If you’re heading to Alanya and looking for a fun-filled day on the water, the Pirate Boat with Transfer, Lunch & Unlimited Drinks tour offers an engaging way to see the coast, enjoy some well-earned relaxation, and indulge in a lively atmosphere. While we haven’t personally jumped aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture of what to expect.
What makes this trip stand out? First, it promises stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Red Tower and Alanya Castle from the water, offering a fresh perspective. Second, the multiple swimming stops in turquoise waters let you cool off and unwind. Third, a meat and seafood barbecue lunch with soft drinks ensures you’ll stay energized without overspending. A potential consideration? The onboard experience seems geared more toward families and relaxed groups rather than party-hungry throngs, so if you’re looking for wild nightlife, this might not be the best fit.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and laid-back fun, especially families and couples seeking a balanced day at sea. With its reasonable price point, it offers solid value for those wanting an authentic, scenic experience without the hefty price tag.
Key Points
- Iconic Landmarks: Pass by Alanya’s major attractions like the Red Tower, Old Shipyard, and Castle, giving you a water-level view of the city’s history.
- Cave Visits & Swimming: Stops at Pirates’ Cave, Lover’s Cave, and Phosphorus Cave provide glimpses into natural formations and perfect spots for a dip.
- Multiple Swim Stops: Expect at least three to four opportunities to swim in clear, blue-green waters, with chances to see dolphins or sea turtles if you’re lucky.
- All-Day Relaxation: Lounge on the upper deck, sunbathe, or listen to music while enjoying the spectacular coastlines.
- Delicious Lunch & Unlimited Drinks: A barbecue meal featuring chicken and rice, with soft drinks included, offers great value.
- Family Friendly: Many reviews highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the crew, making it an ideal outing for families with children.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The tour lasts around 5 hours, starting with hotel transfers (if you choose that option). Once at the harbor, you’ll set sail from the main port, heading around the peninsula to view Alanya from a different vantage point. The boat’s route covers the city’s most recognizable sights—Red Tower, Old Shipyard, and Alanya Castle—all visible from the water. You’ll get excellent photo opportunities, especially for those iconic skyline shots, which many reviews mention as a highlight.
As the boat cruises along, you’ll make three to four stops in the turquoise waters, sized perfectly for a swim. Reviewers rave about these swimming spots, describing the waters as “some of the clearest and most stunningly blue and turquoise” they’ve seen. These breaks are also when you might glimpse dolphins or sea turtles, adding an extra touch of magic.
Notably, the trip includes stops at Pirates’ Cave, Lover’s Cave, and Phosphorus Cave. While some guests mention that the caves themselves are more about sightseeing than exploring, they still make for fantastic photos and interesting natural formations. Be prepared for a bit of history and legend, especially at Pirates’ Cave—an image of swashbuckling pirates is hard to resist.
Midway through the journey, you’ll have the chance to swim near Cleopatra Beach—a popular and scenic spot—where the views of Ula Beach also come into view. The boat’s design caters to relaxation, with sunbathing on the upper deck or just listening to music while the coast drifts by.
Food on board is a highlight for many; a BBQ lunch consisting of tender chicken, rice, pasta, salad, and watermelon is served, providing both nourishment and a taste of local flavors. Soft drinks are unlimited, keeping everyone refreshed, and reviews mention that the food is “nice” and “delicious,” although some note that the offerings are simple.
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The Experience: What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently praise the crew for their friendly and attentive service, with some mentioning guides like “Captain Ali Baba” who keeps the atmosphere lively and entertaining. Many mention the foam party and music as fun highlights—one reviewer called it “super fun,” while others enjoyed dancing and socializing.
The swimming stops are often described as “amazing” and “beautiful,” with some mentioning they saw dolphins and sea turtles, adding to the sense of wonder. Many appreciate the longer swim breaks, giving plenty of time to enjoy the water and relax on the boat.
The value for money is consistently highlighted. At about $18 per person, with everything included—transfers, lunch, drinks—it offers a hearty, no-surprise experience. Many note that the tour is well-organized; transfers arrive on time, and communication about schedules is clear, especially when booked through reliable providers.
However, some reviews point out that photos can be pricey—a common downside of such tours—so if capturing memories is important, bringing your own camera and being prepared for extra costs could be wise.
Practical Details & Tips
- Timing & Duration: The trip lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed.
- Transfers: Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included if you opt for that, saving you the hassle of navigating the harbor.
- What to Bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, and camera are essentials. Given the sunny conditions, sun protection is a must.
- Language: Guides operate in English and German, so communication is generally straightforward.
- Suitability: Not suitable for wheelchair users due to boat and cave access limitations.
- Cancellation & Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for families with children, thanks to its friendly crew, safe swimming stops, and relaxed vibe. Couples and groups looking for a value-packed day of sightseeing, swimming, and fun will also find it appealing. If you enjoy a social atmosphere with music, a foam party, and scenic coastlines, this tour delivers.
However, if you’re after a party boat with vibrant nightlife and alcohol-fueled antics, you might find this experience somewhat subdued. Also, those wanting to explore caves more thoroughly or engage in water activities beyond swimming may be disappointed, as the caves are mostly admired from the boat rather than explored.
More Great Tours NearbyFrequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking, making the experience more convenient.
How many swimming stops are there?
Expect around three to four stops for swimming, where you can jump into the waters and relax. Some guests mention dolphin sightings during these breaks.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While onboard soft drinks are unlimited, bringing your own snacks or drinks is allowed, which can be handy if you prefer specific items.
Is the lunch suitable for all diets?
The included BBQ lunch features chicken, rice, pasta, salad, and watermelon. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to consider this or bring a small additional snack.
Are photos included?
Photos are not included in the price and can be purchased separately. Many reviews mention that photo prices are high, so bringing your camera might be a good idea.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, life vests are available for non-swimmers, and the crew is generally accommodating. However, comfort in the water varies, so use your judgment.
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Final Thoughts
The Alanya Pirate Boat tour offers an excellent mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation at an accessible price. The friendly crew and scenic stops make it a standout for families, couples, or anyone wanting a simple yet enjoyable day at sea. The included lunch and unlimited drinks add to its value, making it a practical choice for a casual, fun-filled outing.
While it’s not a wild party scene, it’s perfect for those seeking a laid-back, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to cool off and take photos. If you’re after a memorable day exploring Alanya from the water, this experience is hard to beat — especially when you consider the price point and the genuine warmth of the crew.
In summary, this trip is best for families, groups, or couples who love relaxing in scenic surroundings, appreciate good value, and enjoy light-hearted, social atmospheres. It’s a day that combines the beauty of Alanya’s coastline with fun and friendly vibes—a true escape from the hustle.
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