City Of Side: Dolphin Island Boat or Side Boat Tour Options

Looking for a day out on the water that blends scenic views, fun activities, and a taste of local hospitality? The City of Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour and Side River & Sea Experience promise just that. These tours, offered by Alanya Best Trips, take you sailing along the stunning coastlines with stops for swimming, chances to spot dolphins and sea turtles, and even a foam party to wrap up the day.

While both options share many similarities—timing, lunch, and entertainment—each offers a slightly different perspective of the area’s natural beauty and historical highlights. Whether you prefer the adventure of Dolphin Island or the river-meets-sea scenery of Side, you’re in for a full day of relaxation, fun, and visual delights.

We love how these tours provide a great value for a day spent on the water, combining sightseeing, swimming, and lively onboard entertainment. The delicious grilled chicken lunch is a highlight, offering a satisfying break from the sun and sea. And if you’re into social cruises with energetic music and foam parties, this trip really hits the mark.

A possible consideration is that reviews suggest the experience can get crowded, especially during peak times, which might mean longer waits or less personal attention. For travelers who prefer intimate or quiet outings, this could be a factor to keep in mind.

These tours are best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a lively, scenic day with plenty of swim stops and entertainment. If you’re after relaxation mixed with a bit of adventure, this trip could be just the ticket.

This experience made our article of 9 Top-Rated Side Dolphin Watching Experiences.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: Multiple swim stops at beautiful locations, including Paradise Beach and near ancient sites.
• Wildlife Watching: Potential to see dolphins and sea turtles, adding an element of excitement.
• Inclusive Lunch: A flavorful grilled chicken meal included, with drinks available for purchase.
• Fun onboard activities: Foam parties, music, and animations make the cruise lively.
• Comfort & Facilities: Spacious 3-deck boats with sun terraces, toilets, showers, and changing rooms.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Hotel Pickup & Journey to the Dock

Your day starts with a hotel pickup between 8:30 and 9:30 AM, depending on your hotel’s location in Side. After a scenic drive through Sorgun Forest, you’ll arrive at the riverside dock, ready to set sail. This early start is perfect to maximize your time on the water, though it means you’ll need to be ready promptly.

The Boat & Its Facilities

Once aboard your comfortable, modern three-deck boat, you’ll notice the spacious layout designed to maximize sunshine and views. There’s a sun terrace for soaking up rays, plus toilets, showers, and changing rooms—important features for a full-day trip. The boat’s lively atmosphere, with music and animations, sets the tone for a day that’s fun from start to finish.

The Swim Stops

The tour includes three swim stops, starting with Paradise Beach, where river water mingles with the Mediterranean, creating a unique environment perfect for a refreshing dip. The reviews highlight these stops as some of the tour’s best parts, with travelers enjoying swimming in both fresh and saltwater at Paradise Beach. This spot is especially noted for its clarity and calm waters.

Later stops include swimming near the ancient Side peninsula, offering views of famous temples dedicated to Apollo and Athena—perfect for history enthusiasts who want a splash of culture during their day. These moments provide a chance to relax, explore, and take photos of the scenic surroundings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dolphin Island & Wildlife

The highlight for many travelers is Dolphin Island, a place where spotting dolphins and sea turtles might turn a simple swim into a wildlife encounter. Reviews note the chance to see these creatures adds excitement, although seeing dolphins isn’t guaranteed. Still, the possibility makes the trip more memorable.

Lunch & Refreshments

A delicious grilled chicken lunch is included, offering a hearty meal to fuel your day on the water. The reviews praise the quality of the food, emphasizing that it’s a satisfying break for everyone. All drinks and snacks aren’t included but can be purchased on board, giving you the flexibility to hydrate or indulge in local treats like gözleme or soft drinks.

Return & Onboard Entertainment

As the cruise winds down, look forward to a lively foam party, which many reviews mention as a highlight of the return journey. The music, dancing, and playful foam make this a fun way to end the day. The boat then heads back toward the dock, with hotel drop-offs scheduled between 4:00 and 5:00 PM.

