Half Day Boat Tour in Side, Turkey

Imagine cruising along the Manavgat River, swimming in turquoise waters, and enjoying lively foam parties—all wrapped into a six-hour adventure for just over $14 per person. That’s exactly what this Half Day Boat Tour in Side offers. Starting early at 8:30 am, the tour whisks you from your hotel to a series of picturesque stops that showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Guides speak multiple languages, making it easy for everyone to follow along, and the overall group size is manageable, capped at around 115 travelers.

Two things we love about this tour are the inclusive hotel transfers—no need to worry about finding your way—and the opportunity to combines fun with cultural sights, like snapping photos of the Apollo Temple. The lively foam party and waterslides add a playful edge that makes the day memorable. The only potential drawback? The schedule is packed, and if you’re not a fan of crowds or lively activities, it might feel a bit energetic for some. Still, those looking for an active, social day on the water will find it a great fit. This tour is perfect for families, groups, or anyone wanting a good mix of relaxation, fun, and sightseeing without spending a fortune.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $14.23, it offers great value for a full six-hour experience.
• Inclusive Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Fun Activities: Foam parties, waterslides, jet-ski rentals, and swimming breaks keep things lively.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stops at Apollo Temple and Side Harbour provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Tasty Food & Drinks: Enjoy a Turkish Gözleme lunch and WiFi onboard.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Reliable scheduling with free cancellation options.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting the Day with Convenience

Booking this tour means avoiding the hassle of arranging transport. The tour provider arranges hotel pickups from all Side hotels, which is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area. You’ll meet your guide on the Manavgat River, where the adventure begins. Expect a friendly, multi-language explanation of the day’s itinerary, setting the tone for a relaxed yet lively day.

The First Stop: Manavgat River & Beach

The first highlight is the swimming break at Manavgat Bosphorus, where the river meets the Mediterranean. This spot offers a calming view of the parallel waters, perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing on the sand. We loved the way the guide explained the geography—highlighting the unique location where the river and sea come close. The 45-minute swim gives you a chance to cool off, and the opportunity to taste Gözleme, a traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients, adds a tasty local touch.

Lunch on the Boat & Cultural Sights

After the swim, your boat will serve a lunch that most guests find satisfying. It’s a chance to refuel before heading to the iconic Apollo Temple near Side. The photo stops here are well worth it—these ancient ruins give a quick glimpse into the area’s historical roots, even if the focus is more on fun and scenery overall.

The Fun Continues at Caretta Bay

Next, the boat anchors at Caretta Bay, where the foam party kicks off. Expect dancing, music, and lots of bubbly foam—local guides often get everyone involved, making it a lively, inclusive atmosphere. This is where the tour really shines in terms of entertainment, especially for families or groups looking to blow off steam. During this stop, you can also use waterslides into the sea for about 45 minutes, a hit with kids and those young at heart.

Water Activities & Final Swim

Back on the boat, you’ll have the chance for a last swim in the Manavgat River, or if you prefer, rent a jetski to add a splash of adrenaline to your day. The jetski rental is around 30 dollars, giving you the freedom to explore more of the river at your pace.

Returning & Hotel Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a return to your hotel, leaving you with plenty of memories and perhaps some new friends. The WiFi onboard helps share your photos or check your messages before you arrive.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery. Chloe mentions, “Tour guides and staff were very nice, swimming breaks and you get to visit the beach which is great.” Meanwhile, Aviaq Reimer highlights that it’s “one of the best experiences during the holiday,” especially recommending it for families. Ousama appreciated the foam party, calling it “super fun,” and praising the generous meal.

Travelers seem especially happy with the value—getting a full day of fun, food, and sightseeing for just over $14 is a bargain, especially considering the included hotel transfers and WiFi. Some mention the lively atmosphere, making it clear this tour is geared towards those ready for a fun, social day.

Considerations

While the schedule is packed, and activities are lively, those seeking a more relaxed, quiet day might find it a bit busy. Also, drinks apart from the included lunch and non-alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, and optional extras like photos and jet-ski rentals** come at an additional cost. Weather can impact the day, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for families, groups of friends, or couples who want a fun-filled day on the water. If you enjoy social activities, lively music, and a good mix of sightseeing and entertainment, you’ll be right at home. It’s also ideal if you’re budget-conscious but still want a comprehensive experience with a variety of stops and activities.

Final Thoughts

This Half Day Boat Tour in Side offers exceptional value for the price, blending scenic views, cultural sights, and lively activities in one package. The hotel pickup and friendly guides make logistics effortless, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the day. The foam party and waterslides add a distinctive playful touch, making it memorable for all ages.

While it’s a full, energetic day, the mix of swimming, sightseeing, and fun keeps it engaging from start to finish. If you’re after a social, active experience that showcases some of the best natural and historical sights of Side, this tour is a solid choice. For those seeking tranquility or a more subdued pace, you might prefer a quieter, less activity-packed day. But for everyone wanting a lively, enjoyable glimpse of this beautiful Turkish coastal region, this trip delivers.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, so plan to be ready for pickup early in the morning.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
Yes, it features exclusive hotel pickup and drop-off from all Side hotels, simplifying your planning.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcohol and other drinks are not included, but non-alcoholic beverages are available at the bar with reasonable prices.

What activities are available during the stop at Caretta Bay?
You can enjoy a foam party, dance, and for about 45 minutes, use the waterslides into the sea.

Can I rent a jet-ski?
Yes, jet-ski rentals are available for around 30 dollars, perfect if you want a bit of added thrill.

Is there a chance for photos during the trip?
Yes, professional photographers on board take pictures that you can purchase for around 5-10 dollars.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and some cash for optional extras like photos or jet-ski rentals.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

This tour offers a lively, well-organized way to enjoy Side’s best water-based activities and scenic sights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after family fun, a day with friends, or just want to see some of Turkey’s beautiful coast from the water, this trip is worth considering.