Cleopatra Island Boat Trip, Lunch and Soft Drinks include ,from Marmaris

Exploring the Cleopatra Island Boat Trip from Marmaris: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of a day on the Turkish coast that blends stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and relaxing beach time, this Cleopatra Island boat trip might just be your perfect escape. Offered by Arbek Travel, this 8-hour adventure takes you across the Gulf of Gökova, where legend says Cleopatra herself bathed with Mark Anthony. It’s a journey packed with swimming, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying a tasty lunch—all with soft drinks included and the option for group discounts.

One of the aspects we really appreciate is how well-organized the tour appears, with timely hotel pickups and a smooth transition to the boat. The chance to indulge in multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters adds a refreshing element to the day. However, it’s worth noting that the entrance fee to Cleopatra Beach isn’t included and costs around 12 TRY per person, which is an extra expense to consider. This trip is a great fit for those who love a mix of history, nature, and leisure, especially if you enjoy being on the water and soaking up the sun.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation & Punctual Pickup: The tour begins with a hotel pickup, making logistics hassle-free.
• Multiple Swimming & Snorkeling Stops: With three main stops, you’ll get plenty of chances to cool off in beautiful waters.
• Historical & Natural Highlights: Explore Roman ruins and walk on sands believed to be sent from Egypt for Cleopatra.
• Tasty Included Lunch & Refreshments: Enjoy a well-prepared meal onboard, with soft drinks included—alcoholic drinks available for purchase.
• Flexible Time at Cleopatra Island: Spend around 3.5 hours on the island, with options to swim, sunbathe, or stroll.
• Capacity & Group Size: The tour caters to up to 65 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable group experience.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Pickup & Departure from Marmaris

Your day kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel around 9:00-9:30 am. The transportation is air-conditioned and runs smoothly, with a roughly 30-minute drive to the boat departure point at Çaml Bay. This initial transfer is straightforward and ensures you start your day relaxed rather than rushing.

Boarding & Setting Sail

At 10:00 am, you’ll board your vessel, which is described as comfortable—though the reviews note a generally well-organized setup that helps keep everyone at ease. As you leave Marmaris behind, you’ll begin cruising across the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Gökova, which are often praised for their vivid beauty.

First Stop: Cleopatra (Sedir) Island

Around 10:30 am, the boat anchors at Sedir Island, famous for its legendary connection to Cleopatra and Mark Anthony. Here, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore. Many travelers choose to purchase the entrance ticket to Cleopatra Beach directly on the boat, which costs approximately 12 TRY. The sands here are a major draw—small, smooth shells that supposedly were imported from Egypt for Cleopatra’s pleasure, which adds a romantic touch to the beach experience.

While some guests prefer to swim and sunbathe, others take a walk to the nearby Roman ruins, which lie just behind the beach. The waters are crystalline and ideal for snorkeling, with reviews mentioning how clear and inviting they are.

Lunch Break

Next, the boat anchors for a 1-hour lunch break. The onboard meal is described as tasty and satisfying, offering a good value considering the full day of activities. Drinks, however, are not included in the lunch but are available for purchase on the boat. The menu and exact offerings aren’t detailed, but previous guests appreciated the quality given the price paid.

Further Swimming & Exploration

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Incekum Bay, where a 45-minute swim stop allows guests to refresh. The waters here are tranquil, making it perfect for a quick dip before heading onward.

The next stops are Lacivert Bay and Rabbit Island, both renowned for their beauty. These spots offer 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat deck enjoying the scenery.

Return Journey & Final Stop

As the day winds down, around 5 pm, the boat docks back at Çaml Bay. The return trip includes one last swim stop, giving you the chance to soak up those last rays of sunshine before heading back to Marmaris.

End of the Tour

Upon arrival in Marmaris, the tour concludes with a quick transfer back to your hotel or designated drop-off point. The overall experience, as noted in reviews, is smooth and well-paced, allowing you to relax and enjoy without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Enchanting Legends & Scenic Waters

The story of Cleopatra’s sands and her supposed bathing spot adds a layer of historical allure that makes this trip stand out. While the sands themselves are a natural wonder, the romantic stories associated with them give a sense of stepping back into history.

Multiple Swimming Stops

The three distinct swimming and snorkeling spots ensure that you’ll get plenty of time in the water. Reviewers mention how the crystal waters are ideal for both swimming and snorkeling, with some noting the waters are crystal clear—a perfect compliment to the stunning coastal views.

Food & Drinks

An onboard lunch provides good value for a day tour, especially considering the included soft drinks. Guests highlight the decent quality of the meal, which is satisfying after a morning of sightseeing and swimming.

Flexibility & Relaxation

With about 3.5 hours on Cleopatra Island, you have enough time to stroll, relax, or explore the Roman ruins. The availability of sunbeds and a beach bungalow for refreshments makes the experience more comfortable, though you should be prepared to purchase any additional drinks or snacks.

Practical Details & Insights

Transportation & Timing

The hotel pickup ensures a stress-free start, with most travelers being picked up early in the morning. The entire day runs smoothly according to the schedule, with departure at 10 am and return around 5 pm. The total duration of about 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Capped at 65 travelers, this tour strikes a balance between lively group energy and intimacy. It’s large enough to feel social but small enough to have personalized moments, especially at the stops.

Price & Value

At approximately $44 per person, this trip offers a lot of value—especially considering the multiple stops, an included meal, and soft drinks. The extra cost for Cleopatra Beach entrance is modest but worth considering if that’s a priority for your visit.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One reviewer praised the trip as “very well organised,” mentioning that the pick-up was on time and the food was okay for the price. They also highlighted the enjoyment of swimming in the clear waters, which makes it clear that the water quality and scenery are key highlights.

Another guest enjoyed the scenery and multiple stops for swimming, noting that the food and Cleopatra Island were “wonderful,” even if small. These insights reinforce that the mix of historical curiosity and relaxing beach time is a winning combination for many.

The Sum Up

This Cleopatra Island boat trip from Marmaris offers a well-rounded day filled with natural beauty, a touch of history, and plenty of opportunities to relax in the water. The combination of scenic cruising, multiple swimming stops, and a satisfying onboard lunch makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking a leisurely exploration of the Gulf of Gökova.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, appreciate a mix of cultural storytelling, and want a full day of relaxation without sacrificing comfort or organization. While it may involve a small additional expense for Cleopatra Beach entry, the overall value and authentic experience make it a worthwhile addition to your Turkish holiday.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and culturally tinged day out, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—especially if you love stunning coastal views and a good swim.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making transportation convenient and stress-free.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

How many swimming stops are there?
There are three main swimming and snorkeling stops: Incekum Bay, Lacivert Bay, and Rabbit Island, plus the initial swim at Cleopatra Island.

What does the onboard lunch include?
The lunch is described as tasty and satisfying, with soft drinks included. Specific menu details aren’t provided, but reviews suggest good value.

How much does Cleopatra Beach entrance cost?
The entrance fee is around 12 TRY per person, payable on the boat if you wish to visit Cleopatra Beach.

Can I explore the Roman ruins?
Yes, during your time on Cleopatra Island, you can visit the nearby Roman ruins, which are within walking distance of the beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
While snorkeling gear is not explicitly mentioned as included, travelers often bring their own or plan to purchase gear locally.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 65 travelers can join this tour, allowing for a lively but manageable group atmosphere.

In all, this Cleopatra Island boat trip delivers a delightful mix of scenery, history, and relaxation—an authentic way to enjoy the Turkish coast and one that’s well worth considering for your Marmaris itinerary.