The boat trip is the activity Marmaris does best, and the all-inclusive full-day version is the simplest way to see the bay. Boats leave in the morning from the harbour and motor out along a coast of pine-covered hills, rocky headlands and small beaches that cannot be reached by road. You stop three or four times during the day, usually at coves chosen for calm, clear water, and each stop lasts long enough for a swim, a snorkel or a few minutes on a sunbed. A freshly cooked lunch is served on board, normally a mix of grilled fish or chicken, salads, rice and fruit, and the price covers soft drinks and often alcoholic ones too, depending on the product. Many boats carry a kayak or a small slide, and the crew keeps a relaxed, social atmosphere. Between stops you sit on deck and watch the coast go by, which is half the pleasure. It is the easiest tour to book and the least demanding to do.
Boats range from older wooden gulets to larger, modern day boats. Gulet-style boats are quieter and more atmospheric; larger boats carry more passengers and tend to have more music and activities. The product we link is a full-day all-inclusive trip, so you can expect hotel pick-up from many Marmaris and İçmeler hotels, a morning departure and a return to the dock in the late afternoon.
Ask when you book which bays the itinerary includes, since boat captains adapt the route to the wind and sea state, and some boats include a visit to the sheltered bays around Cennet Island and Paradise Cove near Marmaris.
What to bring
Swimwear, a towel, sun cream, a hat, water shoes for rocky entries and a light layer for the breeze on deck. The sea is warm from June to September and cooler in spring and autumn, when the days are quieter and kinder to anyone who burns easily. Seasickness is rare in the sheltered bay but possible if the wind rises; the crew will advise on whether to take a tablet beforehand.
Boat trips are seasonal. Day boats typically run from April to October, with the busiest weeks in July and August when you should book ahead and expect a livelier crowd. Outside those months fewer boats sail, and some operators stop altogether. If you want a quieter day, choose a smaller boat or travel in May, June or September. The trip suits couples, friends and families with children who can swim; for something more themed and child-focused, look at the pirate cruise, and for deeper snorkelling consider the glass-bottom boat or a dive.
How to choose a boat
Look at the number of passengers, whether the vessel is a traditional wooden gulet or a modern day boat, what the lunch includes, and whether kayaks, a slide or snorkelling gear are available. Read recent reviews of the specific boat where you can, because quality varies more between boats than between itineraries. Families should ask about life jackets for children, and anyone who wants a quiet day should avoid boats that advertise music and parties. A morning start gives the longest time in the water.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day group boat trip with three or four swim stops, lunch on board and drinks included.
Best time
May to early October; July and August are busiest.
How long
About seven to eight hours including hotel transfers where offered.
Tips
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun cream and water shoes, and confirm the pick-up time the evening before.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a relaxed, first look at the coast.
- Families
- Good for children who swim; check the age policy and life-jacket arrangements with the operator.
- Couples
- Pick a smaller boat and travel outside July and August for a calmer day.
- Pair with
- Cleopatra Island, a Turkish bath the next day and dinner in the old town.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does an all-inclusive boat trip cover?+
Usually a buffet or barbecue lunch, soft drinks, and swim stops. Some trips include alcoholic drinks too; check what the product you choose lists.
Where do the boats stop?+
In coves and bays around Marmaris, chosen by the captain for calm water that day. The itinerary changes with weather.
When do the boats run?+
Mainly from April to October. Out of season, fewer operators sail and some stop entirely.
Do I need to be able to swim?+
No, but swim stops are the main activity. Non-swimmers can stay on deck or use a lifejacket in shallow water if the crew allows.
Is hotel pick-up included?+
Often yes, from many hotels in Marmaris and İçmeler. Confirm it when you book and check the pick-up time the evening before.