Alanya Pirate Boat with Lunch and Drinks

Planning a day out on the water in Alanya? The Pirate Boat with Lunch and Drinks promises a lively, family-friendly adventure that combines scenic sightseeing, swimming, and onboard entertainment for around $20 per person. Whether you love ocean views, playful activities, or just relaxing under the sun, this trip offers a lot for a reasonable price.

One of the standout features we appreciate is the hotel pickup included in many options, making logistics a breeze. The lively atmosphere onboard, with music, foam parties, and treasure hunts, keeps everyone engaged. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that reviews are mixed—experiences vary, with some praising the value and fun, while others highlight issues like overcrowding or service inconsistencies.

This tour tends to suit families with children and those looking for a casual, fun day on the water. If you’re after a relaxed cruise with some entertainment, and don’t mind a lively, sometimes crowded atmosphere, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. For travelers seeking a quieter, more refined experience, it might be worth exploring alternatives.

Key Points

• Affordable fun: At just over $20, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a day at sea.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children and groups looking for casual entertainment.
• Includes lunch and drinks: Buffet lunch and soft drinks are part of the package, offering good value.
• Multiple scenic stops: Stops at caves and Cleopatra Beach for swimming and sightseeing.
• Mixed reviews on comfort: Some mention overcrowding or service issues, so expectations should be realistic.
• Good for lively, social atmospheres: Expect non-stop music, foam, and energetic entertainment.

A Practical Overview of the Experience

The Alanya Pirate Boat tour is roughly a 6 to 7-hour adventure, starting around 9:30 am with hotel pickup from many central locations. This logistical detail makes it appealing for visitors who prefer not to worry about arranging transport. Upon arrival at the marina, you’ll meet your crew—an energetic team dressed up as pirates and buccaneers—ready to set sail along the coastline.

The boat itself is designed to evoke the feeling of an old pirate ship, complete with lively music and a festive atmosphere. The boat’s route takes you past renowned landmarks like Alanya Castle, Lover’s Cave, and Cleopatra Beach—all great photo opportunities and fascinating sights from the water. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or sea turtles, as some travelers have reported sightings, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the day.

The Stops and Sights

Your cruise includes stops at Pirates Cave, Lover’s Cave, and Phosphorous Cave—each offering a chance to swim, snorkel, or just relax on deck. Cleopatra Beach also features prominently, with some reviewers noting that it’s where Queen Cleopatra herself supposedly enjoyed swimming. The water here is inviting, and the stops are generally well-paced, giving you enough time to cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Onboard Entertainment

It’s hard to overstate how lively the onboard atmosphere is. Expect music to be playing constantly, with a DJ often spinning tunes that get everyone dancing. The foam party is a highlight, turning the upper deck into a bubbly dance floor. Treasure hunts and playful activities add a family-friendly touch, making this a good pick for kids and adults alike.

According to reviews, the food is a buffet featuring chicken, rice, salad, and bread, which many found satisfying—especially considering the price. Soft drinks are included, but alcohol is available for purchase, so if you’re looking to toast the day, bring some extra cash.

The Group Size and Comfort

The tour can accommodate up to 120 travelers, which can lead to crowded conditions, especially on the popular summer days. Some reviews describe the transportation to the marina as cramped, with issues like poorly air-conditioned vans and overbooking. This might be a concern if you prefer a quieter, more comfortable start and end to your day.

The Good, the Bad, and the Mixed

What Travelers Love

Many guests rave about the value for money and the fun-filled atmosphere. One review enthusiastically states, “The foam party on deck was great,” and highlighted the opportunity to swim with or without life jackets. The scenic views of Alanya Castle and Lover’s Cave from the water are consistently mentioned as highlights, providing memorable photo moments.

The lunch and drinks receive positive feedback, with some describing the food as “amazing” and the soft drinks as plentiful. The friendly crew and smooth coordination, especially with hotel pickups, are appreciated by several travelers, making it a hassle-free day.

Common Complaints

Not all experiences are perfect. Some travelers report overcrowding, especially during peak times, which can make the boat feel cramped and less comfortable. One guest described the van transfer as “overfilled and hot,” and some noted that the boat was overcrowded, with smoking allowed all over, which affected the relaxation for non-smokers.

Service inconsistencies also crop up, with a few reviews mentioning rude staff or unprofessional behavior. For example, one traveler described staff shouting and arguing amongst themselves, and another highlighted the tip solicitation as intrusive. Some reported that the lunch was subpar or was overlooked during busy times, adding to the frustration.

Safety and Hygiene

A serious concern raised by a few is related to overcrowding and hygiene. One reviewer strongly advised against this trip for families with young children or anyone concerned about health, citing overcrowded conditions, smoking, and poor transportation hygiene. It’s clear that the experience can vary widely depending on the day and group size.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Starting with the marina pickup, which is usually smooth and efficient, the cruise begins with a scenic ride along Alanya’s coast. The first landmark you’ll likely see is the Red Tower, a symbol of the city, and the shipyard, with its vaulted walls adding a historical touch to the water.

As you cruise past Alanya Castle and the Red Tower, you’ll get a sense of the city’s medieval architecture contrasted against the shimmering sea. Your first stop is Pirates Cave, a narrow, intriguing spot where you can swim or snorkel. The cave’s name hints at pirate lore, though it’s more of a fun swim stop than a historical site.

Next, you’ll visit Lover’s Cave, which is often praised for its beauty and tranquility. Reviewers mention that this spot is perfect for swimming and taking photos; some find the scenery enchanting, especially when the crystal-clear water catches the sunlight.

The Phosphorous Cave is another highlight, known for its glowing waters caused by phosphorescent algae. It’s a popular stop for swimming and enjoying the sea. Several guests found these stops to be the most memorable part of the trip, with one describing floating in the blue-lit waters as “a magical moment.”

Finally, your time at Cleopatra Beach allows for a longer swim, sunbathing, or relaxing on the sandy shore. Some reviews mention that the beach is where Queen Cleopatra herself allegedly swam—though, of course, that’s more legend than fact.

The Onboard Experience

The atmosphere onboard is lively, with music, foam, and entertainment designed to keep the energy high. Expect the crew to be friendly and enthusiastic, though some reviews suggest that service quality can vary. The foam party, often a hit among kids and adults, lasts around 15 minutes but some wish it was longer.

You’ll have the chance to relax on the sun deck, soaking up the sun and admiring the coastline. The upper deck offers stunning panoramic views while the lower deck is usually where the activity happens—swimming, dancing, and games.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Timing: The cruise departs at 9:30 am, so plan your morning accordingly. Arriving early can ensure a better spot on the boat.
• Transport: If not included, consider how you’ll get to the marina, especially during busy times when reviews mention cramped vans.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and a towel are essentials. If you want to enjoy the buffet lunch, bring extra cash for drinks or additional snacks.
• Hygiene and safety: For those concerned about overcrowding, consider arriving early or traveling during less busy seasons.
• Family considerations: If you’re traveling with young children, check the crowd levels and consider whether loud music and energetic entertainment fit your group.

The Verdict: Is it Worth It?

This pirate-themed cruise offers a great value for those wanting a fun, scenic day in Alanya. The combination of beautiful stops, lively onboard entertainment, and included lunch makes it an attractive option for budget travelers. The experience is best suited for families, groups of friends, or those who thrive in energetic atmospheres.

However, the potential for overcrowding, inconsistent service, and noisy environments means it might not be the best choice for travelers seeking peace and quiet or a more refined experience. If you’re flexible with the negatives and prioritize fun and scenic beauty, you’ll likely come away with many happy memories.

The Sum Up

For around $20, this pirate boat tour offers an engaging way to see Alanya from the water, with stops that combine relaxation and adventure. The lively atmosphere, combined with scenic swims and good value food, makes it a popular choice for families and groups seeking a carefree day at sea.

Keep in mind that experiences can vary greatly depending on the day, crowd size, and staff. If you’re comfortable with a lively, sometimes crowded environment, this trip can deliver a memorable, fun-filled day. For those looking for serene, exclusive experiences, it might be worth exploring other options, but for a lively, budget-friendly cruise, it ticks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from many locations in Alanya are available, making logistics much easier.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 9:30 am, with time divided between sailing, stops, and onboard activities.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the buffet lunch, soft drinks, and the scenic cruise. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, the cruise includes stops at Pirates Cave, Lover’s Cave, Phosphorous Cave, and Cleopatra Beach, all of which are suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The tour is family-friendly, with activities like treasure hunts, foam parties, and swimming. However, be aware of potential crowding and noise levels.

What are the negatives reported by some travelers?
Reviews mention overcrowding, noisy environments, inconsistent staff behavior, and crowded transportation, which can impact the comfort level.

Embarking on this pirate-themed adventure promises a day full of scenic views, playful activities, and good value. Just go with an open mind, and you’re likely to come away with some fun stories and memorable photos.