Orak Island Cruise from Bodrum Swim in Turquoise Bays

Imagine drifting along the turquoise coast of Bodrum, stopping at secret coves and pristine islands, with plenty of space to unwind and soak up the sun. This 6-hour boat trip offers a calm, unhurried way to experience some of Turkey’s most stunning waters, far from the crowded tourist spots.

What we love about this cruise? First, the spacious and comfortable boat makes a huge difference—no squeezed-in crowds here. Second, the exclusive access to hidden bays like Pabuc Burnu and Rabbit Bay guarantees peace and tranquility, away from the tourist hustle. Lastly, the longer swim breaks and a sumptuous onboard lunch elevate the experience from a typical boat tour to a relaxing floating escape.

A possible consideration? The tour doesn’t include alcohol or soft drinks, so if you’re craving a cold beer or soda, you’ll need to bring your own. It’s best suited for those seeking a laid-back, nature-focused day rather than a party cruise, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a serene day out.

Good To Know

• Comfortable boat with limited guests ensures a relaxing experience.
• Exclusive stops at hidden bays for swimming, snorkeling, and peace.
• Extended swim breaks allow ample time to enjoy the clear waters.
• Delicious onboard lunch with local ingredients and vegetarian options.
• Calm, friendly atmosphere suited for relaxation, not partying.
• Passes by Bodrum Castle provide scenic views from the water.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This cruise strikes a balance between comfort, natural beauty, and a laid-back vibe. Unlike many boat outings that cram as many people as possible onto a vessel, this tour caps at 30 guests, ensuring plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or find a quiet corner shaded from the sun. We loved the way this creates a more intimate, peaceful environment—perfect for unwinding or quietly chatting with your travel companions.

The boat itself is described as spacious, with ample sunbeds and shaded areas, plus clean facilities. These details matter because they significantly improve your comfort, especially on a day that could otherwise feel rushed or crowded. One reviewer even noted, “Plenty of room to lay out on the top deck with cushions provided,” which speaks to the thoughtful setup aimed at relaxation.

The tour’s access to less-visited bays is another highlight. While many boat trips stick to popular spots, this one ventures beyond the usual route, stopping at Pabuc Burnu and Rabbit Bay, known for their tranquility and crystal-clear waters. These secluded locations are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in the peace of nature. As one guest put it, the bay on Orak Island is “a giant natural aquarium,” making it perfect for a bit of floating and exploring marine life.

Extended stops are a highlight, especially at Orak Island, where you get around two hours to enjoy swimming and snorkeling—much longer than typical quick dips. Reviewers shared how this gives enough time to truly enjoy the environment rather than rushing through. One noted, “It was a great swim location and the crew was entertaining,” emphasizing that the experience isn’t just about the scenery but also the friendly service.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Bodrum Castle (Pass By)

From the start, you get a fantastic view of Bodrum Castle, which rises majestically between the bays. The boat passes by this landmark, giving everyone a chance to snap photos of this iconic sight from the water—the perfect opening shot of your day. While it’s just a pass-by, it sets the scenic tone for the trip.

Stop 1: Orak Adasi

The star of the tour, Orak Island, offers the longest stay—about two hours. Its bay resembles a natural aquarium, with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are so transparent you can see the marine life beneath you, making it a top highlight. One reviewer called it “beautiful swim locations” and appreciated the longer stop that let them genuinely enjoy the environment.

This stop isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about the quality of the experience. The natural surroundings are untouched, and the waters are warm and inviting. The extended time allows you to float, explore marine life, or simply relax on the boat’s sunbeds, soaking up the tranquility.

Stop 2: Pabuc Burnu

Next, the boat heads toward Pabuc Burnu, a peaceful spot shaped like a shoe (hence the name). Surrounded by pine trees and bathes in bright blue waters, it’s ideal for a quick dip or a peaceful moment on the boat. Guests describe it as a “refreshing” place, perfect for a cooling swim before moving on to the next stop.

The shallow waters here are warmer and gentle, making it suitable for families or less confident swimmers. The quiet setting offers a break from the more crowded spots, giving you space to unwind and take photos of the scenic pine-lined coastline.

Stop 3: Rabbit Bay

The final swim spot, Rabbit Bay, offers soft sandy shores and shallower, warmer waters—great for relaxed floating or building sandcastles if you’re traveling with kids. One review called it “the perfect spot to relax,” noting the calm environment and friendly crew.

The bay is smaller and intimate, so it’s ideal for unwinding after a day of swimming. The shallow waters also make it safer for children or less experienced swimmers, providing a perfect spot to dip your toes before heading back.

Return to Bodrum

After a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty, the boat heads back towards the marina around 6 p.m. Passing Bodrum Castle once more, you’ll watch the sunset over the water—a fitting end to a peaceful day. The last leg takes about 30 minutes, allowing you to soak in the scenery one last time.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the tour is a delicious onboard lunch, with fresh, local ingredients and vegetarian options. This floating picnic is a highlight, as it allows you to dine with a view—freshly prepared and served directly on the boat.

What’s not included are soda, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, so if you want to toast your day or cool down with a cold drink, you’ll need to bring your own. This is a smart move by the tour operator, focusing on providing a relaxed experience without the party atmosphere.

Practical Details You Need to Know

• Meeting Point is at Prenses Yasemin Yacht, Kumbahçe, Bodrum, with the tour starting at 11 a.m.
• The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, wrapping up around 6 p.m.
• The boat accommodates up to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, unhurried atmosphere.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers; confirmation is received at booking, and most can participate.
• The price is around $30 per person, which is excellent value considering the stops, meals, and overall experience.
• The tour is booked an average of 25 days in advance, indicating good demand for this popular trip.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Past Guests

Reviewers highlight the peaceful, unhurried vibe of this cruise. One shared, “No title,” mentioning the “entertaining crew” and how there’s plenty of room on the deck to lounge, which really enhances the relaxed feeling.

Another guest pointed out that the boat’s name differed from their confirmation, which could cause some confusion, but the overall experience more than made up for it, emphasizing the importance of clear communication for future travelers.

Many appreciated the long swim stops, which allow you to really enjoy the waters, rather than just a quick dip. The natural beauty of the bays and the calm atmosphere make this an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quiet, scenic day on the water.

The Sum Up: Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is a real treat for travelers craving a peaceful escape. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who want to enjoy nature without the noise of a party atmosphere. The focus on comfort, tranquil bays, and good food creates a day that feels indulgent yet accessible.

If you love stunning water, secluded spots, and a laid-back vibe, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the extended stops and small-group setting. It’s ideal for those who want to sample Bodrum’s coast without the hustle, soaking up the scenery in a gentle, friendly environment.

FAQs

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 11 a.m. and ending around 6 p.m., including stops and travel time.

Is there a limit on the number of travelers?
Yes, the tour accommodates a maximum of 30 guests, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of space.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, stops at several bays, a freshly prepared onboard lunch with vegetarian options, and the scenic boat trip itself.

Are drinks included?
No, soda, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages are not included, so bring your preferred drinks if desired.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Prenses Yasemin Yacht, Kumbahçe, Bodrum. The tour departs at 11 a.m. from this point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the shallow bays make it suitable for children, especially at Rabbit Bay.

What if I have trouble finding the boat?
One reviewer noted confusion over the boat’s name, so it’s advisable to confirm details beforehand and look for the boat with the staff at the designated meeting point.

This Bodrum cruise offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, comfort, and relaxed fun. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day with plenty of swimming or simply want to enjoy the views and good food, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Turkey’s stunning coastline.