If you want to enjoy both the sea and a cultural exploration surrounded by nature during your Marmaris vacation, the Dalyan Boat Tour offers a great alternative. Iztuzu Beach, home to caretta carettas, mud baths, the ancient Kaunos Rock Tombs, and the breathtaking views along the Dalyan River make this tour unforgettable.
This tour starts in the morning with hotel pickup for participants from Marmaris and nearby areas and continues throughout the day, offering the opportunity to experience both nature and history. You can cool off during the swim breaks, explore Dalyan by boat, and enjoy a local lunch.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed information about the Marmaris Dalyan Boat Tour route, stops, what to expect, and frequently asked questions. If you want to add a touch of discovery and nature to your Marmaris vacation, this tour is perfect for you.
Top Dalyan Boat Tours – No Regrets
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- Dalyan River Cruise, Turtle Beach & Mud Baths from Marmaris (one of the best boat trips with over 250 very good reviews)
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- Dalyan Cruise: Iztuzu Beach, River Cruise and Mud Bath from Marmaris and Icmeler
Why Visit Dalyan?
Dalyan is famous for its unique Dalyan river, protected sandy Iztuzu beach, also known as Turtle beach by most of the UK travellers, the Caretta Carettas sea turtles, the world famous mud baths believed to give extra health to your body and skin with its sulphuric mud, the ancient Lycian Kings’ rock-cut tombs, and the ancient city of Kaunos.
What to Expect?
Daily boat trips to Dalyan from Marmaris is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Marmaris. About 90% of the holidaymakers Marmaris to Dalyan Turtle Beach Boat Trip & Cruise during their Marmaris stay.
Quick Overview
The Marmaris to Dalyan Boat Trip offers an unforgettable adventure along Turkey’s stunning Lycian Coast. This full-day tour takes you on a scenic cruise, offering the chance to explore some of the region’s most remarkable natural and historical sites.
From the ancient rock-cut tombs of the Kings of Kaunos to the therapeutic Dalyan Mud Baths and the pristine Turtle Beach, this trip is packed with diverse attractions that cater to a wide range of interests.
Why this Trip is Popular?
This trip is particularly popular due to its comprehensive itinerary that combines history, nature, and relaxation.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Travelers are drawn to the opportunity to see the endangered loggerhead turtles at Turtle Beach, experience the health benefits of the Dalyan Mud Baths, and enjoy a leisurely cruise down the picturesque Dalyan Canal.
The tour’s all-inclusive nature, complete with lunch on board the boat, ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable day out, making it a favorite among tourists visiting Marmaris.
Typical Tour Itinerary
Departure from Marmaris
Enjoy a relaxing full-day tour of Dalyan on Turkey’s Lycian Coast, sailing by boat across the turquoise sea to Turtle Beach (officially known as İztuzu Beach).
You will be picked from your hotel (mostly about 08:00 am.) in Marmaris, Icmeler and meet the other participant on the boat.
Dalyan boat will depart the Marmaris port about 09:00 am., you’ll take your sunbed on the upper deck of the boat and start sailing about 2 hours along the beautiful coasts and crystal clear water of Marmaris through Dalyan.
During the boat trip, first you’ll have a swim break at the Aquarium Bay and than continue sailing along the Adakoy coasts, and than to Dalyan. And you’ll have a lunch (grilled chicken, salad and either rice or pasta) on the boat around 12:00-12:30 pm.
The boat will dock at the world-known Iztuzu beach, also know as the Turtle beach, that is a conservation area and prime breeding ground for the loggerhead turtles (caretta carettas).
You’ll have a swimming and walking break along this unique golden sandy beach. After the break you’ll hop on to a riverboat and cruise along tall reeds and maze-like passages of the Dalyan River and Delta.
You can take pictures of the Lycian Kings’ rock-cut Tombs, carved high in the cliff, from the 4th century BC. while you cruise on the riverboat, also learn the history from your guide on-board.
And than you’ll be taken to the famous mud baths and thermal pools of Dalyan. There, you’ll be refreshed up with its healing mud bath, swim in the warm, sulphur pools.
After the mud baths and thermal pools session, you’ll be taken back to your main boat at the Iztuzu Turtle beach and set sail back for Marmaris.
When you arrive Marmaris, you’ll be dropped back back your hotel in Marmaris.
