City of Side Boat Tour With Lunch And Soft Drinks

Discovering the Side Boat Tour with Lunch and Soft Drinks: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day on the water in Side, this City of Side Boat Tour promises a relaxing escape combining stunning views, historical sights, and a tasty lunch. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to enjoy a mix of leisure, scenery, and a taste of Turkish cuisine in about five hours. We’ve looked into the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the opportunity to swim at beautiful spots like Turtle Bay and the confluence of the river and the sea sounds inviting — perfect for cooling off in clear, warm waters. Second, the view of the Temple of Apollo from the sea offers a unique perspective on Side’s ancient ruins, ideal for photo enthusiasts and history lovers alike. On the flip side, a potential snag is that some travelers found the actual duration longer than advertised and were surprised by additional costs related to soft drinks.

This tour could be just what you need if you love relaxed days on the water with scenic stops, aren’t fussed about precise timing, and are looking for a value-packed day with food and drinks included. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a mellow way to explore Side’s coastline without the hassle of planning every detail on their own.

Key Points

• Scenic stops include Turtle Bay and the Temple of Apollo from the sea
• The tour offers a traditional Turkish lunch onboard
• Soft drinks are included, but some reviews mention extra costs for additional beverages
• The duration can feel longer than the advertised 5 hours, with some travelers mentioning up to 7.5 hours
• The boat features spacious decks and a professional crew for comfort and safety
• It’s suitable for those who enjoy relaxing on the water and taking in coastal views

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the City of Side Boat Tour Really Like?

Imagine boarding a well-equipped boat surrounded by turquoise waters, feeling the warm sun on your skin, and knowing that your day will be filled with both relaxation and a bit of adventure. This 5-hour tour from Side is designed for travelers who want to see the coast from a different perspective — from the sea. It’s a laid-back way to combine scenic views, historical sights, and good food.

The tour departs from Side, a town renowned for its ancient ruins and beautiful beaches. You’ll first head out into the calm waters, where you can enjoy the breeze and panoramic views. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, with plenty of room to stretch out and take photos, making it especially appealing for those who prefer a relaxed, unhurried experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The highlights of the trip include swimming at the confluence of the river and the sea, which is a great way to cool off after a few hours on the boat. The stops near Side Harbour and Turtle Bay give you chances to snorkel or just lounge on the deck. Seeing the Temple of Apollo from the sea is a real treat — it provides a different angle on this iconic landmark, perfect for snapping some memorable photos.

The crew is described as professional, and the boat’s spacious decks and comfortable seating mean you won’t feel cramped during the voyage. The tour also includes the provision of soft drinks and water, allowing you to stay refreshed while soaking up the scenery.

The Food Experience

One of the most praised aspects is the delicious Turkish lunch served onboard. It’s a good chance to sample local flavors without leaving the boat. The meal is described as a private, sit-down affair that energizes you for the rest of the trip. Many reviews mention that the food hits the spot, especially when paired with the relaxing sea atmosphere.

The Drinks and Pricing

While soft drinks are included in the package, some travelers noted that the beverages come in small, disposable cups, and additional drinks or larger quantities could come with a hefty price tag — with some mentioning up to 7 euros for a beer and 5 euros for an ice cream. One review even described the soft drinks as a “joke”, since people thought they were included when they weren’t, leading to surprising extra charges at the end of the day.

This can be a bit confusing if you’re not prepared, so keep in mind that while drinks are offered, you might want to bring your own or be ready for extra costs. It’s always better to clarify what’s included before the trip to avoid surprises.

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Duration and Flexibility

Several travelers, including one who said the tour lasted 7.5 hours instead of 5, found the actual time a bit longer than expected. This means you should keep your whole day open if you decide to book this tour. The pickup process, transportation, and the actual cruise all contribute to the total time, so plan accordingly.

The Experience from User Reviews

Some travelers appreciated the stunning views and the relaxed pace. One review from Switzerland gave a 4 out of 5, noting that the price-to-value ratio was good. Conversely, other reviews from Germany were less enthusiastic — citing longer travel times and the issue with soft drink pricing as drawbacks.

It’s clear that this tour offers a beautiful, leisurely day on the water, but it’s not without its quirks. If you’re expecting a quick, tightly scheduled trip, you might find it longer and a bit pricier, especially when it comes to beverages.

The Practical Side: What You Should Know Before Booking

Transport and Pickup: The tour includes pickup from your hotel, but you need to wait at your hotel’s security gate. The boats are described as safe and comfortable, with enough space for everyone to relax.

Language and Guides: Tours are conducted in English, Russian, and German, which is helpful if you speak any of those languages. A professional guide on board will provide commentary, although some reviews suggest the entertainment and commentary can be quite light.

Cost and Value: The all-inclusive package, featuring lunch and soft drinks, offers decent value for a relaxed day out. However, the extra costs for additional drinks can add up quickly, so budget accordingly.

Duration: Expect the tour to take longer than the initial 5 hours, especially considering transportation and waiting times. Your whole day might be spent on this excursion.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for those wanting a peaceful day by the sea, with opportunities for swimming, photo-taking, and enjoying Turkish cuisine. If you love relaxing in the sun and seeing coastal sights from the water, you’ll probably appreciate what this tour offers.

It’s also suited for travelers who don’t mind a longer day and are okay with a few quirks like extra beverage costs. Families with older children might find it an enjoyable outing, especially if they like being in the water, but keep in mind the longer duration.

The Sum Up

The City of Side Boat Tour with Lunch and Soft Drinks offers a calm, scenic way to experience the beauty of Side’s coastline. You’ll get a chance to swim in beautiful spots, see iconic landmarks from the water, and enjoy a delicious local meal. The boat’s comfort and the friendly crew ensure a pleasant environment, making it a good option for travelers seeking a laid-back day on the sea.

However, be aware of the potential longer duration than advertised and the extra costs for beverages, which some travelers found disappointing. If you’re flexible, enjoy scenic cruises, and want a relaxed way to explore Side, this tour could be a good fit.

For those looking for a straightforward, scenic boat trip with good food in a beautiful setting, this experience can be a highlight of your trip. Just keep an eye on the details and be prepared for a full day out — it’s worth it if you’re after a peaceful, picturesque adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The official duration is about 5 hours, but some travelers report it can extend to 7.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

Are soft drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks and water are included in the package. However, some reviews mention that the drinks come in small cups and additional beverages may cost extra.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, older children who enjoy swimming and boat trips may find it enjoyable. Always check on age restrictions or comfort levels.

What about the food?
The onboard Turkish lunch is generally praised as delicious and energizing, providing a nice break during the day.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat. You might also want to carry some extra cash if you plan to buy additional drinks or snacks outside the included ones.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, but you’ll need to wait at your hotel’s security gate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

This boat tour can be a lovely, laid-back way to spend part of your day in Side, especially if you’re after scenic views, some swimming, and a taste of Turkish cuisine. Just go in with realistic expectations and enjoy the gentle rhythm of a day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: