Side-Turkey.

There is a particular hour on the Turkish Riviera when the heat softens, the wind drops, and the Mediterranean turns the colour of molten brass. Our sunset boat excursions are built around exactly that hour, casting off from the harbours near Side and Manavgat so you are out on flat, glowing water as the sun slips behind the Taurus mountains. This is the calmest, most photogenic part of the day at sea, and it suits couples, families and small groups looking for something memorable rather than rowdy.

What a Sunset Excursion Actually Looks Like

You board in the late afternoon, while the light is still high and warm. The boat eases out past the ancient breakwater of Side, where the Roman columns of the Temple of Apollo stand right at the water's edge, then turns along the coast. As the sun lowers, the captain usually cuts the engine in a sheltered bay so the water is mirror-still. This is the swim stop: the sea is at its warmest after a full day of sun, and floating there as the sky changes colour is the moment most guests remember.

On the Water as the Light Changes

The run home is the showpiece. Many of our sunset boat excursions time the return so you are facing west on the open deck as the sun touches the horizon. On clear evenings the whole sky behind the mountains turns peach, then crimson, then deep violet, and the lights of the Side peninsula begin to flicker on. Music is kept gentle, the pace is unhurried, and there is space simply to sit with a drink and watch.

Who It Suits and How to Get the Best Value

Sunset trips are gentle by nature, so they work for almost everyone: honeymooners, families with children, older travellers and anyone who finds midday boat parties too much. Because the sea is calmer in the evening, seasickness is rarely an issue.

Getting the Best Price Without the Guesswork

Prices for any boat excursion rise once a hotel desk, agency or online platform adds its commission. Because we are the local operator — not a reseller — booking direct with us removes that mark-up entirely, and we back it with a best-price guarantee. The smartest savings come from travelling slightly off-peak (early and late season, or mid-week) when boats are quieter and you get more space for the same experience. Booking direct also means the price you are quoted is the price you pay, with no surprise service fees.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 2.5-3 hours
• Pick-up Time: Late afternoon (varies by season and sunset time)
• Drop-off Time: Shortly after sunset, back at your hotel mid-evening
• Includes: Hotel pick-up & drop-off from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts, boat cruise, swim stop, onboard refreshments
• Excludes: Personal extras, gratuities, optional photos
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Recommended Age: Suitable for all ages; ideal for couples and families
• Best Season: May to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy / Relaxed

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel transfer included?

Yes. We arrange complimentary pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Side, Manavgat and the nearby resort areas. Tell us your hotel when you book and we confirm your transfer time.

Are sunset boat excursions suitable for children?

Absolutely. The evening sea is calm and the pace is gentle, so it is one of the easiest boat trips for families. Children must be supervised at all times.

Can I pay on the day?

Yes, you can settle on the day of your excursion. We confirm your booking in advance so your place is secured without paying upfront.

Should I book in advance?

We recommend it, especially in high season. Sunset trips have limited deck space and fill quickly, so booking ahead guarantees your spot on the date you want.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe we reschedule you to another evening or arrange a full refund — your choice, no hassle.

Will I actually see the sunset?

The trip is timed around the day's sunset, so on clear evenings you watch it from the deck. On hazy days the colours are still beautiful, just softer.

Is there a swim stop?

Yes, weather permitting we anchor in a calm bay so you can swim in the warm late-day sea before the sun sets.

How long does the excursion last?

Most sunset cruises run around two and a half to three hours on the water, plus transfer time to and from your hotel.

Ready to watch the Mediterranean turn gold? Book your sunset boat excursion direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. You get our best-price guarantee, instant confirmation and friendly local service — no agency mark-up, no middlemen.