Side Boat Tour

A Side boat trip is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the Mediterranean—sunshine on deck, clear water for swimming, and views you simply can’t get from land. Many tours combine relaxation, music, and short stops in scenic bays, so you can swim, sunbathe, and take photos in one day. In peak summer, popular departures can fill up quickly, so early booking is a smart way to secure your preferred boat and time.

On this page, we’ve gathered the most popular options for a Side boat tour. Below you’ll find short introductions and links to detailed pages—so you can compare routes, vibes, and what’s included before you choose.

Side Pirate Boat Tour with Foam Party

On this route, your boat departs from Side Harbour and cruises west around the Side peninsula. You can enjoy sea views of Side’s iconic landmarks, including the Temple of Apollo, while the coastline and ancient silhouette create a memorable backdrop. Most trips include several swim stops in nearby bays, giving you time to cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Also known as the Side pirate boat trip, this experience is all about energy and fun. With a multi-deck boat, music, and entertainment, the highlight is the foam party—when the deck turns into an open-sea dance floor. If you prefer a quieter moment, you can relax on the upper levels and take in the views instead.

Despite the party theme, this tour can also work well for families. Crew members manage the atmosphere, safety equipment is available, and kids often enjoy the pirate-style setting and onboard activities. Swim breaks add an extra layer of fun for everyone—making it a strong choice if you want sunshine, swimming, and entertainment in one Side boat tour.

Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour

Another popular option is the Dolphin Island boat tour. This trip typically begins on the calm waters of the Manavgat River before heading out to sea toward a small island off the Side coast. A special moment on this route is the swim stop where the river meets the Mediterranean—one side fresh water, the other salty sea water. And if you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins surfacing near the boat.

Many departures also cruise close to Side’s shoreline so you can see ancient ruins from the water. With swim breaks in clear bays and a relaxed onboard atmosphere, this Side boat trip is a comfortable choice for families and mixed-age groups.

Side Oymapınar (Green Canyon) Boat Tour

Looking for a quieter day away from the sea? The Oymapınar Dam Lake experience—often called Green Canyon—offers a completely different kind of Side boat tour. You’ll travel into the Taurus Mountains and board a comfortable boat surrounded by forests, cliffs, and calm water. It’s an easy-going trip where nature is the main attraction, and birdlife is often part of the scenery.

During the tour, you’ll usually have time for a refreshing swim in the cool lake water, plus lunch served either on the boat or at a lakeside restaurant. This option is ideal if you want peace, fresh air, and a slower pace.

Side Manavgat River Boat Tour & Waterfall Visit

If you want to combine a boat experience with local sights, the Manavgat River tour with a waterfall stop is a great pick. After pickup, you’ll board a spacious river boat and cruise through green scenery where you may spot local birds and river turtles. One of the best stops is the riverside beach area at the mouth of the river—where you can choose between swimming in fresh river water or the salty Mediterranean.

After lunch on the boat, the program continues by road to Manavgat Waterfall for free time to take photos and enjoy the cool mist. On certain days, some itineraries also include time at the Manavgat bazaar, where you can browse spices, souvenirs, and seasonal produce.

Suluada Boat Tour from Side

The Suluada tour is perfect for travelers who love turquoise water and secluded coves. The day usually starts with a transfer to Adrasan, followed by a boat ride to Suluada—often compared to “Mediterranean Maldives” style scenery. Expect long swim breaks in clear water and time to relax on deck between stops.

Many trips include lunch served onboard and a bar where you can purchase drinks during the day. If your goal is calm bays, swimming, and standout photos, this is a memorable Side boat trip option.

Side Big Kral Boat Tour (Large Pirate Ship Experience)

Big Kral is one of the most well-known large pirate-style boats in the Side–Alanya region. With multiple decks and a “floating entertainment venue” feel, it’s designed for guests who want a high-energy day with music, shows, and swim stops. It’s a popular choice for groups of friends and couples who prefer a party atmosphere.

This tour is often offered with an all-inclusive concept (details can vary by program), with lunch served onboard. Many departures operate via transfer to Alanya Harbour, then cruise along scenic bays on the coastline. Some schedules may also offer a sunset option, combining sea views with evening vibes.

Side Night Boat Party (Disco Cruise)

Want something different after the beach? A night boat party brings a club-style atmosphere onto the water. After evening pickup and boarding, you’ll enjoy DJ sets, lights, and a dance floor on deck—set against the city lights and the dark Mediterranean. It’s a popular option for younger travelers and groups looking for nightlife with a unique setting.

Night cruises commonly run roughly between 21:00 and 01:00, with transfers included. Some programs include soft drinks, while cocktails and other drinks are typically available at the bar for purchase.

Side Boat Tour Times

Schedules can vary depending on the boat, route, and season, but most tours follow familiar time windows. Always confirm exact pickup and departure details during booking.

Daytime Boat Tours

Day tours are the most common choice. Many departures start around 09:00–10:00 and finish around 15:00–16:00. These trips typically include swim breaks, lunch, and onboard entertainment.

