Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch

Taking a boat trip to the Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island remains a popular choice among travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a dash of history while visiting Marmaris. This tour, offered by TOURMANIA, promises a full day of sun, sea, and stories, all for around $41 per person. But is it worth your time and money? We’ve gathered detailed insights, mixing the glowing reviews with practical info, to help you decide whether this excursion fits your travel style.

What we love most about this tour include the chance to swim in clear waters, the chance to relax on Cleopatra Island’s legendary sands, and the opportunity to explore Roman ruins without the crowds. The included BBQ-style lunch and comfortable boat rides make for a well-rounded adventure.

A potential downside? The trip involves a fair amount of travel time—about 7 to 8.5 hours—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day activities. Also, be prepared for some optional fees, like the Cleopatra Island entrance fee, which isn’t included in the base price.

Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or just looking for a scenic day out, this tour offers enough variety to satisfy most travelers. Let’s unpack what makes this experience worth considering—and where it might fall short.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenic Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of Gokova Bay and turquoise waters, ideal for photo lovers.
• Relaxation & Fun: Multiple stops for swimming and sunbathing, with plenty of time to unwind.
• Historical Exploration: Discover Roman ruins on Cleopatra Island, including an amphitheater and ancient fortifications.
• Great Value: The combination of boat rides, food, and sightseeing at this price point offers solid bang for your buck.
• Included & Optional Costs: Lunch is included, but the Cleopatra Island entrance fee (~13 euros) is separate.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel transfers, a guide, and a well-organized schedule make for a smooth experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Departure & Transportation

The trip typically departs from hotels in Marmaris and Icmeler, with hotel pick-up included—a significant plus for hassle-free planning. The transport to the departure point involves a short bus ride, usually about 30 minutes, which some guests found to be a minor inconvenience but manageable considering the overall convenience.

Once onboard the boat, the journey begins with a relaxed atmosphere. The vessel is spacious enough to prevent overcrowding, as some reviews noted, and boasts multiple levels, including sunbeds on the upper floors for lounging or catching rays during the ride.

The Itinerary: Stops & Highlights

The adventure kicks off with a couple of swimming stops before reaching Cleopatra Island—first at Incekum Bay and then near Fenerli Island. These breaks are perfect for cooling off in the inviting turquoise waters, which is a recurring highlight among reviewers. One guest, Hiran from the UK, mentioned, “The stops before and after Cleopatra were better than the crowded Cleopatra beach,” emphasizing how these less popular spots can often be more enjoyable.

The main event is Cleopatra Island, where you’ll have more than three hours of free time. Here, the famous sands, believed to have been imported by Mark Anthony for Cleopatra, await. The sands are a major draw. They’re so fine and shiny that the beach was declared a National Conservation Area, with strict rules against removing any sand.

Guests are encouraged to explore beyond the main beach. One reviewer, Joanna, advised, “Make sure you walk around it and not just stop at the famous beach, as the view from the amphitheater is stunning.” The Roman ruins and old fortifications are still visible, offering a glimpse into history amid natural beauty.

After soaking up the sun and exploring the ruins, travelers can stroll through the olive groves or relax on the soft sands. The admission fee for Cleopatra Island (around 13 euros) is not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly if you plan to enter.

Lunch & Onboard Comfort

A highlight for many is the lunch served on the boat. The menu typically includes chicken, spaghetti, and salad, with options to purchase extras like prawns or fish. Reviewers, including Amana from Australia, praised the lunch, noting it was “better than expected” and suitable for a boat meal.

The lunch is served in a relaxed setting, accompanied by soft drinks included in the price—brand names such as Coke, Fanta, and water. Some guests mentioned that the food was simple but tasty, perfect for refueling after swimming and exploring.

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Swimming & Additional Stops

On the return leg, there are extra opportunities to swim in clear waters at Dolphin Bay and other nearby spots. One reviewer, April, appreciated the “short journeys between stops,” which kept the trip lively without long periods on the boat.

The boat is equipped with sunbeds and shaded areas, making it comfortable whether you prefer basking in the sun or relaxing out of direct heat. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, with some light music enhancing the experience.

End of the Day & Return

The tour wraps up around 6 pm, giving you a full day out. The last swimming stop offers a good chance to cool off before heading back to Marmaris, where hotel drop-offs are typically arranged.

Real Traveler Insights & Practical Tips

• Guide Quality: Guests, including Firas and Carina, highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, which enhances the overall experience.
• Crowd Levels: Many guests found the boat not overcrowded, especially compared to other tours, allowing for comfortable sunbathing and socializing.
• Value for Money: Reviewers repeatedly mention that the cost is justified given the variety of stops, the included lunch, and the scenic views.
• What Not to Expect: Some reviews mention optional costs like additional drinks or the Cleopatra Island entrance fee, so keep your budget in mind.

Additional Considerations

• The duration of 7 to 8.5 hours means you’ll need to be ready for a full day, which might be tiring for some.
• The admission fee for Cleopatra Island is separate from the tour price, so plan to budget about 13 euros if you want to explore the ruins.
• The lunch might not be gourmet but is filling and suitable for a day out on the water.
• The boat’s age was mentioned as slightly outdated by some, but this doesn’t seem to impact comfort or safety.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxed days on the water with multiple swimming opportunities. History enthusiasts will appreciate the ruins on Cleopatra Island, while beach lovers will adore the sands. It’s perfect for families, groups, or couples looking for a scenic, value-packed day with minimal hassle.

If you’re someone who prefers shorter trips or wants a more exclusive experience, you might find this tour a bit crowded or basic. But for most, it offers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural interest.

Final Thoughts

The Gulf of Gokova and Cleopatra Island Boat Trip offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and leisure. The well-organized schedule, friendly guides, and tasty lunch make it a top choice for many visitors to Marmaris. While it may not be the most luxurious or exclusive experience, the value for money and authentic vibe more than compensate.

This tour suits those who want to soak up Turkey’s natural beauty without fuss. Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear seas, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing on a legendary beach, this trip covers all the bases for a memorable day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Marmaris and Icmeler, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for the swimming stops, as you’ll want to enjoy the water. Sunscreen and hats are advisable to protect from the sun.

How long is the trip?
Expect around 7 to 8.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and sea conditions.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a chicken, spaghetti, and salad meal is served on board. Extra options like seafood can be purchased separately.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for Cleopatra Island (~13 euros) is not included and must be paid separately if you want to explore the ruins.

Is the boat crowded?
Most reviews mention that the boat is not overly crowded, providing space for sunbathing and relaxing comfortably.

This tour stands out as a well-priced, scenic, and culturally interesting day trip from Marmaris—perfect for those seeking a mix of fun, sun, and history in Turkey’s beautiful Gulf of Gokova.

You can check if your dates are available here: