Discover best things to do in Side Boat Tour & Cruise Trips with us

Imagine floating on the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean, the sun warming your skin and the sea breeze in the air. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or a boat trip with music and entertainment, Side Boat Tour has something for everyone. With options like Pirate Boat Tour, Luxury Yacht Tour, and Green Canyon Boat Tour, your perfect sea adventure is just a booking away. Swim in hidden bays, enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch on deck and see the beautiful coastline of Side, Turkey.

Side Boat Tour & Cruise Trips

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Local secrets to save you time and money.

1

Choose the Full Day Cruise Over the Half Day

The full-day cruise reaches more remote coves, includes the BBQ lunch, and has longer swimming stops. The half-day skips lunch and only visits 2 to 3 bays. The price difference is usually just 20 to 30% but the experience is twice as good.
2

Book the Sunset Cruise for Proposals and Anniversaries

The 2.5-hour sunset loop past the Temple of Apollo is the most romantic excursion in Side. Request a private seating area at the bow from the captain and pre-arrange champagne. The light between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM is extraordinary.
3

Bring a Waterproof Phone Pouch

You'll want your phone for swimming selfies and dolphin-spotting photos. A sealed waterproof pouch, around 10 to 15 TRY from any Side shop, keeps your phone safe and allows touch-screen use underwater. Never risk your phone without one.
4

Apply Sunscreen Before Boarding — Reapply at Lunch

The sea reflects UV and amplifies sun exposure on the open deck. Apply high-SPF sunscreen generously before departure and reapply after every swim. A lightweight long-sleeved shirt and hat are recommended. Serious sunburn on a boat is common and avoidable.
5

Combine River + Sea for the Complete Side Water Experience

The Manavgat River cruise (morning) and the sea sunset cruise (evening) can be done on the same day for a completely different perspective. The river is calm, green, and cool; the sea is open, turquoise, and dramatic. Together, they capture both sides of Side.
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About Side Boat Tour & Cruise Trips

Side's ancient harbour, originally built 2,700 years ago to berth Pamphylian trading ships, now serves as the departure point for some of the most scenic boat tours on Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Traditional wooden gulets and modern motor yachts cruise westward past the Temple of Apollo headland and eastward along undeveloped coves backed by pine-clad cliffs.
Full-day cruises typically anchor at five or six swimming bays inaccessible by road, serve a freshly grilled BBQ lunch on deck, and offer snorkelling over sandy sea-grass meadows where loggerhead turtles feed. Manavgat River boat excursions travel 12 km upstream through a green corridor of willows and oleander, stopping at the Manavgat Waterfall and a riverside fish restaurant. Sunset cruises loop back around the peninsula just as the sky turns amber behind the Temple of Apollo. It's a photographer's dream.
Address Side Old Harbour (Antik Liman), Side, Manavgat/Antalya, Turkey
Also Known As Side Cruise Trips
Annual Visitors 500,000+
Expected Wait Time 5–10 Minutes (boarding) (Peak) No Queue (pre-booked tickets) (Off Peak)

Interesting Facts (Fun Facts)

Discover hidden secrets and stories.

Side's harbour has been in continuous use for over 2,700 years. Ancient Pamphylians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans all moored their vessels in the same natural bay where today's tour boats depart.
The underwater seagrass meadows visible from the boat are Posidonia oceanica beds, among the most important marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean. They produce more oxygen per square metre than tropical rainforest.
Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest on the beaches east of Side between May and September. Boat cruises passing these stretches operate a slow-speed zone during nesting season to protect hatchlings.
Explore Day Trips from Side
The Manavgat River is fed by underground karst springs in the Taurus Mountains. The water temperature stays a refreshing 14 to 18 °C year-round. That makes the river swimming stop a shock after the warm Mediterranean.

Why visit Side Boat Tour & Cruise Trips?

