Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip With Free Hotel Transfer & Lunch

A Complete Look at the Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip: Fun, Views, and Value

If you’re looking for a day at sea that combines scenic beauty, fun activities, and good value, the Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip is worth considering. For around $25 per person, this full-day excursion in Side, Turkey, offers roughly six to seven hours of entertainment, relaxation, and adventure. The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lively foam party, a delicious open buffet lunch, and opportunities to swim in both the Manavgat River and the Mediterranean Sea.

What we love most about this experience is how it manages to be both lively and relaxing—balancing spectacular natural scenery with fun onboard activities. The pirate-themed boat adds a unique touch, and the free soft drinks keep everyone refreshed. Plus, the multiple swimming stops mean you’ll get to enjoy both the cool mountain river waters and the warm sea, making the trip suitable for families, singles, or couples craving a memorable day on the water.

A potential consideration is the group size—with up to 100 travelers, it can feel busy, especially during peak times. Also, if you prefer a quiet, contemplative boat trip, this might lean more toward the lively side. Nonetheless, for those wanting value, fun, and a taste of local scenery, this trip hits the mark well.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy active, social excursions with plenty of opportunities to swim, dance, and relax. If you’re after a well-organized day out that includes good food and a bit of adventure, you’ll find this a worthwhile experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full day of fun and sightseeing
• Multiple swim stops in both the river and the sea, ideal for cooling off
• Lively onboard foam party with music, perfect for families and groups
• Includes hotel transfers, making logistics hassle-free
• Great reviews highlight the friendly crew, tasty food, and memorable vibe
• Limited alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, so plan accordingly

The Details of the Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $25 per person, this trip offers lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited soft drinks, and a guided experience. The lunch is described as fresh and tasty, with vegetarian options available—an important detail for those with dietary restrictions. The facilities onboard include toilets, outside showers, and a bar, making the experience comfortable and convenient.

However, alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can purchase them during the trip. This is typical for such excursions, but it’s worth noting if you plan to enjoy a drink or two.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup arranged for most travelers. The duration is approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving ample time to relax, swim, and dance. After the fun, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in the late afternoon, allowing you to unwind or explore more of Side afterward.

Booking and Cancellation

The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of flexibility. Weather-dependent, the trip will be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor weather. Given the popularity, it’s wise to book early, especially since it’s booked over 20 times just last week.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

First Stop: Side – Where the Manavgat River Meets the Mediterranean

This is the perfect start to the day, as you sail into the point where the Manavgat River merges with the Mediterranean Sea. The scenery here is spectacular, with lush greenery meeting shimmering water. It’s the only place where you can swim in both river and sea waters—a unique opportunity to experience the contrast firsthand.

Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the views. From reviews, travelers have found this to be a peaceful, beautiful spot that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Second Stop: Manavgat – The Heart of the Experience

This is the main swimming stop, where the boat anchors at the junction of the river and sea. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel in the calm, warm waters of the Mediterranean, as well as enjoy the refreshing river currents. The boat’s crew takes care to ensure everyone feels comfortable, and the swim breaks are a highlight.

Reviewers rave about the spectacular views during this part, with one describing it as “a special boat trip” that unfolds “the unique beauty of the landscape.” It’s an ideal spot for relaxation or photos, and many mention how crystal-clear water makes for great swimming.

Third Stop: Side – The Party and Return

After several hours of swimming and relaxing, the journey continues back towards Side, but the fun doesn’t stop. The crew organizes an onboard foam party with upbeat music—a real crowd-pleaser. As one reviewer said, “Dance and have a blast,” making it clear that this is a fun, energetic way to end the trip.

The boat then heads back, with an estimated 30-minute ride to the port, where a comfortable transfer will take you back to your hotel.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Stunning Views and Scenic Stops

What truly makes this trip stand out are the spectacular landscapes—the meeting point of river and sea offers stunning vistas, especially if you love photographing nature. The calm waters at the stops provide perfect swimming conditions, and the lush greenery surrounding the river is a refreshing sight.

Delicious Food and Refreshments

The open buffet lunch has been praised as fresh and tasty, with a good variety that caters to vegetarians. Reviewers also appreciate the unlimited soft drinks, which keep everyone refreshed during the lively day. As one traveler noted, “Drinks were on tap whenever we wanted,” adding to the relaxed, festive vibe onboard.

Friendly, Well-Organized Crew

The crew seems to go out of their way to create a fun, friendly atmosphere. Multiple reviews mention punctual pickup, warm service, and attentiveness, which makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable. The boat is described as fully equipped, with toilets and showers, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Value for Money

At $25 per person, including transfers, lunch, and soft drinks, this trip provides excellent value. The reviews suggest that for what you get—a full day of swimming, dancing, and scenic views—the price is more than fair. Many travelers mention their satisfaction with the experience, citing it as “really fantastic value for money.”

Considerations: What to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note that the group size can be up to 100 people, which might make the boat feel a bit crowded during peak times. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, this might be something to consider.

Plus, the trip’s lively nature with the foam party and music means it leans toward a fun, energetic atmosphere, which might not suit travelers seeking a tranquil day at sea.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals most to families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a full day of fun and relaxation. If you’re interested in swimming in both river and sea waters, enjoying delicious food, and dancing onboard, you’ll find it ticks all the boxes.

It’s particularly well-suited for those on a budget seeking value for money, as reviews consistently highlight the quality and variety of experiences for the price paid. If you’re after a lively, social atmosphere combined with stunning scenery, this tour should be on your shortlist.

Final Thoughts

The Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip offers a well-rounded day combining natural beauty, lively entertainment, and excellent value. Its combination of scenic stops, delicious food, and fun onboard activities makes it a memorable experience for many travelers. The friendly crew and organized transfers ensure a smooth day, while the swimming opportunities in both the river and sea add a special touch.

While it may not be a quiet, contemplative cruise, for those who like a bit of everything—from relaxing dips to dance parties—this trip delivers. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to break away from the crowds and enjoy a day of adventure on the water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the price, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

What is the duration of the trip?
The trip lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, eating, and enjoying onboard entertainment.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian alternatives are available. Be sure to request this when booking.

What facilities are onboard?
The boat is equipped with toilets, outside showers, and a bar. You’re encouraged to bring your own snorkeling gear if you’d like.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Absolutely, you are welcome to bring your own gear for the best experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable swimming costumes, towels, sun protection, and shoes that can get wet are recommended.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard.

Is this trip suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention the trip being family-friendly, especially with the onboard activities and safe swimming stops.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is around 100 travelers, which can be lively but also offers a social atmosphere.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule will be offered.

In summary, the Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip offers a lively, scenic, and budget-friendly way to enjoy a day on the water. It’s perfect for those who love swimming, dancing, and good food all in one go, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a bit of fun under the sun.