Side Town:Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour With Lunch and Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the Turkish Riviera beyond the usual sightseeing, the Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour offers a lively, all-in-one experience. This half-day cruise combines scenic views of ancient Side, refreshing swims in turquoise waters, a lively foam party, and a tasty lunch — all for a very reasonable price of around $34 per person.

What really catches our eye is how this tour balances fun and relaxation, making it suitable for families, groups of friends, or anyone craving a taste of the sea. However, a few reviews hint that the group size can be tight, and the lunch could be more upscale. Still, if you’re after a lively, value-packed day with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this cruise might just be your perfect match.

This tour is best for those who love a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and social fun. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the lively boat experience along the Turkish coast.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Side’s ancient city and the Mediterranean coastline.
• Swim stops in crystal-clear waters and at Caretta Bay to cool off.
• Includes a tasty buffet lunch with a variety of fresh dishes.
• Lively foam party onboard adds a fun, memorable element.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy.
• Unlimited soft drinks keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.

What to Expect from the Boat Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of sightseeing, water fun, and entertainment. It begins with a convenient hotel pickup from your Side accommodation, making the start stress-free. Once onboard, you’ll quickly realize this is a social, lively experience designed to keep everyone engaged.

The boat cruises along the Manavgat River, providing a pleasant journey through scenic surroundings. As you settle into the cruise, you’ll enjoy non-alcoholic drinks, a delicious lunch, and the chance to chat with fellow travelers. The atmosphere is relaxed but vibrant, especially when the foam party kicks off — a highlight that makes this trip stand out.

The itinerary includes a swim stop in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, giving you a chance to cool off after some sunbathing and sightseeing. The first swim is at Caretta Bay, where the waters are famously clear, inviting you to dive in and relax. You’ll also get views of Side’s ancient temple ruins, including the iconic Temple of Apollo, which makes a stunning backdrop for photos.

Scenic Highlights and Photo Opportunities

One of the tour’s major draws is the chance to snap photos of Side’s remarkable history. The ancient city’s ruins peek out over the shoreline, offering postcard-worthy views. The boat’s vantage point allows you to appreciate the scale of the Temple of Apollo and other archaeological sites from the water — a perspective that’s hard to beat.

Guests on the tour frequently mention the stunning views, with one reviewer noting that the “great views and attractions on the ship” made it a memorable experience. We love the way the boat cruise combines fun with cultural scenery, making it more than just a day at sea.

The Swim Stops: Refreshing and Relaxing

The highlight of the cruise for many is the swim in the Mediterranean’s turquoise waters. The first stop at Caretta Bay is perfect for cooling off, swimming, or just floating in the calm, clear sea. The reviews highlight that the crew is accommodating, and the water temperature is ideal for a refreshing swim.

A second swim is usually included, where you can take a break and enjoy the sun. Some reviewers have noted that optional activities like jet skiing are offered, though at an extra cost (around 40 euros for 10 minutes). Others mention that the crew is friendly and not pushy, even if some guests want to indulge in additional water sports.

The calm waters and scenic surroundings make these swim stops one of the most appreciated parts of the tour — a true escape from the busy beaches of Side.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Entertainment

The included lunch is a simple but fresh selection of dishes, designed to satisfy rather than impress. Reviewers mention that portions are modest and the meal is straightforward, with no fancy presentation. Still, it’s considered good value, especially given the overall price of the tour.

Soft drinks are unlimited throughout the cruise, keeping everyone hydrated. Notably, alcoholic beverages are not included, which might disappoint those expecting a party vibe — but the foam party more than makes up for it with its lively, fun atmosphere. The foam is mostly targeted at kids, but everyone seems to enjoy the playful, messy experience.

The onboard entertainment, especially the foam party, is a lively highlight. It’s a unique feature that turns the cruise into a memorable event. One reviewer described it as “really fun,” especially for families with children.

Logistical Details and Practical Tips

The 7.5-hour tour starts with a hotel pickup — so be sure to confirm your pickup time. Check availability beforehand to see the starting times, as they can vary. The tour is guided in multiple languages, including English, German, and Polish, which makes it accessible for many travelers.

What to bring is straightforward: sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for extras. The group sizes can be busy, so packing light and arriving early will help ensure you find space to relax comfortably.

The tour’s price includes travel insurance, lunch, non-alcoholic drinks, guide, and boat trip — making it a good deal for what is offered. However, photos and personal expenses are extra. Some guests have expressed frustration about the photo sales at the end, with one reviewer mentioning a steep 120 euros for a set of photos. So, if you want photos, consider taking your own to avoid extra costs.

The Authentic Experience: What Sets It Apart

While this tour is marketed as a lively, all-in-one experience, it does deliver on several fronts. The knowledgeable guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. The scenery, from ancient ruins to shimmering water, offers a visual feast. The foam party and swim stops add genuine fun, especially for families or groups seeking a spirited day out.

However, the group size might be a consideration if you prefer a more intimate experience. One reviewer noted that “you had to squeeze through,” suggesting that the boat can get quite crowded during peak times.

The value for money remains high, given the combination of transportation, food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s a great option for those wanting a hassle-free day that mixes sightseeing with social fun.

This cruise is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a lively, engaging day on the water. Families with kids will enjoy the foam party and swimming, while groups of friends can appreciate the social atmosphere. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting to maximize their time in Side with a mix of history, scenery, and fun.

If you prefer a quiet, peaceful cruise or a more exclusive experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a fun, energetic day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local life, this tour ticks many boxes.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the start and end of your day convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with checkable start times available when booking.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited soft drinks are included throughout the day, but alcoholic beverages are not.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for extras or souvenirs.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians?
The description mentions a variety of fresh dishes, but specific dietary options are not detailed. It’s best to ask the provider if you have special dietary needs.

Can I participate in water sports?
Optional water activities like jet skiing are available at an extra cost. Some reviewers found these options appealing.

What about photos?
Photos are not included in the package, but you can take your own. Some guests were offered photo packages at extra cost, which they found quite expensive.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Polish, providing good coverage for international travelers.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children seem to enjoy the foam party and swimming stops, making it a family-friendly option.

The Side & Caretta Bay Boat Tour offers a dynamic way to enjoy the coast of Side, combining historical views, refreshing swims, and lively entertainment. For just around $34, it delivers solid value, especially if you’re after a fun-filled, social day out with plenty of photo-worthy moments and a taste of local scenery.

While the lunch is straightforward and group sizes can get crowded, the friendly guides, stunning views, and overall atmosphere make it a good pick for travelers seeking a lively, memorable experience. Perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers wanting to meet others on a budget, this cruise packs plenty of highlights into a compact day on the water.

If you’re after a lively adventure that combines sightseeing with social fun and a splash of history, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and your best smile for a full day of Turkish Riviera magic.