Comparing Dolphin Island and Side Boat Tour Options

While both tours share much in common, there are subtle differences:

• Dolphin Island Tour emphasizes dolphin and turtle spotting, with a focus on swimming at Dolphin Island and Paradise Beach. It’s ideal for those eager to see marine life and enjoy a full-day adventure along the Manavgat River.

• Side Boat Tour centers on the unique experience of swimming where the river meets the sea, near the ancient Side ruins. It offers more historical scenery and the chance to swim in both fresh and saltwater in one trip, which many find fascinating.

Both include lunch, entertainment, and facilities, but if wildlife or a more nature-focused experience appeals, the Dolphin Island option might be more satisfying. For those interested in combining history and water activities, the Side Boat Tour offers a compelling alternative.

Practical Details & What You Should Know

• Duration: Around 7-8 hours, making it a full-day activity but well worth the investment of time.
• Group Size: While exact numbers aren’t specified, reviews suggest a lively, somewhat crowded atmosphere, especially during peak season.
• Pricing & Value: The tour’s cost includes transportation, lunch, and onboard entertainment, which offers good value for a full-day experience. Additional expenses for drinks and optional activities like jet skis are extra.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later—great for flexible planning.
• Languages: Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One traveler appreciated the punctuality of the hotel pickup and stated, “Everything was as planned. I recommend it. I will definitely do it again next year.” Conversely, another reviewer noted, “Rude employees, long waiting times during and after the drive, and uncooperative staff,” highlighting that experiences can vary based on staff and crowd levels.

The positive reviews often mention delicious food, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery, while less favorable comments focus on crowding and wait times. This suggests that visiting during less busy times might enhance your experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a lively, scenic day on the water. If you enjoy swimming, wildlife spotting, and energetic onboard entertainment, you’ll find plenty to love here. The inclusion of a hearty grilled chicken lunch and the chance to relax on a spacious boat makes this a comprehensive day trip, especially if you’re looking for a combination of nature, history, and fun.

However, travelers who prefer quiet, small group tours or a more personalized experience might find the crowd a bit overwhelming. The emphasis on entertainment and group activities suggests this trip leans toward an energetic, social atmosphere.

The Sum Up

In summary, the City of Side Dolphin Island Boat and Side Boat Tour Options offer a lively, scenic way to enjoy the coast of Antalya Province. With multiple swim stops, the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles, delicious food, and onboard entertainment, it’s an excellent choice for those eager to make the most of a full day at sea.

The tours strike a good balance between adventure and relaxation, providing comfortable facilities and plenty of photo-worthy moments. The flexibility to cancel or reserve without immediate payment adds to their appeal, especially for spontaneous travelers or those with flexible plans.

For travelers looking to combine playful activities with scenic beauty and history, these cruises deliver a memorable experience worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs around 10:00 AM, with hotel pickups scheduled between 8:30 and 9:30 AM depending on your hotel location.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including pickup, sailing, swimming, lunch, and return.

Is food included?
Yes, a grilled chicken lunch is provided. Drinks and additional snacks are available for purchase onboard.

Are there facilities on the boat?
Yes, the boat features a sun terrace, toilets, showers, and changing cabins, making it comfortable for a full-day outing.

Can I see dolphins or sea turtles?
There’s a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles at Dolphin Island, but sightings are not guaranteed—adding an element of wildlife excitement.

What is the crowd like?
Reviews indicate the boat can be busy, especially during peak times, which might mean longer wait times or a less intimate environment.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the lively atmosphere and family-friendly environment suggest it’s suitable for children, but supervision is recommended during swim stops.

How do I cancel the booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

This boat tour offers a spirited day out that balances scenic swimming, wildlife possibilities, and onboard fun. It’s best for travelers who enjoy social, active days and are eager to explore the coast with a lively group.

You can check availability for your dates here: