Alanya Coastal Cruise: Sun, Swim & Scenic Views

A cruise along Turkey’s Antalya Province coast sounds like a dream, and this Alanya Coastal Cruise review aims to give you a clear picture of what you can expect. For around $25, you get a half-day adventure packed with scenic views, cave sights, swimming opportunities, and a buffet lunch. The experience is highly rated for its beautiful vistas and friendly guides, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to relax and see the coastline from the water.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the chance to see notable caves like Pirates, Lovers, and Devil’s Caves from the boat, and the inclusion of unlimited soft drinks and a delicious buffet lunch. The ease of having everything organized on a clean, comfortable boat with bathrooms and changing rooms adds to the trip’s appeal. However, a consideration is that the timing can sometimes be inconsistent, with some reviews mentioning delays or shorter-than-advertised durations, so keeping expectations flexible might be wise.

Despite these minor hiccups, this cruise offers a great mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water with easy access to some of the area’s most famed sites. Now, let’s explore the details that make this experience worth considering—and where it might fall short.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beautiful Scenic Views: Expect stunning panoramic sights of Alanya Castle, Cleopatra Beach, and the coastline from the water.
• Caves from a Distance: You can admire Pirates, Lovers, Phosphorus, and Devil’s Caves without going inside, offering a natural spectacle.
• Multiple Swim Stops: The tour includes 3-4 opportunities to swim in clear waters, perfect for cooling off and relaxing.
• All-Day Comfort: The boat is well-maintained, equipped with bathrooms, changing facilities, and a lively music system.
• Food and Drinks Included: A generous buffet lunch and unlimited soft drinks are part of the package, adding value.
• Timing Variability: Be aware that some trips may start late or end earlier than scheduled, and stops might be rushed.

Exploring Alanya Coastal Cruise: What Makes It Special

The Alanya Coastal Cruise is a straightforward but charming way to enjoy some of the best sights Turkey’s Mediterranean coast has to offer. It’s perfect if you’re after a mix of scenic beauty, light adventure, and comfort. The trip begins at Alanya’s harbor, right near the iconic Red Tower, giving you a lovely backdrop for your day. The boat itself is described as very clean, with bathrooms and changing rooms—an often overlooked but essential detail for a day-long outing.

From the deck, you’ll get an excellent vantage point of Alanya Castle, Cleopatra Beach, and the coastline, which makes it easy to snap photos of the landmarks and the sparkling waters. The guides, some reviews mention, are polite and friendly, which adds to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their knowledge about the caves and the coastline enriches your understanding of this scenic area, even if you’re not venturing inside the caves.

One of the experience’s highlights is the chance to see the sea caves—Pirates, Lovers, Phosphorus, and Devil’s Cave—from a nearby vantage point. You won’t go into these caves, but the views from the boat are impressive enough to make you feel like you’re witnessing a hidden world. It’s a great photo opportunity and a way to appreciate nature’s artistry without the need for strenuous exploration.

The stops at Cleopatra Beach and Ulas Beach add a peaceful touch. Cleopatra Beach, in particular, is known for its clean, sandy shores, offering a picturesque place to take a quick swim or just enjoy the scenery. Ulas Beach, being quieter and more relaxed, provides a peaceful environment to unwind and soak in the surroundings.

The Food, Drinks, and Onboard Vibe

One of the biggest pluses of this cruise is the buffet lunch, which is prepared on board and offers good value for money. Along with the lunch, you get unlimited soft drinks, making it easy to stay refreshed in the warm Mediterranean sun. The lively music system and occasional foam party (during hot summer months) turn the boat into a fun environment.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out the price of additional drinks and ice creams onboard can be quite high. If you’re not careful, these extras might surprise your budget. The staff is described as friendly overall, but a few travelers mention that the timing can be inconsistent, with departures sometimes running late and the trip duration shorter than advertised.

The party atmosphere might appeal to younger travelers or families wanting a lively outing, but if you prefer a quieter experience, it’s good to know that loud music and sometimes hurried stops might not suit everyone.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

The trip starts in the morning, with optional hotel pickup in Alanya. Once aboard, the cruise kicks off with fantastic views of local landmarks like the Red Tower and old shipyard, setting a scenic tone for the day. For about 5 hours, the boat sails along the coast, passing stunning caves and beaches.

Stop at Tersane Beach: This is a great photo spot and a chance to swim or snorkel in calmer waters. The brief 30-minute stop is perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying the scenery.

Visit the Hidden Gem: This brief stop allows for photos and a chance to explore a lesser-known spot, often praised for its tranquility.

Lake Engolasters: This stop is designed for swimming and snorkeling—it’s a peaceful spot that offers a break from the boat’s lively atmosphere.

Lunch and BBQ at Lake Engolasters: One of the most appreciated parts of the tour—a hearty, well-prepared meal with plenty of soft drinks.

Additional swim stops at Ulas Beach and Devil’s Cave: These are ideal for cooling off, with opportunities for snorkeling and relaxation. The possibility of dolphin sightings adds a dash of excitement.

Final scenic cruise back to Alanya: The boat returns around 3:00 p.m., with some reviews noting that the trip can end earlier than scheduled due to delays or weather.

Who Would Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is well suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want an easy, enjoyable day on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views, want a variety of swim stops, and aren’t fussed about a rigid schedule. The inclusive lunch and drinks add value, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, quiet cruise with in-depth cave exploration or a romantic sunset sail, this might not be the best fit. The lively music and party vibe cater more to those looking for fun and entertainment rather than solitude or serenity.

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

The price of approximately $25 per person is quite reasonable considering the length of the trip, the buffet lunch, and unlimited soft drinks. The trip lasts around 6 to 6.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the coast and its sights. However, some reviews mention that the actual duration can be shorter, with later starts and early returns, so managing expectations is key.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you select that option during booking, which makes logistics easier. The meeting point at Alanya harbor is easy to find, and the boat is equipped for comfort and entertainment.

A Few Words on the Experience From Past Travelers

One traveler praised the activity as “good, lots of fun,” enjoying the friendly staff and beautiful views. Conversely, another reviewer was disappointed, citing delays, hurried stops, and overpriced drinks, and advising caution if you prefer a more relaxed, predictable outing. This highlights that while the experience has many positives, it can vary depending on the day and staff.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, scenic, and lively way to see Alanya’s coast, this cruise offers plenty of value. It’s a good choice for those who don’t mind a bit of a party atmosphere, enjoy swimming in clear waters, and want nice photos of caves and beaches. The included lunch and soft drinks help make it a relaxing, all-in-one outing in a beautiful setting.

However, if you prefer a more structured, quieter experience or are sensitive to delays and loud music, you might want to consider other options or prepare for a possibly more hectic day.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select that option during booking, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 6 to 6.5 hours, with the boat departing around 10:00 a.m. and returning by about 3:00 p.m., though some reviews mention it can be shorter.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch and unlimited soft drinks are included in the price. Extra drinks and ice cream are available for purchase onboard.

Can I swim at the caves?
You can’t go into the caves themselves, but there are 3-4 swim stops at various beaches and near the caves, perfect for cooling off.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is for all ages, and children often enjoy the boat rides, swimming, and music.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Also consider a camera for photos and some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

How reliable is the schedule?
Some reviews indicate the schedule can be affected by delays or weather, so plan to be flexible and arrive on time.

In the end, this Alanya Coastal Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and good-value way to enjoy Turkey’s coast. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an easygoing day of sun, sea, and sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the views. Just remember to manage your expectations about timing and be ready for some lively onboard entertainment.