Side: Alanya Boat Tour to the Cleopatra Beach & Hidden Bays

Imagine sailing aboard a gleaming white vessel that resembles a majestic swan, gliding through turquoise waters past ancient caves and shimmering beaches. That’s what awaits on the Alanya boat tour to Cleopatra Beach and the hidden bays—a chance to explore some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines in comfort and style. This tour is particularly appealing for those who want a combination of scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and a solid dose of relaxation.

One aspect we really appreciate is the luxury and capacity of the boat itself. Unlike smaller, more traditional wooden boats, this modern fiberglass vessel can hold up to 500 passengers, making it perfect for large groups or families looking for an energetic day out. The lively atmosphere, with foam parties and DJ performances, adds a fun twist that sets this experience apart. However, a possible consideration is the duration—ranging from 4 to 10 hours—so travelers should check the schedule and choose a time that suits their mood and plans.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy beach hopping, vibrant social scenes, and beautiful scenery, but it’s also great for those who want a hassle-free way to see the coastline with all logistics handled. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise or a lively party, this experience offers a versatile day on the water.

Key Points

• Luxurious vessel with high passenger capacity offers comfort and lively entertainment.
• Visit iconic beaches like Cleopatra and Ula, plus sea caves, for a varied coastal experience.
• Multiple swimming breaks in stunning locations allow for plenty of sunbathing and water fun.
• Onboard entertainment includes shows, foam parties, and DJ sets, creating a festive atmosphere.
• All meals and drinks are included, making it a convenient full-day adventure.
• Flexible timing and optional hotel pickup add to the ease of booking and planning.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Day on the Water

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually around 8:00 am, depending on your location in Side, which is a thoughtful touch to ensure you start your day stress-free. After a comfortable transfer to Alanya harbor, you’ll find yourself boarding the largest and most modern boat in the harbor—a contrast to the typical wooden pirate-style vessels you might see around. Its elegant design and capacity of 500 people suggest this is a lively, bustling environment, perfect for socializing and enjoying the day.

Once aboard, the boat departs around 10:30 am, heading straight toward the sea caves near Alanya castle. These caves—Pirates, Lovers, and Phosphorus—are some of the region’s most photographed spots, with their dramatic cliffs and mysterious openings. You’ll get to admire these formations from the water, with plenty of opportunities for photos and to marvel at how they have been carved over centuries.

The Sea Caves and Swimming Breaks

The tour includes multiple stops for swimming, starting with a relaxing break near the shipyard and Ula beach. Many reviews highlight how these swimming stops are the perfect way to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear water. The boat’s crew is attentive, making sure everyone has a chance to jump in and enjoy the open sea. Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater, as the water around the caves and beaches promises good visibility.

Cleopatra and Ula Beaches

The highlight for many is the visit to Cleopatra Beach, famous for its fine sand and historical whispers—legend has it that Cleopatra herself swam here. The calm, clear water creates an ideal setting for lounging or a quick dip. A second significant stop is Ula Beach, renowned for its unspoiled beauty and seclusion. Here, the onboard crew often serves a delicious lunch, allowing you to feast on grilled chicken, fresh salads, pasta, and seasonal fruit, all included in the ticket price.

Entertainment and Party Atmosphere

Throughout the day, the boat transforms into a floating party. Expect live shows, dance performances, and a lively DJ performance that gets everyone moving. One reviewer noted, “The foam party was fantastic—so much fun dancing with everyone covered in bubbles.” The crew is energetic and professional, creating a friendly and festive vibe that appeals especially to younger travelers or groups of friends.

Open Sea Swim and Relaxation

The tour also offers a swim in the open sea, away from the crowded beaches. Many travelers appreciate the chance to relax and sunbathe while the boat glides to its next destination. The boat’s modern facilities include changing cabins, restrooms, and showers, making it easy to freshen up after a swim.

Practical Details and What’s Included

For about $41 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions. The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Side, a comprehensive onboard meal, soft drinks, and lively entertainment. The meal, described as a chicken barbecue with salads, pasta, and seasonal fruit, is enough to keep energy levels high for the whole day.

You should plan to bring essentials like a towel, suncream, and snorkeling equipment if you have it. The boat is equipped with changing cabins, restrooms, and showers—convenient features that enhance comfort, especially after swimming breaks.

Note: Alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you’re craving a tipple, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase at the bar. Ice cream and chips are also excluded, so consider bringing snacks if you’re prone to hungry spells during long days.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour duration varies between 4 and 10 hours, offering flexibility for different travelers. The main departure is at around 10:30 am, with the return to Side hotels around 5 pm. The availability of different start times means you can choose a shorter or longer experience depending on your mood.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking is flexible with options to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are available up to 24 hours before departure. This makes it easier for travelers with unpredictable schedules or those wanting to confirm their plans closer to the date.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

Guests consistently mention how the boat’s modern design and vibrant atmosphere make for an enjoyable day. One reviewer praised the friendly staff and well-organized shows, while others loved the variety of swimming spots—especially the chance to relax in front of Cleopatra Beach, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A recurring highlight is the delicious onboard meal, which many said exceeded expectations. The inclusivity of soft drinks and the lively entertainment added to the feeling of value.

Some travelers noted that the duration can extend up to 10 hours, making it a full-day adventure, so plan accordingly. The lively party vibe is perfect for those looking to socialize and dance, but if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, it might be worth considering a shorter or different tour.

The Sum Up

This luxurious boat tour in Alanya offers an energetic, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline. The combination of beautiful beaches, sea caves, and lively entertainment makes it suitable for diverse travelers—whether you’re seeking fun, relaxation, or a mix of both. The inclusion of meals, soft drinks, and entertainment at this price point makes it a good value, especially since the boat’s capacity ensures a vibrant, social atmosphere.

Travelers who love beautiful scenery paired with lively social events will find this tour perfect. It’s especially ideal for those who want a full-day adventure with multiple swimming stops, lively shows, and a modern vessel, all without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

However, if you prefer a more tranquil, less party-oriented experience, you might want to look into different options. Also, be prepared for a potentially long day if you choose the full 10-hour experience, and bring essentials like swimsuits, sun protection, and snorkeling gear.

The Alanya boat tour offers a great blend of sightseeing, fun, and comfort—a memorable way to explore Turkey’s beautiful coastlines with a touch of luxury and entertainment.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from hotels and apartments in Side, making the start and end of your day convenient.

What should I bring on the boat?
Bring a towel, suncream, snorkeling equipment if you have it, and a swimsuit for swimming stops. The boat has changing cabins, restrooms, and showers.

How long does the tour last?
It can range from 4 to 10 hours, depending on the schedule you choose. The typical departure time is around 10:30 am, with return around 5 pm.

Is food included?
Yes, a hearty onboard meal consisting of chicken barbecue, salads, pasta, and seasonal fruits is included in the price.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks like water, Coke, and Fanta are included. Alcoholic drinks are not, so plan accordingly.

Can I swim at Cleopatra Beach?
Yes, the tour includes a swimming stop near Cleopatra Beach, allowing you to relax on its fine sands and swim in its calm waters.

What entertainment is provided?
The boat features shows, dance performances, foam parties, and a DJ set, creating a lively party atmosphere onboard.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended. You can reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially if your family enjoys lively days, swimming, and social activities. Just be mindful of the duration and the party vibe if traveling with very young children.