City of Side: Side & Caretta Bay Boat Trip w/ Lunch & Drinks

If you’re planning a day out in Side, Turkey, and considering a boat tour, this one from Seven Tours might catch your eye. It promises a mix of fun, scenery, and a bit of activity — including a foam party, swimming stops, and a good-value price. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s a balanced take that can help you decide if it fits what you’re after.

What we like about this tour is how it combines entertainment with scenic views. The foam party onboard is a highlight, giving you that unique, memorable moment. Also, the opportunity to swim in Caretta Bay’s turquoise waters or along the Manavgat River offers a refreshing break from sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour mainly focuses on the water-based experience, so if you’re hoping for a deep dive into Side’s ancient sites on foot, this might not fully satisfy those interests. That said, it works well for travelers who want a lively, laid-back day with good views, good food, and some fun.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and entertainment on the water, don’t mind a lively atmosphere, and are looking for a budget-friendly way to see some of the Turkish Riviera’s highlights. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy water activities and a bit of party vibe, it could be just right. But if you’re after a quiet, cultural exploration of Side’s historical sites on land, you might want to supplement this with another experience.

Key Points

• Enjoy a lively foam party aboard the boat, making for an unforgettable, playful experience.
• Eat well and relax with a generous lunch and unlimited soft drinks included.
• Swim in beautiful spots like Caretta Bay and along the Manavgat River, with options to cool off and unwind.
• Expert guides and smooth logistics mean you can focus on having fun without worry.
• Flexible cancellation and booking options add peace of mind.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with swimming and entertainment but always check individual needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Taking a Closer Look at What to Expect

The Itinerary and How It Flows

Once you’re picked up from your hotel — a convenient start — the tour kicks off with a comfortable bus ride to the boat. The journey itself is a good way to settle in and get ready for the day ahead. Once onboard, the boat’s atmosphere is lively, with a friendly crew and plenty of space across three decks. The highlight? The foam party, which kicks off at a designated time, turning the vessel into a bubbling, giggling scene. Reviews from past travelers highlight how much fun this part is: “Zwei Badepausen, Schaumparty und Kinder animation gut,” mentions Tina, praising the foam and children’s entertainment.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

As you cruise along the Manavgat River and then out to the Mediterranean, you’ll have plenty of chances to snap photos. The views of Side’s ancient ruins — especially the Temple of Apollo — are visible from the water, offering that classic shot of history against the modern day. Alexandra appreciated the sights from the sea, even if she hoped for more on-foot exploration: “We expected to visit also old Side and the Apollo Temple on foot and not only from the sea, but in the end it was all good.” It’s a good reminder that this trip is more about the water-based experience than a full tour of the city’s archaeological sites.

Swimming and Relaxation

The boat makes stops at key spots, including Caretta Bay, known for its clear, inviting waters. Here, you can take a refreshing swim or just float around and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. The Manavgat River stop also provides a more natural setting for cooling off. Reviewers like Steve highlight how safe and supervised jumping from the deck is, which adds a fun, adrenaline-filled element for those inclined.

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Food, Drinks, and Onboard Comfort

The included lunch is described as tasty, with options like chicken, rice, and salad. It’s a simple but satisfying meal and a good value for the price — especially considering the drinks are unlimited soft drinks, with options like cola, Fanta, Sprite, and water. Tina mentions that drinks cost about €2-3 on board, so the all-inclusive soft drinks are a bonus. The sanitary facilities are reportedly adequate, and the boat’s three-tier setup offers plenty of space for guests to spread out.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Aside from the foam party, expect some light entertainment and a lively atmosphere. Kids seem to particularly enjoy the activity, with Tina noting that “Kinder animation” was well-organized. The crew keeps things fun and safe, making it a generally family-friendly vibe, although the main draw is the water-based fun and party atmosphere.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

To make the most of this experience, pack your swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sandals, sunscreen, and your camera. The tour provides showers, so you can rinse off before heading back home. Remember, pets, outside food, and drinks are not allowed onboard, so plan accordingly.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $25 per person, this tour offers decent value. For that, you get a lively boat experience, a meal, unlimited soft drinks, and the chance to swim in stunning waters. For many travelers, that’s a good deal, especially when compared to more structured land-based tours that focus solely on sightseeing. The reviews back this up, with Tina praising the “Preis Leistung wirklich gut” (value for money).

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a fun, social day out on the water with a dash of entertainment. It’s suitable for those who want to relax, cool off, and enjoy scenic views without a heavy focus on history or cultural sites. Families with children will likely enjoy the swimming and foam party, but it’s also great for groups of friends wanting a lively, relaxed atmosphere. If your idea of a perfect day involves good food, water fun, and a party vibe, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes children’s entertainment and swimming options, making it a family-friendly activity, especially for kids who love water and party atmospheres.

Are drinks included in the price?
Unlimited soft drinks are included as part of the package. Alcoholic drinks, tea, coffee, and ice-cream are not included unless you purchase them separately.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sandals, camera, and sunscreen. There are showers onboard, so you can rinse off after swimming.

Does the tour visit Side’s historic sites on foot?
No, the focus is on the boat trip, scenic views, and swimming stops. Alexandra mentioned she expected to visit the old Side and Apollo Temple on foot, but that’s not part of this tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 6 hours, with the starting time depending on availability. Check ahead to see when your specific trip departs.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility needs to join in.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, providing explanations and safety instructions in both languages.

Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely — you can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

In summary, this boat tour from Side offers a lively, waterside escape with a good balance of fun and relaxation. It’s perfect if you’re after a memorable experience with a party vibe, scenic views, and some swimming fun — all at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for a quiet, historical excursion on land, you might want to combine this with other tours. But for a relaxed, entertaining day on the Turkish Riviera, this trip hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: