City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks

If you’re looking to combine fun, relaxation, and a splash of adventure during your stay in Side, Turkey, the Dolphin Island Boat Tour is an experience worth considering. This full-day cruise offers a relaxing sail with plenty of swimming, lively entertainment, and a tasty Turkish-style lunch—all for an accessible price around $15 per person. From the perspective of travelers who’ve enjoyed the trip, it’s a lively, family-friendly way to explore the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the variety of swimming stops at spots like Karaburun Bay and Dolphin Island, giving you chances to cool off and snorkel. The foam party in the late afternoon adds a fun, energetic vibe that appeals to all ages. Lastly, many reviewers have highlighted the friendly, helpful guides, and the delicious, freshly cooked lunch onboard.

One point to keep in mind is the potential for overcrowding, especially during peak season, which could impact comfort and the overall experience. Also, some reviewers mentioned that smoking is allowed anywhere on the boat, which might be unpleasant if you’re sensitive to smoke. This trip is suited best for travelers who enjoy social, active days with a touch of spontaneity and are comfortable with a lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• Affordable pricing offers great value for a full-day adventure with multiple swimming stops.
• Family-friendly with activities like foam parties and opportunities to spot dolphins or turtles.
• Inclusive amenities include hotel pickup, lunch, soft drinks, life vests, and insurance.
• Multiple swim stops ensure you get ample time in the water, although some may find it not enough.
• Guided commentary and lively music keep the atmosphere engaging.
• Potential drawbacks include smoking allowed onboard and extra charges for drinks beyond soft drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dolphin Island Boat Tour

How the Day Begins: From Hotel to Water

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in your air-conditioned bus, a convenience that many reviewers appreciate, especially those staying in central Side or nearby areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, or Sorgun. The transfer is well-organized; you’re usually collected on time and taken straight to the dock, where staff are friendly and welcoming.

Once onboard, the crew asks about your lunch preference—either chicken or fish—allowing you to choose a meal that suits your tastes. The boat itself isn’t described as crowded or cramped, with reviews mentioning a spacious and comfortable setup, perfect for families or larger groups. During the boat ride, a multilingual guide will provide commentary about the sights, history, and points of interest along the way, making the experience both fun and informative.

The Route: Exploring the Turkish Waters

The cruise departs along the Manavgat River, offering scenic views and a relaxed introduction to the day. As the boat cuts through the water, you’re likely to notice the lively atmosphere created by the live DJ, who plays music that sets the tone for a fun day. This added touch of entertainment keeps the energy high, especially during the lively foam party at the end of the trip, which many reviewers raved about for its fun and danceable vibe.

The first swimming stop is around Karaburun Bay, a popular spot praised for its clear waters and the chance to snorkel or just float around. Next, you’ll cruise through the Manavgat Bosphorus, a unique waterway where the sea is on one side and the river on the other. Here, some guests take the opportunity to rent Jet-Skis or indulge in local treats like Gözleme, a traditional Turkish flatbread—a good way to add local flavor to your day.

Lunch on the Water: Fresh and Flavorful

One of the trip’s highlights is the freshly grilled lunch, served onboard. The options are straightforward but tasty—either chicken or fish, accompanied by rice and salad. Many reviewers have expressed satisfaction with the quality of the meal, describing it as “lovely” and “well-prepared,” which is notable given the modest price point.

The crew serves the meal with efficiency, and some mention that soft drinks are included if you opt for the package, with the first deck offering free beverages in small cups. However, some reviews have pointed out that extra drinks like Coke may need to be paid for separately, even if soft drinks are advertised as included. So, it’s wise to clarify what’s included at booking.

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Dolphin Island & Swimming Breaks

After lunch, the boat heads towards Dolphin Island, where most guests jump into the water for a swim, snorkel, or just relax on the deck. This spot is scenic and offers a calm setting, perfect for families and those who prefer a slower pace. While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, some guests have reported spotting turtles and occasionally dolphins along the route, which adds an exciting element to the trip.

Other swimming stops happen near areas like Karaburun Bay, giving ample opportunity to cool off. Multiple reviews, such as that from David, mention that there were “plenty of stops to swim in the sea/river,” making the day feel active but not rushed.

The Foam Party: A Fun Wrap-up

As the day progresses, the crew kicks off the foam party, which is a hit with kids and adults alike. The lively music blends with the foam, creating a playful environment for dancing, splashing, and making memories. Many reviewers describe the foam party as “brilliant,” “great fun,” and highlight how it caps off their day with a burst of energy and a lot of laughter.

Final Stop & Return

The last swimming stop near Karaburun Bay allows for a final splash before heading back. The boat then turns back towards Side, with the journey punctuated by the scenic views, a few dolphin or turtle sightings, and the lively soundtrack maintained by the DJ. The return trip generally ends with the crew helping guests disembark and transfer back to their hotels, leaving everyone with a full day of activity behind.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Reviewers

• Dolphin and turtle sightings add a magical touch for nature lovers, even if not guaranteed on every trip.
• The friendly, helpful staff earn praise, with some reviews emphasizing how accommodating they are, especially for families with children.
• The lively atmosphere created by the DJ and foam party keeps guests entertained, making this more than just a relaxing cruise.
• Some reviewers note the overcrowding and smoke, which could detract from the experience if you prefer a quieter or smoke-free environment.
• The quality of food and drinks generally receives positive comments, though a few mention paying extra for certain soft drinks.
• The timing and organization are appreciated, with many guests noting that pickups and drop-offs are punctual and smooth.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour seems most suited for families, groups of friends, and singles who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. If you love dancing, fun water activities, and casual dining, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also great for those wanting a cost-effective way to see some scenic spots while indulging in a bit of entertainment.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more refined cruise or are sensitive to smoke or crowded spaces, you might want to consider alternative options. The tour’s energetic vibe and casual style make it ideal for travelers who prioritize fun and socializing over tranquility.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For just around $15, this boat tour offers a solid combination of swimming, sightseeing, and entertainment. The included lunch, friendly guides, and the chance to spot marine life add to its value. The foam party and live music create a memorable, lively atmosphere that appeals especially to families and groups seeking a day of carefree fun.

While the experience might feel busy or a bit chaotic at times, the overall vibe is cheerful and authentic. If you’re after a lively water day with plenty of opportunities to cool off and have fun, this trip delivers. Just remember to bring sun protection, a towel, and your sense of adventure.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a budget-friendly, social, and scenic day out on the Turkish Riviera. It’s an easy choice for those who enjoy lively atmospheres and don’t mind the occasional crowd or smoke onboard.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Side and nearby areas, making it very convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, as you’ll spend plenty of time in the water and under the sun.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are included if you opt for the package, but additional drinks like Coke or alcohol need to be purchased separately.

Can I see dolphins during the trip?
While dolphin sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed. Some guests have seen turtles and local marine life instead.

Is the lunch on board suitable for all dietary needs?
The menu features chicken or fish with rice and salad, prepared fresh for the trip. Specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to ask beforehand.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts a full day, with several swimming stops, a lunch break, and the foam party at the end.

Is the boat crowded?
It can get busy, especially during peak season, which might affect comfort. The boat is described as spacious, but some reviews note crowding at certain times.

Are there age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for families; children seem to enjoy the foam party and swimming stops. Life vests are available for those who need them.

In all, this boat tour offers a lively and authentic way to enjoy the Turkish Riviera, combining scenic beauty with fun activities that cater to a variety of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: