 Boat Tour from Marmaris, including Cleopatra beach, Ancient city of Cedrae, Gokova Bay){kind=link}
If you’re looking for a route near Marmaris that offers both nature and history, the Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) Boat Tour is a top choice. Known for its crystal-clear waters, legendary fine white sand, and ancient ruins, this tour is one of the most rewarding day trips from Marmaris.
We joined this popular boat tour from Icmeler. It started in the morning and gave us a full day of swimming in turquoise bays and discovering historical landmarks. Below, we’re sharing both the tour details and our personal impressions. If you’re considering a Cleopatra Island boat tour, everything you need is right here.
Top Boat Tours – No Regrets
If you are looking for a great Marmaris to Cleopatra Island & Gokova Bay Boat Trip, trust our recommendations, save time and money, we have you covered. Below are some of the best experiences you can find!
Feel free to book online in advance (as you’ll get discounts), by choosing the eco-friendly option of online tickets. By avoiding printed tickets at the window, you’ll contribute to a sustainable and greener travel experience.
- Marmaris: Cleopatra Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
- Marmaris: Day-Cruise to Cleopatra Island and Gokova Bay
- Icmeler: Day-Cruise to Cleopatra Island & Gokova Bay
- Cleopatra Island Boat Trip From Marmaris With Lunch and Drinks
- Cleopatra Island Boat Trip from Marmaris
- Cleopatra Island Boat Trip, Lunch and Soft Drinks
İlk Bakışta Marmaris Kleopatra Adası Tekne Turu
Cleopatra Island, also known as Sedir Island, is a popular destination for boat tours in Marmaris. Daily boat trip to Cleopatra Island (Sedir) and Cleopatra beach from Marmaris is one of the most popular daily boat trips and excursions in Marmaris. About 90% of the holidaymakers in Marmaris visit Cleopatra Island by a day cruise during their Marmaris stay.
Many tour operators offer boat trips to the island, which usually include a stop for swimming and sunbathing at the famous Cleopatra Beach, as well as a visit to the ancient ruins on the island.
Boat tours are a convenient and enjoyable way to visit Cleopatra Island, as they provide easy access to the island’s secluded location and offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
What to Expect?
Cleopatra Island is a rare gem where history and nature meet. Named after Queen Cleopatra of Egypt, it’s also locally known as Sedir Island. Its beach stands out with ultra-fine golden sand, which legend claims was imported from Egypt just for Cleopatra herself.
Access to the island is typically via boat tours departing from Marmaris. Most boats leave in the morning, offering a scenic ride through vivid turquoise waters.
No Regrets Booking Advice
During the trip, you can:
Sunbathe on deck
Swim in pristine bays
Admire the untouched beauty of the surrounding coast
Learn from onboard guides about the island’s history and legends
Once on the island, you’ll encounter ancient ruins including Roman-era theatre and temple remains, adding a historical layer to the natural appeal.
Cleopatra Beach: The Highlight
As you step onto Cleopatra Beach, the white sand and crystal-clear sea immediately catch your eye. It’s a great spot for both relaxing and swimming. The uniquely soft sand and transparent waters make a strong impression on every visitor.
More Than Just the Island
The boat tour doesn’t only focus on the island — it also stops at other nearby coves and beaches, allowing time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the Aegean landscape.
With the Cleopatra Island (Sedir) Beach Tour from Marmaris, you get to combine a natural paradise with a touch of ancient history, making it an ideal excursion for anyone wanting more than just a standard boat ride.
Typical Tour Program
Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) and Cleopatra Beach boat tours from Marmaris usually run daily between May and October.
Your day starts with an early morning hotel pickup, followed by a meet-up with other participants on your assigned boat. The boat used for the Cleopatra Island Tour is a two-level vessel, offering a sunbathing area on the open upper deck and a shaded relaxation area on the lower deck.
The boat typically departs Marmaris harbor around 09:00 AM.
The cruise to Cleopatra Island across the Gökova Gulf takes approximately 2 hours, with stunning views of coves and crystal-clear waters.
Most guests spend this time sunbathing or enjoying the scenery.
Throughout the journey, the boat makes several stops for swimming in beautiful bays.
Around midday, a BBQ lunch is served on board, including unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Once you reach Cleopatra (Sedir) Island, you’ll have around 3 hours of free time. Visitors usually enjoy swimming on the island’s unique sandy beach, exploring the surroundings, or relaxing in nature.
