Side-Turkey.

If you're searching for boat excursions with lunch along the Turkish Riviera, you're picturing the right kind of day: salt air, turquoise swim stops, and a hot meal served while the coastline drifts past. As a direct local operator based between Side and Manavgat, we run these boat excursions ourselves, so you sail with the crew who actually cooks your lunch and knows every cove.

What a Boat Excursion with Lunch Actually Looks Like

Most of our boat excursions with lunch follow the same easy rhythm. You board from Side harbour or a nearby jetty mid-morning, motor out past the ancient harbour walls, and settle in for a full day on the water. The captain anchors in two or three sheltered bays where the sea turns that famous clear blue, and you have time to swim, snorkel, or just float on the foam ramp before the next stop.

Lunch is cooked on board, not reheated from a box. Expect grilled chicken or fish, rice, seasonal salad, fresh bread, and fruit, served buffet-style at long tables while the boat sits at anchor. Soft drinks, tea, and water flow throughout the day, and the deck stays shaded under the canopy so families with small children stay comfortable.

Which trip suits you

Couples and photographers lean toward the quieter Manavgat River-and-sea combinations, where you glide from freshwater past the river mouth into the open Mediterranean. Families and groups usually prefer the lively all-day swim cruise with music, foam parties, and plenty of anchor time. If you get seasick, choose a larger twin-hull boat and a calmer morning departure.

How to Get the Best Price Without the Numbers

Price on boat excursions depends on the season, the boat size, and crucially, how many hands the booking passes through. Hotel desks and online travel agencies add their commission on top of the real fare. Because we are the operator, booking direct removes that middle layer entirely.

To get the best value, sail in the shoulder season (late spring or early autumn) when the sea is warm but the boats are less crowded, and reserve directly with us rather than through a third party. We back every direct booking with a best-price guarantee, so you never pay an agency markup for the same seats, the same crew, and the same lunch.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 6-8 hours (full day)
• Pick-up Time: Around 08:30-09:30 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Around 17:00-18:00 back at your hotel
• Includes: Hotel transfer, on-board lunch, swim/snorkel stops, water & tea
• Excludes: Alcoholic drinks, snorkel gear rental, personal extras, tips
• Family Friendly: Yes, shaded deck and life jackets for children
• Recommended Age: Suitable for all ages; great for 4+
• Best Season: May to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy, relaxed

Related Excursions

• Boat trips & tours from Side
• Excursions in Antalya
• Boat cruises in Alanya
• Sea excursions in Kemer
• Day trips from Belek
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel transfer included in the boat excursion?

Yes. We pick you up from your hotel in Side, Manavgat, and most nearby resorts in the morning and return you in the late afternoon, all included in the trip.

Is the boat trip suitable for children?

Absolutely. The deck is shaded, life jackets are on board, and the calm swim stops are ideal for families. Children of all ages join these excursions regularly.

Can I pay on the day of the excursion?

Yes, you can pay on the day in cash to the crew, or arrange payment in advance. Either way your seats are confirmed when you book.

Do I need to book in advance?

In high summer boats fill up, so we strongly recommend reserving a day or two ahead, especially for groups. A quick WhatsApp message secures your place.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If the captain judges the sea unsafe, we move you to another date or offer a full refund. Safety always comes first, and we never sail in dangerous conditions.

What kind of lunch is served on board?

A freshly cooked hot meal, typically grilled chicken or fish with rice, salad, bread, and fruit, served buffet-style. Tell us about allergies or vegetarian needs in advance.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a light cover-up. We provide the lunch, water, and shade; you bring the sun cream.

How long is the boat excursion?

Most full-day excursions run roughly six to eight hours, including transfers, several swim stops, and lunch on board.

Ready to set sail? Book your boat excursion with lunch direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. You'll get instant confirmation, friendly local guidance, and our best-price guarantee, no agency markups, just a great day on the water.