From Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks

Planning a day out in Turkey and looking for a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and a bit of adventure? The Green Canyon boat trip from Alanya offers exactly that. With a rating of 4.3 from 177 reviews, this tour consistently proves popular, especially among travelers craving scenic views, swimming opportunities, and a relaxed pace.

It’s a full-day experience—around nine hours—that takes you through emerald waters, alongside towering mountain ranges, topped with a delicious open buffet lunch. What we love most? The incredible vistas of the Taurus Mountains, the chance to swim in pristine waters, and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey memorable.

That said, a key consideration is that the tour doesn’t include drinks beyond water and soft drinks, so if you’re after alcoholic beverages or specific drinks, you’ll want to bring your own. Overall, it’s an experience suited for nature lovers, families, and anyone wanting a stress-free day of scenic cruising with plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy good food.

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Key Points

Spectacular Scenery: Stunning views of the Taurus Mountains and lush landscapes.
Comfortable Cruise: Relaxing boat ride along the 14 km Green Canyon and its smaller side, Little Canyon.
Swim & Refresh: Multiple swimming stops in clear, emerald-green waters.
Valuable Experience: All-in-one day including hotel pickup, guided tour, and a hearty buffet lunch.
Family Friendly: Suitable for most, but not ideal for those with mobility challenges.
Extra Touches: Opportunities to take photos and admire rare wildlife like the brown fish owl.

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What Makes the Green Canyon Trip Special

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The Itinerary & Journey

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Alanya, making it easy to start the day stress-free. The bus ride to the Green Canyon offers a glimpse into the scenic surroundings of the Antalya Province, setting the tone for a nature-focused day. Once at the jetty, you’ll hop onto a boat that will carry you along the 14-kilometer-long Grand Canyon and the 3-kilometer-long Little Canyon.

The boat ride isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s a highlight itself. As you glide through the emerald waters, your guide points out features and keeps the mood lively with music and commentary. Several stops are scheduled along the route, providing ample time for swimming in the pristine waters, a key part of the experience that travelers praise. Reviewers mention that the waters are very clean, and the scenic surroundings create perfect photo ops.

The Scenic Views & Wildlife

From the deck, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Taurus Mountains and lush woodlands. These vistas are often described as breathtaking, with many travelers noting how picturesque the landscape is. The chance to spot a rare brown fish owl adds an element of wildlife spotting for those interested in birdwatching—an unexpected but delightful bonus. Reviewers highlight how helpful the guides are in pointing out these special sightings.

Swimming & Relaxation

The tour offers multiple swimming stops, typically in two designated spots. Travelers often find the water invigorating (sometimes a bit chilly), but the overall consensus is that it’s well worth taking a dip, especially given the crystal-clear waters. One reviewer mentioned that there’s a changing facility at one swimming location, but you’ll need to improvise at the second unless you want to spend the return trip soaking wet.

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Lunch & Refreshments

A major highlight for many is the open buffet lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the lake. The lunch includes a variety of Turkish dishes, offering good value for money, especially considering the full-day nature of the tour. Reviewers repeatedly praise the quality and quantity of the food, with some calling it “lovely” and “excellent.” The lunch is a great way to refuel after swimming and sightseeing.

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Additional Highlights & Tips

The boat cruise across the canyon provides spectacular viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The tour is well-paced, with enough swim time and scenic stops to keep everyone busy without feeling rushed.
Some guests mentioned that the music playlist onboard adds to the cheerful atmosphere.
In the reviews, guides like Yusuf are commended for their helpfulness and communication, making the experience smoother for travelers with special needs or questions.

Real Traveler Insights & Practical Details

Group Size & Guides

While exact group sizes aren’t specified, the reviews suggest a comfortable, manageable number of participants. The guides speak English, ensuring clear communication, and are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Several reviewers mention that guides stopped for photos, shared interesting facts, and went out of their way to cater to guests’ needs.

Duration & Timing

This is a full-day tour lasting around nine hours, with starting times that vary based on your hotel location and availability. This makes it a perfect choice for a leisurely day—just remember to check your pick-up time and be ready early.

Price & Value

Considering hotel pickup, boat trip, lunch, and guided commentary, the price reflects good value for a comprehensive experience. The reviews consistently mention it as a great deal for the money. Keep in mind that drinks other than water and soft drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want alcohol or additional beverages.

Accessibility & Considerations

It’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat stops and walking involved. Also, travelers should bring swimwear, towels, and perhaps a dry change of clothes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This Green Canyon boat trip is ideal for nature lovers eager to see Turkey’s stunning landscapes from the water. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy swimming will find plenty of opportunities to cool off and relax. The delicious lunch and friendly guides further enhance the value, making it a well-rounded day out.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic experience with an element of adventure—like swimming in crystal waters and enjoying panoramic mountain views—this tour checks all the boxes. However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and moderate walking, as it’s not designed for guests with mobility challenges.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for experiencing the natural beauty of Antalya’s Green Canyon in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from all listed hotels or nearby meeting points are included, making the start of your day stress-free.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately nine hours, including transfer, sightseeing, swimming stops, and lunch. Specific start times vary, so check with your booking.

Are drinks included?
Only water and soft drinks are included; alcoholic beverages or other drinks need to be brought along if desired.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there are scheduled swimming stops in the clear waters of the canyon. Reviewers mention that there are changing facilities at one location but not the second.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for guests with good mobility, as the tour involves boat boarding and some walking. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a dry change of clothes for after swimming. It’s also wise to bring your own drinks if you prefer something beyond soft drinks.

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

To sum it up, the Green Canyon boat trip from Alanya offers a wonderfully relaxed way to see some of Turkey’s most scenic natural landscapes. With engaging guides, good food, and plenty of swimming, it’s a memorable day out that balances activity with leisure. Perfect for those wanting to escape the bustle and enjoy Turkey’s lush outdoors in comfort and style.