Side-Turkey.

A morning on calm Mediterranean water, a rod in a child's hands, and the small triumph of a first catch: that is exactly what our family fishing excursions are built around. Departing from the harbours near Side, Manavgat and Antalya, these are slow, sun-warmed days at sea designed for parents and kids together, not competitive angling for experts. If you want a holiday memory that everyone from grandparents to seven-year-olds can share, this is the trip.

What a Family Fishing Day at Sea Actually Looks Like

We leave the harbour in the cooler morning hours, when the water is glassy and the fish are most active. A traditional wooden gulet or a stable motor-boat carries you out past the coastline, the captain reading the seabed and currents to find the spots where bream, sea bass and small mackerel gather. The boat anchors, lines drop, and the waiting game begins. It is quiet, gentle work, and that pause is part of the charm.

Hands-On, Beginner-Friendly Fishing

Nobody needs experience. The crew baits hooks, untangles lines, and shows children how to feel the tug and reel in slowly. Hand-lines and light rods are kept simple, and there is always a deckhand nearby for small hands. Whatever the sea gives that day, the crew can often grill part of the catch on board so the family tastes what they caught.

More Than Fishing: Swimming and Lunch Stops

Because pure angling can test a child's patience, our excursions weave in a swim stop in a sheltered cove with clear turquoise water. A simple onboard lunch, usually grilled fish or chicken with salad and bread, is served on deck. Between casts there is shade, cold drinks, and time to simply watch the coastline drift by.

Why Book This Excursion Direct With Us

We are Murat Atalay's local team, operating these boats ourselves rather than reselling through an agency or online marketplace. Booking direct means no middleman commission is added on top, which is the single biggest factor in what a fishing excursion costs. We back this with a best-price guarantee: tell us a genuine like-for-like offer and we will match or beat it.

What Affects the Price (and How to Pay Less)

The cost of a family fishing trip moves with season, boat size, group size and whether you want a private charter or a shared departure. To get the best value, travel in the shoulder months of spring and autumn when the sea is calm and demand is lower, book a shared boat if your group is small, and always reserve directly with us so you skip the OTA markup. We keep pricing transparent and confirm everything before you commit, with nothing hidden.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Pick-up Time: Around 07:30-08:30 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Early-to-mid afternoon, back at your hotel
• Includes: Hotel transfer (Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts), boat, fishing gear, bait, crew guidance, onboard lunch, water
• Excludes: Extra drinks, gratuities, personal items
• Family Friendly: Yes, designed for families with children
• Recommended Age: Suitable from around age 4 with parental supervision
• Best Season: April to October (calmest seas in spring and autumn)
• Difficulty Level: Easy and relaxed

Related Excursions

• Boat & sea trips from Side
• Antalya day excursions
• Alanya coastal tours
• Belek family activities
• Kemer boat adventures
• More travel guides & tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you pick us up from our hotel?

Yes. We offer complimentary hotel transfer from Side, Manavgat and the nearby resorts. Share your hotel name when booking and we confirm your exact pick-up time.

Is the trip really suitable for young children?

It is. The crew handles the tricky parts, the swim stop keeps kids happy, and lifejackets are provided. Children from around age four enjoy it with a parent close by.

Can we pay on the day?

Yes, you can settle on the day of the excursion. We simply ask you to reserve your spot in advance so we can guarantee seats and arrange your transfer.

Should we book in advance?

We recommend it, especially in summer and on weekends, as family-friendly boats fill quickly. Booking direct also locks in our best-price guarantee.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If the sea is too rough, we move you to the next available date or arrange a full refund. We watch the forecast and contact you ahead of time.

Do we need any fishing experience or our own gear?

None at all. All rods, lines and bait are provided, and the crew teaches absolute beginners. Just bring sun protection, a towel and a hat.

Will we definitely catch fish?

Fishing depends on nature, so we can never promise a haul, but the captain knows the productive spots and most families catch something. The day at sea, the swim and lunch make it worthwhile regardless.

Is lunch included and can it suit dietary needs?

A simple onboard lunch is included. Let us know about allergies or preferences when booking and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Ready to cast off? Book your family fishing excursion direct with Murat Atalay's local team on WhatsApp or at info@side-turkey.com. You get our best-price guarantee, honest local advice and instant confirmation, no agency markup, just a great day on the water.