Marmaris Boat Tours: Routes, Bays and Practical Tips
The most enjoyable way to discover Marmaris is a full-day boat tour. Setting off from the marina and its surroundings, the boats combine the bay's hidden coves, crystal-clear swimming stops and sea caves in a single day. Here are the best-known routes and what to know before you go.
The classic bay tour
The most common programme starts in Marmaris and works its way around the inner coves towards İçmeler, Kumlubük and Turunç. Through the day there are usually 30–40 minute swimming and rest stops at spots such as Paradise Island (Cennet Adası), Aquarium Bay and the Phosphorus Cave. Boats mostly leave around 10:00 in the morning and return to the harbour in the late afternoon; lunch is included on most tours.
The Sedir (Cleopatra) Island tour
Famous for its Fine Sand Beach — whose sand, according to legend, was brought from Egypt — Sedir Island is one of the region's most special stops. This tour usually departs from Çamlı village, about 25 km from Marmaris, and runs daily between April and October; it typically starts around 09:30 and finishes in the late afternoon. Because the island's sand is protected, laying towels directly on the sand is not permitted — keep this detail in mind.
Before you set off
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and hat; shaded areas can be limited.
- Water shoes are very useful when swimming at pebbly coves.
- Carry cash; cards aren't always accepted for drinks and extras on board.
- If you get seasick, choose a seat in the middle of the deck.
The advantage of location
Most day tours leave from Marmaris marina and the area just above it. Staying in the old town, a few minutes' walk from the marina, makes it very easy to catch the early morning tours. The stone houses of 8 Oda Marmaris sit right at this central spot.