Manavgat and Side Boat Trip with Dolphins Island incl. Lunch

Imagine a day spent aboard a traditional Turkish gulet, cruising the turquoise waters along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast. For around 7 hours, you’ll explore Dolphins Island, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, all while soaking up incredible scenery. This trip is well-suited for families, couples, or anyone looking for a laid-back day at sea. Priced at just $31.93 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the included lunch and local guide.

What we love about this tour is the relaxed pace—plenty of stops for swimming and a chance to spot marine life, including dolphins if luck is on your side. Plus, the friendly crew and the opportunity to enjoy a tasty local meal make this experience stand out. On the downside, some travelers mention that the music can be loud and that over-crowding might diminish the experience. Still, for a family seeking a memorable day with water activities, this is a solid choice.

This trip is best for those who want a balance of relaxation and fun—perfect for families with children, people who love the water, and travelers eager to enjoy Turkey’s coastal beauty without a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate experience, keep in mind that some reviews mention large crowds and loud music.

Key Points

• Affordable and Family-Friendly: Great value at just under $32, with options for kids and adults.
• Multiple Swim Stops: Opportunities to snorkel and dip in the sea at various points.
• Delicious Lunch Included: Tasty local dishes served on board—vegetarian options available.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Plenty of shaded and sun-exposed spots to lounge or soak up the sun.
• Marine Wildlife Spotting: Potential to see dolphins and sea turtles, adding a magical touch.
• Crowd Considerations: The boat can be busy, with up to 45 travelers, and some reviews mention loud music.

Setting Sail from Side

Starting at 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up (if the option is chosen) from your hotel and taken to the Boatsanleger Manavgat. From here, the adventure begins aboard a traditional Turkish gulet—a wooden sailing vessel that exudes charm and authenticity. The boat isn’t a sleek modern yacht but rather a vessel that feels like stepping into a piece of Turkey’s maritime culture.

Once aboard, we appreciated how the crew creates an inviting space. The boat offers ample shade, which is a blessing on hot days, along with sunbathing spots for those who want a tan. The open bar is available throughout the cruise, though alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately. The group size varies, but generally, it stays manageable—around 45 travelers—which helps in creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Cruising the Coastline and the First Stop

As we set out into the Mediterranean, the scenery unfolds—rocky coastlines, lush greenery, and sparkling waters. The cruise takes you down the Manavgat River, then out into the open sea—a scenic route that offers plenty of photo opportunities. The first swim stop is often a highlight. Here, you can jump into the water, snorkel, or just relax on the boat while the crew prepares the lunch.

One reviewer enthusiastically described the experience as “memorable,” praising the crew’s attentiveness and the variety of swim stops that made it easy for everyone to get in and out of the water. The boat doesn’t overcrowd, making swimming and snorkeling accessible and comfortable. The life jackets are provided, and snorkel gear is free to borrow with a refundable deposit, which makes it easy for everyone to participate.

Dolphins, Sea Turtles, and Marine Encounters

While some travelers are fortunate enough to see dolphins and sea turtles, the experience is not guaranteed. Several reviews mention seeing dolphins as a special bonus, but others clarify that dolphin sightings are not always assured. Still, the chance to encounter marine life adds a layer of excitement, and many say the views alone justify the trip.

Lunch on Board

The local lunch is served during one of the stops, with options that range from traditional Turkish dishes, including whole fish, chicken, rice, and fresh salads. Vegetarian choices are available if you advise ahead. The food is generally described as good and plentiful, making the cruise a value-packed meal. Several reviews praise the quality of the lunch, noting it exceeded expectations.

The Foam Party and Family Fun

One of the most unique features is the foam party at sea, which kids and adults alike seem to love. It’s a lively, joyful moment that provides some lighthearted fun—adding a carnival-like element to the day. Children especially enjoy this part, and many reviews mention how kids’ entertainment is thoughtfully incorporated into the trip.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

As the cruise winds down, you’ll enjoy a leisurely sail back to the starting point, soaking in the last views of the coastline. The crew keeps the atmosphere friendly and engaging, making the day feel like a shared adventure rather than just a tour.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

This trip receives a mixed bag of reviews, which is worth noting. The majority of travelers praise the friendly staff, good value, and multiple water stops, making it clear that the trip delivers on its promise of fun and relaxation. One customer exclaims, “Everything was memorable,” highlighting the crew’s attentiveness and the overall enjoyable atmosphere.

However, some critiques are worth considering. A few mention that the boat can be crowded—sometimes with over 200 passengers, far exceeding the advertised capacity. The loud music was a complaint from some, turning a peaceful cruise into what felt more like a party, which might not appeal to everyone. Plus, a few reviewers felt the dolphin island was misleading, as no actual island exists, and the stop is just a rocky outcrop with little to do.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Given the varied reviews, this tour is best suited for families with children, groups seeking a lively experience, and travelers who enjoy water-based activities. If your priority is quiet relaxation or dolphin sightings, you might find this tour less satisfying. Still, if you’re open to a fun-filled day with swimming, good food, and friendly company, this cruise offers excellent value.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 15 days ahead.
• Bring cash: Drinks and souvenirs are available for purchase.
• Warn for vegetarian options: If you have dietary restrictions, inform them during booking.
• Arrive early: The tour departs at 8:30 am; being punctual helps you secure a good spot.
• Expect lively music: For those seeking tranquility, be prepared for loud tunes.
• Consider your children: The foam party and swim stops are perfect for kids, but very young children might find the loud music and crowds overwhelming.

This boat trip is a fun, affordable way to spend a day exploring Turkey’s coastline. If you love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling, and want a value-packed experience with included lunch, you’ll probably love what this tour offers. It’s particularly ideal for families with kids who appreciate the mix of swimming, playful activities, and friendly staff.

However, if you’re seeking tranquility or dolphin sightings as a priority, you might want to manage expectations or consider other options. The crowds and noise level could be a downside for those looking for peace and quiet. But for most travelers craving an authentic, lively, and scenic day at sea, this cruise ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking.

How long does the trip last?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning afterward.

Can I buy drinks during the cruise?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase; an open bar is not included but the prices are reasonable.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers lunch, a local guide, and snorkel gear (refundable deposit). Drinks and souvenirs are extra.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

Is dolphin or turtle sighting guaranteed?
No, marine animal sightings depend on luck—they are not guaranteed. However, many travelers do see dolphins and turtles.

Is the boat crowded?
The boat generally holds around 45 people, but some reviews mention larger crowds—up to 200—so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

To sum it up, this boat trip from Side offers a lively, scenic, and family-friendly escape to enjoy Turkey’s waters, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local cuisine. It’s a fantastic choice if you value an active, social day out on the sea and are comfortable with a somewhat lively environment. For those after peace and quiet, or a guaranteed dolphin show, you might want to explore other options, but for many, this cruise hits the sweet spot between fun and value.