Half Day Sea Fishing Tour from Alanya & City Of Side

If you’re considering a fishing adventure in Turkey’s Antalya Province, this half-day sea fishing tour offers a mix of relaxation, scenic views, and the chance to catch some Mediterranean fish. As someone who’s looked into this experience through various reviews and descriptions, I can tell you that it’s a trip that appeals especially to families, casual anglers, or those simply wanting a change of pace from beach lounging. The tour promises a 5 to 5.5-hour excursion, including boat rides, fishing, swimming, and even the possibility of seeing dolphins.

What’s notable is that this tour combines outdoor activity with chances for wildlife sightings, such as playful dolphins and sea lions. I particularly like the idea of sharing the day with fellow fishing enthusiasts and watching the coastline’s stunning scenery unfold against the backdrop of a calm Mediterranean. That said, some reviews point out that the experience doesn’t quite meet expectations in terms of equipment, timing, or organization, so it’s helpful to weigh what you want from your day at sea.

One key thing to keep in mind is that this tour might be best suited for travelers who value relaxed, informal outings and are okay with some unpredictability—like the chance of not catching fish or a slightly rushed schedule. If you’re expecting a high-end, fully professional fishing experience, you might find this tour a bit underwhelming. But if your goal is to enjoy the scenic coast, dip into the water, and share some stories with new friends, it could be worth a shot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic coastal views: The tour offers fantastic vistas of the Mediterranean, making it a worthwhile experience even if fishing isn’t your main goal.
• Wildlife sightings: Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea lions, which appear occasionally and add a magical touch to the trip.
• Basic fishing gear: Equipment provided is simple—some reviews mention old, blunt hooks and minimal gear—which might limit your catch or enjoyment.
• Timing and logistics: Pick-up times vary depending on your hotel, and some travelers have experienced delays or shorted time on the water.
• Food and drinks: A complimentary lunch or breakfast is included, but some travelers report missing out on meals or feeling the food doesn’t match the price.
• Cost vs. value: At around €60 per person, you’ll want to consider what’s included versus what you’re hoping to get out of the trip.
• Group size: The boat is small and intimate, which is good for a cozy experience but might feel crowded if many people book.
• Family friendly: The activity suits families and groups seeking a laid-back day with opportunities for swimming and wildlife viewing.
• Tour guides and staff: The crew includes an English, Russian, and Turkish-speaking captain and fisherman, though some reviews mention issues with organization and equipment.

Starting the Day: Hotel Pick-up and Logistics

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pick-up around 08:00 AM, designed to be convenient and hassle-free. Since Alanya’s hotels are scattered, expect some variation in pick-up time. The company promises to confirm your exact time a day before, so it’s wise to be reachable by WhatsApp or email. Keep in mind that from Side, the pick-up might differ slightly, and breakfast replaces lunch for those departing from there.

Some reviews mention mishaps right from the start—Alex recounts being on the wrong bus and arriving late, which can be frustrating when timing is tight. Others note that the transfer to the harbor feels a bit rushed or disorganized, so manage expectations if punctuality is important to you.

The Boat Experience: Comfort and Atmosphere

Once on board, you’ll join a small, cozy boat with a professional crew. The boat’s size means a more intimate experience, but some reviews highlight that the vessel isn’t as modern or equipped for serious deep-sea fishing. Instead, you might find standard fishing rods with blunt hooks or old bait from previous trips—GetYourGuide traveler points out that their equipment lacked spinners and pilkers, and the fishing rods looked tired.

This suggests that if your main goal is to catch big fish, you might be disappointed. However, the crew does their best to guide you and find promising fishing spots. The scenery along the coast is stunning, and the calm waters create a relaxing environment to just sit back and enjoy the view.

Fishing and Wildlife: The Heart of the Trip

Fishing in the Mediterranean can be hit or miss, depending heavily on luck and equipment. The tour promises to target a variety of fish like sea bass, bonito, seabream, tuna, grouper, and even swordfish. Yet, some travelers report that catches are small or scarce—GetYourGuide traveler describes that few fish were caught, and those that were caught were tiny.

The opportunity to see dolphins is a bonus when luck is on your side. Several travelers mention glimpsing playful dolphins that appear to swim alongside or near the boat, adding a memorable highlight to the trip. It’s unpredictable, but rare sightings can turn a mediocre fishing experience into something special.

Swimming, Sunbathing, and Resting

Between fishing efforts, you’re encouraged to relax, take a swim, or soak up the sun. The waters are clear and inviting, making for refreshing breaks. Some reviews mention that the boat provides an opportunity to cool off and enjoy the coast’s beauty. Remember, the trip includes a lunch (or breakfast if departing from Side), with soft drinks available—though the quality and quantity may not wow everyone.

Return and Debriefing

The round trip typically concludes around 13:30, with a return to the harbor and hotel drop-off. The tour’s timing can feel a bit rushed, especially if the fishing didn’t meet expectations or if delays occurred. You’ll be back just in time for some rest or further explorations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is suited for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water, enjoy scenic coastlines, and are curious about local marine life. If you’re traveling with children or a group that enjoys swimming and wildlife spotting, it could be a fun outing. However, if you’re chasing serious fishing action or expecting top-tier equipment and organization, you might find it lacking.

The tour’s value largely hinges on your expectations. For many, the highlight is the chance to be out on the sea, watching dolphins and soaking in the views—not necessarily the catch or the quality of gear.

Price and Logistics: Worth the Cost?

At around €60 per person, the tour is reasonably priced considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, equipment, and food. But reviews suggest that the actual fishing experience might not match the price if equipment is old or fish are scarce. The convenience of hotel pickup and the possibility of dolphin sightings add to the value, but you should be prepared for a potentially uneven experience.

Timing is flexible, with tours lasting just over five hours, which makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Just remember that delays are possible, and the quality of the fishing gear can vary.

Final Thoughts

This half-day sea fishing tour offers a straightforward way to spend part of your day in Alanya or Side. It’s best suited for those seeking casual fun, scenic views, and wildlife encounters rather than serious anglers looking for top-tier equipment. The experience provides a good balance of relaxation, light adventure, and socializing, all against the backdrop of Turkey’s beautiful Mediterranean coast.

If you’re prepared for some unpredictability and are happy to enjoy the scenery and playful dolphins, you’ll likely find this trip a worthwhile addition to your Turkish holiday. But if you’re craving a professional-grade fishing expedition, you might want to explore other options.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs between 5 and 5.5 hours, including travel, fishing, swimming, and lunch.

What time does the trip start?
Pick-up usually begins around 08:00 AM, but exact times vary based on your hotel and are confirmed a day before.

Is the fishing equipment professional-grade?
Not quite. Some reviews mention old, blunt hooks and minimal gear, so don’t expect high-end tackle.

Can I expect to catch a lot of fish?
Catches are often small or scarce, and success depends on luck, equipment, and weather conditions.

Are dolphins likely to appear?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, several travelers report seeing playful dolphins during their trip.

Is food included?
Yes, a lunch (or breakfast from Side departures) and soft drinks are included, though some find the food not particularly memorable.

Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely. It’s a relaxed activity that offers swimming and wildlife sightings, making it family-friendly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price covers transfers, equipment, and food. Alcoholic drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.

To sum it up, this tour offers a laid-back, scenic, and fun way to spend a few hours at sea. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize the experience of being on the water, enjoying wildlife, and soaking up the sun over serious fishing success. Keep your expectations in check, and you might find it a surprisingly enjoyable part of your Turkey trip.