Side: Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch & Swimming Stops

A Closer Look at the Side Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch & Swimming Stops

This 7-hour cruise from Side offers a lively and fun-filled way to experience the Turkish Riviera. It sets sail from the Manavgat River, taking you along the coast into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The trip promises a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and entertainment, with a dash of pirate flair. While some might find the boat a bit rundown at first glance, many travelers appreciate the friendly guides, good food, and memorable moments on board.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are the opportunity to jump into the water from the boat — which is a highlight for kids and adults alike — and the enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides that make the day engaging and enjoyable. The lively foam party and the scenic coastline add to the overall vibe. A small caveat: the boat can feel a bit crowded and pushy during photo opportunities, so if you’re not into souvenirs or posed pictures, that might be a minor annoyance. Still, it’s a good value for a full day of activity.

In summary, this trip is best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone who enjoys fun on the water, informal social atmosphere, and a bit of adventure. For travelers seeking a relaxing, culture-heavy cruise, this might not be your best pick. But if you’re after a lively, lively day with plenty of swimming, sun, and laughs, it’s worth considering.

Key points / Takeaways

• Family-friendly fun with activities like jumping from the boat and foam parties.
• Guides like “Gülsen” are praised for their enthusiasm and friendliness.
• Multiple swimming stops provide chances to cool off and enjoy the sea.
• All-inclusive lunch on board offers freshly prepared food, making the day hassle-free.
• A slightly run-down feeling at first, but many find the crew’s warmth makes up for it.
• Optional hotel pickup makes logistics simple for travelers staying in Side or nearby areas.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Pirate Boat Adventure

Starting from the Baba A Boat near Lake and River Hotel, you’ll be picked up if you’ve booked the hotel transfer. This is convenient, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of finding a meeting point early in the day. Once on board, the crew—apparently led by guides like “Gülsen”—sets the tone for a lively day. Expect a boat that might not look shiny and new but is certainly functional and full of character.

The cruise begins by navigating out from the Manavgat River, where you’ll see local sights like river turtles lounging on the banks and traditional wooden riverboats being built in shipyards. The guides share fun facts about marine life, spotting dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles, which adds a layer of excitement, especially if you love nature and wildlife.

The first stop usually takes place at the river’s mouth, where you’re free to jump into the water or relax on the beach. The water quality is clear and inviting, perfect for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun. Travelers have noted that the safety instructions are clear and helpful, making it suitable even for less experienced swimmers.

Afterward, the boat cruises along scenic stretches of coast, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Turkish shoreline. The crew might point out landmarks like the ancient peninsula of Side, depending on tidal conditions. A highlight for many is the lunch, a freshly prepared meal served on board, which helps keep everyone energized for the rest of the day.

Depending on the weather and tides, the boat either heads east along the coast or toward Alanya, stopping at a small, remote island for a walk. This is a quieter, more peaceful spot perfect for exploring. On some days, the captain might take you further east, offering impressive views and the chance to enjoy a foam party on deck—an absolute hit with kids and those young at heart.

Throughout the journey, the guides keep the atmosphere lively, sharing fun stories and pointing out wildlife. Many reviews mention that the guides are genuinely friendly and enthusiastic, making the trip more memorable. For instance, one reviewer noted, “the tour guides were fantastic! We’ve come to Antalya for a week, and this boat trip has truly saved our holiday.”

If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll get to experience the foam party, which is a highlight filled with laughter and dance. Alternatively, the boat might head toward the remote island for some light exploring before heading back to Side, where the trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the original meeting point.

How the Experience Feels and Why It Matters

What makes this experience stand out is the balance of activity and relaxation. For a full day, you’re on the water, enjoying scenic views, jumping into the sea, and sharing meals with new friends. The lively onboard atmosphere—complete with foam parties and singing guides—creates a sense of camaraderie, which many travelers find charming.

The quality of the food is another highlight. Many reviews praise the delicious, freshly cooked lunch, which is included in the price. This makes the trip excellent value, especially since it covers transportation, entertainment, and meals. Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or purchase beverages on board.

The guides seem to be a real asset, making the trip informative and engaging. They’re known for their friendly attitude, which can turn a simple boat ride into a memorable part of your holiday. As one reviewer put it, “the guides were very friendly and enthusiastic, which made the trip so much better.”

A small consideration is the initial appearance of the boat, which some might find a bit run-down. However, many find that the warmth of the crew and the fun atmosphere more than compensates. Also, during busy times, the boat can feel crowded and the staff a little pushy about photos, so if you prefer a more relaxed experience, that’s worth noting.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise is ideally suited for families with kids, who will enjoy swimming, foam parties, and lively guides. It’s also great for groups of friends looking for a fun, social day on the water. If you enjoy informal, relaxed atmospheres with a bit of adventure and wildlife spotting, it’s a solid option.

However, if you prefer quiet, culturally focused tours, or have mobility issues, this might not be your first choice. The boat’s casual vibe and active stops are less suited for those seeking a peaceful, serene experience. Also, travelers who dislike crowded spaces or pushy sales pitches should be aware of the potential for souvenir photos and printed prints.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

Given that the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch, swimming stops, and entertainment, many find the price reasonable. The overall duration of 7 hours makes it a full day activity, which is good value considering the variety of experiences packed into it.

Timing varies depending on availability, so it’s best to check for the starting times, especially during peak season. Remember, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This lively boat trip offers an exciting way to enjoy the Turkish coast with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and onboard fun. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, social day that combines nature, entertainment, and good food. It’s especially suited for families, groups, or anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their holiday.

If you appreciate guides who are friendly and knowledgeable and don’t mind a boat that might look a little weathered, you’ll likely have a memorable day. Keep your expectations realistic about the boat’s appearance, but focus on the genuine warmth of the crew and the fun atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in the Side region and dropped back at the end of the trip.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price, so plan to bring some cash or purchase beverages on board.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, children love the jumping, foam parties, and wildlife spotting. Just ensure supervision during swimming stops.

Can I participate in the foam party?
Absolutely, if the weather permits. It’s a lively part of the trip that many find unforgettable.

What kind of lunch is served?
A freshly prepared meal is included, with many reviews praising its taste and quality.

Is there wildlife watching?
Guides often point out dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat, adding an educational element.

What if the weather is bad?
Trips are weather-dependent; cancellation is possible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How crowded does the boat get?
During peak times, it can be quite full with many travelers, so arrive early if you want more space.

Who would this trip not suit?
Those seeking a peaceful, quiet day or who dislike crowded, lively environments may prefer other options.

In all, the Side Pirate Boat Trip offers a lively, fun, and scenic day on Turkey’s coast. It’s a good pick for those who want to splash around, enjoy good food, and be entertained by friendly guides in a relaxed setting.