Side Lazy Day Boat Trip

If you’re considering a day at sea while in Side, Turkey, the Side Lazy Day Boat Trip promises a mix of sun, swimming, and fun. While it’s highly rated, no experience is perfect, so we’ll help you decide if it matches your travel style. From the scenic coastline to the lively foam party, this trip packs a lot into a single day.

What we love most about this tour is the convenience of hotel pickup, making early mornings hassle-free. The included Turkish lunch offers a taste of local cuisine, and the foam party onboard adds an unexpected burst of energy to an otherwise relaxing day. However, a word of caution: some reviewers found the music loud and the boat crowded, which might not suit those seeking a genuinely “lazy” experience. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a lively boat day with swimming, good food, and a bit of entertainment.

This experience made our article of The 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Side.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off make the trip easy to join without logistical stress.
• Includes a traditional Turkish lunch, adding cultural flavor to the day.
• Multiple swimming stops allow for refreshing dips in the sea.
• Foam party onboard injects fun and energy into the voyage.
• Group size can be up to 45 travelers, but some reviews suggest it often feels busier.
• Cost ($25.54 per person) offers reasonable value for a full day of activities.
• Weather dependence means your experience could be affected by poor conditions.
• Loud music and crowded spaces might not appeal to those seeking a peaceful cruise.

What to Expect from the Side Lazy Day Boat Trip

The journey begins around 8:45 am with hotel pickup, which is a real plus for those staying in Side. This means you won’t have to worry about navigating to the meeting point—just relax and let the tour company handle the logistics. Once aboard, you’ll cruise along the Mediterranean coastline, taking in the scenic views of the turquoise waters and rugged shores.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day

Stop 1: Side
The tour kicks off with a focus on the coastline, giving you your first taste of the sea breeze and panoramic vistas. Though the trip is marketed as a “lazy day,” some reviews indicate that the boat can get quite crowded—more than 100 people in some cases, despite a 45-person limit. This might make the space feel tight, especially during the lively foam party.

Swimming Opportunities
The main highlight for many is the chance to swim in the Mediterranean. The stops are spaced out to give you at least three swimming opportunities, so you’ll have plenty of chances to cool off, float, or just relax in the water. The water clarity and temperature tend to be inviting, making it perfect for a spontaneous dip.

Lunch and Drinks
An included Turkish-style lunch is served on board—think fresh, flavorful dishes that represent local cuisine. It’s a good way to fuel up for the afternoon’s activities. However, drinks are not included, so if you want alcohol or soft drinks, you’ll need to purchase these separately onboard. Some guests have expressed that the onboard music and vibe can be quite loud, which might make the eating experience lively but not particularly serene.

The Foam Party
The most distinctive feature is the foam party onboard, which adds a playful, energetic element. It’s a hit with those looking for fun rather than relaxation—some reviewers mention the foam adds a chaotic but entertaining touch. Be prepared to get a bit wet and maybe laugh at the unexpected burst of party energy in the middle of the sea.

The Realities: Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

While many travelers find the trip enjoyable, some point out that the crowding can be overwhelming. One quote from a reviewer, Camilla_P, notes:
“It was more like 100 people than 45, and the loud music made it less relaxing.” This highlights that if you’re after a quiet, laid-back day, this might not be the best fit.

On the other hand, the hotel pickup and drop-off are praised for making logistics simple, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The local guide provides some commentary along the way, though specific names are not mentioned, so expect a friendly, informal service rather than an in-depth tour.

The cost of $25.54 per person is quite reasonable for a full 7-hour experience, especially considering the included lunch and transportation. However, the value might diminish if the crowd size or noise levels don’t match your expectations for a relaxing day at sea.

Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Trip

• Timing: The trip starts in the morning, with the first stop around 8:45 am for pickup. Be sure to arrive on time to avoid missing out.
• Duration: Expect around 7 hours, which gives ample time for swimming, lunch, and fun activities without feeling rushed.
• Group size: Limited to 45 travelers, but some reviews suggest it often feels busier, especially during peak season.
• Transportation: Round-trip hotel pickup is included, simplifying your planning.
• Weather dependence: The experience is weather-sensitive; poor weather results in cancellation or rescheduling. You might get a different date or a full refund if canceled.
• Age suitability: Most travelers can participate, but the lively atmosphere might be more appealing to those comfortable with crowds and loud music.

Is the Side Lazy Day Boat Trip Worth It?

If you’re after a lively, fun-packed day with a splash of local flavor, this trip delivers. The included lunch, swimming stops, and foam party create a memorable experience, especially for groups or families looking for entertainment in the sun. The hotel pickup makes it especially appealing for travelers staying in Side, removing the hassle of organizing transport.

However, if peace and quiet are your priorities, or if you prefer a more intimate, relaxed cruise, this tour might feel overwhelming. Some reviews warn about the crowd levels and loud music, which could detract from the “lazy” aspect many visitors hope for.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy energetic atmospheres and social settings. For those who want to see the coastline, enjoy the sea, and have some fun, it offers good value at a very affordable price.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the trip offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in Side.

How long is the boat trip? The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting early in the morning.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase any beverages separately onboard.

What should I wear? Casual, swimwear is recommended since there will be swimming stops, and it’s smart to bring a towel and sunscreen.

Is there shade on the boat? The information does not specify, but it’s common to have some shaded areas—yet expect plenty of sun exposure, so prepare accordingly.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but note that the lively atmosphere and loud music might not appeal to very young children.

How crowded does the boat get? Some reviews indicate it can feel quite crowded, with over 100 people on a boat that is meant for 45.

What is the main highlight of the tour? The swimming stops and the foam party are often cited as the most memorable parts of the trip.

Final Thoughts

The Side Lazy Day Boat Trip offers a lively, fun-filled way to enjoy the Mediterranean coast. It combines the essentials—swimming, good food, and entertainment—at a budget-friendly price, making it ideal for those seeking a social, energetic experience. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love a bit of chaos and music, this could be a highlight of your trip.

On the other hand, if your idea of a perfect day involves tranquility and quiet reflection, this may not be the right choice. The crowds and noise levels could overshadow the scenic beauty you may be hoping for. Either way, it’s a day packed with activity, and with some planning, it can definitely be a memorable part of your holiday in Side.

To sum it up, the Side Lazy Day Boat Trip is a good value, lively excursion suited for the adventurous and social traveler. Its combination of swimming, local cuisine, and onboard entertainment makes it a popular pick, but be prepared for a bustling atmosphere. For those craving calm and quiet, exploring other options might be a better fit.