After the island visit, you’ll return to the boat for the cruise back to Marmaris. Once you arrive at the harbor, hotel drop-offs are available upon request.
You can easily find many local agencies in Marmaris offering this popular day trip.
Our Experience on the Marmaris Cleopatra (Sedir) Island & Beach Boat Tour
One of the most iconic daily boat tour routes in Marmaris is undoubtedly Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island). Famous for its mythological charm, this island stands out with its turquoise waters, legendary beach, and ancient ruins. We joined the tour from İçmeler and had a fantastic 8.5-hour day.
Morning: Transfer from Icmeler and Boarding
We were picked up from our hotel in the morning and arrived at the departure pier after a comfortable 30-minute transfer. Everything was punctual and well-organized.
✔ Guided briefings were provided.
✔ The boat had shaded seating areas and sunbeds.
️ First Stops: İncekum Bay & Fenerli Island
The tour’s first swim breaks were at İncekum Bay and off the coast of Fenerli Island. The Gökova Gulf’s crystal waters were truly impressive.
✔ Water temperature was ideal for swimming.
✔ Great views for taking photos.
️ Lunch on Board
After the swim stops, a satisfying lunch was served on the boat:
✔ Grilled chicken
✔ Spaghetti
✔ Seasonal salad
✔ Soft drinks (included in the price)
We were pleasantly surprised by the freshness and quality of the food served on a boat.
Cleopatra Island & Its Legendary Beach
The most anticipated stop of the day: Cleopatra Island. Here, we were given 3 hours of free time.
✔ The white sandy beach is truly stunning.
✔ The sand feels soft and silky to the touch.
✔ The beach is protected; removing sand is forbidden.
✔ Ancient Roman ruins including a small theater can be explored.
✔ Walking trails through olive trees provide a peaceful experience.
According to legend, Mark Antony brought the sand from North Africa as a gift for Cleopatra, giving the beach its name.
Last Swim Stop on the Way Back: Dolphin Bay
On the return journey, we had a short swim break at Dolphin Bay. The calm waters and serene atmosphere made it a relaxing end to the day.
✔ Great for snorkeling
✔ Safe and enjoyable for families with kids
End of Tour & Hotel Transfer
Around 6:00 PM, we returned to the pier and were transferred back to our hotel in İçmeler.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Absolutely. It’s a perfect mix of nature, history, and sea. If you’re staying around Marmaris or İçmeler, we highly recommend setting aside a day for this special experience.
✔ Great for couples, families, and friends
✔ A blend of culture and natural beauty
✔ The protected status of Sedir Island adds a unique aspect
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where does the Cleopatra Island tour depart from?
Most tours depart from Marmaris or İçmeler, with morning hotel pickups. Guests are transferred to Çamlı Pier, from where boats leave for the island.
Is there an entrance fee for Cleopatra Island?
Yes, Sedir Island (Cleopatra Island) has a paid entrance, often included in the tour price. Admission is managed via Museum Cards, or you can get a single-day ticket.
Do you get to swim on Cleopatra Island?
Yes, the tour offers 2–3 hours of free time at the island. Visitors can swim at the famous white-sand beach with its clear, turquoise water.
What’s special about the sand on Cleopatra Island?
The sand is believed to have been brought from Egypt by Mark Antony for Cleopatra. It’s sparkling, glass-like, and highly protected—removing it is prohibited.
What’s included in the Cleopatra Island tour?
Typically includes:
Hotel transfers
Boat ride
Lunch (grilled chicken, pasta, salad)
Island entry fee
Guide
Swim stops (İncekum, Dolphin Bay)
How long is the Cleopatra Island tour?
It usually lasts 8–9 hours, starting around 09:00 AM and ending around 5:30–6:00 PM, with swim breaks and island visit.
Is Cleopatra Island suitable for children?
Yes. It’s a family-friendly tour. The beach has shallow areas, and the historical aspect adds educational value for kids.
Where else do boats stop on this tour?
Stops may include:
İncekum Bay (swim break)
Fenerli Island (short stop)
Dolphin Bay (swim on return)
Do I need to know how to swim?
No. Life vests and float rings are available on board. Non-swimmers can safely enjoy the tour and relax on the beach.
What should I bring on the tour?
We recommend:
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen
Hat, sunglasses
Waterproof bag
ID card
Museum Card (if available)