Side Town:Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour With Lunch and Drinks

Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour With Lunch and Drinks: A Detailed Look

If you’re planning a day out on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, the Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour offers a convenient way to enjoy the water, some sightseeing, and a bit of fun—all for around $34 per person. It’s one of those experiences that’s easy to recommend if you’re after a relaxed, social day with plenty of opportunities to cool off and soak in beautiful views.

What we particularly like about this tour is the inclusion of unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, which keeps things refreshing without extra costs, and the foamy party onboard—it’s a playful highlight that sets this trip apart. The scenic cruise past the ancient city of Side with its iconic Temple of Apollo is another real plus, giving you postcard-worthy photo ops of history and nature combined.

On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned that group sizes can get a bit crowded, which sometimes makes moving around or getting close to the sights a tad tricky. If you’re someone who enjoys more intimate experiences or has specific expectations about the pace or privacy, this might be worth keeping in mind.

This tour seems best suited for travelers looking for a fun, social day on the water with good value, decent food, and plenty of opportunities to swim and play. It’s not a luxurious, quiet getaway, but it’s a lively, budget-friendly option that offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Value for money with a 7.5-hour experience including lunch and drinks at just $34.
• Multiple swim stops, including Caretta Bay, for cooling off in turquoise waters.
• Entertaining foam party onboard, perfect for those wanting a lively vibe.
• Great views of Side and the Temple of Apollo, ideal for photos and appreciating the surroundings.
• Good organization with hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, and inclusive travel insurance.
• Mixed reviews on crowding and food quality, so manage expectations accordingly.

What to Expect from the Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour

Once you’re booked, the day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a relief, especially if you’re staying outside the city center. The bus ride is generally smooth and on time, giving you a hassle-free start. From there, the adventure moves to the boat, where the crew welcomes you for a 7.5-hour cruise along the Manavgat River and out into the Mediterranean.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Cruising along the Manavgat River: As you leave the coast behind, the views are quite charming—lush greenery on one side and the shimmering water on the other. This stretch gives you a taste of the local landscape, though it’s more about setting the scene than major sightseeing.

Swimming in Caretta Bay: The first big highlight is the stop at Caretta Bay, where the waters are clear and inviting. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. The water quality is generally good and ideal for cooling off after some time in the sun.

Photo opportunities of Side: The boat cruise allows for some lovely photo moments of the ancient city’s silhouette. The Temple of Apollo is a top shot, especially if you’re into capturing classic ruins alongside sea views. It’s a real treat for history buffs and picture takers alike.

Lunch on Board: The included lunch features a selection of fresh dishes, which are decent considering the price point. You can expect a variety of options, and it’s enough to keep you fueled for the rest of the day. The food is generally described as simple but tasty, with some reviews mentioning smaller portions. Keep in mind that alcohol, coffee, ice cream, and snacks are additional, which might be a downside if you’re expecting more variety or a full buffet.

The Foam Party: The tour’s signature fun moment is the foam machine creating a lively, bubbly atmosphere. Kids and young at heart tend to love it, and it’s a great way to cool down and add some playful energy to the day.

Swimming and Water Activities

Besides Caretta Bay, the boat occasionally offers a swim stop at another spot, where jet skiing might be available for an extra fee. Some travelers mentioned that their children enjoyed the foam party and swimming, making it a family-friendly option for those with kids, although the age suitability depends on your children’s comfort with crowds and noise.

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The Group and Guide Experience

The guides are generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere. The group size can sometimes feel a little crowded, with some guests noting that they had to squeeze through groups to get closer to the sights or participate in activities. That’s not unusual for this kind of tour, but if you’re after more space or quiet, it’s worth considering.

Practical Details

• Duration: 7.5 hours provides a good balance of activity and relaxation.
• Price: At $34, the tour offers solid value, especially considering the included lunch and drinks.
• Availability: Check the schedule as starting times vary; the tour runs daily but may fill up.
• Transportation: Punctual pickup and drop-off make the experience easier—no fussing about logistics.
• Language: Guided commentary is available in English, German, and Polish, which covers most travelers’ needs.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, and cash for extras. The weather can be hot, so packing sun protection is smart.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is a good pick if you want a fun, social day on the water with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and entertainment. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy lively atmospheres and don’t mind sharing with a crowd. It’s also a practical option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see the coast, enjoy some good food, and have a memorable foam party.

If you’re traveling with kids, they might love the splashy, playful vibe, but be aware of the potential for crowds and noise. The included stops and entertainment make it less ideal if you’re seeking serenity and solitude, but perfect if you want a lively, active day that mixes scenery with fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics.

What is the duration of the tour? It lasts about 7.5 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, eating, and enjoying the foam party.

Are drinks included? Yes, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks are available onboard, helping keep you refreshed without extra costs.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour? No, alcoholic beverages are not included and are generally not available as part of the tour package.

How is the food? The included lunch consists of fresh, simple dishes that most travelers find satisfying. Portions may be smaller, but the quality is decent for the price.

Is there a guide? Yes, there’s a live guide speaking in English, German, or Polish to help explain the sights and keep everyone informed.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning.

Final Words

The Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour strikes a good balance between fun and value, especially if you’re after a lively day on the water. It’s well-organized, offers plenty of swimming opportunities, and includes a playful foam party that most guests seem to enjoy. The views of Side’s ancient ruins and the refreshing drinks onboard make it a memorable outing, though it’s a busier, more social experience rather than a quiet retreat.

For travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lighthearted entertainment, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember that group sizes can get a bit crowded, and the food, while fresh, isn’t gourmet. Overall, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to spend a day along Turkey’s beautiful coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: