Dalyan Boat Trip
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not here, message us. We answer questions from people who have not booked anything and may never book anything — that is part of the job.
Before you come
Do we need a visa for Türkiye?
It depends entirely on your passport, and the rules change. Check the official Turkish e-Visa site for your nationality before you book flights — never rely on a travel blog, ours included.
Is Dalyan good for families?
Unusually good. Flat water, a beach that shelves gently, no traffic to speak of on the river front, and restaurants that expect children. The one thing to plan for is heat in July and August.
Do we need to hire a car?
No. Everything on this site is door-to-door, and the town is walkable. Hire a car if you want to explore Muğla independently — otherwise it will sit outside the villa.
How much cash should we bring?
Enough for entrance fees, dolmuşes, markets and tips. Cards work in most restaurants and shops, but the boat cooperative, the mud baths and the beach café want lira in hand.
Is it safe?
Yes, in the ordinary way that a small Turkish town is safe. The things that actually hurt people here are sunburn, dehydration and the sea after too much lunch.
Boat trips
How much is a Dalyan boat trip?
It depends on the trip, the boat and the season, and any site that gives you one fixed number for the whole year is guessing. Message us with your dates and you get today’s real price.
Should we book ahead or wait until we arrive?
In May, June and September you can usually walk down to the quay and get on a boat. In July and August, and for any private boat, book ahead. Sunset cruises and private charters go first.
Can we do the boat trip on our arrival day?
You can, but do not. It is a full eight hours in the sun after a flight. Day two is better and you will enjoy it more.
What if somebody gets seasick?
The delta is flat water and almost nobody does. If you are worried, the river trip rather than the 12 Islands is the right answer.
Are the boats shaded?
Yes, all of them have a covered section. Say when you book if you need to be out of the sun the whole day and we will put you on a boat with more of it.
Booking with us
Do you take a deposit?
Not to answer a question and not to hold a normal shared boat. Private charters and villas are different and we will tell you exactly what is required before anything is agreed.
How do we pay?
We agree it in writing before you travel, in the currency we quoted. You will never be asked for more on the day than the price you were given.
What if we need to cancel?
Tell us as early as you can. Our full cancellation terms are on the booking terms page, and weather cancellations by us are always refunded or moved.
Do you speak English?
Yes — English and Turkish.
Can you help with something not on this website?
Usually. Car hire, a doctor, a dentist, a hairdresser, a birthday, a proposal, a wheelchair-accessible boat, a vegan menu on a fish boat. Ask.