Antalya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch & Soft Drinks

Exploring the Green Canyon on a Boat Trip from Antalya: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day out to see Turkey’s stunning natural scenery, the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Antalya could be a solid choice. It’s billed as a relaxing cruise through tranquil waters, topped with a delicious local lunch and plenty of opportunities for swimming and wildlife spotting. With a solid 4.4/5 rating based on over 160 reviews, this tour seems to hit the mark for many travelers looking for a scenic escape.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning views of the canyon’s towering cliffs and lush greenery. Second, the value for money — including hotel transfers, a boat cruise, lunch, and unlimited soft drinks, it’s a budget-friendly way to truly enjoy nature. But it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the lunch could be better and that the coach transfer might be a bit hectic, especially if you’re prone to discomfort with fast driving. This trip feels best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic day without too many frills. It’s perfect for travelers craving natural beauty and a laid-back vibe, with easy logistics from nearby towns.

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Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Lunch served at a lakeside restaurant, with simple but tasty local dishes
• Opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters
• Unlimited soft drinks included during the boat cruise
• Duration varies between 4 to 7 hours, depending on the time slot
• Not suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues
• Good value overall, especially considering the transport and guided experience

An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Boat Trip

How the Tour Starts and What to Expect

The Green Canyon tour begins with hotel pickup—offered from several locations, including Alanya, Side, and nearby towns. The pickup itself is straightforward; drivers are known for punctuality and good communication, often sending a message the day before with more details. Once aboard the vehicle, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Turkey’s lush landscapes towards the Oymapinar Dam, the launching point for your boat adventure.

The journey from the hotel to the canyon sets the tone—relaxed and visually pleasing. The bus rides are generally comfortable, though one review pointed out a driver who was a bit distracted on the road, so keep your eyes open and your seatbelt fastened.

The Boat and Cruise Experience

Once you arrive at the starting point, you’ll board a spacious and comfortable boat. The cruise itself lasts about 5 hours, during which you’ll glide through the serene waters of the Green Canyon. As you cruise, you’ll notice how the towering cliffs and vibrant greenery create a picture-perfect landscape. The boat cruise offers ample space for relaxation, with shaded areas and plenty of room to sit back and soak in the scenery.

One highlight that many reviews celebrate is the wildlife. You might see various birds and fish, adding an element of interest to the trip. The boat crew is attentive, providing unlimited soft drinks—a simple but appreciated touch to stay refreshed during the journey.

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The Midday Stop and Lunch

Midway through the cruise, the boat anchors at a lakeside restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a local-style lunch. The meal is usually a basic but satisfying array of Turkish dishes, served at a restaurant with a view of the canyon. Reviewers consistently mention the delicious and plentiful food, although some suggest the lunch could be improved, especially in terms of beverage options (as drinks are not included with the meal).

This stop is not just about the food but also the experience of dining with a spectacular backdrop. You can sit back, eat, and admire the scenery. For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s plenty of shaded space on the boat, and swimming opportunities are available.

Swimming and Relaxation

One of the main draws of this trip is the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Green Canyon. Many travelers say the water is cool and refreshing, perfect for cooling off after some sightseeing. The boat anchors in calmer parts of the canyon for swimming, fishing, or just floating around.

Be aware that some reviews mention the quality of the lunch could be better, but most agree that the overall experience of swimming in such clear waters makes up for it. If you’re not keen on getting wet, the boat’s shaded areas provide a comfortable spot to relax and take in the views.

Returning and Drop-offs

As the day winds down, the boat slowly makes its way back to the starting point. Tour organizers generally coordinate the return pickups smoothly, and after disembarking, you’ll be transported back to your hotel or accommodation.

The entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, typically lasts between 4 to 7 hours depending on the chosen schedule. Some travelers mention the trip feels leisurely and well-paced, giving ample time to enjoy each part.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This tour is a good fit if you’re after relaxation and natural beauty rather than a highly active adventure. It offers a laid-back day with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying good food, all with minimal hassle thanks to included transportation. It’s especially suitable for those who value value for money and enjoy small group or guided experiences.

However, if you’re looking for a more gourmet meal or a tour with more adventurous activities, you might find the lunch and overall pace a bit basic. Also, those with back problems or mobility issues should consider the physical demands of the day, particularly the steps involved at the restaurant or if you prefer a more wheelchair-accessible experience.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for the weather and walking.
• Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to swim.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• If you’re picky about your meals, consider bringing some snacks or drinks, as the lunch is simple.
• Be aware that alcoholic drinks are not included in the tour and are not available during the trip, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is not suitable for those with back problems, mainly due to the physical aspects of the day and possibly the boat ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the trip last?
The duration is between 4 to 7 hours, depending on the schedule you choose when booking.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited soft drinks during the boat trip, lunch, and a professional guide.

Can I swim in the canyon?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the clear waters during the trip.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
The provided info mentions local dishes, but it doesn’t specify dietary options. It’s worth asking in advance or bringing some snacks.

Is there an age limit or suitability for children?
The tour seems suitable for most travelers, but it’s not explicitly tailored for families or young children. Be mindful of the physical requirements like boat movement and walking steps.

Are alcoholic beverages available?
No, the tour does not include alcohol, and alcohol is not permitted on the boat.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, hat, and shoes suitable for walking and water.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Not particularly. The description notes it’s not suitable for those with back problems, and some facilities involve steps.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon boat trip from Antalya offers a peaceful, scenic way to connect with Turkey’s natural beauty. It’s praised for its stunning vistas, friendly guides, and good value, especially for travelers who want a relaxed day with swimming and easy sightseeing. While it’s not a gourmet or adventure-packed tour, it hits the right notes for those craving a calm escape into nature.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-reviewed experience that balances scenery, swimming, and a taste of local cuisine, this trip could be a nice addition to your Turkey itinerary. Just keep in mind the simpler meal options and the physical aspects of the day, particularly if you’re traveling with mobility concerns.

Enjoy your trip planning, and I hope this helps you decide whether the Green Canyon boat tour is a perfect fit for your Turkish adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: