If you search for a sunset boat trip in Side, you will find plenty of pages promising one. Here is our honest answer as a direct local operator: we do not currently run a shared group sunset cruise — but there are two real ways to be on the water at sunset, and both are private charters. This guide explains exactly how each one works.
First, the honest part: no group sunset cruise right now
Our group boats run daytime programs from the Manavgat River pier — the pirate galleon departs at 10:00 and the Dolphin Island boat leaves in the morning, with both back by late afternoon. None of them are on the water when the sun goes down. So if sunset on deck is the goal, the realistic route in Side is a private charter. There are two, and they work differently.
Option 1: luxury yacht with a sunset return (~6 hours)
The luxury motor yacht charter hosts up to around 25 guests with a captain and crew, cruising to calm bays for swimming. The standard format is a day cruise — but there is a sunset-return option, where the whole program shifts later so the final leg back to harbour happens as the sun sets. Key facts:
- Meal is planned together in advance — lunch or dinner, your choice.
- Fuel, port fees and insurance are included; VIP transfer is available as an extra.
- Boarding is via steps, so it is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- In bad weather, postponement or cancellation is free.
Option 2: private gulet shifted into the evening (~7 hours)
The private gulet charter takes up to around 50 guests on a flexible route, including a swimming stop where the Manavgat River meets the sea. The program can be shifted toward the evening, which makes it the sunset alternative for larger groups. You get a menu built for your group, your own playlist on board, crew and insurance included, and one bottle of spirits is welcome. Celebration decoration is possible with 2–3 days notice; hotel transfer can be arranged on request as an extra. Not sure which vessel fits your group? Our gulet vs motor yacht comparison breaks it down.
The Temple of Apollo at sunset — from the sea and from land
Side's most famous evening view is the silhouette of the Temple of Apollo columns against the darkening sky at the tip of the old-town peninsula. Honest tip: you do not need a boat for this. Anyone can watch it for free from the promenade in Side old town. From the water it is a different angle — the gulet route passes the temple from the sea — and it is a genuine bonus on a charter, but it should not be the only reason you book one.
Booking, payment and pickup — how it works
Side Boat Trips is a direct local operator, so there is no middleman and confirmation is instant. There is no prepayment: you pay on the day, on board, in cash or by card. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the charter. Your pickup time is confirmed the day before, and the meeting point is usually the front or security gate of your hotel. For quick questions, WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us — and the site works in 7 languages.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a shared group sunset cruise in Side?
Not on our current calendar — that is the honest answer. Our group tours run during the day from the Manavgat River pier. Sunset on the water in Side means a private yacht or gulet charter.
Yacht or gulet — which is better for a sunset charter?
The yacht (up to ~25 guests) suits couples and smaller groups who want a quieter cruise with a pre-planned dinner. The gulet (up to ~50 guests) suits bigger celebrations, with its own menu, your playlist and decoration on request.
Can I see the Apollo Temple sunset without a boat?
Yes — for free, from land at the edge of Side old town. Seeing it from the sea is a bonus angle during a gulet charter, not a requirement.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
The yacht charter can be postponed or cancelled free of charge in bad weather, and every booking already comes with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Tell us your date and group size on WhatsApp and we will tell you honestly which sunset option fits — instant confirmation, no prepayment, pay on the day.
Ready to book your day at sea?
Instant confirmation · No prepayment · Free cancellation up to 24h
