Side Boat Tour with Foam Party, Lunch and Free Soft Drinks

Side Boat Tour with Foam Party, Lunch and Free Soft Drinks: A Fun and Budget-Friendly Day on the Water

If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and looking for a day that combines scenic coastal views, lively entertainment, and a good dose of humor and playfulness, this boat tour might catch your eye. The Side Blau Laguna Pirate Boat offers a lively, family-friendly experience that promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and amusing pirate-themed antics — all for just $22 per person. While it might not be a high-end luxury cruise, it certainly delivers a memorable and lively outing.

One of the things we love about this tour is its accessible price point and inclusive features—think soft drinks, a tasty lunch, and the iconic foam party, all included in the ticket. Plus, the journey along the coastline showcases some genuinely stunning views of the Turkish Riviera, with glimpses of ancient ruins and secret coves.

However, a potential drawback is the discrepancy between the pirate theme and the reality—if you’re expecting a full-fledged pirate ship with authentic pirate decor, this might not meet those expectations. Still, the lively crew dressed in pirate gear does add a fun, theatrical atmosphere that many will enjoy. This tour is best suited for families, groups of friends, or travelers seeking a lively, multi-hour boat experience blending sightseeing with entertainment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $22 per person, it offers good value considering all included features.
• Scenic Coastal Route: Expect stunning views of Side’s coastline, ancient landmarks, and hidden beaches.
• Family-Friendly Entertainment: The crew’s pirate theme, foam party, and onboard activities keep guests engaged.
• Multiple Swim Stops: Crystal-clear bays are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating under the sun.
• Inclusive Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy a freshly grilled meal and unlimited soft drinks, adding to the relaxed vibe.
• Potential Theme Mismatch: The pirate theme may not be as authentic as some travelers might hope, based on reviews.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with a hotel pickup included, which makes things straightforward for travelers staying in Side. The transfer service is air-conditioned, comfortable, and helps you avoid the hassle of finding the meeting spot. The maximum group size is around 30 travelers, which means it stays social but not overcrowded.

The Coastal Voyage: Panoramas & Landmarks

Sailing from the historic harbor of Side, you’ll cruise along the coast, with the crew dressed in full pirate gear doing their best to entertain. We loved the way the boat glided past ancient ruins and dramatic cliffs, providing a sense of stepping back in time. The route offers constant views of the Temple of Apollo from the sea, which is a highlight for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike.

Guests have commented on the stunning scenery, with one reviewer noting the “beautiful panoramic views of Side’s landmarks”. The boat’s open deck makes it easy to take pictures and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

The Pirate Theme and Onboard Entertainment

The crew’s effort in dressing as pirates adds a playful element that’s fun for kids and adults. The foam party, which lasts about an hour, is a standout feature. It’s lively and messy—think bubbles, laughter, and people dancing on the deck. We found that the entertainment on board creates a lively atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Despite some expectations for a “pirate ship” experience, reviews suggest that the theme is more playful than authentic. One guest mentioned, “Pictures and description are pure deception if you come for a pirate ship and pirate ship,” implying the experience is more fun and theatrical than historically accurate.

Scenic Stops and Swimming

The multiple swim stops in turquoise bays are perfect for cooling off. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling or simply floating under the sun. Reviewers appreciated these moments—one said, “The secret bays are stunning, with waters so clear you can see all the way to the bottom.” These spots are somewhat undisclosed, which adds to the sense of adventure.

Lunch and Refreshments

A major plus is the delicious onboard lunch. Guests can choose between chicken, rice, spaghetti, or pasta, along with a salad. The meal is freshly grilled and served on deck, with unlimited soft drinks like cola, Fanta, Sprite, and water. This makes the experience more relaxed, especially as you enjoy the scenic views and warm weather. Several reviews praised the quality of the food, noting it was well-prepared and satisfying.

Overall Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it a substantial half- or full-day activity. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to relax, swim, or explore. The return journey allows for reflection on the day’s highlights, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

What the Reviews Reveal

While most guests found the experience enjoyable, some pointed out minor disappointments. The main issue for some was the discrepancy between expectations and reality—particularly regarding the pirate theme. Kevin_E remarked, “No Title,” saying, “Pictures and description are pure deception if you come for a pirate ship and pirate ship,” highlighting that the theme is more playful than authentic.

On the plus side, many reviews echoed satisfaction with the scenery, food, and foam party. Guests also appreciated the hotel pickup, which made logistics easier.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Arrive early to maximize your time on the boat, as the tour starts promptly at 8:30 am.
• Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to explore the underwater sights during swim stops.
• Expect a lively atmosphere—this isn’t a quiet, romantic cruise but a fun, energetic outing.
• Dress comfortably and bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves.
• Camera-ready: The scenic views and playful moments are perfect for photos.
• Consider your kids: The foam party and pirate theme are very kid-friendly, though the experience may be less authentic as a “pirate ship.”
• Bring some extra cash for personal expenses or souvenirs, as not covered by the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip suits travelers who want a cheerful, budget-friendly day in Side with plenty of photo opportunities, fun onboard activities, and scenic views. Families with children will enjoy the playful theme and swim stops, while groups of friends looking for a lively day out will appreciate the foam party and entertainment.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a luxurious or culturally immersive experience, or for travelers hoping for an authentic pirate ship adventure. Still, if you’re seeking an affordable, lively, and scenic way to explore the coast, this tour checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Side Blau Laguna Pirate Boat offers a solid, fun-filled day on the water for a very reasonable price. Expect beautiful coastlines, playful pirate antics, a lively foam party, and delicious food—if you’re after a casual, energetic outing, this tour ticks those boxes well.

While the theme may not meet everyone’s expectations of authenticity, the combination of scenic beauty, swim stops in crystal-clear bays, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a worthwhile option. It’s especially suitable for families, groups of friends, or travelers who want to add a splash of fun to their holiday without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a lively, picturesque day with plenty of opportunities to relax and socialize, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, so planning to be ready early is recommended for a smooth start.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and onboard fun.

Are drinks and lunch included?
Yes, you’ll get a freshly grilled lunch (chicken, rice, or spaghetti) and unlimited soft drinks like cola, Fanta, Sprite, and water.

Is the pirate theme authentic?
Not quite. The crew dresses as pirates and puts on a lively show, but reviews suggest it’s more playful than realistic.

What should I bring?
Bring swim gear, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for personal expenses or souvenirs.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children generally enjoy the playful atmosphere, foam party, and swimming stops, but parental discretion is advised based on age.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
The maximum group size is about 30 travelers, which keeps the experience lively but manageable.

This boat tour offers a fun, scenic, and affordable day out in Side, perfect for those looking to combine sightseeing with lively entertainment. Just manage expectations about the pirate theme, and you’ll have a memorable time on the Turkish coast.