Side-Turkey.

Standing on the harbour at Side or Manavgat, you will usually see two very different kinds of boat waiting for you. One has a tall mast, a skull flag and music drifting across the water. The other looks calmer, simpler, a classic cruiser built for soaking up the Mediterranean. Both are wonderful days out, but they suit different moods and different travel companions. This guide compares the pirate boat tour with a regular Side boat trip so you can pick the one that matches your group before you book.

Two very different days at sea

The pirate boat is built for fun. These pirate-ship-themed vessels cruise the coastline with on-board animation and entertainment, music, and often a foam party that gets everyone laughing. There are swimming stops in calm coves, lunch is usually served on board, and the whole atmosphere leans party-style and high-energy. It is the day where kids run around in costume, teenagers dance and parents relax with a drink in the sun.

A regular Side boat trip is a gentler thing. The focus is the sea itself: the colour of the water, the coastline sliding past, the quiet pleasure of swimming somewhere beautiful. There is less staged entertainment and more room to simply breathe. If your idea of a perfect day is sunshine, a book and a swim, this is your boat.

Which one fits your group?

Travelling with young children or a big mixed family? The pirate boat almost always wins - the animation keeps little ones busy and the foam party is the highlight of many a family holiday photo. Couples after a romantic, relaxed afternoon, or anyone who finds loud music tiring, will usually prefer the regular cruise. There is no wrong answer; there is only the right answer for your group.

What to expect on board

Both styles include hotel pick-up and a cruise along the Mediterranean with swimming stops in sheltered bays. On the pirate boat, expect the energy turned up: a host running games, music, themed touches and the famous foam. On the regular boat, expect a calmer rhythm and more freedom to set your own pace. Exact onboard features, the menu and the schedule vary by operator and boat, so always have these confirmed at booking rather than assuming.

Getting the best value

Whichever boat you choose, how you book matters. We are a direct local operator on the Turkish Riviera - the Murat Atalay team - so booking with us removes the agency and OTA commission that sits inside many online listings. That is the whole point of our best-price guarantee: you deal with the people running the day, not a reseller in another country. Message us and we will help you match the right boat to your group.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Usually a half or full day, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Cruise along the coast, swimming stops, lunch usually served on board (confirmed at booking)
• Excludes: Drinks and personal extras unless stated; confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes - pirate boats are aimed at families and children
• Best Season: Late spring through autumn, when the sea is warm and calm
• Difficulty: Easy and relaxed; suitable for all ages

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pirate boat suitable for small children?

Yes. Pirate boat tours are designed with families in mind, with animation and entertainment aimed at children. As with any day at sea, keep an eye on little ones near the water.

Will the regular boat trip have a foam party?

Generally no - the foam party and high-energy animation are features of the pirate boat. A regular Side boat trip is quieter and more scenic. Confirm the exact onboard features at booking.

Do both tours include hotel pick-up?

Yes. Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts is standard for both. The pick-up time is confirmed at booking.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is usually served on board on both styles of trip. The exact menu is confirmed at booking.

Which is better value?

Value depends on what you want from the day rather than the boat type. Either way, booking direct with us removes agency and OTA commission, backed by our best-price guarantee.

Can I do both on the same holiday?

Absolutely. Many guests enjoy the pirate boat for the fun and a regular cruise for a calmer day. We can help you plan both.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a little cash for extras. Everything else is confirmed at booking.

Are the swimming stops safe?

Swimming stops are made in calm, sheltered coves. Follow the crew's guidance and supervise children at all times.

Ready to choose your perfect day at sea? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team - message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. As a local operator we cut out the middleman, so you get our best-price guarantee and honest advice on whether the pirate boat or a regular Side cruise is right for you.