Green Canyon Boat Tour from Antalya, Side & Alanya

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey’s southwestern coast, chances are you’ll want to explore some of the most breathtaking natural spots nearby. One tour that often comes recommended is the Green Canyon Boat Tour departing from Antalya, Side, or Alanya. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve looked into what makes it a popular choice and tailored it to give you a clear picture of what you might experience.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines relaxation with natural beauty — a perfect escape from busy resort life. The chance to swim in clear waters and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch sounds particularly appealing. Another feature I appreciate is the fishing opportunity, with equipment provided free of charge, adding a bit of light adventure to the day.

That said, a possible consideration is that the tour lasts around 7.5 to 8 hours, which might be a long day if you’re not used to boat trips or if you prefer more active, land-based excursions. It’s also worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so accessibility could be a concern.

This experience seems best suited for nature lovers, couples, families, and anyone craving a peaceful day immersed in stunning scenery. If you enjoy gentle boat cruises, scenic views, and laid-back days, this might just be a great fit for you.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Expect panoramic views of towering cliffs and untouched forests within the Taurus Mountains.
• Relaxing swim stops: Crystal-clear waters at Big Canyon and Small Canyon make for perfect cooling-off moments.
• Includes lunch and drinks: A well-rounded buffet featuring grilled dishes, salads, and fruits, with soft drinks included.
• Light adventure: Opportunities for fishing and swimming make the trip engaging without being overly strenuous.
• Family friendly: Suitable for those seeking a peaceful, scenic day out; not ideal for wheelchair users.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve with a pay-later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Green Canyon Boat Tour

If you’re after a leisurely yet memorable day surrounded by natural beauty, the Green Canyon boat tour offers a solid choice. The journey starts with a pickup from your hotel, which is included in the package, making logistics hassle-free. You’ll be told your pickup time a day beforehand, so you can plan your morning with ease.

The Departure and Early Journey

The tour begins between 10:00 and 10:30 am, giving you a late-morning start to enjoy your day without rushing. Once aboard the boat, you’ll immediately sense the tranquility of your surroundings. As you cruise into the canyon, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of cliffs rising up to 100 meters and dense greenery. Imagine the sheer scale of the Taurus Mountains surrounding you, creating a stunning backdrop for your day.

The Big Canyon Stop

One of the highlights is the Big Canyon, where you’ll get a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Many reviews mention how refreshing and peaceful this swim is, with the water so clear you can see straight to the bottom. This stop is perfect for cooling off and snapping some memorable photos. The calm waters here are also ideal if you’re interested in some light fishing, with equipment provided for free, including bait and rods.

The Lakeside Lunch

Later, the boat takes you to a lakeside restaurant for lunch, which many travelers find surprisingly good value. The buffet includes cold appetizers, salads, fruits, and grilled main dishes like chicken, meatballs, or fish. Soft drinks are available both onboard and during the meal, making it easy to stay refreshed. Several reviews praise the lunch as “delicious” and “well-prepared,” especially considering it’s included in the tour price. It’s a nice break from the water activities and offers a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers.

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The Small Canyon and Free Time

Post-lunch, you’ll head to the Small Canyon, quieter and more serene. Here, you can decide whether to swim again, relax, or try your hand at fishing. The calm waters and peaceful environment are a real highlight, especially if you’re looking for some downtime amid scenic surroundings. Many mention how tranquil and scenic this part of the trip is, giving a true sense of escape.

End of the Day and Return

The boat returns to the pier around 3:30 pm, wrapping up what travelers describe as a peaceful, scenic, and enjoyable day. Several reviews note that the experience offers a good balance of activity and relaxation without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

What the Reviews Say

Although only three reviews are available, they paint a consistent picture of stunning scenery being the main draw. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the canyon was so peaceful and the scenery was just breathtaking.” Others appreciate the crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim multiple times, which keeps the experience lively and engaging.

A common highlight is the lunch buffet, which is described as “good quality” and “more than I expected for a tour meal.” The inclusion of soft drinks throughout the day is also appreciated, adding value and comfort.

However, some note that the timing can be long, especially if you’re not a big fan of boat trips. Also, it’s important to be comfortable on a boat for several hours, as some reviews mentioned feeling a bit tired by the end of the day.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Timing: Expect a full day, from roughly 10:00 am to around 3:30 pm. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for those looking to avoid hectic schedules.

Transportation: Included pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Antalya, Side, or Alanya.

Group Size: While not explicitly detailed, tours like this tend to have a moderate group size, allowing for a more intimate experience but still social.

Price and Value: Given the included lunch, soft drinks, fishing gear, and scenic stops, the price seems fair for a day immersed in nature. It’s a good option for travelers wanting a scenic water-based excursion without extra costs piling up.

Accessibility: Keep in mind this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves natural beauty, enjoys peaceful boat rides, and wants to cool off in clear waters, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s suitable for couples, families, and anyone seeking a gentle escape into nature. If your idea of a perfect day includes scenery, swimming, and good food, you’ll likely find this tour quite satisfying.

On the flip side, if you prefer active land-based adventures or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re looking for a more intense or adventure-heavy experience, this calm, scenic cruise might feel a bit too relaxed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7.5 to 8 hours, typically starting around 10:00 am and returning around 3:30 pm, so it’s a full and relaxed day.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes hotel pickup (from Antalya, Side, or Alanya), soft drinks, a buffet lunch with grilled dishes, and fishing equipment if you want to try your luck.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tours are generally peaceful and family-friendly, keep in mind it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour, and the long boat ride might be tiring for very young children or those who prefer land-based activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility for last-minute changes.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a camera for photos, and sunscreen to stay protected during the day.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

Will I get a chance to swim?
Absolutely. The stops at Big Canyon and Small Canyon are perfect for swimming in clear, calm waters.

What’s the atmosphere like?
Most reviews describe a peaceful, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature, rather than high-energy activities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re drawn to scenic boat rides, panoramic mountain views, and peaceful swimming stops, the Green Canyon Boat Tour could be a wonderful choice. It offers a well-rounded, relaxed day in nature with the convenience of included meals and equipment. While it might not satisfy those craving high-adventure or complex itineraries, it’s a genuinely calming way to experience Turkey’s impressive natural landscape.

For anyone who appreciates stunning views, serene waters, and simple pleasures like good food and a calming boat ride, this tour provides an experience worth considering. It’s especially ideal if you want to spend a full day away from the crowds, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature.

In summary, the Green Canyon Boat Tour from Antalya, Side, and Alanya is best suited for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic escape. It’s about relaxing amid incredible views, enjoying some light swimming and fishing, and savoring a tasty lunch in the middle of nature’s quiet grandeur. For a peaceful day in the mountains and lakes, this tour delivers on its promise beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here: