From city of Side: Half Day Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to the Antalya region and looking for a way to unwind while soaking up some beautiful scenery, a half-day boat tour from Side might just be your answer. This experience promises a laid-back cruise with refreshing swimming stops, the chance to spot dolphins, and a casual lunch on board—all at an attractive price point of just $16 per person.

While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, the tour offers enough time to relax, enjoy the coast, and have some fun in the sea. We particularly appreciate that this trip feels accessible and straightforward, especially for travelers seeking a calm escape rather than a high-energy adventure. However, like any tour, it has its nuances, including the possibility of rescheduling or re-routing, which can influence your experience.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a low-stress, scenic escape from the bustling streets of Side. Families with children often find it a good choice, especially given the gentle pace and the opportunity for swimming and sunbathing. But keep in mind, if dolphins are a big part of your trip expectations, you might want to have some patience — sightings are not guaranteed, though many past travelers have enjoyed dolphin activity during their cruise.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $16 per person for a half-day on the water.
• Includes hotel transfers and a meal on the boat, making logistics easier.
• Offers swimming breaks and relaxed sunbathing opportunities.
• Enjoy scenic views of Side’s coastline and possibly spot dolphins.
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the trip.
• Tour duration around 6 hours, with starting times to check in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect from the Tour

This half-day boat trip kicks off with a convenient hotel pick-up, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating to the boat yourself — the tour provider handles the transfer, leaving you to relax from the moment you wake up. Once on board, you’ll find a three-floor pirate-themed boat, which adds a touch of fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or simply enjoy a playful atmosphere.

The cruise begins along the Manavgat River, offering a different perspective of the local landscape before heading out to the open sea. During the trip, you’ll have several swimming stops — ideal moments for cooling off, snorkeling, or just floating around in the warm waters. The boat’s deck provides plenty of space for sunbathing, so bring your towel and relax under the sun.

One of the highlights is the potential to see dolphins. Many travelers over the years have reported dolphins jumping and playing near their boats — although it’s worth noting that this isn’t guaranteed. If you’re lucky, it’ll be a magical addition to your day, making the trip even more memorable.

The crew is equipped with guiding services in multiple languages, including English, German, Turkish, and Russian, helping you stay informed about the scenery and landmarks around you.

Lunch and Refreshments

A key part of this tour is the included lunch on the boat. While they don’t specify what the meal entails, you can generally expect a simple, straightforward fare designed to keep you energized for the day. Drinks are available for purchase onboard, so if you want some soft drinks or alcohol, plan to buy those separately.

The price is quite reasonable for everything included — the transfer, the cruise, and the lunch — making it a good value. Just remember, drinks other than the meal might cost extra.

The Scenic and Relaxing Experience

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to enjoy the beautiful coastal landscape of Side from the water. The views are often described as stunning, with clear waters and rocky coastlines that make for great photo moments. The boat’s multiple decks give you a good vantage point for taking it all in.

Travelers who value a laid-back approach will love the slow pace, the opportunity to sunbathe, and the gentle sea breeze. It’s not a high-energy adventure but rather a peaceful, picturesque cruise.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

In reviewing past experiences, one guest described the boat as a “beautiful three-floor pirate-themed boat” that is “perfectly suited for kids”. They appreciated the friendly staff and the fact that, despite weather-related rescheduling, everything was taken care of smoothly, allowing the day to be enjoyed safely and fully.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One traveler shared disappointment after being rebooked onto a different tour that took them to Dolphin Island instead of Side — an example of how schedule changes can impact expectations. It’s worth noting that such re-routing can happen, so flexibility might be helpful.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water. If you enjoy scenic views combined with swimming and sunbathing, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying. It’s especially good for travelers on a budget who want to maximize their time with minimal hassle.

While dolphin sightings are common, they’re not guaranteed. So, if dolphin watching is a primary goal, you might want to keep expectations moderate or consider other options with more predictable wildlife encounters.

Final Thoughts

This half-day boat tour from Side offers a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy the beautiful coast and warm waters of the Antalya region. The inclusion of hotel transfers and lunch adds convenience, and the scenic cruise provides plenty of opportunities for relaxation and sightseeing.

It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to escape the crowds for a few hours, indulge in some swimming, and enjoy picturesque views. The boat’s playful theme and the chance—although not guaranteed—to see dolphins make it a bit more memorable than just any boat trip.

On the downside, schedule changes do happen, and drinks outside the included meal will cost extra. But overall, this tour offers good value with a relaxed vibe that suits most travelers wanting a gentle escape on the sea.

Who’s it best for?

If you’re traveling with family or simply want a calm, scenic break from sightseeing, this trip could be just what you need. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a laid-back pace, scenic beauty, and a touch of fun on the water.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, which includes transfers, cruising, swimming, and lunch.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel. Be sure to wait at the hotel front gate 10 minutes early.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, Turkish, and Russian, helping a diverse range of travelers stay informed.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Will I see dolphins?
While many travelers have reported dolphin sightings, they are not guaranteed since these are wild animals.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a hat. Drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but you might want to bring extra if you prefer specific refreshments.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally considered family-friendly, especially with the playful boat theme and swimming stops.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transfers, the boat cruise, guiding services, and a meal. Drinks are extra.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, drinks (other than the meal) must be purchased separately on the boat.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather-related rescheduling is possible. Past travelers appreciated how the organization handled last-minute changes, ensuring safety and enjoyment.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a friendly atmosphere and a good price, this boat trip from Side might be a lovely addition to your holiday. Just keep expectations realistic, stay flexible, and enjoy the views and the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: