Side/Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip w/Unlimited Soft Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to escape the bustling crowds during your holiday in Side or Alanya, a Green Canyon boat trip might just be what you need. We’ve looked into this experience, and it seems like a pretty solid option for those craving a taste of Turkey’s natural wonders without the chaos.

What we really like about this trip is how it offers a relaxing day on the water with unlimited soft drinks and scenic views, making it perfect for anyone wanting a break from busy sightseeing. Plus, the stops at the Oymapinar Dam and the Little Canyon add a touch of historical and natural intrigue.

One thing to keep in mind is that the trip can be quite lengthy—up to 7.5 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, leisurely day rather than those on a tight schedule. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers, groups, or anyone who wants to combine a boat cruise with some scenic hiking and swimming.

All in all, if you’re after a peaceful, picturesque day out that balances boat time, tasty food, and a glimpse of impressive landscapes, this trip could be a good choice. Let’s break down what you can expect in more detail.

Key Points

• Relaxing escape from busy tourist spots with scenic lakes and waters
• Includes a boat cruise over a 14 km route through Green Canyon
• Unlimited soft drinks and a hearty lunch are part of the package
• Stops at Oymapinar Dam, including a Roman bridge and dam lake views
• Two-hour swimming break in turquoise waters—great for cooling off
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Guided experience available in multiple languages
• Suitable for those who enjoy nature, scenic views, and relaxing activities

This tour is designed as a full-day outing that takes you away from the crowds and into Turkey’s stunning natural scenery. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup, you’ll be driven to the first highlight: the Oymapinar Dam. It’s Turkey’s fifth-largest dam, holding both water and electricity needs for the region, but it’s also a visual treat with its impressive size and the ancient Roman bridge crossing nearby.

From there, the real adventure begins with a 14 km boat cruise through the Green Canyon. This part of the trip is all about enjoying the tranquil landscape—imagine emerald-green waters framing rugged cliffs and lush greenery. It’s a picture-perfect setting that’s as relaxing as it is stunning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Oymapinar Dam and Roman Bridge

The visit to the Oymapinar Dam is more than just a photo stop. It’s a chance to appreciate the engineering marvel that supplies much of the region’s water and power. The highlight here is the ancient Roman bridge that dates back around 2000 years, offering a tangible link to the past amid the modern landscape.

Expect a short break to snap some photos and take in the scenery. Many travelers find this stop to be a peaceful introduction to the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a reminder that this part of Turkey is rich in history and natural wonder, all in one place.

Cruising Green Canyon: Views and Serenity

Once on the water, you’ll settle in for a two-hour cruise across the lake. The boat is comfortable, and the views are breathtaking. You’ll be able to snap some photos of the rugged cliffs, shimmering waters, and verdant surroundings.

The atmosphere on the boat is laid-back, with unlimited soft drinks flowing to keep you refreshed. According to reviews, the crew is friendly and attentive, making the experience feel special without feeling overly commercial.

This cruise isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a chance to unwind, soak in the scenery, and think about how such a beautiful landscape was shaped over time. Many guests find this part of the trip to be the highlight, especially if they love nature and photography.

Swimming Break in Turquoise Waters

After the boat cruise, you’ll get a short swimming break. The lake’s waters are a lovely turquoise hue, making it an inviting spot for a quick dip. Travelers who love swimming or just want to cool off will appreciate this pause. It’s a good chance to relax, take in the views, or even snap a few more photos.

One review noted, “The turquoise waters of the lake will make your experience memorable, as you will be swimming surrounded by the beauty of nature.” Just remember, if you’re not comfortable with swimming or have mobility issues, be aware that there might be some uneven surfaces around the stops.

Lunch at the Lakeside Restaurant

Refreshed from the swim, the tour continues with a lunch break at a lakeside restaurant. The menu features simple but tasty options: barbecued chicken, meatballs, fish, pasta, salad, and fruit. Many travelers find the meal to be decent, especially considering it’s included in the price.

