The bay of Ayvalık contains around twenty small islands, most of them uninhabited, some with small beaches that are only reachable by water. Boat trips departing from the Ayvalık town waterfront visit a selection of these in a half-day or full-day circuit — typically stopping at two or three islands for swimming, with lunch either provided on board or at a small waterfront spot on Cunda on the return.
The water in the bay is clear and relatively calm, sheltered from the open Aegean by the islands themselves. The landscape is dry scrub and rock, with the occasional small fishing shelter. The light in the afternoon, particularly in late spring and early autumn, is the kind that makes photographers stay another day.
Organised tours depart daily in season from the main harbour area; boats are small wooden gulets carrying ten to thirty passengers. Prices and stops vary — it's worth asking exactly which islands are included before booking. Some operators offer evening sunset trips. Chartering a small boat for the day is also possible and gives more flexibility over where you stop and for how long.