Side Green Canyon Boat Trip With Unlimited Drinks And Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to escape the crowds and soak up some of Turkey’s best natural scenery, the Side Green Canyon boat trip offers a compelling mix of relaxation, adventure, and good food. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews paint a picture of a well-organized day that combines stunning views, a hearty buffet, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and photo-taking.

What makes this experience appealing? For starters, the 14 km cruise through the canyon offers breathtaking scenery, and the included all-you-can-eat buffet with unlimited soft drinks is a real highlight. The hotel pickup and drop-off make it a hassle-free option, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby. However, keep in mind that some reviews note it can get quite crowded, especially on the boat, which might affect your comfort if you prefer a quieter experience. This tour is perfect for those wanting a fun, scenic day with family or friends, and who enjoy a balance of sightseeing and relaxing in nature.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Green Canyon and the surrounding landscape
• All-inclusive experience with unlimited soft drinks and a buffet lunch
• Hassle-free transfers from Side and Kizilagac hotels
• Opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing
• Long boat trip of about 14 km for maximum photo opportunities
• Some reviews mention crowded boats and busy restaurants

An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Boat Trip

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickup around 8:30 am, making it easy to start your day without any transport stress. The journey begins with a scenic drive to the reservoir formed by the Oymapinar Dam, a significant structure as Turkey’s fifth-largest dam. Along the way, you’ll get a preview of the beautiful landscapes, with a short stop at the dam lake that offers a quick photo opportunity.

The first stop at the dam is about an hour and a half into the day, giving you time to admire the impressive Roman-era bridge nearby. This bridge, over 2000 years old, provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s long history and engineering prowess. Some reviewers, like Michelle, noted that the stop is brief and the view is best when approaching from the right side of the dam, so keep that in mind when snapping your photos.

Next, you’ll head to Manavgat Dam, where the landscape opens up even more. This spot is ideal for a quick swim, and reviewers like Angela appreciated the chance to cool off with clear, refreshing waters. The boat trip then continues towards a lakeside restaurant for lunch, which is included in the tour. The buffet offers dishes like barbecued chicken, meatballs, fish, pasta, salads, and fresh fruit. Most reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as generous and tasty, with some noting it exceeds expectations for a tour buffet.

The Highlight: Green Canyon Cruise

After lunch, it’s time for the main event—a two-hour cruise through the 14 km Green Canyon. The boat meanders through narrow emerald waters flanked by towering walls, creating an almost surreal landscape that many find breathtaking. The cruise is a perfect opportunity for photography—reviewers like Chantel and Tiberiu raved about the beautiful views and the peacefulness of the water.

During the cruise, you’ll have the chance to swim in the turquoise waters, a favorite part for many travelers. The quiet, scenic environment makes swimming feel like a true escape into nature. The boat also offers kayaks and fishing gear, which guests can use to add a bit of fun or relaxation to their day.

Additional Activities & Relaxation

Some reviews mention the kayaks and fishing rods available at the lakeside restaurant, which adds to the overall value. If you enjoy a bit of fishing or paddling, this is a bonus. Others highlight the opportunity to take photos of the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and lush surroundings, making it a photographer’s dream.

The Return & End of the Day

The boat then heads back to the pier, with the journey lasting roughly an hour and a half. Upon arrival, the transfer vehicles will whisk you back to your hotel, concluding the approximately 8-hour experience. Many reviewers appreciated how smooth and punctual the transfers were, allowing for a stress-free day.

The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Loved

• The stunning scenery of Green Canyon, which truly feels like a slice of paradise.
• The comprehensive package that includes hotel pickup, boat cruise, lunch, and drinks, offering excellent value at $36.
• The opportunity to swim in pristine waters and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
• The friendly and attentive staff, including knowledgeable guides like Mete, who keep the tour organized and informative.

What Could Be Better

• Some guests mention the crowd levels, especially on the boat, which can feel cramped. If you’re seeking solitude or a more intimate experience, this might be a concern.
• A few reviews point out that the lunch is basic and can be limited in portion if you’re hungry after swimming and activities.
• The lack of detailed commentary during the cruise, with some travelers wishing for more information about the canyon’s geology and history.

Additional Considerations

The timing of the tour and the group size (up to 200 participants) can influence your comfort level. Multiple reviews mention the tour being busy but still manageable with friendly staff. The cost of $36 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions and the scenic value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip works well for families and groups looking for a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, fun activities, and good food. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free experience with hotel transfers and an all-inclusive setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a more private, quiet trip, or are seeking a deep cultural or historical experience, you might find the crowds and focus on scenery less suitable.

FAQs

Is pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making the whole day quite convenient.

What’s the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at approximately 8:30 am and returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Are drinks and food included? Yes, unlimited soft drinks and a buffet lunch are included in the price, giving you plenty of refreshment and sustenance throughout the day.

Can I swim during the trip? Absolutely. There are swim stops in the lake, and many reviews highlight how refreshing and enjoyable it is to swim in the canyon’s turquoise waters.

Is there any guidance during the trip? There is guiding service, but some guests have noted that the guide didn’t always provide detailed commentary during the cruise, although they were friendly and helpful.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and a camera. The boat can get busy, so a waterproof bag for your valuables is also recommended.

What is the price? The tour costs around $36 per person, which offers good value considering the inclusions and scenic highlights.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a full day of natural beauty, fun in the water, and good food, the Side Green Canyon boat trip ticks many boxes. It’s an accessible adventure that offers stunning vistas, opportunities to relax and cool off, and an overall sense of escape from everyday life. While it can get crowded and the lunch is simple, the experience’s value and scenic appeal are hard to beat for the price.

This tour is ideal if you’re traveling in a group or family, enjoy outdoor activities, and want a straightforward way to see one of Turkey’s most beautiful reservoirs. Just be prepared for some lively scenes on the boat and a busy restaurant, and you’ll be set for a memorable day exploring Green Canyon.

Note: As always, book in advance—especially during peak seasons—to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Happy exploring!