Side: All Inclusive Luxury Boat Trip & Free Time in Alanya
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Side, an ancient port city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, was founded by Greek colonists around the 7th century BCE as a thriving trading hub for goods like olive oil and wine. Under Roman rule from the 1st century BCE, it flourished as a cultural center, boasting temples to Apollo and Athena, a grand theater, and an agora that buzzed with merchants and philosophers. The city’s strategic location along the Manavgat River made it a key stop for ships navigating the treacherous waters, where legends of pirates raiding coastal villages added a layer of intrigue to its maritime history.
Alanya, just 75 km east of Side, emerged as a Seljuk stronghold in the 13th century under Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, who fortified its red-hued castle overlooking the sea. The area’s caves, such as the Pirates’ Cave, Lovers’ Cave, and Phosphorus Cave, are steeped in folklore from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, believed to have served as hideouts for pirates who preyed on trade routes. Today, these boat trips on pirate-themed ships revive that swashbuckling past, blending adventure with the region’s ancient seafaring legacy.
Highlights
- Sail on Turkey’s biggest pirate ship with a luxurious interior and open-sea swimming.
- Explore fascinating caves: Pirates’ Cave, Phosphorus Cave, and Lovers’ Cave.
- Enjoy 1.5 hours of free time in Alanya to visit the Red Tower and harbor shops.
- Relax with a delicious buffet lunch and unlimited drinks (alcoholic on Wednesdays and Saturdays).
- Thrill to animations, foam parties, mini discos, and a dramatic 30-meter cliff jump.
Full Description
Set sail on a 7–8-hour all-inclusive luxury boat trip from Side to Alanya, beginning with a pickup from your hotel’s main entrance (be ready 5 minutes early). A comfortable transfer takes you to the port of Türkler, where you’ll board Turkey’s largest pirate ship, featuring a lavish interior and pirate-themed decor for an immersive adventure suitable for all ages.
The journey kicks off with a 1.5-hour cruise to Emirgan UlaÅŸ Mesire Yeri for a refreshing 25-minute swim in crystal-clear waters. Dock in Alanya for 1.5 hours of free time to wander the vibrant harbor, climb the iconic Red Tower, or browse local markets and shops. Return for a 30-minute buffet lunch onboard, featuring Turkish specialties like mezes, grilled meats, salads, and desserts, with soft drinks included throughout (unlimited beer and wine on Wednesdays and Saturdays).
Sail onward to discover the legendary caves: Pirates’ Cave (a former hideout for sea raiders), Lovers’ Cave (whispered to be a romantic rendezvous spot), and Phosphorus Cave (glowing with phosphorescent waters). Watch professional animators perform a thrilling 30-meter cliff jump, then enjoy 2 hours at Kleopatra Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and passing by scenic spots. The fun continues with a foam party, mini disco for kids, adult contests, and lively music. Conclude with a final 10–15-minute swim before returning to Türkler port and your Side hotel via transfer. Free Wi-Fi ensures you’re connected, and seasickness tablets are available at the bar.
Why Choose This Experience?
This all-inclusive boat trip delivers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture, transforming a day at sea into an unforgettable pirate-themed escapade. With hotel transfers, unlimited drinks, entertainment for all ages, and free time in Alanya, it’s hassle-free fun on the Mediterranean.
Ideal for families, couples, or groups, the tour caters to everyone—from kids’ animations to adult foam parties—while offering serene deck spots for quieter moments. Its luxurious ship, scenic caves, and value-packed inclusions make it a standout way to explore Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Side
- 6-hour boat cruise on the pirate ship
- Buffet lunch
- Soft drinks throughout
- Unlimited beer and wine (Wednesdays and Saturdays only)
- Free Wi-Fi
- 1 hour free time in Alanya
- Animations, foam party, mini disco, and cliff jump demo
Itinerary
- Hotel Pickup in Side: Transfer to Türkler port (1.5 hours).
- Boarding & Cruise: Depart at 09:00 on the pirate ship (1.5 hours).
- Emirgan UlaÅŸ Mesire Yeri: Swimming break (25 minutes).
- Alanya Port: Free time to explore (1.5 hours).
- Buffet Lunch: Onboard meal (30 minutes).
- Caves Exploration: Sail past Pirates’, Phosphorus, and Lovers’ Caves.
- Kleopatra Beach: Swimming, visit, and cruise (2 hours).
- Final Swim & Activities: 10–15-minute swim, foam party, and animations.
- Return to Side: Transfer back to your hotel.
Pricing
From $58 per person
Meeting Point
Pickup from your hotel in Side; wait outside at the main entrance 5 minutes before the scheduled time. The transfer to Türkler port takes about 1.5 hours, with approximate pickup times varying by location.
How to Get There
- Arrange hotel pickup in Side; be at the main entrance 5 minutes early.
- Confirm exact pickup time via WhatsApp with the operator the day before.
- Use local taxis if joining from outside Side, but hotel pickup is included.
