Orakadasi Boat Tour From Bodrum (Maldives of Turkey) With Lunch

Taking to the water in Bodrum offers a refreshing way to escape the crowds and soak up some of Turkey’s most stunning coastlines. The Orakadasi Boat Tour promises a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in some of the area’s most unspoiled bays, along with a generous lunch and hotel transfers. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 110 reviews and praised by 94% of travelers, this trip seems to tick many boxes for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable day on the water.

One of the highlights we love is how diverse the stops are—each offering a unique scenery, from turquoise bays to rock formations. Plus, the crew is frequently described as friendly, helpful, and professional, which makes all the difference when you’re out on the water for hours. That said, a potential consideration is the occasional delay or confusion around pickup arrangements, which some travelers have noted. This tour especially suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a day of leisure, stunning views, and easy access to some of Turkey’s most beautiful swimming spots.

Key Points

• Value for Money: For around $25 per person, you get multiple swimming stops, lunch, and hotel transfers, making it a budget-friendly way to explore Bodrum’s waters.
• Varied Itinerary: Four main stops, including Orak Island Bay, Rabbit Nose Bay, and other tranquil spots, provide plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
• Comfortable Experience: Spacious double-deck boats with sunbathing and shaded areas help cater to different preferences.
• Authentic and Relaxing: The tour avoids the crowded beaches, offering instead peaceful bays with crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and photography.
• Positive Atmosphere: Many reviews highlight the friendly, helpful crew, and the well-organized schedule.
• Some Room for Improvement: Reports of delays, issues with pickup instructions, and basic lunch options suggest it’s a relaxed but sometimes imperfect experience.

A Deeper Dive into the Experience

Booking and Practicalities

The tour costs $25 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the full-day activity, lunch, and transfers included. Most travelers book about 18 days in advance, indicating good planning and popularity. The pickup service is offered from your hotel—an appreciated perk that spares you the hassle of finding the meeting point, especially if your hotel isn’t on the designated list. The meeting point is in Bodrum’s Kumbahçe area, with the tour starting around 10:15 am.

The group’s size is capped at 80 people, which helps maintain a lively but manageable atmosphere. The tour operates with a mobile ticket system, streamlining check-in, and the full-day schedule runs from around 11:00 am to late afternoon, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

The Boat and Onboard Comfort

The vessel used for this trip is described as spacious with a double-deck configuration—perfect for those wanting to catch sun or hide in the shade. Reviewers frequently mention the boat’s cleanliness and comfort, which make long hours at sea much more enjoyable. There are outdoor areas for sunbathers and indoor lounges for those preferring shade, a thoughtful touch for varying weather conditions or personal preferences.

The crew is composed of English-speaking staff, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. They are noted to go the extra mile, such as capturing photos or offering extra snacks, which enhances the overall vibe.

The Stops: What You’ll See and Do

The itinerary involves five main stops, each offering different scenery and activities:

Stop 1: Bodrum Harbour and Kzlburun
The trip begins with a scenic drive from your hotel to Bodrum harbor, where the boat departs around 11 am. The first stop is Kzlburun, a 30-minute cruise from the harbor. While it might seem short, this is a gentle way to start the day and get everyone familiar with the boat. Reviewers mention the trip is quick but smooth, and the boat’s outdoor and indoor setups are appreciated here.

Stop 2: Kzlburun Caddesi
This stop offers another 30-minute window for photos or relaxing on deck while the boat moves to the main attraction. It’s a peaceful moment before the more active swimming sessions.

Stop 3: Orak Island Bay
This is the highlight of the tour—a two-hour window at the stunning Orak Island Bay. Expect turquoise waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging. Reviewers mention the water is incredibly clear, although some note that even in May, the waters can be chilly—so bring a wetsuit if you’re sensitive to cold.

Stop 4: Rabbit Nose Bay and Tavan Burnu
The tour continues with a visit to Rabbit Nose Bay, with its dramatic gray rock formations, and then to Tavan Burnu, known for its tranquility. These stops total around three hours and are ideal for relaxing or exploring the surrounding landscapes.

End of Day: Return to Bodrum
The boat heads back in the late afternoon, and a transfer will take you back to your hotel. Many reviews express how the day leaves them feeling relaxed and filled with good memories, with some noting the trip is well-organized despite occasional delays.

Food and Refreshments

Lunch is included, featuring BBQ chicken, pasta, salad, and bread—“plentiful and tasty,” according to most reviews. Some mention it’s simple but satisfying, especially considering the price. Reviewers recommend bringing your own drinks or purchasing beverages on board, as drinks are not included. Fresh watermelon, tea, and biscuits are provided during the day, adding a thoughtful touch.

What Travelers’ Reviews Reveal

Many travelers highlight the friendly crew and beautiful scenery as standout features. One reviewer shared that Ali, a crew member, went above and beyond by taking great photos and reimbursing taxi costs, demonstrating the attentive service on board. The boat’s size and layout, with ample sun and shade, cater well to different preferences, making it a comfortable experience even for long hours.

However, some reviews mention logistical hiccups, such as delayed departures or confusion about pickup points, which suggests travelers should be prepared for some flexibility. The basic nature of lunch and the possibility of chilly water are minor points but worth noting if you’re a foodie or sensitive to cold.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to maximize their time swimming and sunbathing in Bodrum’s gorgeous bays without the hassle of arranging multiple activities. It suits families, couples, or solo explorers looking for an uncomplicated day of relaxation, with the added bonus of discovering some of the most beautiful underwater scenery Turkey has to offer.

If you’re someone who values friendly staff and well-organized logistics but doesn’t need gourmet meals or a perfectly on-time schedule, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s a flexible, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy the Aegean’s best spots, especially if you’re happy with simple lunches and sometimes a bit of unpredictability.

The Sum Up

The Orakadasi Boat Tour from Bodrum offers a charming, affordable way to explore the Aegean Sea’s best swimming and snorkeling spots. Its highlights are the friendly crew, the stunning scenery, and the variety of stops, making it perfect for travelers craving a relaxed day at sea. The boat’s comfortable layout, including shaded and sunny decks, ensures everyone can find their favorite spot.

While some logistical issues have been noted—like delays and basic lunch options—the overall experience is highly rated for value and authentic fun. Expect crystal waters, peaceful bays, and a lively atmosphere that makes your day feel special without breaking the bank.

This tour suits those who want to escape crowded beaches, enjoy some genuine swimming and snorkeling, and appreciate good company in a laid-back setting. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable adventure that leaves most guests with plenty of memorable moments, especially if you’re prepared for a casual, flexible day on the water.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easier to start your day without logistical stress.

What is the duration of the trip?
The full-day trip lasts about 6 to 7 hours, starting around 10:15 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages on the boat or bring your own.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket for the cooler water. Towels are recommended as the boat can get warm, and some areas are designated for sunbathing.

How many stops are there?
There are five main stops, including swimming in bays and exploring scenic landscapes, with a total of about 4 to 5 swim opportunities.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a simple lunch of BBQ chicken, pasta, salad, and bread is included, and reviews suggest it’s satisfying for the price.

What is the boat like?
The boat is described as spacious with outdoor sunbathing areas and indoor lounges, ensuring comfort during the trip.

How many people typically join?
The maximum group size is 80 travelers, keeping the atmosphere lively yet manageable.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, and some travelers bring their own gear.

In summary, the Bodrum Orakadasi Boat Tour is a fantastic choice if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and affordable day on the water. Expect friendly service, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities to cool off in turquoise waters—perfect for a laid-back escape in Turkey’s Aegean paradise.