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

If you’re exploring the Turkish Riviera, a boat trip from Side offers a lively mix of scenery, fun, and relaxation. This 7.5-hour boat tour from Murat Atalay Seyahat Acentas promises a day packed with swimming in turquoise waters, a foam party onboard, and a tasty lunch—all at a very reasonable price of just $34 per person. While some reviews suggest the group size can be a bit crowded, the overall experience hits a sweet spot for those wanting a fun, affordable outing with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

What I particularly like about this tour is the balance it strikes between sightseeing, leisure, and entertainment. The stunning views of Side’s ancient structures—especially the Temple of Apollo—are a real highlight, especially when seen from the water. The onboard foam party is a surprising and delightful touch that turns a standard boat trip into a memorable event. Plus, the unlimited soft drinks keep you refreshed without breaking the bank. However, if you’re a photography enthusiast, be aware that photos are sold separately at quite a high price, which might be a consideration.

One possible downside is the group size — some travelers have mentioned feeling squeezed during the boat trip, which can be less comfortable if you prefer a more intimate experience. The lunch, while fresh and filling, isn’t gourmet—so if you’re expecting fine dining, this might not suit. Nevertheless, for the price and the variety of activities, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a lively, budget-friendly way to see the coast, enjoy some fun in the sun, and snap a few memorable shots.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Affordable price point for a full day of fun and sightseeing
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Unbeatable views of Side’s ancient ruins and the Temple of Apollo from the water
• A lively foam party onboard, perfect for families and kids
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Caretta Bay and the Mediterranean Sea
• Limited included extras—photos and some activities cost extra

Starting the Adventure: Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real convenience, especially in a busy tourist area like Side. The bus ride itself is comfortable, and the guides—who speak English, German, and Polish—are friendly and eager to share knowledge about the region. Don’t forget to bring your sunhat, sunscreen, and camera, as you’ll want to capture those stunning views of Side’s ruins and the Mediterranean coastline.

Once aboard the boat, the crew will serve unlimited non-alcoholic drinks—think fresh soft drinks and water—which are perfect for staying refreshed during the day’s activities. The boat is lively, and if you’re lucky, you might find yourself in the company of a friendly guide who shares fun tidbits about the area, making the journey more engaging.

Cruising Along: Scenic Views and Ancient Landmarks

The cruise along the Manavgat River offers a chance to admire the lush surroundings of the Turkish Riviera. As you glide past, you’ll get a panoramic view of Side’s famous ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, which is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Many travelers have noted how photo-worthy this moment is—standing on the boat with the ancient structures as a backdrop.

According to reviews, the guides are quite knowledgeable, pointing out notable landmarks and sharing interesting stories. One reviewer mentioned that the “views and attractions on the ship” were a highlight, though some felt the group was a little crowded, which might mean squeezing through during some moments. Still, the overall visual experience remains a major positive.

Swimming and Relaxing at Caretta Bay

The stop at Caretta Bay is perfect for cooling off and enjoying the Mediterranean’s clear waters. You’ll have time for a swim, which, based on reviews, is often described as swimming in “turquoise waters”—not to mention the chance to relax on the beach or jump into the sea from the boat. This break can be lively, especially if you take advantage of jet ski rentals offered during the stop, which are available for around 40 euros for ten minutes.

For those who prefer to stay dry, the surrounding scenery is stunning enough to enjoy from the boat or the shoreline. Remember to bring your towel and sun protection—this is a highlight that makes the trip worth it.

Lunch and Refreshments: Simple, Fresh, and Filling

The included lunch is a welcome perk, especially given the tour’s budget-friendly price. It features fresh dishes that are satisfying without being overly fancy. Reviewers mention the portions are small but adequate, and the quality is decent considering the price point. Keep in mind that alcoholic drinks, coffee, ice cream, and souvenirs like photos are extra, which is typical for tours at this price.

A couple of reviews noted that the guides and crew are friendly and not pushy—important if you want to enjoy your meal and downtime without feeling rushed. If you’re craving fine dining or specialty drinks, this tour isn’t the place, but for a casual, filling meal, it fits the bill.

The Foam Party: Unexpected Fun

One of the standout features is the foam party. Starting in the late afternoon, this lively addition makes the trip stand out from typical boat rides. Kids especially love it, and some reviews mention how it creates a joyful, party-like atmosphere. It’s a simple but effective way to add a splash of silliness and make the day more memorable.

However, keep in mind that the foam party is relatively short and more for fun than a full-on dance party. Still, it’s a wonderful touch for families or anyone looking to add a bit of whimsy to their day.

Considerations for a Smooth Experience

While this tour offers a lot of fun for the price, there are some details to consider. The group size is one; some travelers have felt a bit squeezed during the boat ride, especially during the busy parts. If you prefer a quieter, more private experience, this might not be ideal. The photos, although sold at the end, come at a high price—be prepared for that extra expense if snapping memories is important to you.

Timing-wise, the 7.5-hour duration means you’ll spend a good part of the day on the water, so packing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel is essential. Be aware that the lunch is simple, so if you’re a foodie expecting gourmet fare, plan to eat before or after your trip.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat trip is well-suited for travelers on a budget who want a lively, engaging experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and have fun. It’s particularly good for families with kids, groups who enjoy social activities, or anyone looking for a full day of entertainment without a hefty price tag.

If you’re someone who values stunning scenery and photo opportunities, you’ll love the views of Side’s ruins from the water. If you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, or want gourmet dining and included souvenirs, you may want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: The Value of a Fun-Filled Day

This boat tour from Side hits a sweet spot for those seeking affordable, lively entertainment with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and fun onboard activities. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful sights make it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to see the Turkish coastline from a different perspective while enjoying a day out with family or friends.

The foam party and swimming stops ensure this isn’t a boring tour, and the included lunch provides good value for money. While the group size can be crowded, most travelers find that the overall experience outweighs this minor inconvenience, especially given the low cost.

In short, if you’re looking for a fun, energetic day on the water with plenty of photo ops and a chance to cool off in the Mediterranean, this tour offers a memorable experience at a price that makes sense.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including pickup, travel, swimming, and the foam party.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip, lunch, non-alcoholic drinks, a tour guide, and travel insurance.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. Only unlimited soft drinks are part of the package.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for extras like photos or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since the foam party is kid-friendly. However, parents should consider the group size and the lively environment.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now with a pay-later option for flexibility.

Are photos included?
No, photos are not included but are available for purchase at the end of the trip at an additional cost.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of Side’s ancient ruins from the water, along with lush surroundings along the Manavgat River and the turquoise bays.

Is the lunch satisfying?
Yes, it is fresh and filling, though not gourmet. Portions are small but adequate for most travelers.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Families, groups of friends, and budget travelers who want a fun, active day on the water would find this experience ideal.

This boat tour offers a lively, affordable way to enjoy Side’s coast with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and fun. It’s perfect if you’re after a full day of entertainment that won’t break the bank but will leave you with plenty of great memories.