From city of Side: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour with Lunch

Taking a boat trip along Turkey’s coast sounds like a perfect way to spend a day. While we haven’t personally been on this specific tour, detailed reviews and the tour’s description reveal what you can expect. It’s a combination of scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and relaxing ocean time—ideal for those who love the water and want a taste of the Turkish Riviera.

Three things that stand out about this experience are the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat, the delicious on-board lunch, and the fun foam party on the boat. However, some travelers have noted that the boat itself isn’t in the best condition, which could impact comfort.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy wildlife encounters, are looking for a relaxed day on the water, and don’t mind a more casual boat experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a lively but scenic outing may find it just right. Now, let’s explore what makes this trip interesting and where it might fall short.

Contents show

Key Points

Wildlife Viewing: The tour offers opportunities to see dolphins and sea turtles in their natural environment.
Scenic Cruising: Travel from the Manavgat River to the Mediterranean coast, with beautiful views along the way.
Food and Fun: Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and a lively foam party on board.
Swimming Breaks: Multiple opportunities to swim and relax on the beach, depending on tides.
Guide and Comfort: Tour guides are knowledgeable, but boat conditions might not meet all expectations.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it accessible for spontaneous plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Looks Like in Detail

Want to see more dolphins? We've reviewed these other marine encounters in Side

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with hotel pickup, a perk for convenience and comfort. The transfer to Side Pier is straightforward, and the tour is operated by PROfessional Travel SOlutions. Expect to meet your guide, who will provide some insights and assistance throughout the day. This setup is ideal for those who want a hassle-free start without worrying about logistics.

The Cruise Along Manavgat River

Once aboard the boat, you’ll cruise along the Manavgat River, a gentle waterway lined with traditional wooden boats and river turtles basking on the banks. The river’s meeting with the sea is a highlight, providing a stunning backdrop as the waters blend into the open Mediterranean.

According to reviews, this part of the trip offers great photo opportunities, and the scenery is tranquil and scenic. One reviewer, Kathryn, mentioned, “It was a good trip,” highlighting that the journey itself is enjoyable even if the boat’s condition isn’t top-notch.

Wildlife Encounters

A key aspect of this tour is observing dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat. The guide will point out opportunities for dolphin sightings, which is a memorable experience if luck is on your side. Sea turtles are often spotted basking on the river banks, adding a special touch for nature lovers.

However, based on reviews, the accuracy of wildlife sightings can vary, and some travelers might find the experience less consistent than anticipated. Still, the chance to see marine creatures in the wild is a significant draw.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Swimming Breaks

Midway through the tour, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on the boat, giving you fuel for the rest of the day. The menu typically includes local flavors and is considered decent value, especially since it’s included in the price.

After lunch, the boat will head towards the coast for swimming and beach stops. The timing of these depends on the tides and weather conditions, which can influence the quality and duration of your swim. Expect to jump into the inviting waters, sunbathe on the beach, or simply relax by the sea.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Side

The Lively Foam Party and Coastal Views

One of the more unique features of this tour is the foam party on board, a lively addition that makes the day more energetic and fun. It’s a lively scene, perfect for travelers who want some entertainment while cruising.

Depending on conditions, the boat might also sail further east or towards a secluded island like Suluada. These options depend on tides and weather, which can sometimes limit the itinerary. The views of the rugged coastlines and the clear waters are genuinely stunning, making for great photo moments.

Return Journey and Optional Stops

After the fun and swimming, the boat begins its return to Side. Some days, the tour might include a brief stop at Alanya or other scenic points, offering a peaceful conclusion to a busy day on the water.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight some positives like the scenic views and friendly guides, but also point out drawbacks. One traveler noted, “The ship was in a bad condition,” with issues like broken seats and no air conditioning. This suggests that while the itinerary is appealing, the boat’s comfort level might not match expectations, especially on hot days.

The Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

The tour lasts about 6.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the river, sea, wildlife, and activities. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour guide, a boat trip, swim stops, lunch, and the foam party.

The price point is reasonable considering all the inclusions, but travelers should be mindful that drinks are not included, so budget for beverages or bring your own. Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks are also not covered.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility concerns to join. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides flexibility if your plans change.

Should You Book This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who:

Love wildlife and ocean scenery, especially dolphin and turtle sightings.
Want a relaxed day with swimming, sunbathing, and fun activities like foam parties.
Appreciate scenic boat rides and don’t mind minor discomforts from boat condition.
Enjoy lively social atmospheres and group activities on the water.

However, if you prioritize luxury comfort, pristine boat conditions, or a highly predictable wildlife encounter, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Dolphin Watching Boat Tour with Lunch from Side offers a mix of nature, scenic cruising, and entertainment. It’s a good choice for those who want to experience the Turkish coast from the water without breaking the bank. The wildlife sightings and lively atmosphere can create memorable moments, especially if the weather cooperates.

Keep in mind that the boat’s condition might be a bit rough around the edges, and wildlife sightings can sometimes be unpredictable. Still, the combination of fresh seafood, friendly guides, and stunning coastal views make this a fun, laid-back day out.

If you’re seeking an energetic, wildlife-focused outing with plenty of swimming and social activity, this tour ticks those boxes. For travelers craving a smooth, luxurious experience, it might be worth checking out alternative options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 6.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy all activities and sights.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included, so plan to bring some cash or purchase beverages on board.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable? Based on reviews, the boat’s condition may be less than luxurious, with issues like broken seats and no air conditioning.

Will I see dolphins? There’s a good chance, but sightings depend on luck and wildlife activity. Guide insights will point out when dolphins or turtles are nearby.

Is swimming safe? Yes, swimming stops are included, but always follow guide instructions, and be mindful of tides and weather conditions.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, towel, sunglasses, snorkeling gear, cash, and a change of clothes are recommended.

Is this experience suitable for kids? It can be, especially with lively activities like the foam party, but parents should consider boat comfort and sea safety.

Can I book this tour last-minute? Yes, the flexible booking policy allows you to reserve with the option to pay later.

Would we recommend it? For travelers looking for a lively, wildlife-rich day with scenic views, it offers good value despite some boat condition concerns.