City of Side: Sightseeing Cruise w/ Swim Stops & Foam Party

A Relaxing Day on the Water: The City of Side Sightseeing Cruise with Swim Stops & Foam Party

If you’re planning a trip to Side, Turkey, and looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to explore the waterways while cooling off in the sea, this cruise might just catch your eye. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve read plenty of reviews and trip descriptions about this experience, and from what I gather, it offers a full day of sun, sea, and entertainment.

What really draws people in are two things: the chance to enjoy multiple swimming breaks in crystal-clear waters and the lively foam party that turns the deck into a dance floor. Both add a layer of relaxation and fun that’s hard to beat, especially if you’re traveling with friends or just want a break from sightseeing on land.

On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour is quite social and lively—so if you’re after a quiet, peaceful day, this might not be the best fit. Also, drinks other than water aren’t included, and there’s a fee for photos, so keep that in mind if you’re budget-conscious.

This cruise feels geared toward those who want a mix of scenic views, swimming, and a good dose of party energy. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and are happy to spend a full day out on the water.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule and pickup: The tour includes hotel pickup between 08:30 and 09:30, making it easy to start your day without stress.
• Multiple swimming stops: You’ll get to jump into the sea at several points, including the scenic Cennet Play and in front of the historical Side peninsula.
• Fun foam party: The dance and foam party on the second floor is a highlight, suitable for all ages from 7 to 70, with lively music and entertainment.
• All-day entertainment and beautiful scenery: From cruising along the Manavgat River to seeing dolphins and caretta caretta turtles, you’ll enjoy both sights and activities.
• Value for money: At just $15 per person, the experience includes food, drinks (non-alcoholic), and a guide, offering solid value.
• Some limitations: Drinks other than water are not included, and the photo service is extra; also, the lively party vibe may not suit everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This cruise kicks off early in the morning, with pick-ups from your hotel in Side around 08:30 to 09:30. The comfortable bus ride to the Manavgat River is a nice start—expect scenic views of forests and countryside along the way. Once you arrive at the pier, the real fun begins with a boat that spans three floors, each offering different vibes and amenities.

The Boat Setup and Atmosphere

The boat itself is quite spacious, which is appreciated. On the first deck, you’ll find a bar, comfortable seating, and showers—perfect for cooling down after swimming or just relaxing. The second floor is where the party really heats up, with a dance floor, a second bar, and the foam party area. The third floor offers a sun terrace, ideal for those wanting to soak up the sun and enjoy uninterrupted views.

The crew is known for being friendly and lively, with reviews praising their helpfulness and fun energy. Expect to be greeted with smiles and, if you’re lucky, some entertaining interactions—like the mention of a parrot onboard and a photographer capturing moments.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Cennet Play
After about 20 minutes on the water, you’ll reach your first swimming break at Cennet Play. This spot is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and jet skiing (extra charge). The clear waters make it perfect for cooling off, and the setting is pretty scenic. Guests can spend around an hour here. One review mentioned that during this break, the kitchen grills chicken for a buffet lunch—so you can enjoy a tasty meal after your swim.

Second Stop: The Historical Side Peninsula
Next, the boat heads toward the legendary side of the river, arriving in front of the imposing temples of Apollo and Athena. Here, you’ll get about 45 minutes to swim, relax, or simply take in the stunning views of the ancient city. The water ladders behind the boat make swimming accessible, and the setting offers a glimpse into history with a modern twist. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking this view is, with some mentioning dolphin and turtle sightings en route, which adds an extra layer of magic.

Final Swim and Return
The last swimming break takes place at the river mouth, giving you one last chance to cool off before heading back to the pier. The return trip lasts roughly 45 minutes, during which the party kicks into gear with dancing and the foam party on the second floor. Travelers have described the foam as fun and engaging—sure to get everyone laughing and moving.

Food and Drinks

Lunch is part of the package, with a buffet featuring grilled chicken and fish options—reviewers generally praise the quality and portion size. Drinks aside from water are not included, and you’ll need to pay extra for local beverages like beer or soda. The photo service is also optional but adds a nice souvenir, though reviews suggest you might want to be ready to spend a few extra lira for photos.

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The Party Vibe

One of the most praised aspects is the lively atmosphere on the second floor. The foam party, led by the crew, is described as “great fun” and “something guests of all ages will love.” The dance floor is lively, and the music keeps the energy high. This isn’t a quiet cruise—it’s designed for guests wanting to dance, cool off, and have a good time with new friends.

Practical Considerations

The entire day lasts about 8 hours, with hotel drop-offs between 17:00 and 17:30. The boat is large, with enough space for sunbathers and swimmers, so it doesn’t feel crowded. The tour is suitable for most people—young and old—who want a fun, active day on the water. Just remember, the lively party scene might not appeal to those seeking a peaceful, relaxing experience.

How the Experience Adds Value for Travelers

This cruise offers a lot for its modest price of $15 per person. For that, you get hotel transfers, multiple swimming stops, a buffet lunch, and an energetic foam party. The reviews reflect strong satisfaction, with many guests calling it “excellent value,” “well-organized,” and “the best excursion of the holiday.”

The scenery, from the lush river views to the ancient temples, enhances the experience. Plus, the opportunity to see dolphins and turtles makes the trip memorable. The staff’s friendliness and the well-maintained boat add to the comfort, making it a hassle-free day out.

What You Should Know

• You should be prepared for a lively, social atmosphere, especially during the foam party.
• Drinks other than water are extra, so budget accordingly if you want local beverages or photos.
• The trip’s schedule is flexible enough to accommodate swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing at each stop.
• The tour is ideal for those who enjoy meeting new people and dancing, not for someone seeking a quiet cruise.
• The duration allows plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If you’re a traveler who loves being outdoors, enjoys swimming in clean waters, and wants a lively, sociable environment, this cruise will suit you. It’s great for groups, couples, or even solo travelers who enjoy meeting others. Families with older children and teenagers might find the vibe particularly appealing, thanks to the foam party and dance floor.

Those seeking a peaceful, contemplative day might prefer a different kind of boat tour, perhaps one focused solely on sightseeing without the party scene. But if you’re after a full day of fun, with beautiful scenery, good food, and entertainment, this cruise hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Side hotel between 08:30 and 09:30, making it easy to start your day without hassle.

How long does the entire trip last?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, with arrival back at your hotel around 17:00 to 17:30.

Are drinks included?
No, local drinks like beer, wine, soda, and tea are not included. Water is provided, but other beverages are extra.

Can I swim at each stop?
Absolutely. The itinerary includes several swimming breaks, with access to ladders and designated beaches, giving you plenty of time to relax in the water.

Is the foam party suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for guests aged 7 to 70, making it a fun activity for most families and groups.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and some extra money if you want to buy photos or local drinks. Comfortable clothing and a good mood are all you really need.

To sum it up, this sightseeing cruise in Side offers a lively, well-organized way to enjoy the water and scenic views, with plenty of swimming, good food, and fun entertainment. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full, active day with fellow travelers and enjoy a party atmosphere. Just remember, it’s not a serene, quiet cruise—if that’s what you want, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a lively, scenic, and engaging experience, this trip seems to deliver on all fronts.

You can check availability for your dates here: