Apollo Temple & Blue Lagoon Boat Trip from Side: Full Guide

Some boat trips are about the swim; others about the scenery. The Side boat trip to the Temple of Apollo & Blue Lagoon gives you both — a refreshing delta swim and a sail past one of antiquity's most photographed temples, seen the way ancient sailors once did. Here's the complete guide.

What Makes This Trip Special

It blends two very different highlights into one calm, scenic day: the Blue Lagoon at the Manavgat delta, where cool river water meets the warm sea, and the Temple of Apollo on the Side peninsula, viewed from the water at its most photogenic angle. Between them you cruise the Kumköy coastline with a real chance of spotting loggerhead turtles.

Your Day, Hour by Hour

• 08:30–09:45 — Hotel pickup and transfer to the harbour.
• 10:00 — Departure along the calm Manavgat river.
• Blue Lagoon delta — the two-waters swim and a freshly prepared lunch on board.
• Coastal cruise past Kumköy, watching for turtles.
• Temple of Apollo — approach from the sea for the trip's signature photo stop.
• Second swim stop, then back to port by 16:00 and hotel drop-off.

At a Glance

Is It Worth It?

Yes — it's the rare tour that mixes a swim, scenery and a genuine slice of history at a gentle pace. One thing to set straight: this is a sea-based concept. You view the Temple of Apollo from the water at the best angles; you don't land and walk through the ruins. If you want to walk the ancient city, pair this with a separate visit on foot.

Who Should Go (and Who Might Skip It)

• Perfect for: first-timers, couples and families who love a view with a story.
• Maybe skip: anyone expecting to tour the ruins on foot, or thrill-seekers after a fast, party atmosphere.

Local tip: have your camera ready as the boat lines up with the temple — it's the shot of the day, and the light is best late morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we go inside the Temple of Apollo?

No — you admire it from the sea, from the most photogenic angles. There's no landing on the peninsula.

What is the Blue Lagoon on this tour?

It's the Manavgat delta, where cool fresh river water meets the warm sea for a unique two-waters swim.

Is lunch included?

Yes — a freshly prepared lunch is served on board, usually at the delta.

How long is the trip?

From 10:00 to 16:00, about six hours, plus hotel transfer either side.

Is it family-friendly?

Very — calm water, life jackets and a relaxed pace make it great for children.

Might we see turtles?

Possibly — loggerhead turtles are sometimes spotted along the Kumköy stretch, though sightings aren't guaranteed.

Book the Apollo Temple & Blue Lagoon boat trip, learn about the Manavgat delta, or compare it in the best boat tours in Side. For more local ideas, explore Side Turkey.