Side, Turkey, is a fantastic spot for dolphin watching thanks to its location along the Mediterranean coast and the lively boat trips that take you out into the sea. The waters off Side are known for their playful dolphins, sea turtles, and lively marine life, making it a prime destination for anyone eager to see these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. We especially like the Side: Dolphins Island Cruise with Swimming Stops and Lunch — it combines dolphin sightings with swimming stops, a lively foam party, and a delicious onboard lunch, all wrapped into a 7-hour day. This trip offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm.
For travelers who want a more budget-friendly option, the City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks provides a full day of fun on a sailboat, with danceable foam parties and plenty of swimming, all at a very reasonable price. Meanwhile, the Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer scores points for its smooth organization, with hotel pickups and a variety of activities including exploring scenic beaches, enjoying a foam party, and maybe even spotting dolphins. If you prefer a shorter or more relaxed experience, there are also options like the Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch, which runs for about 5 hours and is perfect for those who want a quick yet lively trip.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top dolphin watching experiences, helping you decide which one matches your style and expectations.
1. Side: Dolphins Island Cruise with Swimming Stops and Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this guided day trip combines dolphin watching with plenty of swimming opportunities and a delicious onboard lunch. The tour departs from the Manavgat River and cruises along the coast of the Turkish Riviera, providing ample chances to spot dolphins and sea turtles in their natural environment. The trip lasts about 7 hours and includes hotel transfers, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
What makes this cruise stand out is its lively atmosphere—think foam parties and a fun-loving crew—and the scenic cruise that lets you feel the fresh sea breeze. The boat stops along the way for swimming and sunbathing, with a mix of beach and boat activities that appeal to families and singles alike. Guests often mention the high standards of service, tasty food, and the thrill of dolphin sightings, which seem to happen quite frequently here. Reviewers note that although some found the boat crowded, the overall fun, and the opportunity to see dolphins and sea turtles in the wild made it worthwhile.
Bottom line: This tour balances dolphin sightings, swimming, and lively entertainment, making it ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting a fun-packed day on the water.
2. City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks
At number 2, this full-day sailboat experience offers a relaxed, danceable, and scenic trip along the Turkish coast. Priced at around $15 per person, it delivers great value for a longer, more immersive cruise. The tour features a foam party, where you can dance and splash around, and plenty of swimming opportunities in the pristine turquoise waters.
The highlight here is the laid-back atmosphere combined with the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles while cruising past notable sites such as the ancient port and the Temple of Apollo. The day is rounded out with a tasty onboard lunch, including grilled chicken or fish, and drinks to keep you refreshed. The reviews highlight how much fun the crew makes of the event, with many describing it as “amusing” and “beautiful.” It’s suited for those who want a lively, social experience with plenty of swimming and dancing.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a fun, lengthy day on the water without sacrificing entertainment or scenic views.
3. Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer
Number 3 on our list is a well-organized 6 to 7-hour cruise that offers the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. This trip emphasizes the chance of dolphin sightings, along with exploring picturesque beaches and enjoying a foam party. The itinerary includes swimming stops at scenic spots like Kumkoy, where the waters mingle the cold river with the warm Mediterranean — a unique experience.
The tour is praised for its comfortable transportation and friendly staff. The trip includes a delicious barbecue lunch with options for chicken or fish, and the boat features multiple swim stops that cater to families and active travelers. Reviewers love the smooth organization and the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment, with some mentioning the scenic cruise past historical sites like the Manavgat River and the ancient port.
Bottom line: This tour offers a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and the excitement of dolphin spotting, ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free experience with balanced activities.
4. Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch
Number 4 is a 5-hour cruise that combines the thrill of swimming in crystal waters, a lively foam party, and a pirate-themed boat experience. This trip is perfect for families or anyone looking for a shorter, high-energy day. The boat departs from Manavgat River, sailing out to sea where you can swim, enjoy the onboard lunch, and participate in the foam party or explore islands along the way.
The review mentions that the river cruise was “fantastic,” and the foam party, in particular, was a highlight for children and adults alike. The tour balances adventure with relaxation, making it suitable for those who want a fun, family-friendly outing without longer commitments.
Bottom line: A lively, shorter cruise packed with fun activities and the chance to swim and relax, especially good for families with kids.
5. City Of Side: Dolphin Island Boat or Side Boat Tour Options
At number 5, this flexible 7-8 hour tour offers a choice between exploring Dolphin Island or a scenic boat tour along the coast. It features three swim stops, the chance to see dolphins and turtles, and a tasty grilled chicken lunch. The boat itself is spacious, with a sun terrace perfect for lounging during the cruise.
