Side-Turkey.

A full day boat excursion is the slow, sun-soaked way to meet the Turkish Riviera from the water rather than the road. Setting off from the harbour and not coming back until the light goes gold, these full day boat excursions trade the rush of a half-day hop for several unhurried swim stops, a cooked-on-board lunch, and long stretches of coastline you simply cannot see from your sunbed. As a direct local operator based in Side and Manavgat, we run these trips ourselves, so you board with the people who actually plan the route.

What A Full Day Aboard Actually Looks Like

Departures are mid-morning, once the sea has settled and the deck is dry. The first leg is usually a cruising stretch along the shore, past the Roman ruins of Side, the river mouth at Manavgat and the pine-backed hills behind the resorts. The skipper drops anchor in sheltered coves where the water turns that clear turquoise that photographs never quite capture.

Swimming, Stops And Lunch

Across the day you typically get three to four anchor stops, each long enough to swim properly, snorkel near the rocks, or just float with a noodle. Around midday a hot lunch is cooked and served on board, usually grilled chicken or fish with rice, salad and seasonal fruit; vegetarian plates are easy if you tell us when booking. Soft music, a sun deck and shaded seating mean families spread out comfortably while teenagers claim the bow.

Who It Suits And When To Go

Full day boat excursions suit couples wanting a relaxed day, families with children who love water, and groups who want one easy plan that fills the whole day. They are gentle by nature, so swimming ability matters more than fitness. May through October is prime season; July and August bring the warmest sea and the liveliest decks, while late spring and early autumn give you calmer water and quieter coves.

Getting The Best Value

The single biggest factor in what a boat day costs is who you buy it from. Booking direct with us, the local operator, removes the agency and online-platform commission baked into resort-desk prices, which is why we back every reservation with a best-price guarantee. Travelling outside the peak weeks, choosing a weekday and confirming early all help too. Ask us openly about value, we will tell you honestly what is and is not included.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours (full day)
• Pick-up Time: Around 09:00-09:30 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Approximately 17:00-18:00 back at your hotel
• Includes: Hotel transfer from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts, on-board lunch, swim/snorkel stops, professional crew
• Excludes: Drinks, snorkel mask hire, personal extras, tips
• Family Friendly: Yes, life jackets for children on board
• Recommended Age: All ages; ideal from 4 years up
• Best Season: May to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy and relaxed

Related Excursions

• Boat & day trips from Side
• Excursions around Antalya
• Things to do in Alanya
• Tours from Belek
• Boat trips near Kemer
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel transfer included in the boat excursion?

Yes. We collect you from your hotel in Side, Manavgat and the nearby resorts and bring you back at the end of the day; just share your hotel name when you book.

Are full day boat excursions suitable for children?

Absolutely. The pace is gentle, child-size life jackets are on board, and the calm swim coves are ideal for families. Younger kids should stay supervised at the swim stops.

Can I pay on the day of the trip?

Yes, pay-on-the-day is welcome. You reserve your seats in advance to lock in space, then settle with the crew or guide on the day itself.

Should I book in advance?

We recommend it, especially in summer when boats fill quickly. Booking direct with us in advance secures your place and our best price.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If conditions are unsuitable we move you to the next available day or arrange a full refund; your booking is never lost to weather.

Is lunch really cooked on board?

Yes, a hot lunch is prepared and served on the boat. Tell us in advance about vegetarian needs or allergies and we will sort it.

Do I need to know how to swim?

It helps but is not essential. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are available, and you can enjoy the cruising, the lunch and the views without swimming at all.

How long is a full day excursion?

Plan for roughly seven to eight hours door to door, with morning pick-up and late-afternoon drop-off at your hotel.

Ready to spend a whole day on the water? Book direct with the local Murat Atalay team on WhatsApp or at info@side-turkey.com. You deal straight with us, get instant confirmation and our best-price guarantee, with no agency in the middle. Message us today and we will save your spot.