This full-day tour from Marmaris to Dalyan is perfect for those seeking a blend of history, nature, and relaxation. From ancient tombs and pristine beaches to therapeutic mud baths and scenic river cruises, the Marmaris to Dalyan Boat Trip promises a memorable experience for all.
Our Marmaris Dalyan Boat Tour Experience
If you’re looking for a route that combines nature and culture among Marmaris daily boat tours, the Dalyan Boat Tour is perfect for you. We joined from Içmeler and had a full-day experience. We swam, enjoyed a mud bath, and explored ancient tombs. Here’s a step-by-step look at our day:
Morning: Pickup from Içmeler and Transfer to the Port
The tour began around 08:30 AM with a hotel pickup. After collecting participants from Içmeler, Siteler, Marmaris, and Armutalan, we arrived at the port.
✔ Transfers were on time and well-organized
✔ No stress finding a spot on the boat—there were sunbeds and shaded areas for all
First Leg: Sailing from Marmaris to Kızılkum Bay
After leaving the Marmaris port, we reached Kızılkum Bay after a scenic 2-hour cruise. The sea views along the way were amazing.
✔ A swim break is given in the clear and cool waters of Kızılkum
✔ You can either relax on the boat or jump into the sea
Mud Bath and Dalyan Delta
After swimming, we cruised to the Dalyan Delta. First stop: the famous mud baths.
✔ The mud, known for skin benefits, turns into a fun activity
✔ Shower areas are available; you can rinse off in the river water
✔ A short boat ride along the Dalyan River follows
Kaunos Rock Tombs – A Brief Step into History
During the Dalyan boat ride, the stunning Kaunos Rock Tombs come into view. The guide explains their historical significance.
✔ You can get a close look at the tombs from the boat
✔ Perfect for travelers interested in cultural insights
Iztuzu Beach – Home of the Caretta Carettas
Next stop: Iztuzu Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, with its golden sand and protected natural setting.
✔ Around 1-hour break at the beach
✔ You can swim, sunbathe, or take a walk
✔ Informational signs explain turtle nesting zones, which are under protection
Lunch and Return
After the beach stop, we returned to the Dalyan pier and boarded the main boat again. Lunch was served on board:
✔ Menu: Grilled chicken, pasta, seasonal salad
✔ Organized presentation, satisfying portions
✔ Drinks are extra, but a bar is available on the boat
After lunch, we began our 2-hour return trip to Marmaris and were dropped back off at our hotel in Içmeler.
Is the Marmaris Dalyan Boat Tour Worth It?
Absolutely. It’s one of the few tours that combines sea fun, nature observation, mud bathing, historical ruins, and beach relaxation all in one.
✔ Great for travelers of all ages
✔ Both fun and educational
✔ A perfect addition to your daily holiday plans
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Dalyan boat tour from Marmaris depart?
Tours usually start from Marmaris Port or the Içmeler Pier. First, boats head to Ekincik Bay, then switch to smaller boats for the Dalyan River cruise. Some tours offer free hotel transfers.
How long does the Dalyan boat tour take?
The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, starting between 08:30–09:00 AM and ending in the evening back in Marmaris. It’s a full day by sea and river.
What stops are included in the Dalyan tour?
Main stops usually include:
Ekincik Bay
Dalyan River
Kaunos Rock Tombs
Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach)
Mud Baths and Thermal Waters
Is a mud bath included in the Dalyan boat tour?
Yes. The tour includes a visit to mud bath facilities on the Dalyan River, where guests enjoy a healing and fun experience.
Who is the Dalyan boat tour suitable for?
Perfect for nature and history lovers. It’s suitable for families, couples, and older guests. The river cruise part is relaxing and safe for kids too.
Is lunch included in the Dalyan boat tour?
Yes. Lunch usually includes barbecue chicken, pasta, and salad. It is served either in Ekincik or at a resting spot in Dalyan.
Is there a swimming break at Iztuzu Beach?
Yes, there’s usually a 1-hour break at Iztuzu Beach for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is a natural habitat for caretta caretta turtles.
What should I bring on the Dalyan tour?
Recommended items:
Swimsuit and towel
Sunscreen and hat
Waterproof bag
Spare clothes
Cash (for shopping or extras at the local market)
Is a guide included in the Dalyan boat tour?
Yes. Most tours provide guides in Turkish and English, offering detailed information about Kaunos Rock Tombs and Dalyan’s history.
Do I need to book the Dalyan tour in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially in peak season. You can book online or through your hotel. Some tours offer early bird discounts.