Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch From Side

If you’re considering a day out on the water exploring the stunning scenery of Green Canyon from Side, you’re probably wondering if this trip is worth it. Based on a solid mix of reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a pretty decent choice if you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise with some swimming and lunch thrown in.

What we really like about this experience? First, the stunning landscape—the emerald waters and mountain backdrop are genuinely impressive. Second, the value for money appears to be quite good, especially with included lunch, drinks, and hotel pickup. On the flip side, a potential downside is that some travelers found the boat ride a bit boring, and a few mentioned safety concerns or less-than-ideal transport conditions.

This tour might be perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely day on the water, want to see beautiful landscapes, and don’t mind a longer day of sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing rather than an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Green Canyon and the Taurus Mountains are a real highlight.
• All-in-one experience with hotel pickup, boat trip, lunch, and swimming.
• Good value for the price, especially with drinks and meals included.
• Family-friendly atmosphere, suitable for most travelers, but safety concerns are noted.
• Relaxed pace with enough time to enjoy the scenery and swim.
• Mixed reviews about the boat quality and overall excitement level—some found it a little dull or hectic.

What Is the Green Canyon Boat Trip?

This tour offers a full day of scenic cruising through one of Turkey’s most beautiful spots—Green Canyon, just outside Side. It’s a chance to enjoy emerald waters, lush greenery, and mountain vistas while relaxing on a boat, stopping for swimming, and eating a tasty local lunch. The trip is designed for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of local flavor, all wrapped into a reasonably priced package.

If you’re not looking for a wild adventure but want to soak up beautiful scenery and enjoy some downtime, this trip could be a good fit. The fact that it includes hotel pickup and drop-off makes it super convenient, especially if you’re staying in Side and don’t want to worry about logistics.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Manavgat Dam and Oymapinar Dam

The tour begins with a visit to Manavgat Dam and Oymapinar Dam. These are impressive engineering feats set amidst the landscape, offering a brief stop of about an hour. You won’t need tickets to enter, but this stop is more about the view than an in-depth tour.

What makes this interesting? For some, it’s an eye-opening reminder of the region’s natural and infrastructural landscape. Plus, it’s a nice way to stretch your legs before the boat ride kicks off.

Stop 2: Green Canyon

The highlight of the day, this part lasts around three hours. You’ll cruise through the canyon itself, passing by the Little Canyon and the impressive Oymapinar Dam. The views are truly special—deep, green waters bordered by lush banks and towering cliffs.

Many reviews mention how beautiful the scenery is. “The views were beautiful, but the boat ride for the price was not the best and it got a bit boring too,” one traveler noted. Yet, others found it relaxing and worth the trip. The boat’s size varies, but most are older vessels, which might impact comfort.

Stop 3: Lunch at a Waterfront Restaurant

After the cruise, you’ll stop for about 45 minutes at a riverside restaurant. The included lunch is generally well-received, described as a good meal in a lovely setting. Reviewers say the food is “very nice,” and the location adds a peaceful vibe to your meal.

While drinks aren’t included, you can buy beverages separately. Many travelers appreciate the chance to enjoy a meal with a view after the boat ride.

Swimming Stops

Throughout the trip, there’s time allocated for swimming in the clear, cool waters of the lakes. It’s one of the more praised aspects—people find the water refreshing and perfect for a quick dip. One reviewer mentioned, “The swim in the lake was great,” which captures how enjoyable this element can be.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From start to finish, this trip is a laid-back, scenic journey. The hotel pickup means you won’t need to worry about transportation, which is a major plus. The group size is limited to about 100 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, but enough to keep the atmosphere lively.

The boat itself is described as somewhat aged, with some reviews mentioning that the ships are “already in the years,” but it generally still functions well for the purpose. The ride lasts around three hours, providing ample time to soak in the scenery, take photos, or simply relax on deck.

One thing to keep in mind: the boat ride can be a bit boring for some, especially if you’re expecting action or excitement. The scenery makes up for it, but if you’re prone to impatience or prefer high-energy activities, this might not be your favorite.

The Food and Drinks

Lunch is included, and most find it satisfying—nothing gourmet but tasty enough in a lovely setting. Drinks, however, are not included, so budget for that if you’re thirsty. Considering the value, the meal complements the day nicely, making the cost quite reasonable, especially with the convenience of hotel pickup.

The Reviews and What They Tell Us

The majority of reviews are positive, praising the breathtaking scenery and friendly guides. “Really good trip worth every penny,” said one traveler, which echoes the general sentiment. People also appreciate the opportunity to swim and relax.

However, some reviews point out issues. A reviewer from a previous trip expressed concern about dangerous driving, which is worth noting if safety is your priority. Others found the boat ride a little dull or the whole experience less engaging than expected.

If you’re someone who values scenic beauty and a peaceful day out, this tour offers quite a bit of that. If you’re craving adventure or high-energy activities, you might find it a bit slow.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a relaxing day immersed in nature. It’s great for those who enjoy scenic views and swimming in clean waters. Families or groups who prefer a laid-back atmosphere will find it suitable, especially with hotel pickup making logistics easier.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a thrill or a more modern boat experience, or if safety concerns about older vessels bother you. But if you’re happy with a comfortable, scenic cruise that offers good value, this could be just the right fit.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers a scenic, reasonably priced way to experience Turkey’s beautiful natural setting. The inclusion of lunch, swimming, and hotel pickup makes it convenient, and the views of the canyon and mountains are genuinely worth seeing.

While the boat quality may not be top-of-the-line, many find the overall experience relaxing and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to see the countryside, unwind on the water, and enjoy some swimming, this trip fits the bill well.

That said, if you’re expecting high-energy activities or modern comforts, you might want to consider other options. But for a scenic, laid-back day out, this tour delivers on its promises—especially if you’re keen to soak up the natural beauty of Green Canyon.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

What is the main attraction?
The highlight is cruising through Green Canyon, enjoying the lush scenery and mountain views.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages separately during the trip or at the restaurant.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
The boats are described as somewhat aged, which might affect comfort. Some travelers found the boat a little boring, but it still serves its purpose for sightseeing.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there are stops for swimming in the lake’s cool waters, which many travelers really enjoy.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Generally, yes. It’s suitable for most travelers, including families, but safety concerns with older vessels should be considered.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $49.21 per person, offering good value given the included lunch and transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Since drinks aren’t included, consider bringing water or purchasing beverages during the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, bookings are refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for your plans.

This trip offers a relaxed, scenic escape from Side that’s well worth considering if you want to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty without too much fuss.