While reviews are mixed, many appreciate the variety of options and the scenic route past historical sites. It’s best suited for travelers who want flexibility and multiple swim opportunities in one day, with a moderate price point. The tour’s larger boats and multiple scenic stops make it appealing for groups looking for a relaxed day with options to customize.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and dolphin viewing in a flexible format.
6. Dolphin Island Full-Day Boat Trip from Side, Turkey
Ranked 6, this full 8-hour tour is a more comprehensive experience focusing on both snorkeling and cultural exploration. It includes visits to Ormana and Sarıhacılar villages, with a special mention of the Altınbeşik Cave, Turkey’s largest underground lake. This trip combines dolphin watching with a good dose of local culture and natural wonder.
Guests rave about the comfortable double-deck boat, which is designed for leisure and comfort. The trip also offers a rejuvenating peeling and foam massage, making it more than just a boat ride. This trip is best for travelers interested in combining marine wildlife with scenic and cultural experiences, rather than just dolphin sightings.
Bottom line: A longer, more diverse adventure that blends dolphin watching with cultural visits and unique natural sights.
7. Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour : A Seaside Adventure
Number 7 offers a 7-hour experience that sails along the Manavgat River and the Bosphorus, with stops at Dolphin Island and the Karaburun Peninsula. It’s a comprehensive trip that mixes scenic cruises with potential dolphin sightings and the opportunity to explore different parts of the coast.
Guests enjoy the combination of boat rides, scenic views, and the chance to see dolphins in the open water. The itinerary includes a river cruise, lunch, and additional sailing along the coast, making it a good pick for travelers who want variety in their marine adventures.
Bottom line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting scenic cruises combined with the chance to spot dolphins and explore the coast.
8. From city of Side: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour with Lunch
This 6.5-hour tour offers a straightforward dolphin watching experience with a focus on the Manavgat River and Mediterranean. It is appreciated for its simplicity and direct approach, with the chance to see dolphins, swim, and enjoy a tasty onboard lunch.
The reviews note that the trip provides a peaceful experience, with the chance to observe dolphins and turtles in their habitat. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, no-frills day with marine wildlife sightings and scenic cruising.
Bottom line: A simple, relaxing trip ideal for those who want a calm day on the water with good chances of dolphin sightings.
9. Side: Dolphin Boat Tour With Lunch Foam party Swimming
Topping our list at number 9 is the most lively experience, a 7.5-hour adventure combining a swim in turquoise waters, a foam party, and a danceable boat ride. The tour departs from multiple pickup points, including Side, Evrenseki, and Manavgat, and features a detailed itinerary filled with fun activities.
Guests love the vibrant atmosphere, especially the foam party, which encourages dancing and socializing. The boat cruise covers the Manavgat River, with stops for swimming and dolphin watching, and the vibe is energetic and family-friendly. Reviews highlight its value for money and the memorable experience of swimming with dolphins or enjoying the lively entertainment.
Bottom line: Best suited for lively travelers, families, or groups who want a full day of fun, dancing, and dolphin sightings paired with excellent value.
How to Choose Your Dolphin Watching Experience
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time availability, and what you want from the experience. For a full day packed with lively entertainment and dolphin sightings, the Side: Dolphins Island Cruise with Swimming Stops and Lunch or the Dolphin Boat Tour With Lunch Foam party Swimming are excellent choices. If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic cruise at a modest price, the City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks offers great value.
Travelers interested in combining cultural visits with dolphin watching might prefer the Dolphin Island Full-Day Boat Trip from Side, Turkey for its blend of natural beauty and local sights. For a family-friendly, high-energy outing, the Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch provides a lively, shorter adventure.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer months when these tours tend to fill up fast. Most tours include hotel transfers, making logistics easier, and some feature flexible options for swimming, dolphin spotting, and entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Side offers a variety of dolphin watching experiences to match almost every travel style—from full-day lively cruises with foam parties to relaxing scenic trips. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, you’ll find options that include swimming, scenic views, and chances to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
For those who want a lively, memorable day filled with dancing, swimming, and dolphin sightings, the Side: Dolphins Island Cruise with Swimming Stops and Lunch tops the list. If budget and flexibility are your priorities, the City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks delivers excellent value. And for a blend of cultural sights and marine wildlife, the Dolphin Island Full-Day Boat Trip from Side, Turkey offers a well-rounded experience.
Whatever your preference, booking early ensures a spot on these popular tours. Get set for a splashy, fun-filled day on Turkey’s stunning coast!