City of Side: Full-day Boat Tour with Lunch & Foam Party

Thinking about adding a splash of adventure and relaxation to your trip to Side? This full-day boat tour offers a fantastic balance of sightseeing, swimming, and lively fun on the water. For just around $32, you’ll spend approximately 9 hours on a sailboat cruising along the Turkish Riviera—an experience packed with memorable moments and authentic touches.

One of the best things about this tour is its inclusive vibe. You get to enjoy multiple swimming stops, a delicious fresh-cooked lunch, and an energetic foam party that especially delights the kids. On the downside, some travelers mention that drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for additional refreshments. Still, for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the land and soak up the sea, this trip hits many marks.

This tour suits those who love water-based activities, lively social atmospheres, and exploring scenic coastlines without the hassle of planning logistics. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, the experience offers a good mix of relaxation and entertainment.

Key Points

• All-day sailing experience with multiple swim stops in scenic spots like Karaburun Bay and Manavgat Bosphorus
• Lively foam party on board, perfect for kids and the young at heart
• Delicious, traditional Turkish lunch, with options of fish or chicken served with rice and salad
• Comfortable transportation and guide service, with multilingual commentary
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Includes safety gear, such as life vests, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Side

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

From the moment you are picked up from your hotel, the day begins with convenience. The tour company—Seven Tours—handles your transport, ensuring you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads. The pickup point is usually in front of your hotel’s security door, making it straightforward to find your guide. Once aboard the boat, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who will ask for your lunch preference—either fish or chicken—which is served later in the day, cooked fresh on board.

The day unfolds on the water, starting with a scenic cruise along the Manavgat River. As you glide along, your guide provides commentary—likely in English and German—sharing interesting tidbits about the local sights and history, making the journey both relaxing and educational.

The Swim Stops: Refreshing Breaks in Beautiful Settings

The tour includes several swim breaks, which are among the highlights. The first stop is usually at Karaburun Bay or the Manavgat Bosphorus, where the clear waters beckon for a dip. The second swim spot is in the Mediterranean Sea, where travelers can enjoy the waves, snorkel, or simply lounge with a view. The last stop is back at the Manavgat Bosphorus, giving you another chance to cool off before heading back.

Reviewers noted the length of these breaks is generally sufficient for swimming and even jumping off the boat—some up to 8 meters high. One guest, Maik, mentioned that the stops were “long enough for swimming and jumping,” which is great for those who want more than just a quick splash.

The Foam Party: A Party for All Ages

The tour’s most distinctive feature is the foam party. Once the boat cruises into calmer waters, the crew kicks off the foam, and everyone can dance and have fun. Kids especially love it, but it’s also a lively experience for adults. It’s a great way to break the ice and enjoy the party atmosphere on the water.

Lunch: Fresh and Traditional

After the first swim, a crew member serves a delicious, freshly grilled meal—your choice of fish or chicken, accompanied by rice and salad. Reviewers like Maria, who praised the food, mention that the meals are surprisingly good and satisfying. The food is straightforward but well-prepared, allowing you to refuel before the next swim and dance session.

Additional Activities and Optional Extras

In the Manavgat Bosphorus area, you might find opportunities to rent a Jet-Ski or sample a traditional Turkish snack called Gözleme. While not included in the price, these extras can add a layer of fun and local flavor to your day.

What Travelers Love and Areas for Improvement

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and crew, who provide friendly service and interesting commentary, making the experience more engaging. They also highlight the quality of the food and the longer stops for swimming, which allow for proper relaxation and fun.

Some guests, like Maik, noted that drinks are sold on board at reasonable prices, but since they aren’t included, you’ll want to bring cash if you plan to indulge. There’s also no mention of alcohol included in the package, but soft drinks and water are available.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 9 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s best to check your booking for the specific departure time, but expect to be picked up and returned to your hotel for a seamless experience.

Cost and Value

Priced at just $32 per person, this tour offers significant value. For that price, you’re getting a full-day experience with multiple swim stops, a guided commentary, lunch, and fun activities like a foam party. Considering the included transportation and safety gear, it’s a reasonable deal for a memorable day out.

What to Bring

To make the most of the trip, pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since drinks and ice-cream are not included, you might want to bring some cash for additional refreshments. Remember, pets and outside food aren’t allowed on board.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet lively day on the water. Families with children will appreciate the foam party and ample swimming opportunities, while couples and groups of friends will enjoy the social atmosphere and scenic views. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and some upbeat fun, this boat tour ticks all boxes.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

The combination of scenic cruising, multiple swim stops, and a lively foam party makes this tour more than just a boat ride. The fresh, well-prepared lunch adds to the value, especially considering the overall price is quite affordable. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, making it accessible for most travelers.

While drinks are extra, the reasonable prices and casual atmosphere make it easy to stay refreshed without overspending. The knowledgeable guides, who provide entertaining commentary, elevate the experience from a simple boat trip to a richly enjoyable day.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, all-day excursion that combines swimming, sightseeing, and lively entertainment, this tour offers an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for families, first-time visitors wanting a taste of the Turkish Riviera, or anyone looking to socialize and enjoy a carefree day at sea. The authentic touches, like traditional Turkish lunch and friendly guides, ensure you’ll feel more connected to the local vibe.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a quiet, more exclusive experience, this might not be your best fit. Likewise, those craving included beverages or specific luxury amenities should prepare accordingly.

This boat tour from Side provides a balanced, value-packed adventure that captures the essence of the Turkish coast—beautiful, fun, and full of surprises.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included and available from all hotels in Gündodu, Çolakl, Evrenseki, Kumköy, Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kzlaaç, and Kzlot areas, typically in front of your hotel’s security door.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since drinks aren’t included, consider carrying some cash for additional beverages or snacks.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase soft drinks, water, or alcoholic drinks on board at reasonable prices.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with multiple swimming and activity stops.

What food is served?
A fresh, grilled lunch featuring your choice of fish or chicken, served with rice and salad.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children especially enjoy the foam party and swimming stops. The tour provides life vests, and staff are accommodating.

Can I rent a Jet-Ski?
Yes, at the Manavgat Bosphorus stop, you can rent a Jet-Ski if you wish, though it’s not included in the tour price.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

In summary, if you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and well-organized day out on Turkey’s coast, this full-day boat tour delivers loads of fun, hearty food, and beautiful views—all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re a water lover or just want a relaxing escape with a splash of party fun, it’s a great choice to add to your Side itinerary.