Side-Turkey.

Some days are not meant to be shared with a crowd of strangers. If you are travelling as a couple along the Turkish Riviera, a private yacht charter from Side gives you something simple and rare: the boat, the coast and the day belong to just the two of you. No fixed seats, no waiting on a timetable set by forty other passengers, no queue for the ladder into the sea. A private charter means a gulet or motor yacht reserved exclusively for your group, cruising the Mediterranean coastline near Side, Manavgat and Antalya, stopping wherever the water looks most inviting.

Why a private boat changes a romantic day

On a shared excursion you are one of many. On a private yacht you set the mood. The gulet is Turkey's own traditional vessel, built with a broad beam and a wide deck for relaxing in the sun, and as the Ministry of Culture and Tourism notes, these boats can slip into secluded, often deserted bays and coves that larger vessels simply cannot reach. That is exactly what makes the difference for a couple: instead of a busy beach, you anchor in a quiet swimming cove, slide into clear water together, and have the deck to yourselves for sunbathing afterward.

Because the day is private, the rhythm is yours. Cruise a little, swim a little, lie back in the sun, then move on when you feel like it. The captain knows the coast and can suggest the calmest, prettiest spots, but the pace follows you, not a loudspeaker.

Planning the romantic details

Food and drinks on board

An optional lunch and drinks can be served on board so you never have to break the mood by going ashore. The exact menu, any celebration touches and whether you want it kept simple or special are all arranged for your group and confirmed at booking.

Sunset, anniversaries and proposals

Couples often ask about marking an occasion — an anniversary, a honeymoon, even a proposal. Because the boat is yours alone, these moments are easy to plan quietly in advance. Talk to the team about what you have in mind and the details are confirmed at booking.

What to bring

Keep it light: swimwear, a towel, sun cream, sunglasses, a hat and a light cover-up for the breeze on the water. Bring a phone or camera for the coastline, and a little cash for anything bought ashore. Most of the day is spent on deck and in the sea, so comfort beats fashion.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Flexible — a few hours, half day or full day, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Exclusive private boat (gulet or motor yacht) for your group, captain/crew, cruising and swimming stops in coves
• Excludes: Optional lunch and drinks unless arranged, personal spending, anything not confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes — perfect for couples, and equally suitable for families or small groups
• Best Season: Late spring through autumn, when the Mediterranean is warm and calm
• Difficulty: Easy and relaxed; mainly cruising, sunbathing and gentle swimming

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat really just for the two of us?

Yes. A private charter means the boat is reserved exclusively for your group — in this case, just the two of you. You will not share it with strangers.

How long does the trip last?

The duration is flexible: a few hours, a half day or a full day. The exact length is confirmed at booking to suit what you want.

Where does the yacht depart from?

Private yacht charters operate along the Mediterranean coast in the Side, Manavgat and Antalya area, with hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts.

Can we choose where we stop?

Because the day is private, the itinerary is flexible. The captain suggests the best swimming coves and quiet bays, and you set the pace.

Is lunch included?

Lunch and drinks on board are optional and arranged for your group; whether they are included is confirmed at booking.

Can you help us celebrate an anniversary or honeymoon?

Yes. Tell the team in advance and the details for marking a special occasion are confirmed at booking.

What is the best time of year for this?

Late spring through autumn, when the Mediterranean is warmest and the sea is calmest, is ideal for a relaxed day on the water.

How do we get the best price?

Book DIRECT with us. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to have the Mediterranean to yourselves? Book your private yacht for two DIRECT with Murat Atalay and our local team — message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct means no agency middleman and our best-price guarantee.