Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch and Hotel Pickup

If you’re considering a day trip from Alanya to explore the stunning Green Canyon, you’re in good company. This boat tour promises beautiful scenery, refreshing lake swims, and a relaxing lakeside lunch—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your holiday.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to escape the busy streets of Alanya and enjoy some serene natural beauty. The scenery around the canyon, with its towering cliffs and lush landscape, tends to impress even seasoned travelers. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the lake at multiple stops offers a delightful way to cool off and connect with nature. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the boat ride can be quite bouncy, and the overall experience might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a leisurely, smooth ride.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a balance of scenic views, light adventure, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a good choice if you’re after a full-day outing that doesn’t require too much planning or physical exertion. However, if you’re looking for a very high-end experience or prefer calm waters, this may not be the perfect fit. Still, for those wanting a taste of the natural beauty surrounding Alanya, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise through the Green Canyon with impressive cliffs and lush landscapes.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day stress-free.
• Swim multiple times in the lake at different stops, a highlight for many.
• Lakeside lunch offering a taste of local flavors, though sometimes described as basic.
• Soft drinks are included, but reviews suggest the boat’s drink options are limited and not gourmet.
• Duration of around 8 hours provides a full but manageable day out.
• Not suitable for non-swimmers, as swimming is a key part of the trip.
• Reviews highlight stunning views as a major plus, despite some critiques on weather and amenities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Your Day

Starting early in the morning, your day begins with a hotel pickup arranged by the tour provider. This convenience is a big plus—no need to worry about finding your way to a meeting point. Once picked up, you’ll travel to the departure point near Alanya, where you’ll board your boat and set out on the water.

The boat cruise itself is the core of the experience. As you glide through the Green Canyon, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular cliffs and lush greenery towering on either side. The cruise offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos of these impressive geological features, which tend to captivate visitors.

Throughout the day, there are several stop points for swimming in the lake. These are often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip, especially for those who enjoy cooling off in natural waters. Be prepared for the water to be inviting and the scenery to be truly breathtaking. As one traveler put it, “Die Gegend und das Blaue klare Wasser sind Super,” emphasizing just how clear and beautiful the water can be.

After a few rounds of swimming and exploring, you’ll arrive at a lakeside restaurant for lunch. The meal is included in the price, typically served at a serene spot overlooking the water. The menu is usually simple but satisfying, with some reviews mentioning it as ‘basic.’ Still, most agree that the setting makes up for any simplicity—lunch here feels like a peaceful break in nature.

Post-lunch, you’ll relax on the boat as it heads back to Alanya, enjoying the last views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. The return journey offers more chances to take photos and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat tour, lunch, soft drinks, and a guide who will help you navigate the day. This all-in-one setup offers good value, especially for those who prefer hassle-free arrangements and a guided experience.

Since you’ll be spending time on the water and in the sun, packing a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen is essential. You might also want to bring a waterproof bag for your valuables or an extra layer if you’re sensitive to wind or cooler weather.

It’s worth noting that non-swimmers might find this trip less suitable, as swimming is a key aspect of the experience. The tour’s reviews point out some safety concerns with the boat’s infrastructure, such as marred stairs and missing railings, so keep this in mind if you’re cautious about safety.

The Realities of the Experience: Pros and Cons

One of the standout features, as highlighted by travelers, is the amazing scenery. The view of the canyon’s cliffs and the lake’s clear water consistently gets praise, and many say it’s worth the trip just for that.

However, some reviews mention that the weather can impact the experience—a thunderstorm or bad weather could mean no swimming, which is a big part of the fun. As one traveler shared, “leider kein Badewetter, da Gewitter,” meaning bad weather can spoil the swim opportunities.

Another point is the boat ride itself, which can be quite bouncy and long. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a smoother journey, this could be a drawback. The ride, described as “brutal” by one reviewer, might be uncomfortable for some.

The lakeside lunch receives mixed reviews. While many appreciate the simple, peaceful setting, some mention it as ‘basic,’ and drinks were sometimes disappointing, especially on the boat, where tiny cups of cheap soft drinks or powdered coffee are served. It’s a reminder that this trip leans more towards a natural experience rather than gourmet dining.

Cost-wise, at $41 per person, this tour offers solid value given the full-day nature, transportation, and included meals. It’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy the beauty of the Green Canyon without the hassle of organizing transport or activities yourself.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This boat tour is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing day amidst stunning scenery. It’s suitable for travelers who want an easy, guided experience with minimal planning. If you enjoy swimming and outdoor adventures, you’ll likely find this trip a highlight.

However, non-swimmers or those sensitive to boat movement might want to consider other options, as swimming is a significant part of the day. Also, if you’re expecting luxury amenities or gourmet food, this might not meet those expectations.

The experience offers a great mix of scenic beauty, light activity, and hassle-free logistics—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the natural landscapes without too many complications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day more convenient and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, so it’s a full-day experience with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and activities.

Can I swim in the lake?
Yes, swimming in the lake is one of the main highlights, with stops at several spots for a dip in the water.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to pack some cash if you want to buy drinks or souvenirs, as options on the boat may be limited.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly mentioned, but since swimming is involved and the boat ride can be bouncy, it’s probably better suited for older children or those comfortable in water.

What is included in the price?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat tour, lunch, soft drinks, and a guide.

What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather could impact swimming and overall enjoyment. The tour can be canceled with a full refund if done more than 24 hours in advance.

Are drinks available on the boat?
Yes, soft drinks are included, but reviews suggest the selection may be limited and not of premium quality.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a scenic, full-day escape into nature with the chance to swim, the Green Canyon boat trip from Alanya offers a worthwhile experience. The views are genuinely striking, and the relaxed pace suits travelers wanting to unwind and take in the landscapes. Just be prepared for the possibility of bumpy waters and basic amenities, especially if the weather isn’t ideal.

This tour shines brightest for those who prioritize stunning scenery and easy logistics over luxury comfort or gourmet meals. It’s a good pick for adventurous types, outdoor lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable outing that showcases the natural beauty of the region. Overall, it provides a good balance of value, scenery, and simplicity—making it a solid option in your Alanya itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: