Boat Tour to Orak Island

Exploring Bodrum’s “Turkish Maldives” by Boat: A Detailed Review of the Orak Island Tour

When it comes to enjoying Bodrum’s coastline, hopping on a boat tour is an experience many travelers treasure. This particular Boat Tour to Orak Island promises a full day of fun, turquoise waters, and picture-perfect scenery, all wrapped into around six hours of sailing, swimming, and relaxing. The tour is operated by Morning Tour Travel Services, known for their reliable service and friendly guides, and offers a taste of what some call the “Turkish Maldives”—more than just a catchy nickname, it’s an apt description of the stunning, clear waters you’ll encounter.

What really caught our eye about this tour is its impressive value for money. For just over $33 per person, you get not only the boat ride but also three different swimming stops, a hearty onboard lunch, and the convenience of a mobile ticket that makes booking straightforward. That said, it’s worth noting that drinks—both soft drinks and alcohol—are extra, so if you’re planning to toast to your trip, bring some cash along.

One consideration to keep in mind is the timing—the tour starts at 10:30 am, and its success depends heavily on weather conditions. However, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with peace of mind. This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, sea swimming, and relaxed days on the water, especially if you’re after an affordable yet comprehensive day trip.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $33.52 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially with three swimming stops and a full lunch included.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: The itinerary includes three distinct bays—Orak Adasi, Yaliciftlik Beach, and Kargicak—each offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Flexible and Convenient: The tour is booked via mobile ticket, with a start point easy to reach in Bodrum, and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• All-Day Fun: With approximately six hours of sailing, swimming, and relaxing, it’s ideal for those wanting a full-day ocean experience.
• Limited Included Drinks: Soft drinks and alcohol are extra, so plan accordingly if you want beverages on board.
• Positive Feedback: The one available review rates it a perfect 5 and highlights the crystal-clear water, comfortable loungers, tasty meal, and relaxed vibe.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Throughout the Day

Start Point and Departure:
The tour begins at Ezgi 4 in Bodrum at 10:30 am. This is a straightforward meeting point, close to the Bodrum waterfront, making it convenient whether you’re arriving by foot, taxi, or shuttle. The group size is capped at 50, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

Passing the Castle:
As the boat pulls away from the harbor, you’ll get a glimpse of Bodrum Castle from the water—an iconic site that makes for great photos early in the journey. It’s a nice way to set the scene and get excited for the day ahead.

Stop 1: Orak Adasi (Orak Island):
After about an hour of cruising, you’ll arrive at Orak Island, known for its striking bay. Here, you’ll have roughly two hours to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The waters are calm and transparent, perfect for spotting fish or just enjoying the sensation of floating in a natural aquarium. The tour crew, including guides, will assist with snorkeling gear and give tips for the best spots. One reviewer loved the “crystal blue transparent water” and appreciated having plenty of time for swimming.

Lunch Onboard:
A tasty meal is served during this stop, featuring chicken, salad, and spaghetti. The food is described as healthy and flavorful, perfect after some swimming. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that adds great value to the overall experience, especially considering the price.

Stop 2: Yaliciftlik Beach (Rabbit Bay):
Next, the boat pulls into Yaliciftlik or Rabbit Bay for a one-hour swim break. This spot is quieter and offers another tranquil bay for relaxing in the water or lounging on the boat. The relaxed pace here allows you to unwind and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Stop 3: Kargicak (German Bay):
The final swim stop is at Kargicak Bay, also called German Bay, for about two hours. The water here is just as inviting, with plenty of space for swimming and snorkeling. The reviewer noted that the group’s guides—though unnamed—were friendly and helpful, ensuring everyone was comfortable and safe.

Return and End:
After the last stop, the boat heads back to Bodrum, arriving in the late afternoon. The trip wraps up at the original meeting point, leaving plenty of time to explore the town or continue your adventures.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Guided and Easy:
The tour includes a guide, which makes the experience smoother and more informative. While no specific guide names are provided, the positive review underscores the friendly staff, who helped ensure everyone was comfortable, especially during snorkeling.

Comfort and Convenience:
The boat itself is a 35-meter double-deck vessel, providing ample space for lounging and moving around. Cushioned loungers and relaxed music create a chilled-out vibe that many travelers find ideal for unwinding. The boat’s design caters well to a relaxed, all-day experience, with enough space to spread out.

Weather and Cancellation:
Being a water-based activity, the tour is weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, the activity can be canceled with a full refund, or a reschedule offered, providing reassurance for planning.

Group Size and Atmosphere:
With a maximum of 50 travelers, the atmosphere is likely to be friendly and laid-back, without feeling overly crowded. This makes it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed day on the water.

The Value of This Tour

For just over $33, this boat trip packs a lot of bang for your buck. With three swimming stops, the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters, and a filling onboard meal, it offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to explore Bodrum’s coastline. The reviews highlight the great value, with one calling it “such good value for money,” emphasizing the quality of the water, the comfort of the loungers, and the tasty meal.

Compared to more expensive tours that might only cover one or two stops, this itinerary hits a good balance of variety and relaxation. The inclusion of a guide adds to the experience, helping less confident swimmers or first-timers get the most out of their day. Although drinks are paid separately, bringing your own or purchasing on the boat is simple, and the focus remains on the stunning natural scenery and the fun of swimming in pristine waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting an affordable, all-day boating experience with plenty of swimming opportunities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy relaxing in the sun, snorkeling, and exploring multiple bays without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. If you prefer a laid-back atmosphere and value a good meal along with scenic views, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water. The small group size and friendly guides make it more personable than some larger, crowded boat trips. Just keep in mind, if you’re expecting a lively party or drinks on board, you might need to bring extra beverages as they are not included.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a lunch with chicken, salad, and spaghetti is served on board, providing a satisfying meal during the day.

Are drinks included?
No, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are extra, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if desired.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, including sailing time, swimming, and dining.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Ezgi 4 in Bodrum at 10:30 am and returns to the same point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed nature makes it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers. However, always consider swimming and boat activity if traveling with very young children.

In summary, the Boat Tour to Orak Island offers a fantastic way to experience Bodrum’s stunning coastline without breaking the bank. Its combination of multiple swimming stops, a tasty onboard meal, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes it a solid pick for anyone wanting a full day on the water. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, this tour manages to deliver it all—making it a memorable part of your Bodrum trip.