Side: Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch & Swimming Stops

A Fair Look at the Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch & Swimming Stops in Side, Turkey

If you’re heading to Side and looking for a fun and engaging way to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline, this Pirate Boat Trip might be worth considering. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews, itinerary, and features paint a pretty appealing picture. Expect a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, a hearty lunch, and lively onboard entertainment—all wrapped up in a roughly 7-hour adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances relaxation and excitement. The chance to cruise along the Manavgat River and across the turquoise waters is a clear highlight, along with the opportunity for swim stops and beach strolls. Plus, the friendly guides and well-organized safety instructions seem to make the experience accessible and enjoyable for families, couples, or groups of friends. The foam party and the chance to spot dolphins or turtles are big attractions that add a sense of adventure.

A possible consideration is that some guests found the boat to be a little “run down,” as one reviewer put it. That’s not unusual for boats operating in this price range, but it’s worth noting if you prefer ultra-modern vessels. This trip suits travelers who enjoy lively boat experiences, like a bit of spontaneity, and appreciate authentic seaside fun.

If you’re looking for a mix of scenic views, swimming, entertainment, and good food—all wrapped into a manageable day trip—this adventure from Side could be a great choice.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Scenic cruising along the Manavgat River and Mediterranean waters offers beautiful views and wildlife sightings.
• Swim stops at beaches and the meeting point with the sea make it perfect for cooling off and enjoying the Turkish coastline.
• Onboard entertainment like foam parties adds a lively, festive atmosphere suitable for families and groups.
• Authentic guided experience with friendly, enthusiastic guides providing interesting facts and safety instructions.
• Good value for the price considering the full-day experience, lunch, and entertainment included.
• Potential drawbacks include the boat’s condition and the pushy souvenir/picture sales, so come prepared with a sense of humor and a focus on fun.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The trip begins with a hotel pickup in the Side region, including popular hotels in areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolaklı, and Gündoğdu. This convenience is a real plus, sparing you the hassle of finding the meeting point. The transfer takes you directly to the Side pier, where the adventure kicks off from Baba A Boat near the Lake and River Hotel.

The Boat and Crew

The boat itself is described as somewhat run-down by initial impressions, but it’s more than compensated by the friendly crew. The guides, who speak English and German, are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. They share interesting tidbits about local marine life, pointing out dolphins and loggerhead turtles—if you’re lucky—and making the cruise more engaging.

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The Route and Stops

The route is flexible, depending on tidal conditions. You’ll cruise out from the river into the open sea, passing by shipyards where traditional wooden boats are built. On the way, you’ll see river turtles basking on the banks—an unexpected highlight for wildlife lovers.

The first stop typically occurs where the river meets the sea. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply stroll along the beach. Reviewers have emphasized how much kids loved jumping into the water and playing on the shore, making this a hit for families.

Following this, the boat moves along the coastline, with its scenic stretches offering views of the Turkish Riviera. Depending on conditions, the captain may steer east toward the ancient peninsula of Side or head further east for spectacular vistas. One reviewer mentioned that the captain might take you further east, weather permitting, offering more chances to spot dolphins and turtles.

Lunch and Onboard Activities

A freshly prepared lunch is served on board, with guests noting the quality as “delicious” and well-organized. The meal is included in the ticket price, offering good value considering the full-day experience.

One of the most memorable parts for many is the foam party—a lively, music-filled extravaganza. If the weather is suitable, this adds a fantastic element of fun and energy, especially for kids. Alternatively, if you head towards Alanya, you might stop at a small remote island for a walk, adding variety to the trip.

Additional Highlights

• The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and friendliness, making the trip feel personal and engaging.
• Wildlife sightings like dolphins and turtles add an element of magic.
• The swimming stops are well-timed, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the clear waters.
• The foam party is a lively addition, turning the cruise into a festive event.
• Reviewers mention that some onboard staff can be a bit pushy with souvenir photos, so it’s good to be prepared and polite about declining if that’s not your thing.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Trip

Book early if you want a spot, especially in peak season, as this is a popular experience. The 7-hour duration makes it a full but manageable day—perfect for families or those wanting a lively, activity-filled outing without overdoing it.

Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, and a hat—the sun can be intense, and you’ll be spending plenty of time outside. A towel is handy for drying off after swimming.

While drinks are not included, you might want to bring water or purchase beverages onboard. The focus on meal and entertainment makes the price quite reasonable for a full day at sea.

The boat’s condition is something to keep in mind. If you prefer newer, more polished vessels, this might feel a bit rustic. However, many guests find the crew’s friendliness and the overall experience more than make up for it.

Who Would Enjoy This Trip?

This tour is ideal for families with kids, given the fun activities like the foam party and the swimming stops. It’s also perfect for couples and groups looking for a lively, social day with scenic views and a good meal. If you love wildlife spotting, the chance to see dolphins could be a bonus. However, travelers seeking a more luxurious or relaxing cruise may prefer other options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within the Side region, making logistics easy.

How long does the trip last?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, so plan your day accordingly. Check availability for starting times.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or purchasing onboard.

Is there any wildlife I might see?
Yes, guides often point out dolphins and loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat during the cruise.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and German, making the experience accessible to most travelers.

Can I decline the souvenirs and photos?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention the crew can be a bit pushy about photos, so feel free to say no politely.

Final Thoughts

This Pirate Boat Trip in Side offers a lively, engaging way to experience the Turkish coast. It’s a good blend of scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, swimming, and onboard entertainment—all at a reasonable price for a full-day adventure. The friendly guides and well-organized stops make it suitable for families and groups eager for a fun day at sea.

While the boat’s condition might not be the most modern, the energetic atmosphere and authentic experiences make up for it. The inclusion of lunch and entertainment, like the foam party, adds value, especially if you’re traveling with children or looking for a lively, social experience.

For travelers who enjoy a bit of spontaneity, fun activities, and scenic views, this trip provides a memorable day on the Turkish Riviera. Just keep expectations realistic regarding the boat’s condition and the souvenir sales, and you’ll likely have a wonderful time.

Additional Recommendations

If you’re interested in other boat trips around Side, similar experiences like dolphin island cruises or yacht adventures are available, often with added activities like snorkeling or more secluded beaches. These can be a good alternative if you want a slightly different vibe or more luxurious options.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera—those dolphin sightings and foam parties are photo-worthy moments!

You can check if your dates are available here: