Alanya Pirate Boat Trip

The pirate boat is a local institution. Dozens of wooden galleons with black sails and painted skulls leave Alanya harbour each morning, and the trips are built around a simple formula: a slow cruise along the coast, swim stops at sheltered bays, a hearty lunch on board and a foam party on the upper deck. The trip linked here is an all-inclusive version with lunch and drinks. It is not a quiet, contemplative cruise, and nobody pretends it is, but for families, groups of friends and anyone who wants an easy, cheerful day on the water it is hard to beat.

The route usually starts by passing the harbour sights from the sea: the Red Tower, the old shipyard and the castle walls rising high above. The captain then follows the base of the headland, where several sea caves open in the cliffs. Depending on the operator these may include the phosphorescent cave, the lovers cave and the pirates cave, and the boats often slow down or stop so passengers can look inside or swim nearby. Hearing the stories about each cave, however embellished, is part of the fun.

Swim stops are the heart of the day. The boat anchors in a bay for an hour or so, a ladder or slide goes down, and you can jump into clear, warm water. Some boats carry snorkel gear or offer paddle boards, and children usually take to the water at once.

Lunch is served on board, normally a plate of grilled chicken or fish with salad, rice and fruit, and soft drinks flow throughout the day. Many versions also include a foam party, where the crew fills the deck with bubbles and the music rises, which teenagers and groups often enjoy more than adults.

The atmosphere varies a little by boat and by season. Morning departures from the harbour tend to be calmer and more family oriented, while some afternoon or adults-only versions lean toward louder music and more drinking. Check the description when you book to find the right style for your party. If you prefer a quieter day, a catamaran or a gulet cruise offers fewer crowds, and a private boat gives you full control.

Practical details help. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sun cream, a hat and a change of clothes, and carry a waterproof bag for your phone. Wear non-slip shoes on the deck. Most tours include hotel transfers within the Alanya area, so confirm pickup times the evening before. The sea can be choppy in spring and autumn, so those prone to seasickness may want to take a tablet, and children should wear life jackets whenever they are near the edge or in the water.

Choosing between boats is the hardest part, because the fleet is large and the products look alike. Decide first what mood you want: a family-friendly daytime cruise, a louder party with a foam show, or an adults-only version with more music. Then compare the inclusions, the length of the trip and whether transfers are provided.

Larger boats carry more passengers and feel livelier, while smaller ones tend to be calmer. If you are travelling in the early or late season, ask whether the foam party and swim stops still run, because crews adjust the programme to the weather and the number of guests.