Alanya: Small-Group Boat Tour with Lunch and Soft Drinks

If you’re considering a day out on the water while visiting Alanya, this small-group boat tour might catch your eye. It promises a relaxed vibe, scenic stops, and a good mix of swimming, sightseeing, and tasty food. While it’s not a wild party cruise nor a heavily packed adventure, it aims to offer a comfortable, enjoyable experience that balances natural beauty with a slice of local flavor.

What really appeals to us about this tour are two things: first, the focus on small-group intimacy—around 17-18 people—which makes for a more personal feel. And second, the opportunity to visit famous swimming spots like Cleopatra Beach, known for its clear waters and historical charm. That said, some reviews mention that the actual route can vary, and not everyone gets to see all the stops listed, which is worth keeping in mind.

One potential catch? The transfer transport doesn’t seem to be the most comfortable, with some travelers describing it as old and not very pleasant. So, if you’re sensitive to the journey getting to the boat, this is something to consider. Overall, if you’re after a tranquil, scenic day on the sea with fewer people, this tour might fit the bill well.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy relaxing on the water, appreciate a more intimate group, and love the idea of exploring caves, beaches, and marine life at a slower pace. It’s particularly good for those who want a break from the hustle, but still enjoy the social side of a boat trip.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Offers a more relaxed, personal experience around 17-18 people.
• Variety of Sightseeing: Caves, Cleopatra Beach, and Ula Paradise Beach are highlights.
• Onboard Lunch & Drinks: Includes a substantial meal like grilled chicken, spaghetti, or rice, plus unlimited soft drinks.
• Flexible Timing & Easy Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and keep your plans flexible.
• Comfort & Space: The boat is designed to be spacious and calm, minimizing seasickness concerns.
• Mixed Reviews on Transfer: The transfer vehicle may be old or uncomfortable, so consider this if comfort before the tour matters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Day on the Water

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point, after which you’ll be transferred to Alanya port. The ride isn’t exactly glamorous—some reviews mention outdated vans with a less-than-pleasant atmosphere—so if transportation comfort is important to you, pack that into your expectations.

Once onboard the boat, you’ll immediately notice the intimate size of the group, which makes it a more relaxed experience compared to larger cruises packed with hundreds of people. The boat itself has two decks—upstairs for sunbathing, and shaded areas downstairs—so you can choose your preferred spot.

Exploring the Caves

The first part of your journey involves exploring four caves around Alanya Castle. These caves include the Lovers’ Cave, the Devil’s Cave, the Pirates Cave, and the Phosphorus Cave. The guide will share stories about each one, which adds a layer of intrigue—especially the tales around the Lovers’ Cave. Expect to stop and swim in front of some caves, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Some reviews note that not all stops may be as advertised, but the caves are generally a highlight. The Phosphorus Cave, in particular, is known for its colorful fish, which you can observe right at the surface—an enchanting sight for snorkelers or anyone interested in marine life.

Cleopatra Beach & Swimming Breaks

One of the tour’s standout moments is visiting Cleopatra Beach, famed for its clean, shallow waters and soft sand. You’ll get to swim here, which many travelers find refreshing, especially on warm days. The water’s clarity and the beach’s beauty make it a favorite stop, with plenty of space to float and relax.

The tour includes a lunch break onboard, which is surprisingly satisfying. You might find the menu offers grilled chicken, spaghetti, or rice, complemented by a fresh salad. It’s a good amount of food considering you’re spending most of the day on the water. Plus, unlimited soft drinks keep everyone hydrated and happy.

Music, Atmosphere, and Relaxation

The onboard music isn’t loud or overwhelming—more of a gentle, relaxing backdrop, often with a DJ playing soft tunes. This helps maintain a calm vibe, especially if you’re not in the mood for energetic party music. You’re encouraged to lay back, sunbathe, or cool off in shaded areas.

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Ula Paradise Beach & Marine Life

Later in the day, you’ll visit Ula Paradise Beach, a tranquil spot characterized by its pristine water and quiet ambiance. It’s an ideal place to swim and unwind, away from crowds. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or other marine animals during the boat’s open sea stretch—some lucky travelers or dolphin-watchers report seeing marine life, making this part of the trip quite special.

The Practical Side: Duration, Group Size, and Value

This tour lasts about 5.5 to 6 hours, making it a full but not exhausting day. The group size, kept deliberately small, is a real plus if you dislike large, noisy tours. It allows for a more personal interaction with the crew and a calmer experience overall.

In terms of value, the package includes onboard lunch, unlimited soft drinks, and multiple scenic stops, which adds up. Considering the price, many find it reasonable—especially since it offers a quieter, more relaxing experience than some other boat trips that focus on loud music or party atmospheres.

The Downsides

One notable downside is the transfer vehicle. Some reviews describe it as old, cramped, and not very pleasant, which can be a letdown before even reaching the boat. Also, the actual route might vary, and not everyone gets to see all the stops listed on the itinerary, so flexibility is key.

Another point to mention is that the boat is designed to be spacious and stable, minimizing seasickness. So, if seasickness is a concern, this should be less of an issue here.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic day on the water in Alanya. It suits those who prefer smaller crowds, enjoy snorkeling or swimming in crystal-clear waters, and like a peaceful, laid-back environment. If you’re after a lively, loud party boat with loud music and dancing, this probably isn’t the tour for you.

It’s also a good choice for couples, groups of friends, or anyone interested in exploring caves and beaches without rushing. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy swimming and nature would likely enjoy this trip, especially given the calm waters and scenic stops.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts around 5.5 to 6 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard.

What is included in the lunch?
Lunch usually features grilled chicken, spaghetti or rice, and salad. It’s served onboard and is considered quite satisfying given the day’s activities.

Are soft drinks unlimited?
Yes, soft drinks are available freely throughout the trip, keeping everyone refreshed.

Does the boat have shaded areas?
Yes, the boat has shaded downstairs areas and an upstairs sunbathing deck—both are perfect for different preferences.

Is seasickness a concern?
The boat is designed to be spacious and stable, so seasickness is generally not a problem for most travelers.

Can I see marine animals like dolphins?
If you’re lucky, yes. The boat goes out into open water for about 10 miles, where you might spot dolphins or other marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to enjoy your day comfortably.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip.

What languages are spoken onboard?
The onboard hosts and guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish.

Final Thought

This small-group boat tour from Alanya offers a gentle, scenic escape on the Mediterranean, with enough stops to keep things interesting but not overwhelming. The focus on comfort, smaller groups, and relaxing music makes it stand out from more boisterous options. If you’re looking for a peaceful day, soaking up the sun, swimming in stunning waters, and enjoying a nice onboard meal, this could be just what you need.

While the transfer might be less glamorous and some routes vary, the calm atmosphere and natural beauty make it worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a laid-back experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a quieter vibe, this tour should serve you well. Remember to pack your sunscreen, hat, and towel, and enjoy that peaceful cruise along Alanya’s gorgeous coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: