Bodrum: Orak or Black Island Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re visiting Bodrum and looking for a relaxing day on the water, this boat tour to Black or Orak Island offers a delightful mix of swimming, scenic views, and a tasty included lunch. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 100 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worth their while. The tour typically lasts around 6.5 hours, making it a perfect day trip for those eager to escape the busy town and soak in some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters.

What we love about this tour is the variety of stops—each offering something special. From hot springs in caves to pristine bays perfect for swimming, the itinerary feels well-designed to maximize both relaxation and adventure. The friendly crew and delicious food also score high points, helping make it a memorable outing.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour does involve multiple stops, which can mean a bit of a wait or change in plans if weather conditions shift. Also, alcohol and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard, so budget accordingly if you’re looking to indulge.

This experience tends to suit travelers who enjoy being on the water, love discovering scenic spots, and appreciate good-value meals and friendly service. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and explore.

Key Points

• Variety of swimming spots: From hot springs to crystal-clear bays, each stop feels unique.
• Inclusive lunch: A delicious meal at Aquarius Bay offers a nice break during the day.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views, especially around the bays and islands.
• Friendly crew: Many reviews mention the welcoming, helpful staff making the experience even better.
• Good value for money: With multiple stops, lunch, and drinks included, it offers a lot for the price.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

What to Expect on Your Bodrum Island Boat Tour

This boat trip combines fun, relaxation, and a taste of Turkey’s coastal beauty. The day begins with you meeting the crew at the Hotel Istankoy Boat on the left side of Bodrum harbor. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable boat, usually with a small group of fellow travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Black Island Hot Spring Cave: One of the highlights is the visit to the hot spring cave, where you can take a dip in warm waters known for their soothing properties. Several reviews emphasize how much travelers enjoy this stop, with Andrea noting it was “everything like in the description” and the crew being “nice.” The cave provides a unique experience—you can relax in the warm water while surrounded by striking rock formations.

Meteor Bay: Next, you’ll visit a spot where a meteor crashed long ago. This interesting geological feature offers both a swim opportunity and a chance to marvel at a natural artifact. William describes this as “very fun” and highlights the freedom to swim either with others or solo—a great option for those wanting a little personal space.

Aquarius Bay: The tour then makes its main lunch stop, where a buffet-style meal is served. Many reviews praise the food—Julia says, “Stops and lunch are very good,” and Hayley mentions the “delicious” food, which can include pasta, chicken, and fresh fruit. The bay itself is perfect for a refreshing swim in calm, clear waters after eating.

Red Bay: After lunch, the boat moves to Red Bay, where you can swim again and enjoy some complimentary fresh fruit. Guests often comment on the quality of the fruit and the relaxing atmosphere. It’s a laid-back stop that helps balance out the more active parts of the day.

Rabbit Bay: The final stop is at Rabbit Bay, a peaceful spot ideal for a relaxed swim or a quiet moment with tea and biscuits. Cecilia notes how much she loved the “crystal clear waters,” and William appreciates the opportunity to be “amongst other boats,” giving a lively yet peaceful vibe to the end of the day.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Bring

The tour price includes your boat trip, lunch, fresh fruit, tea, and biscuits. Alcoholic and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard, so remember to bring extra cash if you want to indulge. Water sports and entrance fees for caves or other sites are not included, so if that’s your thing, be prepared to pay additionally.

What to pack? Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and personal medication are all recommended. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with vertigo, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences You’ll Love

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Cecilia mentions, “The staff were super friendly,” which adds a lot to the overall vibe. The boat is described as “lovely and relaxing,” with Hayley noting it wasn’t crowded, making the experience more intimate.

The variety of scenic spots and the chance to swim in pristine waters make this tour a hit for lovers of nature and photography alike. William’s comment about the “stunning views” and Andrea’s appreciation for the “nice crew” reflect the overall positive impression most travelers leave with.

The included lunch is often praised—Julia recommends the stop, and Andrea mentions thanking the crew, implying they’re attentive to guests’ needs. The quality of the food, combined with the beautiful settings, provides excellent value for the price paid.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is a fantastic choice for those craving a full day of leisure and scenic discovery. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a mix of sightseeing and swimming without the hassle of organizing individual trips. Families, couples, and solo adventurers have all found this experience enjoyable.

It’s particularly appealing if you value good food, friendly service, and a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to unwind. Keep in mind that the tour involves multiple stops with plenty of swimming and some walking around the bays, so it’s ideal for active travelers who don’t mind a day of gentle adventure.

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape with stunning views and memorable water-based activities, this tour ticks many boxes. However, if you’re after high-energy water sports or exploring caves with entry fees, you might want to consider additional options.

FAQs

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or anyone with vertigo. Always check with the provider if you have specific safety concerns.

What should I bring with me?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and any personal medications. Water and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Does the tour include alcohol?
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard. Soft drinks are included, but if you prefer specific drinks, bring extra cash.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Entrance fees for caves or other sites are not included, nor are water sports equipment or extra drinks if you wish to buy them.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on the day.

Is the boat crowded?
Most reviews mention a comfortable, not overly crowded boat, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the reviews don’t specify dietary options, the lunch generally includes pasta and chicken. If you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s worth confirming with the provider beforehand.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially for families with children who enjoy swimming and outdoor activities. Just note that non-swimmers or those with vertigo should consider other options.

The Bodrum Orak or Black Island Boat Tour offers a well-balanced day of swimming, scenic views, and good food. Many travelers have praised the knowledgeable crew, beautiful stops, and the value of the overall experience. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Turkey’s coastal beauty without the stress of planning multiple activities.

If you love being on the water, want to explore hidden bays, and enjoy a relaxed pace with tasty meals included, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a day of peaceful discovery in Bodrum’s sparkling waters.

Whether you’re after a scenic escape or simply want to cool off in some of Turkey’s loveliest spots, this boat trip delivers a memorable and authentic experience you’re unlikely to forget.