The views from the restaurant are stunning, with the lake and canyon providing a peaceful backdrop. There’s also the option to relax, swim again, or explore the area a bit more before heading back to the boat.

It’s worth noting that drinks during lunch are not included, but they are available at reasonable prices. For those wanting more than soft drinks, you might want to bring extra cash, especially if you’d like a cold beer or other beverages.

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Activities and Free Time

After lunch, you’re free to enjoy the surroundings. If you’re feeling active, you can use equipment like canoes and fishing rods provided on the boat, or simply relax and take in the peaceful setting.

One review mentioned the availability of lake activities, which adds a fun element for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. Another said, “You can swim in the lake and admire nature,” emphasizing that this trip is about unwinding amid beautiful scenery.

The Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat departs for the return trip, heading back toward the starting point. After a 75-minute van ride, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, ending a day full of sights, relaxation, and good food.

The whole experience lasts between 4 and 7.5 hours, depending on the specific option you choose and traffic conditions. It’s a full day, but most travelers find it well worth the time.

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation. The boat cruise features guiding services in multiple languages, including English, German, and Russian, which helps make the experience more engaging and informative.

Soft drinks are unlimited on the boat, providing a good refreshment option, but alcoholic drinks are not included and are not permitted during the cruise, which keeps the atmosphere family-friendly and safe.

The tour is suitable for most people, though it’s not recommended for those over 95 years old or with mobility issues, given the uneven stairs and terrain around the lunch area.

Guests generally rate this experience quite positively, with an average of 4.4 out of 5 based on 43 reviews. Many praise the friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.

Heidi called it an “excellent tour,” appreciating the efficiency of the booking process and the “beautiful place to visit.” Ian highlighted the fantastic boat staff and the well-looked-after guests, emphasizing the amazing overall experience. Emma pointed out the spectacular scenery and the good value, despite some minor issues with stairs and limited info during the cruise.

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape in Turkey’s natural landscape. It suits travelers who want a relaxing day on the water with moderate activity, such as swimming and light walking.

It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate good food, friendly guides, and a chance to learn a bit about Turkey’s engineering feats and ancient history. If you’re traveling with others who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure, this could fit the bill perfectly.

The Green Canyon Boat Trip offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, leisurely activities, and good food. While it’s a lengthy day, most participants find the scenery and peaceful ambiance worth every minute. The inclusion of soft drinks and a hearty lunch adds value, especially considering the overall price.

If you’re craving an escape from the crowds and want to spend your day immersed in nature’s wonders, this experience is worth considering. It’s particularly appealing for those who love photography, swimming, and nature-based relaxation.

However, if you’re not comfortable with uneven terrains or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting the potential challenges around access and stairs. Overall, it’s a trip that offers a genuine, scenic taste of Turkey’s natural landscape, with friendly guides and plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Is the tour suitable for children? The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the uneven stairs and terrain, it might be best for children who are comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor activities.

Are drinks included during the boat cruise? Yes, unlimited soft drinks are available on the boat, but alcoholic drinks are not included and are not permitted onboard.

How long does the whole trip last? The duration is between 4 and 7.5 hours, depending on the selected option and traffic conditions.

Is lunch included? Yes, a lakeside lunch with options like chicken, meatballs, or fish, plus salad and fruit is included.

Can I bring extra drinks or snacks? The tour includes soft drinks, but you might want to bring extra cash if you want additional beverages or snacks from the restaurant.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, German, and Russian, helping non-native speakers enjoy the experience.

Is the tour available for late bookings? Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the trip.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old, likely due to mobility and comfort considerations.

This Green Canyon boat trip from Side and Alanya offers a calm, scenic retreat with just enough activity to keep it engaging. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy Turkey’s natural landscapes without sacrificing comfort or good food. Just pack your camera, bring some extra cash if you want drinks, and prepare for a relaxing day that balances views, swimming, and a hearty meal.

You can check availability for your dates here: