Green Canyon Boat Trip With Lunch and Drinks From Side , Manavgat

Exploring the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Turkey’s stunning landscape, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side might catch your eye. Based on various traveler reviews and the tour details, it seems to offer a peaceful escape into nature with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy a good meal, and take in breathtaking scenery.

What I really like about this experience is its balance: it combines a scenic boat cruise with a nice lunch, and the setting—Oymapnar Dam—is genuinely picturesque. Plus, the tour is quite budget-friendly at just under $14 per person, which makes it appealing whether you’re traveling solo or with a small group.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the overall length—about 7 to 9 hours—so it’s a full day, and some travelers might find themselves a bit tired after all the cruising and sightseeing. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature, leisurely activities, and don’t mind spending a good chunk of the day outdoors. Families or travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic trip will likely find this experience hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $13.88, this tour offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, food, and fun.
• Beautiful Scenery: From the Taurus mountains to the green reservoir, the views are consistently praised as stunning and peaceful.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Transfers, a boat cruise, guiding, lunch, and soft drinks are included—making it a smooth experience without hidden costs.
• Flexible Experience: Stops for swimming and fishing add a playful touch, great for those wanting more than just a boat ride.
• Well-Organized: Multiple reviews highlight how smoothly everything is managed, from booking to the actual day.
• Limited Personal Spendings: Since most essentials are covered, you won’t need to worry about extra expenses unless you want souvenirs or additional snacks.

Setting Out on the Green Canyon Adventure

The tour kicks off early, with pickups starting around 8:00 am, so you can expect a prompt start. The transportation is included both ways, which is a relief, sparing you the hassle of figuring out logistics. Once you arrive, you’ll step aboard a boat that’s described as both comfortable and well-organized, with the opportunity to take in the incredible scenery on the reservoir in the Taurus mountains.

The boat cruise itself is the core of this experience. Travelers consistently describe it as “relaxing” and “incredible,” with some reviews mentioning the “great atmosphere” on board. The boat, often called Kanion 6 in reviews, offers enough space for everyone, and the gentle cruise allows you to unwind while soaking in the lush surroundings.

The Green Canyon and Oymapnar Dam

The main highlight is the Green Canyon, which is actually a rare site in Turkey where boat trips are allowed on a dam lake within a canyon. The views here are not just pretty—they’re often described as “stunningly beautiful,” making it a perfect spot for photos or just marveling at nature’s handiwork.

You’ll pass through the only dam lake in Turkey that permits boat trips, which adds a special touch to your journey. The calm waters and the towering canyon walls create a serene atmosphere that many travelers find deeply calming.

Near the canyon, the tour stops for a little break—here, you can try your hand at fishing, and some reviews mention swimming as well. These stops are flexible, giving you a chance to dip your toes in or enjoy a peaceful moment on the water.

Oymapnar Dam is also a part of this trip, located about 23 km from Manavgat. Built to generate electricity, it’s a fascinating site as part of Turkey’s energy infrastructure, and it contributes to the tour’s overall appeal. Many travelers appreciate understanding the purpose of the dam while enjoying the lush surroundings.

Lunch and Refreshments

One of the real treats on this tour is the lunch. Set in a restaurant overlooking the lake, the meal is described as tasty and well-organized, with some reviews mentioning a buffet-style setup. You’ll get to taste local delicacies, which adds flavor to the day beyond just the scenery.

Soft drinks are included, so you stay refreshed without worrying about carrying extra drinks. The meal’s quality and the location are consistently praised, making the entire experience feel well thought out.

The Fishing and Swimming Opportunity

A bonus for many travelers is the chance to fish and swim during the stops. While some might use fishing as a relaxing activity, others may just enjoy the opportunity to cool off in the water. The gentle nature of the cruise makes it feel like a true escape, and these breaks help avoid feeling rushed during the day.

Based on reviews, even young children seem to enjoy fishing, and families have found this trip to be a peaceful, enjoyable outing. Just keep in mind that the focus is on the scenery and relaxation—it’s not a high-energy adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a calm, scenic day that combines nature, leisurely cruising, and some local flavor. It’s suited for those who appreciate tranquility, beautiful landscapes, and simple pleasures like good food and a gentle boat ride.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a break from busy sightseeing, this is a perfect choice. It’s also a solid option for travelers who value affordability—given the high praise for the organization and the quality of the experience at such a low price.

Keep in mind, it’s a long day, so if you prefer a quick outing or aren’t comfortable with a full day of outdoor activities, you might want to consider other options. Also, it’s worth noting that the tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re looking for adventure-packed activities, this isn’t it.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The itinerary is straightforward: pickup, boat cruise, scenic stops, lunch, and return. The boat cruise lasts around 6 hours, with additional time onshore for the dam visit and breaks. The total duration typically stretches to 7-9 hours, so be prepared for a full day out.

Most reviews mention that the tour runs smoothly, with well-organized pickups and a friendly guiding service. The small group size—up to 100 travelers—keeps the experience intimate enough to feel personal, yet lively enough to enjoy some camaraderie.

The cost is very reasonable considering everything included: transfers, the boat trip, lunch, and drinks. You may want to bring some extra money for personal spendings or souvenirs, but overall, it’s excellent value for the experience.

Final Thoughts

If you love scenic lakes, gentle boat cruises, and a chance to relax amid nature, this Green Canyon tour offers a lot of what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to see a beautiful part of Turkey without the hassle of organizing multiple activities yourself. The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-managed, enjoyable experience that leaves visitors feeling refreshed and glad they visited.

While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, the tranquil waters, stunning views, and tasty lunch make it perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty. The tour’s affordability and solid organization make it a dependable choice, especially if you want a stress-free day with plenty of photo opportunities and downtime.

This trip is best suited for relaxed travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, budget-friendly outing. It’s a chance to pause, take in the scenery, and enjoy a peaceful day on Turkey’s scenic dam lakes.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, both way transfer to and from your hotel is included, making it easy to just relax and enjoy the day.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, so be ready early for pickup.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, with additional time for stops and the return journey, totaling about 7 to 9 hours.

Are drinks and meals included?
Yes, soft drinks and a tasty lunch are included, served at a restaurant with a view of the lake.

Can I fish or swim during the trip?
Absolutely. The stops are designed for fishing and swimming, giving you a chance to cool off or relax in the water.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, reviews mention children enjoying fishing and the peaceful scenery, so it can work well for families looking for a calm day out.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is around $13.88 per person, offering good value considering all included amenities.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book about 17 days ahead, but last-minute bookings might still be possible depending on availability.

In all, if you’re after a relaxing boat trip combined with beautiful scenery and good food at a budget-friendly price, this Green Canyon tour from Side is definitely worth considering.