Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer

If you’re planning a day on the water near Side, Turkey, you might have come across the Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip. We’ve looked into what this experience offers to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money. While the trip promises fun, scenic views, and the chance to see dolphins, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for—especially since reviews are mixed.

What we love about this tour is the value for the price—at around $22 per person, it includes hotel transfers, a hearty lunch, and a fun-packed day. Plus, the opportunity to catch glimpses of dolphins and other marine life is a real highlight. On the flip side, some reviews mention issues like cleanliness and mismatched expectations, so factor that into your decision. This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed day at sea with a touch of adventure, especially if you’re after a budget-friendly option with plenty of activities.

Key Points

• Affordable price point with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Multiple swim stops with opportunities to explore both the sea and river waters
• Includes lunch with options like barbecue chicken or fish, plus salads and bread
• Entertainment options, including foam parties and lively music, keep the vibe lively
• Mixed reviews on boat cleanliness and authenticity of the advertised experience
• Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, fun day out on the water with scenic views and some entertainment

What to Expect from the Tour

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip is a full-day activity lasting roughly 6 to 7 hours. It kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickups, which makes life easier—you won’t need to hunt for the departure point. After a short drive (about 7 km) to Kumköy beach, you’ll board a boat that becomes your floating playground for the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Departure from Side
Once aboard, you’ll immediately sense the relaxed boat vibe. The boat is equipped for entertainment, with foam parties and music to set a lively atmosphere. As you sail towards the first swim stop, you’ll get views of Side’s coastline and some historic sights, including the Manavgat River, the old port, and the Temple of Apollo. These sights are visible from the water and add a touch of local history to your voyage.

Stop 2: Kumkoy and the River Mouth
This is where the trip gets interesting. You’ll have a chance for an optional swim at the river’s mouth, where cold river waters meet the warm Mediterranean. Here, you can choose to swim in the river or in the sea—an experience many reviews find enjoyable, especially as the water’s contrast adds a unique element. The scenery is peaceful, and it’s a chance to cool off before lunch.

Lunch Break
Midway through the trip, a delicious barbecue lunch is served aboard the boat. The menu features barbecued chicken or fish, accompanied by rice, salads, and fresh bread. Many travelers comment positively on the simple but tasty food, considering it enough to fuel the rest of the day. For some, this meal is a highlight, especially given the price point.

Stop 3: Dolphin Island and Scenic Views
After lunch, the boat heads toward Dolphin Island, a small spot famed for its natural beauty. While actual dolphin sightings depend on luck, the chance to enjoy a peaceful island setting and maybe see some marine life is appealing. Several reviews mention the thrill of possibly seeing dolphins in the wild during the trip, which remains a big draw for many.

Final Stop: Kumköy Beach and Return
The trip wraps up back at Kumköy beach, where the boat docks. From here, comfortable vehicles are waiting to take you back to your hotel, finishing a long but memorable day at sea.

The Experience and What You Will Love

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the views. Passing along the coast, you’ll get glimpses of Side’s ancient sites from the water, which many find a refreshing change from busy beaches. Onboard entertainment, like the foam party and music, keeps the energy lively and makes it feel like a fun group outing rather than a dull cruise.

The food is another bright spot. Many reviews note that the lunch, prepared on the boat, is simple but satisfying—meat or fish with rice and salads. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that keeps hunger at bay while you relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The swimming stops are well-liked, especially the chance to swim in both the river and the sea. Travelers appreciate how the cold river waters contrast with the warm Mediterranean, providing a refreshing experience. Plus, the safety measures, such as life jackets, are reassuring, especially for less confident swimmers.

Some reviews highlight the friendly staff and the overall good vibe onboard. The hosts seem genuinely engaged, making efforts to entertain and look after everyone, whether kids or adults. The foam party, in particular, is a hit among families or those young at heart.

What Could Be Better

Despite the positives, some travelers have expressed concerns. The most recurring complaint involves the cleanliness of the boat. One reviewer described it as “filthy” with a foul smell, citing litter and unclean conditions, which definitely detracts from the experience. If hygiene is a big concern for you, this might be worth considering.

Plus, a few reviews mention the advertised dolphin sightings being less reliable. While some travelers are lucky and see dolphins, others do not, which might lead to disappointment if your main goal is wildlife viewing. The experience also seems somewhat dependent on weather conditions and luck.

Another point to consider is the entertainment onboard. Some travelers found the music too loud or the vibe too “kid-centric,” especially on the pirate-themed trips. It’s worth noting that some reviews describe the tour as more suited for children, with pirate games and discos dominating the scene.

Price-wise, though the trip is inexpensive, it’s important to remember that drinks are not included and need to be purchased onboard. Several reviews suggest that drinks could be cheaper, especially considering the lively atmosphere and constant sales on the boat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip appeals most to those seeking an affordable, fun-filled day at sea with scenic views and a chance to cool off in different waters. It’s well-suited for families with children who enjoy lively entertainment and simple meals. If you’re after wildlife watching, authentic dolphin sightings, or a luxurious experience, this might not meet your expectations.

Travelers who value good value for money and don’t mind some unpredictability (like cleanliness or wildlife sightings) will find this tour a worthwhile option. It’s a relaxed, social experience that offers plenty of opportunities to swim, eat, and enjoy the sunshine—perfect for a laid-back day in Side.

Final Thoughts

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip is a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a day on the water. At around $22, it packs in multiple swim stops, entertainment, and a hearty lunch, making it a decent deal overall. The scenic views of the coast, combined with the chance to see dolphins (if luck is on your side), add to its appeal.

However, the mixed reviews reflect that it’s not perfect—issues with cleanliness and the reliability of dolphin sightings mean expectations should be tempered. If you’re flexible and looking for a lively, budget-friendly activity that offers fun, sun, and some adventure, this trip could be a good fit.

For those more concerned about pristine conditions or wildlife, consider alternative options or be prepared for some variability. But if a lively day out on a boat with good company and scenic views sounds like your idea of fun, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easier to enjoy the day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the trip last?
It generally lasts about 6 to 7 hours, starting around 8:30 am with a return to your hotel afterward.

What’s the price?
The tour costs approximately $22 per person, which includes lunch and transfers. Drinks are extra and available for purchase onboard.

Are there multiple swim stops?
Yes, there are three swim stops, including opportunities to swim in the sea and at the river mouth, depending on the weather and conditions.

What’s included in the lunch?
A simple but tasty meal with barbecue chicken or fish, rice, salad, and bread is served on the boat.

Can I see dolphins?
While some travelers have been lucky, dolphin sightings are not guaranteed and depend on nature and timing.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention the trip being engaging for families, especially with activities like foam parties and pirate-themed entertainment.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for extras like drinks or souvenirs.

Is the boat clean?
Reviews vary; some travelers have expressed concerns about cleanliness. If hygiene is a priority, you might want to keep that in mind.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This trip offers a blend of scenic views, entertainment, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a straightforward, lively day out on the water near Side. Just go with realistic expectations, and you’re likely to have a memorable experience.