Dalyan Cruise from Marmaris — Iztuzu Beach, Kaunos Rock Tombs & Dalyan Mud Baths
Spend a full day cruising from Marmaris to Dalyan: swim at Aquarium Bay and Iztuzu Beach, glide past the dramatic Kaunos rock tombs and try the sulfur mud baths. This practical guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring cash and a small waterproof bag
Onboard extras (drinks, photos and additional meals) are often cash-friendly; protect phones and cards when boarding small boats.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The area is ecologically sensitive and sunscreen can wash off while swimming; choose reef-safe formulas to reduce impact.
Protect from sun between 11:00–15:00
The midday sun is intense on open decks—wear a hat and reapply sunscreen frequently.
Bring a towel and swim shoes
Mud-bath areas and some beaches have pebbles or rough sand; swim shoes help with traction and comfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Aquarium Bay — a calm, clear swimming cove favored for snorkeling stops
- •The reed-lined upper Dalyan channel — quieter, bird-rich stretches best viewed from a small tender
Wildlife
- •Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtle)
- •various coastal and wetland birds such as herons and kingfishers
Conservation Note
Iztuzu Beach is a protected nesting area; visitors are asked to respect beach access hours, follow guides' instructions and avoid disturbing nests or wildlife.
The Kaunos rock-cut tombs visible from the river belong to a Lycian port city with Hellenistic and Persian-period influences, dating mainly to the 4th century BC.
What to Bring
SwimsuitEssential
Required for swimming stops and the mud-bath experience.
Towel or quick-dry towelEssential
For drying off between swims and after the mud baths.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and reduces ecological impact when swimming in the Mediterranean.
Waterproof pouch for phone and cash
Keeps valuables dry while moving between larger boat and small tender boats.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and where does it start?
The tour runs about 10–11 hours and departs from Marmaris; exact boarding point and boat name are confirmed after reconfirmation with the operator.
Will I definitely see loggerhead turtles?
Turtle sightings are common but not guaranteed; sightings depend on season, time of day and animal behavior—keep noise low and listen to the guide for best viewing.
Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is included (plate service), but most drinks, bottled water and extras like additional meals or photos are paid on board.
Is the mud bath hygienic and are there facilities?
Mud baths use sulfur-rich pools with hot-spring showers and changing facilities; follow local rules and rinse thoroughly in the hot springs afterward.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Dalyan, Muğla
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to board small boats, climb short ladders and swim briefly.
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