Side-Turkey.

You have probably seen the leaflets in every Side resort lobby: a fishing boat trip on the Mediterranean. The big question most people quietly ask is the honest one — is it actually worth a half or full day of your holiday? As a direct local operator on the Turkish Riviera, our answer is not a sales pitch. It depends entirely on what you want from the day. So here is the honest version, the good and the less good, so you can decide before you book.

Who genuinely loves a Side fishing trip

If you enjoy slow days on the water, the sound of the engine cutting out, and a swim in deep blue sea away from the crowded beach, you will probably love it. The boats head out from Side, Manavgat and the nearby Antalya coast onto open Mediterranean water, and the captain and crew do the heavy lifting — they bring the rods, tackle and bait, find the spots, and help you bait the hook.

Families and total beginners

This is one of the few sea activities that genuinely works for mixed groups. Children love watching the line, grandparents can sit in the shade, and nobody needs any prior experience. The crew set everything up, so even if you have never held a rod, you can join in within minutes.

The honest catch: what you will (and won't) get

Here is where we stay truthful. Your catch depends on the season, the location and plain luck. The Mediterranean off Antalya holds species like sea bream, bonito and mackerel, but some days the fish bite and some days they sulk — that is fishing, not a supermarket. Anyone who promises you a guaranteed bucket of fish is not being straight with you. Treat the catch as a bonus; treat the day on the water as the real reward.

Most trips include a swimming stop, which is often the highlight for non-anglers in the group. So even if the fish are shy, the day rarely feels wasted.

So, is it worth it? Our honest verdict

Worth it if: you want a relaxed, scenic day, you are travelling with family or beginners, and you value the experience over a trophy catch. Skip it if: you only want guaranteed fish, you get seasick easily on open water, or you would rather have a packed action day. Knowing that in advance is exactly how you avoid disappointment.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Half day or full day, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Boat, captain & crew, rods, tackle and bait (typically); swimming stop
• Excludes: Personal extras; meals/drinks unless stated — confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes — suitable for children and complete beginners
• Best Season: Warm months for swimming and calm seas; conditions confirmed at booking
• Difficulty: Easy and relaxed; no experience needed

Related Excursions

• Tours & excursions in Side
• Things to do in Antalya
• Excursions in Alanya
• Trips from Kemer
• Activities in Belek
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Side fishing boat trip really worth the money?

If you value a calm, scenic day on the Mediterranean and you are not fixated on guaranteed fish, yes. If you only want to fill a bucket, manage your expectations — the catch is never guaranteed.

Will I definitely catch fish?

No, and anyone who promises that is overselling. The catch depends on season, spot and luck. Common Mediterranean species include sea bream, bonito and mackerel.

Do I need any fishing experience?

None at all. The crew provide and set up the rods, tackle and bait and help you the whole way. It is genuinely beginner-friendly.

Is it suitable for children and families?

Yes. It is one of the most family-friendly sea trips, with the crew on hand and usually a swimming stop everyone enjoys.

How long does the trip last?

Either a half day or a full day. The exact duration is confirmed at booking.

Where does pick-up happen?

Hotel pick-up is offered from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts. Your pick-up time is confirmed at booking.

Is there a swimming stop?

There is often a swimming stop, which is a favourite part of the day for those who are not fishing. Details are confirmed at booking.

What if I get seasick?

Trips go onto open sea, so if you are very prone to seasickness, take precautions or consider a calmer river or coastal option instead. Ask us and we will advise honestly.

Ready to decide for yourself? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct cuts out agency and OTA commission, and you get our best-price guarantee with a real local who will tell you honestly whether this trip suits you.