From City of Side: Dolphins Island Boat Trip with Transfer

If you’re planning a trip to Side and looking for a day filled with sun, sea, and a touch of wildlife, this Dolphins Island boat trip is worth considering. It offers a relaxed way to explore the coast, enjoy some swimming and snorkeling, and maybe even spot dolphins in the wild — all at an accessible price point.

What really caught our eye are the affordable price of $15 per person and the full-day experience that combines scenic cruising, beach time, and a tasty onboard lunch. Plus, the transfer from and to your hotel makes it a hassle-free option. Yet, it’s worth noting that the experience is fairly laid-back, which may not appeal if you’re seeking high-adrenaline activities or a more structured tour.

The one possible consideration? The toilets on the boat reportedly aren’t the best, so if comfort is a priority during bathroom breaks, keep that in mind. This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a good balance of relaxation, scenery, and a family-friendly vibe without breaking the bank.

If you enjoy gentle cruises with opportunities to unwind, sunbathe, and maybe catch a glimpse of dolphins, then this trip might just be your ideal day out. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with children or prefer a more casual, unpressured experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At only $15 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a full day on the water.
• Relaxing Cruise: A leisurely 7-hour trip with plenty of swim and sunbathing opportunities.
• Wildlife Spotting: The chance to see dolphins in their natural environment adds a memorable touch.
• Full-day Experience: Includes transfer, lunch, and guided commentary to enhance your day.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers with children, with plenty of swimming and relaxing.
• Limited Amenities: The on-board toilets are reportedly not very clean, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This boat trip starts from your accommodation in Side, with the convenience of a hotel transfer included. Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise along the Manavgat River toward Dolphins Island. The journey itself offers the chance to admire the beautiful coastline of Side, with many passengers appreciating the calm, laid-back atmosphere.

The Cruise and Scenic Views

As you cruise, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sunbathe and relax on the deck. The boat itself is described as very nice, creating a comfortable environment for your day. Many reviews mention the crew’s friendly demeanor, which helps set a welcoming tone for the trip. Expect to see some captivating coastal landscapes, and if you’re lucky, dolphins might pay a visit, jumping and playing behind your boat — a highlight that many travelers cherish.

Swimming and Snorkeling in Clear Waters

The main draw is the stop at Dolphins Island bay, where you can jump into the crystal-clear water for swimming and snorkeling. Bring along your own snorkeling gear if you want to explore beneath the surface — the tour doesn’t provide equipment. The water here tends to be very clean, making it an inviting spot to cool off and enjoy the marine life.

The tour offers swimming breaks both in the river and the sea, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak up the sun. Many guests find these pauses ideal for unwinding, especially after some time in the sun or in the water.

Lunch and Refreshments

Midday, you’ll enjoy a lunch on the boat, generally described as a casual meal with options for drinks, ice lollies, and perhaps some light snacks. For many, this adds to the overall value, especially since food is included at this price point. The onboard staff are happy to sell additional drinks if you’re thirsty or want something extra.

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The Atmosphere and Crew

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly and welcoming crew, making the experience more enjoyable. There’s even a camera man with a parrot, offering souvenir photos — a fun touch, especially if you’re capturing family memories. The crew’s ease and friendliness add a relaxed feel to the day, perfect for those who prefer a less formal outing.

The Experience in Detail

Itinerary Breakdown

• Morning pickup and transfer from your hotel in Side.
• Departure from Manavgat River for the cruise.
• Approximately 2 hours of sailing toward Dolphins Island bay, with scenic views and a chance to watch for dolphins.
• Stop at Dolphins Island for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing — many praise the beautiful, clean water.
• Lunch on board, with options for drinks and snacks.
• Leisurely time to relax, swim, and enjoy the atmosphere.
• Return cruise back to the starting point, with a scenic route along the coast.
• Drop-off at your hotel.

Why Travelers Love It

Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. One guest mentioned, “Myself and my friends had a really good time,” appreciating the welcoming staff and the opportunity to buy photos, which they loved. Others appreciated the calm cruise, the plenty of swim breaks, and the reasonably priced experience.

Downsides to Keep in Mind

The main drawback, according to some reviews, is the toilets on the boat — they’re reportedly not very clean and most don’t flush well. If you’re sensitive about bathroom facilities, this might be a minor inconvenience. Plus, while dolphin sightings are common, they are not guaranteed — so don’t go expecting to see them every time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day without a lot of fuss. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with children or prefer a casual, family-friendly environment. The affordable price makes it appealing for budget-conscious travelers, while the full-day format offers good value for the money spent.

If your idea of a holiday includes sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying nature with some light guided commentary, this tour fits the bill. It’s less about high-energy activities and more about soaking up the atmosphere and the views.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour provides a transfer from and back to your accommodation, making it easy and convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, with the starting times available depending on the day.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Russian, so communication should be smooth for most travelers.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is possible, but you’ll need to bring your own equipment as it’s not provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, with plenty of swimming and relaxing time suitable for children.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel, swimwear, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Don’t forget your camera or waterproof phone case.

Are drinks and snacks available on the boat?
Yes, you can buy drinks, ice lollies, and snacks onboard. Some reviews mention the staff selling additional refreshments.

What about the dolphins?
While many tours feature dolphin sightings, they are not guaranteed, but many guests have been lucky enough to see them.

Final Thoughts

This Dolphins Island boat trip from Side offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy a day on the water. With scenic cruising, swimming in clean waters, and friendly guides, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a laid-back, family-friendly outing. The inclusion of transfer and lunch adds to the convenience, making it an accessible and enjoyable escape from the busy streets of Side.

If you’re after a relaxing day with chances to see wildlife, enjoy the sun, and take in beautiful coastal views, this trip could be just what you need. Just keep in mind the basic facilities on the boat and manage expectations around dolphin sightings — they’re a bonus, not a certainty.

Overall, it’s a well-reviewed tour that many find offers good value and memorable moments, especially if you appreciate simple pleasures like sunbathing, swimming, and scenic cruising.

You can check availability for your dates here: