If the pirate boat is the lively option, the catamaran is the relaxed one. These wide, stable twin-hulled vessels carry fewer passengers, offer shaded and sunny decks and a netted trampoline at the bow where you can lie with the sea passing beneath you. The tour linked here is a sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling day with lunch, designed for people who want to spend hours in and around the water without the party atmosphere. It is a good fit for couples, older travellers and families with older children.
The cruise leaves from Alanya harbour, passes beneath the castle and the Red Tower and heads along the coast toward quiet bays. Because catamarans are stable and shallow draft, they can anchor close to the shore in clear water, and the crew lowers a ladder so you can swim. Snorkel masks are often provided, and the rocky shoreline holds small fish, sea urchins and, with luck, an occasional octopus. Time passes quickly when you drift between swimming, sunbathing and a cold drink.
The boat itself is half the appeal. Wide decks give plenty of room to stretch out, shaded seating protects you from midday sun, and the trampoline netting is one of the best places to relax on any boat. Music is kept low enough for conversation, and the crew generally serve a freshly grilled lunch of chicken or fish with salads and rice. Soft drinks are normally included, while other drinks cost extra. The pace is slow and unhurried, which is exactly the point.
Because there are fewer passengers than on a large pirate boat, the day feels more personal. Staff learn your names, answer questions about the coast and help children into the water. It is a good choice when you want to take photographs of the castle from the sea, and the late afternoon light on the headland is especially beautiful. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own mask if you have one, and consider reef-safe sun cream.
Before booking, check the departure time, the length of the trip and whether hotel transfers are included. Sea conditions in spring and autumn can be rougher, and operators may change the route to protect passengers. In peak season book a day or two ahead, since catamarans have limited capacity. A hat, sunglasses, a towel and a light cover-up for the sun are all you really need.
It is also worth knowing how a catamaran day fits into a wider stay. Many travellers do one big pirate boat trip for the fun and one catamaran day for the calm, and the two feel very different even though they cover similar water. If you only have time for one, let the age and mood of your group decide.
Couples, friends who like to chat and anyone who dislikes loud music will almost always prefer the catamaran, and the extra space on deck means you can always find a quiet corner to read a book or watch the coastline slide by.
Costs vary with the season, the length of the trip and whether lunch and transfers are included, so compare a few options before you commit. Private charters of the same type of boat are also available for couples and small groups who want the whole vessel to themselves, which is a memorable way to mark an anniversary or birthday. Whatever you choose, remember that the sun on open water is stronger than it feels, so reapply sun cream after every swim.
What to expect
The experience
A sailing catamaran day with sunbathing on deck and trampoline, swim and snorkel stops in clear bays and lunch on board.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn for warm water; morning departures for the calmest sea.
How long
Five to six hours with swim stops and lunch.
Tips
Bring your own snorkel mask if you have one, wear reef-safe sun cream, and confirm transfers and departure time when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and families who want a quieter alternative to the party boats.
- Families
- Stable decks and shallow swim stops suit older children; keep young ones in life jackets.
- Couples
- Book the trampoline spot early and choose a morning departure.
- Pair with
- Cleopatra Beach, the old harbour walk and a sunset dinner.
- Time needed
- A full day, usually mid-morning to late afternoon.
Good questions
How is a catamaran trip different from a pirate boat?+
It is calmer, with fewer people and less loud music, and focuses on sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?+
Often yes, but check when you book or bring your own.
Is lunch included?+
Most trips include a lunch and soft drinks on board.
Is it good for children?+
Yes, especially older children who can swim, though life jackets should be worn near the edge.
What if the weather is bad?+
Operators may shorten or change the route in rough seas, so check the policy when you book.