You’ll set sail from Alanya on a pirate ship cruise with stops for swimming at Cleopatra Beach and sea caves, guided by locals who share stories along the way. Enjoy lunch onboard and join in a lively foam party before heading back — it’s playful, social, and full of those small moments you’ll remember long after the trip.
The first thing I noticed was the slap of water against the wooden hull — not loud, but steady, like someone drumming their fingers on a table. We’d just left Alanya’s harbor and the city was already shrinking behind us, all red roofs and that big Red Tower looking almost toy-like from out here. Our guide, Emre, grinned as he handed out bandanas (yes, really), and I tried to tie mine without poking myself in the eye. The air smelled salty-sweet, with something grilled drifting up from below deck — maybe lunch already?
We stopped near Cleopatra Beach first. The water was clearer than I expected — you could see right down to the rocks. Some kids jumped off the side before anyone said go; their parents just laughed and shrugged at Emre, who didn’t seem bothered at all. He pointed out the Pirate Cave and told us stories about smugglers hiding treasure there (I’m still not sure if he made some of it up). Swimming felt cold at first but then perfect after a minute — you know that shock when you first jump in? I floated on my back for a while just staring up at the cliffs.
After that came Lover’s Cave and another swim stop. By then people were getting braver — even my friend who usually hates cold water joined in. Lunch was simple but good: grilled chicken, rice, some salad. Not fancy but honestly hit the spot after swimming so much. And then suddenly music started blasting and there was foam everywhere — like an actual cloud had landed on deck. Everyone danced or just slipped around laughing (I nearly lost my sandal overboard). It was silly but fun in that way you only get when nobody knows each other yet everyone’s in on it together.
I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed by the end — sun-warmed skin, hair full of salt, that kind of tired where you know you’ll sleep well later. On the way back to Alanya we passed families waving from little boats, and Emre told us how locals come out here every summer weekend. I still think about that view of the coastline as we drifted home — not dramatic or anything, just real life happening all around us.
The tour includes two hours of travel time plus stops for swimming and lunch.
Yes, lunch is included during the cruise.
The tour includes transfers with an air-conditioned vehicle.
Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.
The boat stops at Cleopatra Beach, Pirate Cave, Lover's Cave, and passes by Red Tower.
Yes, a local guide accompanies guests throughout the tour.
Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from Alanya, guidance from local crew throughout the cruise, several swimming stops at Cleopatra Beach and nearby caves, lunch served onboard with drinks like soda or pop available, plus all the fun of a lively foam party before returning to shore.
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