Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip with Lunch and Soft Drinks

Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip with Lunch and Soft Drinks is a popular option for travelers exploring the Turkish Riviera. Priced at $30 per person, this experience offers a relaxed way to see the natural splendor of the Green Canyon area, with the added bonus of swimming, fishing, and a tasty lunch. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a solid choice for those looking for a scenic, uncomplicated day on the water.

What we like about this tour is its hassle-free transport, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby, and the beautiful scenery you’ll get to enjoy from the boat. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and soft drinks makes it a convenient, all-in-one outing. On the flip side, a potential downside is the length of the trip—some travelers find it longer than expected, stretching close to 9 hours, which might be a lot if you prefer more compact excursions or are traveling with young children. This tour can be a good fit if you’re after a relaxed, nature-focused day with some swimming and fishing thrown in.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences with knowledgeable guides and you’re happy to spend a full day outdoors, this might suit you well. It’s also ideal if you’d like a mix of scenic cruising and active moments like swimming and fishing, making for a varied day without too much hassle.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from your hotel makes the start of the day smooth.
• The scenic boat trip offers great views of Green Canyon, perfect for photography and soaking in the landscape.
• You’ll get time to swim and fish, adding fun and relaxation to your day.
• Lunch is included, with options like meatballs, chicken, or fish, plus drinks.
• The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy a guided, all-in-one adventure with some flexibility.

Exploring the Green Canyon Experience

Getting There and Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the hassle-free pickup, especially if you’re staying in Side. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, and it removes the headache of arranging your own transfer. The meeting point is at the Green Canyon/Oymapinar area, specifically in Akseki, Antalya, but most travelers seem to find it convenient. The pickup and drop-off timing, combined with the organized transfer, makes the start and end of this tour straightforward.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel before heading to the Oymapinar Dam, which is a nice spot for a quick photo and a warm-up for the day ahead. From there, the journey continues to Green Canyon, where the real fun begins.

Once you arrive, you’ll hop on a scenic boat to cruise around the turquoise waters of the canyon. The boat trip itself lasts about 5 hours, during which you’ll get incredible views of the canyon cliffs and water. We love the idea of just relaxing on the water, taking photos, and soaking in the scenery—all with a local guide providing info about the area.

Swimming and fishing are key highlights. The turquoise waters invite you to take a dip, and the opportunity to fish adds a little activity for those who enjoy a quiet afternoon on the water. The reviews suggest that the fishing spot is peaceful, and the chance to just float around or swim in such a scenic setting is genuinely refreshing.

The Lunch Break

After the boat trip, you’ll stop at a nearby restaurant for a delicious lunch. The menu offers familiar options like meatballs, chicken, or fish, accompanied by rice and salad—a straightforward, satisfying meal. Drinks include tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks, providing refreshments after a morning on the water. This part of the trip is praised for the quality of the meal, with some reviews calling the lunch “brilliant.”

Continuing the Adventure

Post-lunch, you’ll have time to fish again or simply relax. The boat trip continues for about 2 hours as you head back towards the starting point. The journey back offers more chances to enjoy the scenery, perhaps catch some final photos, and unwind after a full day on the water.

Additional Stop at Green Lake

On the way back, there’s a stop at Green Lake, which is described as another beautiful spot for a swim. This adds another layer of relaxation and scenery to an already scenic day, giving you another opportunity to cool off and take in the views.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer mentioned that “we loved cruising around the canyons and lake” and particularly enjoyed the opportunity to swim in such an amazing location. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, which seem to be the main selling points of this trip. Conversely, a reviewer shared that the trip lasted longer than expected, with some saying it stretched close to 9 hours, so if your time is limited, be prepared for a full-day outing.

A critical note came from someone who described the experience as “terrible”, citing a lengthy duration (8-9 hours instead of the 5-6 hours promised) and issues like toilets without water. This highlights that, as with many tours, experiences can vary, and some aspects—like timing or facilities—might not meet everyone’s expectations.

What Works Well

• The scenic views and the relaxing boat cruise are undoubtedly the highlights.
• The lunch is simple but well-received, making it a convenient, all-in-one package.
• The fishing and swimming options make the day more engaging and fun.
• The tour’s cost-effectiveness at $30 offers good value for a full day out.

Things to Consider

• The length of the trip may be longer than initially advertised—expect 8 to 9 hours.
• Facilities like toilets may be limited or not in the best condition, so plan accordingly.
• The trip might be less suited if you’re looking for a quick, shorter tour or traveling with very young children, given the long hours involved.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and fish. If you’re a nature lover and enjoy guided tours with informative guides, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. It’s also ideal for travelers who don’t mind long days and want to see the Green Canyon area without the hassle of planning all the logistics themselves.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer shorter, more intense excursions, this might feel a bit stretched out. Also, if you’re sensitive to facilities or quick bathroom access, be aware that some reviews mention limited amenities.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the transportation option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to Green Canyon in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the trip last?
The total experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, from pick-up to drop-off, so be prepared for a full day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps some snacks or money for additional drinks at the restaurant.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple lunch with options like meatballs, chicken, or fish is included, along with soft drinks, tea, or coffee.

Can I fish during the trip?
Yes, fishing is part of the experience after the boat trip, giving you a relaxing activity on the water.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Absolutely, swimming in the lake is one of the main highlights, with clear, turquoise waters waiting for you.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s a relaxing outdoor experience that could be suitable for families, but the long duration might not be ideal for very young children or those with limited stamina.

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

How many people typically join?
The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers, so it’s a reasonably intimate group but still lively.

Will I get good views?
Yes, travelers consistently mention the stunning scenery and the beautiful canyon landscapes as major draws.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day that combines boat cruising, swimming, and a tasty lunch, the Green Canyon boat trip is a solid choice. It offers a straightforward way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty without complex logistics. The included transportation makes it especially appealing if you’re staying in Side or nearby, and the opportunity to fish and swim adds a layer of fun that appeals to many travelers.

However, keep in mind that the trip can be longer than initially promised, and basic amenities like toilets might not meet high standards, so pack accordingly. It’s best suited for those who enjoy guided outdoor activities and don’t mind a full day on the water. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic escape with friendly guides and beautiful views, this tour can definitely deliver.

To sum it up, this experience offers a good balance of ease, scenery, and activity, making it a worthwhile choice if your idea of a perfect day involves water, nature, and good company. Just be prepared for a full-day outing, and you’ll likely come away with memorable moments and plenty of photos to cherish.