- The bus/coach transfer to Türkler port is 1.5 hours; plan for morning departure.
- Verify your hotel’s entrance on Google Maps to ensure smooth pickup.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel for swimming breaks and beach time.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Comfortable clothes and non-slip shoes for the boat deck.
- Cash for Alanya souvenirs or extra drinks (beyond included).
Know Before You Go
- The total duration (7–8 hours) includes transfers; the boat trip is 6 hours.
- Pickup times are approximate and vary by hotel location; confirm via WhatsApp.
- The tour is wheelchair-accessible, with onboard facilities for mobility needs.
- Alcoholic drinks (beer and wine) are unlimited only on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
- Inform the operator of dietary needs for lunch; seasickness tablets available onboard.
Reviews
- What an exhilarating day on the pirate ship! The caves were mysterious, and the foam party had everyone laughing. Lunch was fresh and plentiful, and Alanya’s free time was perfect for shopping. The crew kept the energy high—highly recommend for families!
- A fantastic blend of adventure and relaxation. Swimming in the clear sea at Kleopatra Beach was magical, and the guides shared cool stories about the caves. Unlimited drinks made it even better, and the transfer was seamless. Worth every penny!
- A perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, this all-inclusive boat trip in Alanya offers stunning coastal views and enjoyable free time to explore at your own pace.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What is the duration of the Side All-Inclusive Boat Trip?
The Side All-Inclusive Boat Trip spans 7–8 hours, including 1.5-hour transfers to and from Türkler port, with the onboard cruise lasting 6 hours. Starting with a morning pickup from your Side hotel (around 07:30–08:00, confirmed via WhatsApp), you'll board at 09:00 for swimming stops, cave explorations, Alanya free time, lunch, and activities like the foam party and cliff jump demo. The itinerary is flexible based on sea conditions, ensuring a full day of fun. Return transfers arrive back in Side by early afternoon. Contact the operator for exact pickup times tailored to your location, and plan for a relaxed pace with ample time for photos and relaxation. If you're prone to seasickness, request tablets in advance for a smoother experience.
What types of caves are visited during the boat trip?
The boat trip features three iconic caves near Alanya: Pirates' Cave, a legendary hideout for 16th-century sea raiders who stashed loot in its shadowy depths; Lovers' Cave, a romantic spot with folklore of clandestine meetings amid its echoing chambers; and Phosphorus Cave, known for its glowing phosphorescent waters that light up at night, offering a magical swim. You'll sail past or enter (weather permitting) for photos and brief explorations, with your guide sharing tales of pirates and ancient myths. These natural formations, carved by millennia of waves, add historical intrigue to the adventure. Swimming near the caves is optional, and life jackets are provided for safety. For a deeper dive into their legends, ask the onboard animators—they often weave stories during the cruise to enhance the pirate theme.
Is the boat trip suitable for families with children?
Absolutely, this boat trip is family-friendly and designed for all ages, with dedicated kids' activities like mini discos, face painting as pirates, treasure hunts, and toy weapons to spark imagination. The wheelchair-accessible ship has spacious decks for easy movement, and quieter areas on the first deck for parents seeking calm amid the foam party and contests. Alcoholic drinks are limited to adults on specific days, ensuring a safe environment. The crew's professional animators keep children engaged while parents relax with unlimited soft drinks. If your family has special needs, like dietary options for lunch or motion sickness aids, notify the operator when booking. Overall, it's a hit for multi-generational groups, blending education on local caves and history with non-stop fun on the Mediterranean.
What does the buffet lunch include?
The onboard buffet lunch is a highlight, featuring a diverse selection of Turkish and international dishes to suit various tastes, including fresh salads, grilled meats (chicken, lamb kebabs), fish options, vegetarian pastas and mezes, and seasonal desserts like baklava or fruit platters. Soft drinks are unlimited, with beer and wine available without limit on Wednesdays and Saturdays for adults. Served after Alanya free time, it's a relaxed 30-minute affair with sea views, allowing time to recharge before cave explorations and swimming. If you have allergies or preferences (e.g., gluten-free, vegan), inform the operator via WhatsApp when booking—they accommodate with advance notice. The meal emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, complementing the pirate theme with hearty, seafarer-inspired fare that keeps everyone energized for the afternoon's foam party and cliff jump demo.
Can I cancel or change my booking if plans change?
Yes, the boat trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind for unpredictable travel plans like weather or schedule shifts. The reserve-now-pay-later option lets you secure your spot without upfront payment, ideal for flexible itineraries. To reschedule or modify, contact the operator via WhatsApp at least 24 hours prior—they'll check availability and adjust seamlessly, often accommodating same-day changes if space allows. Pickup times vary by hotel (Side area), so confirm details the day before to avoid delays. For groups or special requests like private tables or dietary tweaks, early communication ensures everything aligns perfectly. This policy, combined with wheelchair accessibility and family-friendly features, makes it easy to book with confidence for your Mediterranean adventure.