Sunset Boat Tours

Sunset cruises usually begin around 18:00 and end around 21:00–22:00. They may not run daily, so it’s worth checking availability early if this is your preferred experience.

Disco Party Boat Tours

Disco-style night cruises often begin around 21:00–22:00 and finish around 01:00–02:00. In many weeks, they operate on limited days—so planning ahead helps.

For all tours, please confirm the latest times and inclusions at the reservation stage.

Where Do Side Boat Tours Depart From?

Departure points depend on the route and concept. Many daytime tours leave from Side Harbour, close to the Ancient Side area. Some routes—especially river-based programs—start near the Manavgat River mouth.

Certain special concepts such as sunset cruises or disco boats may operate from Alanya Harbour. In those cases, a transfer is arranged from Side, and the meeting details are shared after booking.

Once you reserve, you’ll receive clear information about pickup time, meeting point, and transfer. With organized transport, you can focus on enjoying your Side boat tour without worrying about logistics.

Side Boat Tour Prices

Prices vary by boat type, route, and what’s included (transfer, lunch, entertainment, and drinks policy). Standard day trips are usually budget-friendly for what you get, while premium concepts or all-inclusive drink programs can cost more. For the latest options and inclusions, check the individual tour pages, where you can compare what best matches your plan.

Overall, a Side boat trip offers strong value because transport, a full day on the water, swim stops, and lunch often come together as one simple package.

About Boat Trips in Side

Boat trips are one of Side’s most loved activities—easy to join, fun for groups, and rewarding for anyone who wants sea views and swim time. Whether you prefer a lively party cruise or a calm day in nature, there’s a Side boat tour that fits your holiday style.

When you step onboard, you’ll quickly understand why these tours are so popular: warm sun, a light sea breeze, and that first swim break in clear water. Add in coastline views of ancient landmarks, and you have the kind of day people remember long after the trip ends.

Foam Party Fun on a Pirate Boat

The pirate-style cruise is known for its foam party on deck—music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere. If you don’t want to join the party, you can still enjoy the cruise, relax on a quieter deck, and take photos during swim stops.

Swim Stops in Clear Mediterranean Water

Swim breaks are a highlight of almost every Side boat trip. Boats anchor in scenic spots, giving you time to jump in, float, snorkel if you have gear, or simply enjoy the view from the deck. Life jackets are available for guests who want extra comfort in the water.

Two Common Routes: Dolphin Island & Ancient Side Coastline

Routes can change by day and boat, but many programs follow one of two directions. East route: via the Manavgat River toward Dolphin Island, sometimes including a swim stop at the river mouth. West route: along the Side peninsula with sea views of the Temple of Apollo and coastal ruins.

Lunch and Drinks

Lunch is often included and typically features grilled chicken or fish with pasta or rice and salad. Drinks policies vary—some boats offer soft drinks included, while others sell beverages at the onboard bar. If you have dietary needs, it’s best to mention them at booking so the crew can advise what’s possible.

Why Join a Side Boat Tour?

Relaxation + Entertainment: Sunbathing and swimming paired with music and activities, depending on the boat’s concept.

Family-Friendly Options: Many programs work well for families, with safety equipment and a comfortable setup for all ages.

Coastal Views: Sea-level perspectives of Side’s coastline and historic silhouettes make the day feel special.

Convenient Planning: Pickup and drop-off are often included, so the day runs smoothly without extra logistics.

By the end of the day, you’ll likely head back with sun-kissed skin, a phone full of photos, and that satisfying feeling that you made the most of the Mediterranean.

Tour Program

(The program flow and timing can vary by boat and season.)

• 09:00 – Pickup from your hotel (Side and nearby areas).
• 10:00 – Departure from Side Harbour. If the east route is selected, the boat heads out via the Manavgat River; if the west route is selected, the cruise follows the Ancient Side coastline.
• 11:00 – First swim stop (near Dolphin Island on the east route, or close to Side bays on the west route).
• 12:00 – Lunch served onboard (grilled chicken or fish, salad, pasta/rice).
• 13:00 – Second swim stop (route-dependent bay stop).
• 14:00 – Foam party and entertainment on deck (music, games, animations).
• 15:00 – Return cruise toward Side Harbour.
• 15:30 – 16:00 – Arrival and drop-off back to your hotel.

Included:

• Round-trip hotel transfer (air-conditioned vehicles)
• Lunch on the boat (grilled chicken or fish + salad + pasta/rice)
• Foam party and entertainment program
• Professional crew and guidance
• Travel insurance

Not Included:

• All drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
• Personal expenses (photos, souvenirs, etc.)
• Optional water sports at swim stops (jet ski, banana boat, parasailing, etc.)

What to Bring:

• Swimwear, towel, and sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a hat
• Waterproof phone/camera case
• Some cash for personal expenses
• A dry change of clothes (recommended after the foam party)