The Best Boat Tours in Side, Turkey: Top Picks Ranked & Reviewed

With dozens of boats leaving the Side and Manavgat harbours every morning, picking the right one is half the battle. So we did the work for you: here are the best boat tours in Side, ranked and reviewed by who they suit best, what they cost and what makes each one special. No filler — just the tours worth your day.

How We Ranked Them

We weighed value for money, the quality of the experience, who each tour suits, and the honesty of what's included. There's no single "best" — the right tour depends on whether you're travelling with kids, chasing wildlife, or after a private day at sea. Use the table, then read the pick that fits you.

1. Side Pirates Boat Trip — Best for Families

A themed galleon with a foam party, treasure hunt and non-stop animation. If you've got kids aged 3–12, this is the day they'll talk about for months. Read the full pirate boat review.

2. Side Dolphin Boat Tour — Best for Wildlife

Heads for Dolphin Island and the Manavgat delta, with a real chance of wild dolphins and loggerhead turtles plus the famous two-waters swim. See the dolphin tour guide.

3. Apollo Temple & Blue Lagoon — Best for Culture + Swimming

Cruise from the Manavgat river to the Blue Lagoon delta, then admire the ancient Temple of Apollo from the sea — history and a swim in one calm day. Full Apollo & Blue Lagoon guide.

4. Manavgat River & Grand Bazaar — Best for First-Timers

A gentle river cruise, the two-waters delta swim and free time at one of the region's biggest markets — nature, a swim and culture in one easy day. See the Manavgat tour guide.

5. Private Group Charter — Best for Groups & Privacy

The whole boat to yourselves, a flexible route and a BBQ lunch — and split between six or more, surprisingly affordable. Read the private group guide.

6. Private Yacht — Best for Luxury & Couples

A modern motor yacht, dedicated crew and a day entirely on your terms — the choice for anniversaries and special occasions. See the private yacht guide.

Editor's Pick

For most visitors, the dolphin tour offers the best all-round value — wildlife, swimming and scenery from €20. Families should go straight for the pirate boat; couples and groups, go private.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best boat tour in Side?

For value, the dolphin tour; for families, the pirate boat; for privacy, a private charter. The best one depends on your group.

How much do boat tours in Side cost?

Shared tours start around €20–25 per person; private charters from about €45 per person or a fixed boat price.

Which boat tour is best for families?

The Side Pirates Boat Trip — built around kids, with safe swimming and all-day entertainment.

Are boat tours in Side worth it?

Yes — a full day of swimming, scenery and lunch for the price of a nice dinner is the highlight of most trips.

Do tours include hotel transfer and lunch?

Most shared tours include round-trip hotel transfer and lunch; drinks are usually extra.

When should I book?

In peak summer, a few days ahead for shared tours and at least a week for private charters.

Start with our full guide to boat trips in Side, or browse all group tours and private tours. For more across the region, explore Side Turkey.