Marmaris and Icmeler Private Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

An Honest Look at the Marmaris and Icmeler Private Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

Taking a boat trip in Marmaris is a classic bucket-list activity, and this private full-day tour offers a chance to enjoy the coastline away from the crowds. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and details suggest it’s a well-rounded option for those seeking a relaxing day on the water, with plenty of scenic stops and tasty food.

What makes this trip worth considering? First, the personalized nature of the private tour means you’ll avoid the hustle and bustle of larger group boats. Second, the beautiful coastal views and visits to Paradise Island and Phosphorus Cave promise plenty of picture-perfect moments. Third, the home-cooked lunch and snacks onboard are often highlighted as a highlight — a rare treat on a day trip.

One consideration is the boat’s condition. Some reviews mention it being a little dated or different from the photos, but many agree it’s still comfortable and safe. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible itinerary, enjoy snorkelling and swimming, and value intimate, private experiences.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Your group only, providing flexibility and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Stops: Visits to Paradise Island, Phosphorus Cave, and other bays for swimming and exploring.
• Delicious Food: Home-cooked Turkish lunch and snacks onboard that impress most guests.
• Comfort & Safety: A two-floor boat with ample sunbeds and safety features, even if slightly aged.
• Flexible Timing & Pickup: Includes hotel pickup and a 7-hour duration, ideal for a full day of adventure.
• Mixed Reviews: While many rave about the scenery and food, some mention discrepancies between photos and actual boat condition.

Exploring the Itinerary

Starting from Marmaris, the trip kicks off with a smooth hotel pickup, which saves the hassle of organizing transport. The journey to the boat port is straightforward, and many reviewers appreciated the punctual pickup service — “picked up on time and driven straight to the boat” as one traveler put it.

Once onboard, the boat’s spacious two floors immediately stand out. The top deck, equipped with sun beds, makes for stellar lounging spots. We loved the way the vessel’s size contributed to a sense of privacy and comfort, especially compared to larger, more crowded excursions.

The voyage then unfolds with a series of stops at Paradise Island and Phosphorus Cave. These are often highlighted as the highlights — serene swimming spots, caves to explore, and opportunities for snorkelling. Reviewers repeatedly mention that each stop feels relatively quiet and undisturbed, perfect for relaxing or taking photos. “Snorkeled and swam at four different spots,” one guest recounted, emphasizing the variety and beauty of each location.

A typical itinerary includes swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing, with the crew ready to assist. The trip is designed to balance adventure with downtime, making it suitable for families, couples, and even small groups of friends.

What You Can Expect on the Boat

The home-cooked Turkish meal onboard consistently earns praise. Guests often mention chicken pasta salads, with some feeling the food surpasses expectations given the boat’s modest appearance. The availability of soft drinks and snacks adds to the comfort, especially after a morning of swimming and sunbathing.

Reviewers appreciated the friendly crew, particularly mentioning Mehmed, Jenny, and Jack as accommodating hosts who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels at home. One reviewer said, “We were treated like royals,” highlighting the personalized service.

While some note that the boat’s exterior might look a little aged, most agree that this doesn’t impact the experience — “while everyone else was going out on the noisy, crowded boats, ours was peaceful and comfortable,” a guest shared.

The Value for Money

Pricing at $411.27 for a group of up to 10 makes this a competitive choice for a private tour, especially considering the length (around 7 hours) and inclusiveness of food, drinks, and hotel pickup. The reviews suggest it delivers good value, with many guests emphasizing the quality of the food and the flexibility of a private experience as key benefits.

Compared to larger group trips, this tailored approach offers more personal attention, less noise, and the chance to customize your day slightly — for example, adjusting departure times if needed.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits travelers who are after a relaxed, intimate experience on the water, with a focus on swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying scenic stops. It’s especially good for families, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized day away from the crowds. If you’re looking for a more luxurious or modern boat, you might find this vessel a little dated, but most will appreciate the comfort and safety it provides.

Keep in mind, this is a private tour, so if you’re traveling solo or in a large group, you’ll need to book accordingly. Also, the tour requires booking about 3 weeks in advance on average, so plan ahead.

The Sum Up

This private boat trip from Marmaris offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, relaxed swimming, and home-cooked Turkish hospitality. Its private nature makes it ideal for those seeking a more personalized day on the water, away from the hustle of larger tours. The stops at Paradise Island and Phosphorus Cave provide picture-perfect moments, while the onboard lunch keeps everyone happily fed.

The boat’s slight aging doesn’t detract from the overall experience, and many guests mention the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness as a real highlight. The value is clear — a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining for a reasonable price.

If you enjoy private, slow-paced days with stunning views, this tour will likely meet — or even exceed — your expectations. It’s best suited for travelers craving comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences in Marmaris.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, making it a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the boat, lunch, soft drinks, and hotel pickup.

What stops will we make?
You’ll visit Paradise Island, Phosphorus Cave, and other bays for swimming and exploring.

Is food provided?
Yes, guests praise the home-cooked Turkish lunch and snacks onboard.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely, most stops are designed for swimming and snorkelling.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat safe and comfortable?
Yes, the vessel has safety features and a spacious top deck with sunbeds, though some reviews mention it looks a little aged.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is typically done 3 weeks in advance, via the provider’s website or through their contact details.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel are recommended; some guests suggest bringing a small waterproof bag for valuables.

This private Marmaris and Icmeler boat trip promises a day filled with scenic views, relaxing swimming spots, and a delicious onboard meal — perfect for travelers who want a more intimate look at this stunning coastline.