Bodrum Orak Island Boat Trip: Bays, Lunch & Swimming

Summary

Swim Bodrum’s turquoise waters and relax on Orak Island

You’ll board a boat in Bodrum and cruise past Bodrum Castle before swimming in crystal-clear bays around Orak Island. Enjoy a fresh lunch on deck, then relax at Kızıl Burun and Rabbit Bay before returning to town as evening falls—a day full of easygoing moments you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

We met at the port in Bodrum just after breakfast, still a bit sleepy, but the sea air woke me up fast. The boat crew waved us over—one guy had this sun-bleached cap and a grin that made it clear he’d done this a hundred times. As we pulled away, Bodrum Castle looked almost unreal in the morning light. I tried to take a photo but my hair kept blowing across the lens—gave up and just watched instead. There was this salty smell mixed with sunscreen and coffee from someone’s thermos nearby.

The first swim stop was already pretty, but when we reached Orak Island, it actually made everyone go quiet for a second. The water really is that clear—almost glassy—and you can see these little fish darting around your ankles. Our guide (I think his name was Cem) told us locals call it “the Turkish Maldives,” which made me laugh but… yeah, I get why. He pointed out some olive trees along the shore and said his grandmother used to pick them here as a kid. I floated for ages, not even cold, just sort of drifting while someone’s playlist played quietly from the deck.

Lunch was simple—grilled chicken, salad, bread—but honestly after swimming it tasted perfect. There was this moment where everyone sat around in damp swimsuits passing plates back and forth; no one cared about looking fancy or anything. After that we stopped at Kızıl Burun and Rabbit Bay (Tavşan Burnu). The water at Rabbit Bay was warmer than before—felt almost silky? A couple of kids started splashing each other and their laughter echoed off the rocks. On the way back, I caught myself staring at Bodrum Castle again as the sun started dipping lower. I still think about that view sometimes—you know how some places just stick with you?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bodrum Orak Island Boat Tour

• Meet at designated points
• Go to Halikarnas Port
• Board the boat with crew
• See Bodrum Castle sailing out
• Swim and sunbathe at Orak Island
• Stop at Kızıl Burun bay
• Visit Rabbit Bay (Tavşan Burnu)
• Return to Bodrum harbour
• See Bodrum Castle sailing back

Top questions

How long does the Bodrum Orak Island boat trip last?

The boat trip lasts about 6 to 6.5 hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on the Orak Island boat tour?

Yes, lunch is served on board after your first swim stop.

Are there swimming stops during the day trip?

Yes, you’ll have several swimming breaks at different bays including Orak Island and Rabbit Bay.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, infants and small children can join; specialized infant seats are available.

Is the Bodrum Orak Island boat accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the port?

You need to meet at designated meeting points near Halikarnas Port; public transportation options are nearby.

Can I bring my service animal on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding at Halikarnas Port with a friendly local crew, several swim stops at beautiful bays like Orak Island and Rabbit Bay, plus a fresh lunch served on deck after your first swim break before returning to Bodrum harbor by early evening.