City of Side: Half-Day Private Yacht Trip with Food & Drinks

A Relaxing Journey Through Side’s Beautiful Coastline

This half-day private yacht trip in Side offers a chance to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea in a more intimate and personalized way. For around $900, your group of up to four gets to spend five hours cruising along the coast, stopping for refreshing swims, and savoring a delicious onboard meal. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury, all in a manageable half-day outing.

What excites me most about this experience are two key elements: first, the opportunity to get away from crowded beaches and enjoy the calm, turquoise waters in a peaceful setting. Second, the chance to capture breathtaking photos, especially with the historic Temple of Apollo looming opposite the yacht—an iconic backdrop that makes for memorable snapshots.

One consideration worth noting is the price — $900 for a group of four may seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in private transportation, a dedicated captain, and the inclusive food and drinks, it offers a good value for travelers craving exclusivity and comfort. However, it’s important to be prepared that alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you’re looking to indulge in local wine or spirits, you’ll need to bring your own.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private group experience ensures personalized service and flexibility in your schedule.
• Swim stops are in calm, clear waters near Caretta Bay, ideal for relaxing dips.
• The meal onboard includes delicious food and soft drinks, perfect for unwinding.
• Photo opportunities include the majestic Temple of Apollo, making for impressive souvenirs.
• Ease of logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies the day.
• Sunbathing on deck offers a chance to soak up the sun in comfortable loungers.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting your day with hotel pickup, you’ll be greeted with a hassle-free transfer from any hotel or apartment in Side. This is a significant perk — no need to worry about navigating or finding your way to the harbor. As you walk down the charming old streets of Side, you’ll feel immersed in the local atmosphere before arriving at Side Harbor, a lively spot filled with boats and local life.

Once onboard the motor yacht, you’ll immediately notice how spacious and well-maintained it is. The crew, led by the captain, offers a friendly and professional vibe that adds to the comfort. The boat’s design prioritizes relaxation, with plenty of sun loungers and shaded areas, accommodating your sunbathing or cooling off in the breeze.

Cruising & Photo Stops: Admiring the Coastline

The boat sets sail through the scenic waters, revealing views of Side’s coastline, with the Temple of Apollo standing majestically against the sky. This is a photographer’s dream — I found myself snapping away as the boat drifted past, marveling at how well preserved the ancient ruins look from the sea.

The first swim stop at Caretta Bay is a highlight. The waters here are famously calm and transparent, perfect for a refreshing dip. As you float in the warm sea, you’ll appreciate the chance to unwind in a setting that feels both exclusive and natural. Several reviews mention how tranquil and inviting this spot is, making it an ideal break from the busy beaches.

Lunch & Relaxation on Board

While swimming, your crew prepares a tasty meal onboard — a highlight for many travelers. The delicious lunch is served with a variety of options, and soft drinks like cola, Fanta, and Sprite are available. You can lie back on the sun beds, basking in the warm sun, feeling the gentle motion of the yacht.

I loved the way the meal created a leisurely atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and chatting with your companions. The onboard crew ensures everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying those stunning views and the company.

Second Swim & Photo Opportunity

After lunch, the yacht continues its cruise, offering a second chance to swim or simply relax on deck. The waters near Side’s coast are so clear that even just floating with a drink in hand feels indulgent. The trip is well-paced, striking a balance between activity and relaxation.

Your captain will bring you close enough to the coast for more photo opportunities, particularly opposite the ancient Temple of Apollo. Many reviews praise this as a must-see picture spot, where history and nature blend beautifully.

Wrapping Up & Return

As the trip concludes, you’ll head back to Side Harbor, feeling refreshed and with plenty of great photos and memories. Your hotel pickup makes the return journey straightforward, ending your half-day escape with ease.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private yacht trip is ideal for travelers wanting a more exclusive, relaxed marine adventure. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples looking for a special moment with personalized service. If you enjoy swimming in calm waters, beautiful scenery, and gourmet-style meals, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for those looking to avoid crowded beaches or preferring a more intimate setting. However, if you’re seeking a lively party atmosphere or alcoholic drinks included in the price, this might not be the best fit.

Price & Value Analysis

While $900 for four people might seem high, consider what’s included: private transport, a dedicated captain, a 5-hour cruise, soft drinks, and a quality onboard meal. This setup offers a level of comfort and exclusivity that’s hard to match in shared tours or beachside cafes.

The flexibility and privacy make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or travelers wanting to celebrate with family or friends in style. For those who prioritize authentic, scenic experiences over budget-friendly group tours, this outing delivers a memorable, personalized escape.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and swimwear — the sun can be intense, and the water inviting.
• Pack a towel for after your swim and some snacks if you’re particular, though drinks and food are provided.
• Alcoholic drinks are not included, so bring your own if you wish to toast in style.
• Check the availability and starting times beforehand — tours run for 5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Remember, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a considerate option for travelers with mobility needs.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those craving a luxurious, relaxed day on the water, this private yacht adventure offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic experience. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples who want to enjoy the Mediterranean coast without the noise and chaos of larger tours. The included food and soft drinks add to the value, making it feel like a true treat.

If stunning views, peaceful swimming, and a touch of elegance appeal to you, this trip ticks those boxes. It’s a perfect way to unwind, capture incredible photos, and experience Side from a different perspective — all in just half a day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included and available from all hotels and apartments in the Side area, making the start and end of your trip hassle-free.

How long is the yacht trip?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time for cruising, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the private yacht, soft drinks, a delicious onboard meal, a captain, insurance, and hotel transportation.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included, so you’ll need to bring your own if you wish to enjoy some drinks during the cruise.

Is this experience suitable for children or disabled travelers?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and suitable for families, but always check in advance if specific needs require special arrangements.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made with flexible payment options.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some snacks or extra drinks if desired.

Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, so you’ll have the boat and crew exclusively for your group.

Do I get good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The views of Side’s coastline and the Temple of Apollo are stunning from the water, providing perfect photo moments.

In sum, this Half-Day Private Yacht Trip in Side offers a delightful escape into the Mediterranean’s calm waters, combining comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury. Perfect for those wanting to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline in an exclusive setting, it’s a memorable way to add a splash of elegance to your holiday.