya Island and Dlicé Island’s volcanic rocks, each stop offers unique scenery.
• Expert Guides: Friendly crew and guides provide useful insights and keep the atmosphere lively and informative.
• Comfort & Facilities: The boat’s two decks, toilets, showers, and sunbeds ensure a comfortable trip.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ideal for flexible planning.
• Value for Money: At $42, this full-day experience covers transportation, meals, drinks, and guided commentary, making it a competitive choice.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Convenient Hotel Transfers & Arrival

The tour begins with hotel pickup from key locations like Icmeler, Armutalan, Siteler, or Marmaris City Center. The modern, comfortable shuttle takes you to the port, where you are greeted by friendly crew members. This setup means you avoid the hassle of organizing transport yourself—a major plus for travelers unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer a stress-free start.

The Boat & onboard amenities

The vessel itself is described as first-class and well-maintained, with two spacious decks. You’ll find toilets, outside showers, and sunbeds—perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. The onboard bar serves soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, and tea/coffee, so you can sip your favorite beverages as you cruise along. The crew, fluent in English, Turkish, and Russian, are praised for their helpfulness, making you feel at home from the moment you step aboard.

Itinerary Breakdown

Hisarönü Bay: After about a 30-minute drive from the pickup point, your adventure kicks off at Hisarönü Bay. Here, you’ll find a sheltered, scenic bay with calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The calmness of this spot makes it ideal for relaxing, especially for families or less confident swimmers.

Jesus Beach: Known for its sandbank that makes you feel like you’re walking on water, this stop is a highlight. Visitors get an hour here, which is enough time for a dip, some sunbathing, or a quick walk on the sand. It’s a fun, visually striking spot that visitors say they enjoy for its unique natural feature.

Selimiye Bay: Our next swim stop is at Selimiye Bay, which locals love for its peaceful setting and the chance to see Turkish villas, some owned by celebrities. The 30-minute break here offers another chance to swim in clear waters or explore the small village surroundings. The natural beauty and tranquility of this bay make it a favorite for many travelers.

Kameliya Island: This island is a real highlight. It features an ancient church ruin accessible via rocky steps, along with roaming rabbits and goats. The presence of wildlife that you can feed adds a charming, authentic touch. The 60-minute stay allows plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the relaxed island vibe.

Dlicé Island (Toothy Island): The most visually distinctive stop, Dlicé Island is famous for its volcanic rocks that look like giant teeth. This spot is ideal for diving, climbing, and photography. The unique formation provides an unforgettable backdrop and a perfect setting for some adventurous fun.

Aquarium Bay: The final swimming stop, offering 30 minutes in calm waters. It’s a good place to cool off before heading back to the port. The calmness and natural beauty of Aquarium Bay provide a peaceful end to the water stops.

The Lunch & Drinks

The onboard BBQ lunch, which includes chicken, pasta, salad, and garnishes, is widely appreciated. Reviewers mention the generous portions and the overall quality, especially coupled with drinks of your choice—wine, beer, soft drinks, or tea/coffee. Having such a substantial meal included makes this tour feel like great value, especially since it spares you the hassle of finding a decent restaurant during a busy day.

Returning & Flexibility

After the last swim, the boat returns to port, and the shuttle takes you back to your hotel. The flexible cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind, especially if weather or plans change unexpectedly.

Practical Details & What to Pack

To get the most from this trip, bring essentials like sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and your camera. Snorkeling gear is allowed if you prefer your own equipment, though they don’t include it. The boat’s facilities allow for a comfortable day, but it’s advisable to wear suitable clothing and footwear for the stops and boat deck.

What Makes this Tour Stand Out?

The combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and included meals makes this trip appealing. The detailed itinerary covers diverse locations, from relaxing bays to volcanic formations, giving travelers a well-rounded experience of Turkey’s coast. The authentic feel of Kameliya Island with its wildlife and ruins, along with the unusual volcanic “teeth,” adds a layer of excitement.

The reviews reinforce the positive impression: guests highlight the helpful staff and quality of the guided commentary, making sure everyone knows what they’re seeing and doing. The inclusion of wine and soft drinks, along with a meaningful lunch, ensures you stay refreshed and energized throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Icmeler is an excellent choice for those seeking a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on a well-equipped boat. The variety of stops ensures you’ll see some of the most photogenic and authentic spots along Turkey’s Aegean coast. While it is a full-absorption experience, the comfort, convenience, and value for money make it suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone looking to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.

If you’re after a fun, picturesque, and hassle-free day on the water, this trip offers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural charm—delivered by a friendly crew and guided commentary, making every moment memorable.

FAQ

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 9 am, with flexible check-in times depending on availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Icmeler, Armutalan, Siteler, and Marmaris City Center, in a comfortable shuttle.

What should I bring?
Pack essentials like sun protection (sunscreen, hat), swimwear, a towel, a camera, and snorkel gear if you wish. It’s also smart to bring some cash for optional extras.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes all soft drinks, wine, beer, and hot beverages like tea and coffee, served throughout the day.

Is lunch vegetarian available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available and should be requested when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.