Marmaris: Dalyan, Turtle Beach, and Kizilkum Bay Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a day that combines scenic boat rides, relaxing beaches, and a taste of Turkey’s natural and archaeological treasures, this tour from Marmaris might be just what you need. It’s a full 11-hour adventure that takes you through some of the most iconic spots along the Aegean Coast—think crystal-clear waters, ancient tombs, and the chance to bathe in mud to feel rejuvenated.

We like that this excursion offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, leisure, and unique experiences — especially for those who enjoy being on the water and exploring remote beaches. The highlight for many is the opportunity to see the rock-cut tombs of Kaunos and relax on the famous Turtle Beach. One possible drawback? The day is long, so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and a preference for organized, group activities rather than spontaneous wandering.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see multiple highlights in one day, especially if they enjoy boat trips, nature, and archaeological sites. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a well-rounded, hassle-free experience along Turkey’s scenic coast will find this tour a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines boat cruise, beach time, and sightseeing in a single day.
• Authentic highlights: Includes the rock tombs of Kaunos and Turtle Beach, known for its nesting loggerhead turtles.
• Relaxation and fun: Swimmers will love Kizilkum Bay’s clear waters and the mud bath experience.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to join without logistical worries.
• Value for money: Includes lunch, boat amenities, and entry fees for mud baths.
• Good for active travelers: The itinerary involves some walking, swimming, and a full day’s commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Marmaris: Dalyan, Turtle Beach, and Kizilkum Bay Tour in Depth

Starting the Day: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from Marmaris, covering four pickup locations including Armutalan, Çmeler, Siteler, and Marmaris itself. This is a friendly touch that saves you from figuring out transport and adds a layer of comfort. You’ll then head to the Marmaris harbor where your boat awaits, ready to take you on a day filled with sights and leisure.

The boat itself is well-equipped, offering sunbeds, showers, toilets, and a bar. This setup means you can relax comfortably between swims and sightseeing, which is crucial for a day that spans roughly 11 hours. The trip is operated by Pukka Travel Agency, with guides speaking English, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

The Scenic Cruise: A Breath of Fresh Sea Air

The first leg of the cruise lasts about 2 hours, as you glide across the blue waters of the Mediterranean. We loved the way the boat’s open deck allows everyone to soak up the sun and enjoy the views. Keep your camera handy; the scenery is striking, with rocky coastlines and sparkling waters.

A common comment from travelers is the peacefulness of these moments. “We loved the way the boat was laid out, with plenty of space to relax,” one review noted. This initial cruise sets a tranquil tone, perfect for unwinding after your busy mornings.

Dalyan and the Rock Tombs: Ancient Marvels

Arriving in Dalyan, you get about an hour to explore the village and take in the sights, including the famous rock tombs of Kaunos. These tombs are carved into cliffs, dating back thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the area’s archaeological richness. Many appreciate this stop for its historical significance and the backdrop of lush greenery.

Your guide may share insights into the history, but even just admiring the cliffside tombs and the surrounding nature makes for memorable moments. As one traveler put it, “Seeing those ancient tombs against the green cliffs was magical.”

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Lunch and Relaxation at Dalyan

Following this, you’ll enjoy a delicious onboard lunch—a key highlight of the tour, considering the length of the day. The food is generally well-received, providing a chance to refuel before the next segment.

Kaunos and Free Time

Next, you’ll stop at Kaunos, a small archaeological site where you can spend about an hour wandering around ruins and taking in the views. The combination of nature and history here is compelling, and many visitors find it a peaceful place to reflect and take photos.

Turtle Beach and the Mud Baths

The trip then continues to İztuzu Beach, better known as Turtle Beach. This long stretch of golden sand is famous for hosting loggerhead turtles nesting. It’s a protected area, and you might see some turtles if you’re lucky.

Here, you’ll have about an hour for swimming, sunbathing, and if you choose, trying the mud bath experience. Many describe the mud as feeling fun and rejuvenating, with some claiming it helps you “feel younger” and more refreshed.

Return Journey and Final Relaxation

The last cruise back is roughly 2 hours, giving ample opportunity to reflect on the day, chat with fellow travelers, or simply soak in the stunning coastline. The boat amenities and the scenic views make this part of the tour quite relaxing.

Upon returning to Marmaris, the drop-off is straightforward, often at the original pickup points, making logistics simple.

Is This Tour Worth It?

From a value perspective, this tour offers a comprehensive package. You’re paying for an all-day experience that includes transportation, guided commentary, entry fees, lunch, and the mudbath—all bundled into one price. The convenience of a guided trip means you don’t have to worry about navigating or planning each stop yourself, which adds to its appeal.

Reviewers often comment on the professionalism of the guides and the well-organized nature of the trip. One noted, “It was nice not having to figure out transportation or worry about schedules—everything was planned out smoothly.”

However, it is a long day, with plenty of activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days of sightseeing and group travel. Seasickness might be a concern for sensitive travelers, as the cruise involves some open water sailing. Also, drinks from the bar are not included, so budgeting for extras is advisable.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is better suited for active, curious travelers who love a mix of nature, history, and beach time. It offers a satisfying glimpse into Turkey’s coastal beauty and archaeological sites without the hassle of arranging multiple trips. Families, couples, or solo visitors with a spirit for adventure will find it a good investment in their Turkey itinerary.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day lounging on a single beach or a self-guided exploration, this might not be your best choice. But if you want a well-rounded, engaging day, complete with swimming, sightseeing, and local culture, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting with a pickup from your hotel and ending with drop-off back at your accommodation.

What are the main stops included?
The tour includes a boat cruise from Marmaris, a visit to Dalyan to see the rock tombs, a stop at Kaunos archaeological site, relaxation at Turtle Beach (İztuzu Beach), and swimming in Kizilkum Bay.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a meal is included onboard, giving you a chance to enjoy some local flavors mid-day.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, swimming is possible at Kizilkum Bay, Turtle Beach, and during the cruise. The boat provides sunbeds and facilities to relax while in transit.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and capture memories.

Are drinks from the bar included?
No, drinks from the bar are not included, so plan to purchase your beverages if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children or people prone to seasickness?
The tour is not recommended for those prone to seasickness, and children’s suitability depends on their comfort with full-day trips and boat travel.

How is the group size?
While not specified, group tours like this typically have a moderate size, allowing for a friendly atmosphere and easy interaction with guides.

What is the cost relative to the experience?
Given that the price includes transportation, activities, entry fees, and lunch, it offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

In sum, this boat tour from Marmaris offers an engaging blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines, archaeological sites, and wildlife in a single, well-organized day. Perfect for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring historic sites, and taking a break on stunning beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: