From Izmir: Full Day Boat Trip around Cesme with BBQ Lunch






Highlights
- Feel the thrill of the waves crashing against your boat and take in views
- Dive into the crystal-clear waters around Cesme and do some snorkeling
- Tuck into a delicious BBQ lunch that includes chicken, fish, salad, and pasta
- Get to see numerous different islands, including Donkey Island and Coral Island
- Take the worry out of your trip and relax knowing hotel transfer is included
About this activity
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
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Turkish, English
You will be picked up from your hotel by a Volkswagen Crafter or Volkswagen Carevelle, depending on the group size of that day. Pick up details will be shared via WhatsApp one day before the activity. Look out for the vehicle that has a sign reading, "Cesme Boat Trip".
Overview
Experience the Turquoise Magic: Full-Day Çeşme Island Hopping & BBQ Feast
Imagine waking up to the gentle Aegean breeze, knowing that within hours, you’ll be gliding over crystal-clear turquoise waters. This isn’t just a boat trip; it’s a sensory escape from the city bustle of Izmir to the pristine bays of Çeşme, where the sun kisses the sea and every cove tells a different story of blue.
Why This Journey is Unmissable
Hidden Bay Access: We don’t just stick to the tourist tracks; we drop anchor in secluded inlets accessible only by sea.
Sizzle & Sea: Forget packed sandwiches. Enjoy an authentic, freshly prepared BBQ lunch served right on the deck.
Seamless Door-to-Deck Service: No navigating traffic or finding parking; our private transfer picks you up directly from your Izmir hotel.
The “Blue Therapy” Guarantee: Ample time at each stop ensures you aren’t rushed—plenty of time for snorkeling, sunbathing, or diving off the deck.
Detailed Tour Itinerary
08:30 – 09:15 | The Great Escape: Comfortable pick-up from your Izmir hotel in a climate-controlled vehicle. Enjoy the scenic drive through the rolling hills of the Aegean countryside.
10:30 | Anchors Aweigh: Board our spacious boat at the Çeşme Marina. Meet your friendly crew and find your favorite spot on the sun deck as we set sail.
11:30 | First Dip – Blue Bay: Our first stop is a paradise for swimmers. The water here is so clear you can see the ripples in the sand meters below.
13:00 | BBQ Lunch on Board: As you dry off, the aroma of the grill fills the air. Enjoy grilled specialties, fresh salads, and local appetizers while floating in a calm cove.
14:30 | Island Exploration: We head toward Donkey Island (Eşek Adası) or Coral Island, where you can explore the rugged coastline or interact with the friendly local residents (the donkeys!).
16:00 | Afternoon Serenity: One last swimming stop in a “secret” bay to soak up the final rays of the afternoon sun.
17:30 | Return to Port: A relaxing cruise back to Çeşme Marina with music and refreshments.
19:00 | Homebound: Arrival back at your Izmir hotel, refreshed and sun-kissed.
Who Is This For?
Sun Seekers: Those looking for the perfect tan and endless Vitamin D.
Families: A safe, fun-filled day that keeps kids entertained with swimming and island sights.
Photography Enthusiasts: Capture the high-contrast whites of Çeşme’s architecture against the deepest blues of the Aegean.
Stress-Busters: Anyone needing to swap city noise for the sound of lapping waves.
Çeşme Weather Chart (Average Monthly Temperatures)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| 12°C | 13°C | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C | 32°C | 32°C | 28°C | 23°C | 18°C | 14°C |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I bring? Just your swimwear, high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. We provide towels upon request, but bringing your own is recommended.
Is the BBQ lunch vegetarian-friendly? Absolutely! We offer delicious grilled vegetables and various Aegean olive oil dishes. Please let us know in advance.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers? Yes! The boat offers plenty of shaded seating, and we provide life vests for those who want to enter the water safely.
Are drinks included? Water is provided with lunch; a selection of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the on-board bar.
How large is the group? We prioritize comfort. Our boats are never filled to capacity to ensure everyone has space to lounge.
“Watch / Read / Listen” Before You Go
Watch: My Father and My Son (Babam ve Oğlum) – While set in the wider Aegean region, it captures the soulful, nostalgic spirit of the Izmir coastline.
Listen: Search for “Aegean Chill & Deep House” on Spotify—perfect for the drive from Izmir to the marina.
Read: The Tales of the Fisherman of Halicarnassus (Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı) – His writings are the ultimate tribute to the Turkish turquoise coast.
Editor’s Note
“There is a reason locals choose Çeşme every weekend. The water here has a specific ‘sparkle’ you won’t find in Antalya or Bodrum. This tour is my top recommendation for travelers who want to see the ‘real’ Turkish Aegean without the logistical headache of renting a car.”
Urban Legends & Mysteries
The Mystery of the Sunken Statues: Local divers tell tales of ancient shipwrecks and submerged statues dating back to the Erythrai era, hidden beneath the very bays you’ll be swimming in. Some believe that on a perfectly still day, you can see the shimmering outlines of ancient marble deep on the sea floor—a silent reminder of the civilizations that sailed these waters thousands of years ago.
Ready to Dive In?
Don’t let the best bays sail away without you! [Book Your Spot Now] and turn your Izmir stay into an unforgettable Aegean adventure.
Itinerary
10 pickup location options:
YKM İzmir, Garanti BBVA Alsancak Liman Şubesi, Atatürk monument, Karsıyaka, PTT, Şirinyer, maviş Büfe, Ege Üniversitesi Hastanesi, Kamil Koc, Halkapınar Metro İstasyonu, Fahrettin Altay Meydan 2
Van
75 minutesBoat cruise
Swimming
Lunch
Snorkeling
Sightseeing, Walk
Hidden gem
1 hourSwimming, Snorkeling
Çeşme
1 hourBoat cruise, Sunset, Scenic views on the way
Van
1 hour10 drop-off locations:
Halkapınar Metro İstasyonu, Fahrettin Altay Meydan 2, Ege Üniversitesi Hastanesi, PTT, Kamil Koc, Garanti BBVA Alsancak Liman Şubesi, Atatürk monument, Karsıyaka, Şirinyer, maviş Büfe, YKM İzmir
Price Includes
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Host/greeter
Boat trip
BBQ Lunch
Price Excludes
Drinks
Snacks



