City of Side: Full-day Boat Tour with Lunch & Foam Party

City of Side: Full-day Boat Tour with Lunch & Foam Party
Location: Antalya Province, Turkey
Price: $32 per person
Duration: 9 hours
Rating: 5/5 (2 reviews)

Getting out on the water in Turkey’s Turkish Riviera doesn’t have to be just a quick dip or a superficial cruise. This full-day boat tour from Side offers a well-balanced mix of swimming, lounging, and lively party atmosphere, all aboard a traditional sailboat. At just $32, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy some of the best scenery and water activities in the region, especially if you’re looking for a fun experience that appeals to all ages.

What we love most is how flexible and engaging the day is—there’s plenty of time for swimming in stunning spots like Karaburun Bay and Manavgat Bosphorus, plus a lively foam party that’s perfect for kids and young-at-heart travelers. And the included lunch, featuring fresh grilled chicken or fish, adds real value, giving you a taste of Turkish hospitality on the water.

One possible consideration is that the tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary that might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, drinks and photos aren’t included, so if you want to capture the moments, you might want to bring your own camera or buy drinks onboard.

This tour suits families, couples, or groups who love a mix of sightseeing and fun, especially if you’re interested in dancing, swimming, and trying traditional Turkish food in a lively setting. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable day without spending a fortune.

Key Points

• Affordable price: At $32, this tour offers a lot of value for a full day of activity.
• Multiple swimming stops: Swim in beautiful spots like Karaburun Bay and the Manavgat Bosphorus.
• Fun foam party: A highlight for kids and party lovers, adding a lively and memorable touch.
• Delicious included lunch: Freshly grilled chicken or fish with Turkish salad and rice.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Convenient transportation in the Side area makes logistics simpler.
• Guided commentary: Multilingual guides provide interesting insights along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Side, which is surprisingly smooth thanks to the included transportation. Once on the bus, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and a knowledgeable guide—likely delivering commentary in English and German—who will introduce you to the day’s plans and answer questions.

Arriving at the sailboat, you’ll immediately feel the relaxed vibe. Staff will ask about your lunch preferences—either fish or chicken—and you’ll be shown where to store your belongings. The boat departs along the Manavgat River, giving you your first taste of the region’s scenic beauty. The guide’s commentary here is a good opportunity to learn about the area’s history and geography, adding some context to the views you’ll be enjoying.

First Swim Break at Karaburun Bay

Your first stop is at Karaburun Bay or the Manavgat Bosphorus—a gorgeous stretch where the calm, turquoise waters invite you to jump in. The stops are long enough for a proper swim, and the water is typically warm and inviting. We loved the way the crew keeps everyone safe with plenty of life vests, especially helpful for less confident swimmers or children.

Lunch on the Water

After some fun in the sea, the boat cruises toward the main dining spot. A freshly grilled lunch awaits—either tender fish or chicken breast, paired with rice and salad. The food appears to be prepared on board with care, and reviews highlight how surprisingly tasty the meal is for a tour at this price point. Serving up hearty Turkish flavors, it’s a genuine treat that complements the day’s activities.

Cruise into the Mediterranean & Second Swim

Post-lunch, you’ll head into the Mediterranean Sea for another swim opportunity. The water here is typically clear, and the scenery is spectacular. The stops are long enough for some serious swimming, or just relaxing on the boat’s deck with a cold drink (though drinks are extra, so bring your own if possible).

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The Foam Party & Additional Swims

The highlight for many is the foam party—a lively, slightly chaotic dance on the boat as foam covers the deck. This is usually a hit with kids, as one reviewer enthusiastically noted, “the foam party was of course the highlight for the children.” The crew encourages participation, and it’s a fun way to cool down and let loose.

You’ll also visit a third swim spot, often back at the Manavgat Bosphorus, for a last dip before heading back. The boat then makes its way back along the river, passing familiar sights and giving you time to reflect on a day well spent.

Return and Drop-off

The tour ends with a final stop before returning to Side, where you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The whole day runs about 9 hours—ample time for swimming, dancing, snacking, and relaxing.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Details

The guides enhance the day with interesting commentary, making the experience more than just a boat ride. Having multilingual guides (English and German) ensures most visitors feel included and informed. The crew is attentive, providing life vests and coordinating the foam party smoothly, ensuring safety and fun go hand-in-hand.

Transport logistics are straightforward, with pickups from various hotels in Side and surrounding areas. The pickup point is conveniently in front of your hotel’s security door, and the process is generally well-organized, according to reviews. Since the tour is designed for a broad audience, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for many travelers.

The cost of $32 per person is quite competitive when you consider the length of the trip, the included lunch, and the lively entertainment. However, drinks, photos, and ice cream are not included, so plan to bring some extra cash if you want to buy souvenirs or refreshments.

Why This Tour Works Well

We found that this experience offers a genuine sense of Turkish coastal life—sailing, swimming, and enjoying Turkish cuisine in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. The multiple swim stops give plenty of time for water activities, and the foam party provides a memorable highlight for kids and adults alike. The lunch, prepared on board, adds authentic flavor and sustains you through the hours on the water.

Several reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, noting that they made the day more engaging, and the delicious food exceeded expectations for a tour at this price point. One reviewer summed it up well: “Great trip for young and old. The stops were long enough for swimming and jumping from the boat (up to 8m high). The highlight for children was of course the foam party.”

The main drawback might be the full schedule—some travelers might prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each swimming spot. Plus, the extra costs for drinks and photos could add up if you’re keen to capture every moment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip suits families with children, couples looking for a fun day out, or groups of friends eager to combine sightseeing with party vibes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy water activities, dancing, and tasting Turkish food in a lively setting. If you enjoy organized excursions that balance adventure with comfort and value, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from all hotels in Gündodu, Çolakl, Evrenseki, Kumköy, Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kzlaaç, and Kzlot areas. The pickup point is in front of your hotel’s security door.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since drinks are not included, you might want to bring some cash or your own beverages.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews mention children having a great time at the foam party, so it appears suitable for all ages. Life vests are provided, especially for less confident swimmers.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers.

Are drinks and photos included?
No, drinks, photos, and ice-cream are extra. You might want to bring some cash for additional purchases onboard.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including pickup, sailing, swimming, lunch, and return.

This full-day boat tour from Side offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and fun. Whether you’re keen on swimming in beautiful waters, dancing at a foam party, or just enjoying a hearty Turkish meal on the water, it’s a lively way to spend a day on Turkey’s coast. With its good value, friendly guides, and scenic stops, it’s a fun-filled experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers seeking an authentic and memorable Turkish Riviera adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: