From the city of Side: Half Day Boat Tour with Lunch offers a delightful escape on the water in Antalya Province, Turkey. For just $16 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6 hours cruising along the coast, making stops for swimming, all capped with a hearty lunch on board. The tour is organized by KAYALAR TURZM SANAY VE TCARET LMTED RKET, and it’s designed to balance relaxation, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure.
What we love about this experience is how accessible and family-friendly it is, with easy hotel pickup and an itinerary that balances sunbathing with swimming breaks. The chance of spotting dolphins playing nearby is an exciting bonus, making it a memorable outing for all ages. Plus, the affordable price means you get a full day of entertainment without breaking the bank.
One thing to consider is that, despite the promises, dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, though many guests do report seeing them—sometimes even more than once. Also, weather can impact the experience, but the crew is known for handling changes smoothly, as one reviewer noted their day was rescheduled due to rough seas.
This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day at sea—especially families with children, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of the local coast without complicated logistics. If you’re after an easy, fun afternoon with the potential for dolphin encounters and excellent views, this cruise hits the mark.
Key Points
- Affordable Value: At just $16, it’s an accessible way to enjoy a full day on the water.
- Scenic and Relaxing: Cruise along the coast of Side, with plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and swimming.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for children and families looking for an easy day out.
- Potential Dolphin Sightings: Many travelers report dolphin visits, adding a special touch.
- Good Organization: Includes hotel transfer and guided commentary.
- Weather Considerations: Weather can influence the trip, but the crew is proactive in rescheduling if needed.
The Experience: A Practical Breakdown
Starting with hotel pickup, the tour sets off from Side, with transportation included, making it a hassle-free way to begin your day. Once on board, the multi-level pirate-themed boat (as one reviewer described it) immediately piques interest with its fun design, appealing to both kids and adults. The boat’s three floors provide ample space for sunbathing, relaxing, or seeking shade if the sun gets a little too intense.
The cruise follows a route along the coastal landscape of Side, giving you spectacular views of the rugged shoreline, small coves, and possibly distant mountains. The boat glides smoothly along the Manavgat River, which adds a peaceful, scenic touch to the journey. It’s a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with the sound of the sea and the breeze adding to the serenity.
One of the tour’s highlights is the swimming stop in the clear waters, where you can jump in to cool off or simply float and enjoy the views. The chance of seeing dolphins play around your boat is a recurring theme in reviews, and while not guaranteed, many guests have been lucky enough to witness these playful mammals—sometimes jumping close enough to snap photos.
Lunch on the boat is included in the price, which is a practical bonus. The menu usually features simple, satisfying options that give you the energy for more swimming or sunbathing, with drinks available for purchase on board. Relaxed guests tend to appreciate not having to hunt for a meal afterward, making this a great value.
Guiding and safety are covered by the crew, who are described as friendly and attentive. Multilingual guides (English, German, Turkish, Russian) ensure that international travelers feel comfortable and informed. One reviewer praised the staff for handling a weather-related rebooking smoothly, allowing everyone to enjoy their day safely.
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The Trip in Detail
Itinerary Breakdown:
– The trip begins with hotel pickup and transfer to the boat, often a short, comfortable ride.
– Once aboard, you’ll quickly settle onto the main deck or climb to the upper levels to soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic views.
– As the boat moves slowly along the coast, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of the shoreline and distant mountains—truly a feast for the eyes.
– The first swimming stop comes after an hour or so of cruising. Here, the water is usually calm and clear enough to swim and relax on the boat.
– During the cruise, there’s a chance to spot dolphins, especially if the weather is calm and the sea is quiet. Many guests find this a highlight, with some even witnessing dolphins jumping alongside the boat’s wake, playing in the water.
– Midway through, a lunch break is provided. The menu is straightforward but satisfying—think salads, grilled options, or light sandwiches—enough to keep you energized for the day.
– After lunch, there’s more time for swimming or sunbathing, with possibly another brief stop depending on the weather and conditions.
– The cruise ends with a scenic return to Side, where your hotel transfer awaits, ensuring a stress-free finish to your day.
What Makes It Special:
The scenic beauty of the coastline is unmatched at this price point, offering sweeping views of rugged cliffs and peaceful coves. The chance of dolphin sightings, though not guaranteed, adds an element of surprise that many travelers cherish. The pirate-themed boat brings a sense of fun, especially for kids, but adults can also appreciate the lively atmosphere.
Potential Drawbacks:
Weather can affect the experience, and cancellations or rebookings are possible—something to keep in mind if your trip coincides with rough conditions. Also, since dolphins are wild animals, sightings depend on luck, despite many reports of frequent appearances. The inclusion of only one swim stop might feel brief for some, but it’s enough to cool off and enjoy the sea.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise suits families with children, thanks to the friendly environment and playful boat design. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the scenic views and the chance to relax on the water without strenuous activity. Budget travelers will find it offers great value for a full day of fun, sun, and scenic cruising. If you’re after a laid-back day with the possibility of dolphin encounters and beautiful vistas, this tour is a strong choice.
Final Thoughts on Value and Experience
This half-day boat trip from Side really balances cost and enjoyment. For just $16, you get a well-organized, scenic cruise with swimming breaks and lunch included. While the possibility of dolphin sightings isn’t guaranteed, many guests find that the beautiful coastal views and relaxed atmosphere make it worthwhile. The friendly staff, multilingual guides, and family-friendly design make it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
The ability to unwind, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the stunning scenery makes this a perfect option for those looking to escape the busy streets of Side for a few hours. Keep in mind the weather, and be ready for some fun on the water—this tour give you a simple, enjoyable day out that captures the essence of coastal Turkey.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQs
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, cruising, swimming, and lunch.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfer, the boat cruise, lunch on board, and a guiding service in multiple languages.
Can I expect to see dolphins?
While dolphins are not guaranteed, many travelers report seeing them during the trip, sometimes jumping close to the boat.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and well-suited for children, especially given the fun pirate-themed boat and swimming stops.
Are drinks included?
Lunch is included, but drinks need to be purchased on the boat.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled. Many guests reported their trips were postponed due to rough seas, but the staff handled this smoothly.
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online, with options to pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
What makes this tour a good value?
For just $16, you get a scenic cruise, swimming, lunch, and hotel transfer—offering a relaxing, scenic day that captures the essence of Turkey’s coast at a very reasonable price.
If you’re in Side and craving a relaxed day on the water, with the chance for a splash of adventure, this boat tour strikes a good balance. It’s simple, fun, and offers a genuine taste of local seaside life—just what you need to unwind and soak up the sun.
For broader city exploration in Side, we've covered these other tours
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Side
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More Tours in Side
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More Tour Reviews in Side
- Side: Blue Laguna Boat Tour with Free Lunch & Drinks
- Side: Scuba Diving Tour Journey To The Depths Of The Blue
- From city of Side: Ormana Village Day Tour with Lunch
- Alexander Waterfall and Antalya Aquarium Day Tour from Side
- City of Side: Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour
- Full Day Boat Tour in Manavgat
More Side experiences we've covered
- Side: Blue Laguna Boat Tour with Free Lunch & Drinks
- Side: Scuba Diving Tour Journey To The Depths Of The Blue
- From city of Side: Ormana Village Day Tour with Lunch
- Alexander Waterfall and Antalya Aquarium Day Tour from Side
- City of Side: Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour
- Full Day Boat Tour in Manavgat
- City of Side: Full-day Boat Tour with Lunch & Foam Party
- From Side Dolphin and Seal Show Ticket with Hotel Transfers
- Side Green Canyon Off-Road Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch
- Side Forest Quad Safari with Hotel Pickup
- White-Water Rafting Experience from Side and Manavgat
- City of Side: 2-Day Cappadocia, Cave Hotel, & Balloon Tour