Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch From Side

Exploring the Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch from Side

If you’re craving a day out on the water with a splash of stunning scenery, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side might just be your perfect escape. This full-day tour combines scenic cruising, nature, and relaxation, all wrapped up in a convenient package with hotel pickup. While some reviews highlight the trip’s memorable vistas, others point out areas for improvement—like boat comfort or safety concerns—so it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and comfort—you’ll enjoy panoramic views, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and a tasty lunch. The added bonus of free hotel pickup and drinks makes it feel like a well-rounded trip that offers good value for money. That said, some travelers have raised concerns about the boat’s condition and the driving style, so if safety or comfort are top priorities, you might want to prepare accordingly.

This experience is best suited for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a budget-friendly, scenic day out. If you’re after a relaxing cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to cool off in inviting waters, this tour is worth considering. However, if you prefer a more luxurious or quieter experience, you might want to explore alternative options.

Key Points

• Value for Money: A full-day experience at under $50 per person, including lunch and transport.
• Scenic Stops: Visits to Manavgat Dam, Little Canyon, and the impressive Green Canyon itself.
• Comfort & Convenience: Free hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Activities: Swimming in cool, clear waters and enjoying a riverside lunch.
• Authentic Views: Pass by the Oymapinar Dam and tree-lined banks of the canyon.
• Group Size & Booking: Max 100 travelers, with confirmation at booking.

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Manavgat Dam & Oymapinar Dam

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel around 8:30 am. The first stop at Oymapinar Dam offers a quick but fascinating overview of this engineering marvel, built to regulate the flow of the Manavgat River. In about an hour, you’ll get a chance to take some photos of the dam’s impressive structure and the surrounding lush landscape. Reviewers mention the drive to this point can be somewhat adventurous—“the journey is a bit thrilling in parts,” as one traveler put it, so brace yourself for some winding roads if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer smooth rides.

Stop 2: The Green Canyon

The highlight of the day, a three-hour cruise on the Green Canyon, allows you to soak in the stunning scenery. Expect emerald waters flanked by tall, rocky cliffs and dense greenery—some reviewers describe it as a “fabulous, peaceful place,” with one noting, “We loved the way the sunlight hits the water, creating a mesmerizing green hue.” The tour passes by the Little Canyon, a narrower, more intimate section, perfect for quick photo stops.

While the scenery itself is breathtaking, some reviews mention that the boat ride can feel a little lengthy or monotonous if you’re not a fan of boats or prefer active excursions. The boat is described as “a bit aged,” which might impact comfort, especially during longer stretches.

Stop 3: Waterfront Restaurant & Lunch

The lunch break offers a chance to relax and refuel at a waterfront restaurant. The included meal is generally well-received, with travelers describing the food as “very nice” and the setting as “beautiful” with stunning views. You’ll spend about 45 minutes enjoying local dishes and drinks. Reviewers note that the lunch is a solid value, especially given it’s included in the overall price, and the setting enhances the experience.

Swimming & Leisure

One of the trip’s favorite moments is the opportunity to swim in the cool, clear waters of the canyon. Many reviewers loved this part, describing the water as “perfect temperature for swimming,” and some even quote, “The swim in the lake was great and refreshing.” The stops provide a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, ideal for families and those wanting a peaceful day in nature.

Practical Considerations & Tips for Travelers

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves you the hassle of finding meeting points and adds to the overall convenience. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, helping keep the experience manageable, though some reviews mention the bus can be “busy and somewhat uncomfortable,” especially if you’re sensitive to crowds or have limited space.

Pricing & Value

At around $49.21 per person, this trip offers good value, given that it includes transportation, boat cruise, lunch, and multiple scenic stops. The reviews indicate that many find the price justified, especially since the scenery is spectacular and the experience is quite relaxed. However, some note the boat’s age and the potential for boredom during the cruise, suggesting that the value depends on your expectations for comfort and entertainment.

Safety & Comfort

Several reviews raise concerns about the driving style of the coach driver and the boat’s condition. One traveler even mentions their mother tripped over a tied bun on the coach—a reminder that safety should be a priority, and travelers should be prepared for a slightly rough ride in some parts of the trip.

What to Bring

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection—think hats and sunscreen—since you’ll be swimming and exposed to the sun on deck. Water and soft drinks are included, but additional drinks are not, so you might want to carry extra if you prefer other beverages.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip appeals most to families, nature enthusiasts, and budget travelers seeking a scenic, laid-back day. If you’re after stunning views, a peaceful boat ride, and an opportunity to swim in pristine waters, you’ll love the relaxed pace and natural beauty. It’s a great way to escape the busy town and learn about the landscape without the fuss of complex logistics.

However, if you’re sensitive to older boats, bumpy rides, or prefer more luxurious settings, this might not be the best fit. The overall experience is casual and authentic, with some room for improvement in comfort.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, easy relaxation, and good value. With its stunning vistas, opportunity to swim in crystal waters, and included lunch, it’s a memorable way to explore one of Turkey’s most breathtaking landscapes—especially if you enjoy being on the water and soaking up serene scenery.

While some reviews highlight areas where the experience could be improved—particularly boat comfort and safety—the majority of travelers leave feeling they’ve had a worthwhile and picturesque day out. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable, authentic, and family-friendly adventure that showcases the natural splendor of the region.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the experience, which simplifies logistics and saves you time.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and concluding in the late afternoon.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The three-hour cruise in Green Canyon, offering breathtaking views and the chance to swim in its inviting waters.

Are drinks included during the trip?
Yes, free drinks are provided on the boat, but additional drinks are not included.

Is the boat comfortable?
Some reviews mention that the boat is somewhat aged, and comfort levels may vary. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind older vessels.

Can I swim during the trip?
Absolutely. Swimming in the clear waters is one of the most enjoyed parts of the tour.

What about safety concerns?
There are some comments about the driving style of the coach and the boat’s age, so travelers should use their judgment and stay alert.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly extra drinks if you want more than what’s provided.

How many people typically take part?
The group size is limited to 100 travelers, making it a reasonably social yet manageable experience.

What is the value of the tour?
Considering transportation, scenic stops, lunch, and drinks, many find the price quite reasonable for a full day of activities and sightseeing.

In all, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side provides a scenic, relaxed way to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty, especially suited for those happy to spend a day on the water with memorable views and a good, straightforward itinerary.