The Turkish Riviera is famous for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and warm Mediterranean sunshine. It’s no surprise that boat tours and cruises are among the most popular ways to experience this region. Whether you’re after a quick sightseeing trip, a relaxing day on the water, or an adventure into lesser-known natural wonders, there’s a cruise for you. Personally, I love the mix of historical sights and natural beauty—like visiting Antalya’s ancient sites combined with a boat ride, or drifting through the vibrant Green Canyon. These experiences give you a different perspective of the region that land-based visits simply can’t match.
In this list, you’ll find options for all budgets and interests. From a comprehensive day tour of Antalya that combines city sightseeing, waterfalls, and a traditional Turkish lunch, to a more relaxed day at Green Canyon with swimming and unlimited soft drinks, each offers something unique. For those seeking a longer adventure with opportunities for fishing and exploring secluded coves, there’s also a full-day Green Canyon trip. These tours are designed to help you make the most of your time on the water while soaking up the scenery in style.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of the best boat tours & cruises in the Turkish Riviera. We cover what makes each unique, who it’s perfect for, and practical tips to help you choose the right one.
1. Antalya: City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch
At number one, this comprehensive day tour in Antalya combines city sightseeing with a scenic boat cruise and a traditional Turkish lunch. For about $75.41 per person, you’ll spend around 6 to 7 hours exploring the highlights of this historic city, making it an ideal choice if you want a well-rounded experience. The tour starts with comfortable, air-conditioned transportation from your hotel, which means no hassle navigating busy streets or parking. You’ll get a detailed commentary as you visit key sites like the Old Town, Hadrian’s Gate, and the Marina, bringing the city’s stories alive.
What really sets this tour apart is the visit to Duden Waterfalls, including both the Upper and Lower falls. These stunning waterfalls are a favorite spot for their natural beauty and photo opportunities. You’ll also have time to shop and enjoy a Turkish lunch that adds a flavorful touch to your day. The guide’s engaging storytelling, combined with easy access to Antalya’s top sights, makes this a good pick for history lovers and first-time visitors wanting a taste of everything. Reviewers mention the excellent guide and the value for money, noting how smoothly the day runs from start to finish.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a full, hassle-free introduction to Antalya’s sights, nature, and cuisine all in one day.
2. Green Canyon Boat Trip from Alanya with Unlimited Soft Drinks
Number two on our list is the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Alanya, a five-star-rated experience for its stunning scenery and relaxed pace. For just $25.00 per person, this 9-hour trip is perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature. The trip starts early, with pickup from your hotel around 08:30 and takes about two hours to reach the canyon. Once there, you’ll cruise along the turquoise waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery—truly a picture-perfect setting.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and explore hidden caves in the calm waters of Green Canyon. The boat has unlimited soft drinks, so you can stay refreshed as you take in the views. The trip is very much about relaxation and appreciating the natural environment, with plenty of time for swimming and photo-taking. The friendly guides share insights about the canyon’s geology and marine life, enriching the experience. Reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and the good value, especially considering the included drinks and swimming stops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful cruise through one of Turkey’s most beautiful natural spots, with plenty of time to swim and relax.
3. Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip with Lunch and Soft Drinks
For around $30.00, the Green Canyon 5-hour boat trip offers a shorter, more budget-friendly way to experience Turkey’s famous natural wonder. This tour is about 8 to 9 hours long, making it suitable for travelers who want a taste of Green Canyon without a full day commitment. Starting with hotel pickup, the trip includes a scenic boat ride across Green Canyon, where you’ll see the vivid green waters and striking limestone cliffs.
What makes this trip unique is the combination of fishing, swimming, and sightseeing. After the boat ride, you’ll stop at Green Lake to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch including options like meatballs, chicken, or fish, along with rice and salad. Drinks such as tea, coffee, water, and soft drinks are included, making it a very convenient day out. The guide provides local insights, helping you understand the area’s geology and history. The opportunity to fish and swim makes this a fun, active choice for those who want more than just a scenic cruise.
Reviewers mention the beautiful views and the relaxed pace, making it a good option for families or travelers short on time. The only drawback is the slightly shorter duration, which may limit time in the canyon.
Bottom Line: A balanced, value-packed tour for those wanting a shorter but still memorable boat trip with swimming and fishing.
How to Choose Your Ideal Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour or cruise in the Turkish Riviera, consider your priorities: Are you after a full-day adventure with city sights and waterfalls? Or do you prefer a relaxing scenic cruise with swimming and nature exploration? The Antalya city tour offers a well-rounded experience, perfect for first-timers wanting to see the highlights, while the Green Canyon trips cater to lovers of tranquility and natural beauty.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at the Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip for its affordability and inclusion of lunch and activities. If you want a more immersive experience, the full-day Antalya tour provides a deeper dive into the region’s history, culture, and scenery, including a Turkish lunch and waterfall visits.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, and consider your fitness level—some tours involve a fair amount of walking or swimming, but most are accessible to most travelers. Think about the kind of day you want: sightseeing, relaxation, or adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Turkish Riviera offers a rich pool of boat tours and cruises suited to all tastes and budgets. If you’re after a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience, the Antalya city tour with its waterfalls and historic sights is a standout. For a more laid-back day with swimming and stunning views, the Green Canyon trips deliver serenity and natural beauty — at a price that’s hard to beat.
For travelers seeking a shorter but memorable water adventure, the Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip strikes a good balance. Whichever you choose, these tours promise memorable moments and fantastic scenery. Remember to book early, pack your sunscreen, and don’t forget your camera—these waterscapes are hard to beat.
Enjoy your time on Turkey’s beautiful waters, and happy sailing!