Access Beaches Impossible to Reach by Road

The most beautiful coves between Side and Alanya have no road access. The only way to swim in these turquoise bays is from the water. A boat cruise is your ticket to the coastline's secret spots.

Full Day Entertainment: Zero Effort

Hotel pick-up, BBQ lunch, swimming stops, snorkelling, and return transfer are all included and organised. You don't need to plan, drive, or think. Just step aboard, relax, and let the crew handle everything.

Cooler Than the Beach on Hot Days

The sea breeze on a moving boat drops the felt temperature by 5 to 8 °C compared to the beach. On peak-summer days when Side's sand reaches 45 °C, a day on the water is the most comfortable way to enjoy the Mediterranean.

Perfect for Groups and Celebrations

Private charter options are available for birthdays, proposals, and group celebrations. The crew decorates the boat, serves cake, and adjusts the itinerary. A sunset charter with champagne past the Temple of Apollo is one of the most popular proposal settings in Turkey.

Highlights

Hidden Cove Swimming Stops

Hidden Cove Swimming Stops

The gulet anchors in five or six secluded bays along the coastline east and west...
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Manavgat River Green Corridor

Manavgat River Green Corridor

The river cruise takes you 12 km upstream through an emerald tunnel of willow, oleander,...
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On-Deck BBQ Lunch

On-Deck BBQ Lunch

The crew fires up the charcoal grill mid-cruise and serves freshly grilled sea bass, chicken...
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Dolphin Spotting Along the Coast

Dolphin Spotting Along the Coast

Bottlenose dolphins are regularly sighted between Side and Alanya, particularly during early-morning and late-afternoon cruises....
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Sunset Cruise Past the Temple of Apollo

Sunset Cruise Past the Temple of Apollo

The most romantic option departs Side harbour at 5:30 PM and loops the peninsula just...
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Plan your visit

Address

Side Old Harbour (Antik Liman), Side, Manavgat/Antalya, Turkey

Get Google Maps

Nearest Bus Stop

Side Bus Stop (dolmuş from Manavgat every 10 min, 2 min walk to harbour)

Walking directions

Nearest Parking

Side Harbour Car Park (paid, limited spaces — arrive early)

Walking directions
Side Old Harbour: Main Boarding Point

Side Old Harbour: Main Boarding Point

All scheduled sea cruises depart from the ancient harbour on the western tip of the Side peninsula. The harbour is a 5-minute walk from the Temple of Apollo and the main pedestrian shopping street. Check in at your operator's desk on the quayside 15 minutes before departure.

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Manavgat Riverboat Pier: River Cruises

Manavgat Riverboat Pier: River Cruises

Manavgat River cruises depart from the riverboat pier near Manavgat town centre, approximately 4 km north of Side. Hotel transfers are typically included, or you can take a dolmuş from Side, about 10 minutes. Boarding begins at 10:00 AM for morning departures.

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Monday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Tuesday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Wednesday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Thursday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Friday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Saturday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Sunday 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM

Cruise season runs April through October with daily departures. Full-day cruises depart 10:00 AM and return 5:00 to 6:00 PM. Sunset cruises depart 5:30 PM and return 8:30 PM. Manavgat River cruises depart 10:30 AM. Tours may be cancelled in rough sea conditions. Full refunds or date changes are offered.

Sun Deck & Shade Canopy
Traditional gulets feature a cushioned sun deck for tanning, plus a shaded canopy area amidships. Modern motor yachts have upper-deck loungers and lower-deck seating. Bring a towel — some boats provide them, but it varies by operator.
Onboard Toilets
All licensed tour boats have at least one onboard WC. Larger gulets have two: one at the bow and one at the stern. They are basic but clean and serviced between tours.
Snorkelling Equipment
Basic masks and snorkels are provided free of charge on most full-day cruises. Quality varies, so if you're keen on snorkelling, bring your own mask for a better fit. Fins are rarely included.

Assisted Boarding Available

Boarding involves stepping from the harbour quay onto the boat, typically a 30 to 50 cm step down. Crew members assist with boarding and can arrange stable seating for passengers with limited mobility. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on deck.

Sea-Sickness Warning

The open Mediterranean can be choppy, especially on windy days. If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication 30 minutes before boarding. River cruises on the Manavgat are completely calm and suitable for those with sensitivity.

Children Must Be Supervised at All Times

Life jackets are provided for all ages and mandatory for children under 12 during swimming stops. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the cruise. Jumping from the upper deck is prohibited for under-16s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you go.

1

What types of boat tours are available in Side?

Side offers a variety of boat tours, including sightseeing cruises, private yacht charters, fishing trips, and sunset cruises. You can also explore nearby islands and hidden beaches on these tours.

2

How much do boat tours in Side cost?

Boat tours in Side generally range from $25 to $80 USD per person, depending on the type of tour and inclusions like meals or drinks. Private charters may cost more.

3

Are meals included on boat tours in Side?

Many boat tours include lunch or snacks, usually BBQ or Turkish meze. Be sure to confirm whether meals are included when booking your tour, as some may offer optional food packages.

4

Can I swim during boat tours in Side?

Yes, most boat tours in Side offer stops for swimming in the Mediterranean’s clear waters. Some tours also include snorkeling equipment for underwater exploration.

5

Is hotel pickup included in boat tours?

Many boat tours offer free hotel pickup and drop-off in Side. Confirm transportation availability when booking to ensure convenience, as some tours may charge extra for this service.

6

What should I bring for a boat tour in Side?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a hat for sun protection. Don’t forget a waterproof camera to capture beautiful moments during the tour. Light snacks and water are also recommended.

7

Are children allowed on boat tours in Side?

Yes, many boat tours in Side are family-friendly. Children can enjoy sightseeing and swimming stops. Some tours may even offer child-specific entertainment or safety measures.

8

How long do boat tours in Side last?

Boat tours in Side typically last 4 to 6 hours. Full-day tours are available for those who want to explore nearby islands or enjoy a longer time on the water.

9

What are the most popular boat tours in Side?

Popular boat tours in Side include the Manavgat River Cruise, trips to the nearby Green Canyon, and sunset boat tours for a romantic evening experience. Most tours offer stunning views of the coastline.

10

How do I book a boat tour in Side?

You can easily book boat tours in Side through Tripventura, GetYourGuide, or local tour agencies. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the high season, to secure your spot.

11

What sea caves and bays do Side boat tours explore?

Side boat tours visit the phosphorescent sea caves, remote sandy coves, and the scenic stretch between Side and Manavgat. The clear turquoise water and dramatic cliffs make each bay a beautiful highlight of the tour.

12

Is the Manavgat River boat trip included in Side boat tours?

Some Side tour packages combine a sea boat tour with a separate Manavgat River boat excursion for a full water experience. River boats navigate through lush reeds and traditional fishing areas unique to the region.

13

What is the boarding location for boat tours in Side?

Boat tours in Side typically board from the main Side Harbor or from designated jetty points along the beach. Your hotel pickup is included, with drivers directing guests to the correct boarding point.

14

Are boat tours in Side affected by bad weather conditions?

Boat tours may be rescheduled or cancelled in the event of strong winds or rough seas for passenger safety. Operators monitor weather conditions closely and provide advance notice and alternative arrangements when needed.

15

Are there pirate-themed boat tours available in Side area?

Yes, pirate-themed boat tours are a popular and fun option for families and groups in the Side area. These tours feature costumed crew, music, onboard games, and multiple swimming stops at scenic coastal bays.

Everything You Need to Know About Side Boat Tours & Cruise Trips

From ancient Side Harbor to Manavgat River, each boat trip is designed to give you unforgettable moments. Ready to book your trip? Keep reading to find the best boat trips in Side, Turkey.