Side: Green Canyon Boat Tour With Open Buffet Lunch & Drinks

Side: Green Canyon Boat Tour With Open Buffet Lunch & Drinks
Location: Antalya Province, Turkey
Price: $37 per person
Duration: 7.5 hours (check availability for start times)
Rating: 4.8 (based on traveler reviews)
Supplier: Murat Atalay Seyahat Acentas

Imagine drifting through towering canyons with walls that seem to touch the sky, surrounded by the soothing sounds of bird calls and gentle breezes. For a reasonable price of around $37, you can enjoy a day exploring Green Canyon, one of Turkey’s most captivating natural landscapes, on a boat that promises comfort and tranquility. The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from busy tourist spots.

What makes this experience truly special? First, the immense beauty of the canyon itself—a 15-kilometer stretch of lush greenery and dramatic cliffs carved by nature over centuries. Second, the combination of relaxation and active fun, with opportunities to swim, fish, and enjoy a delicious open buffet lunch. We also appreciate the ease of logistics, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, meaning less hassle for you.

A possible consideration? The duration might feel a bit long if you prefer quick sightseeing trips or have young children who might find the boat ride tiring. Plus, the tour is geared toward relaxed enjoyment, so if you’re looking for adventurous activities like kayaking or diving, this might not satisfy that need. It’s best suited for those who love scenic views, good food, and a peaceful day on the water.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to experience Turkey’s natural beauty without a lot of fuss. If you enjoy leisurely exploration, stunning scenery, and tasty meals, this trip will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery: Discover the impressive Green Canyon and its soaring walls.
• Relaxing boat ride: Approximately 4 hours of cruising amid lush green surroundings, away from city noise.
• Swim and fish: Cold, clear waters offer perfect spots for a refreshing swim and some fishing fun.
• Delicious lunch included: Enjoy a buffet with options like meatballs, chicken, or fish, along with soft drinks and tea or coffee.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make planning effortless.
• Family-friendly: The calm waters and scenic views make it suitable for all ages, excluding infants due to lack of seats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in areas like Side, Gundogdu, Colakli, Evrenseki, Kumkoy, Sorgun, Titreyengol, Kizilagac, or Kizilot—making this a convenient all-in-one package. Soon, you’ll be whisked away to Oymapinar Dam, the starting point of your adventure, a place that already hints at the stunning natural scenery ahead. The drive itself offers a quick glimpse into the region’s landscapes, preparing you for what’s to come.

Once aboard the boat, the real magic begins. The vessel comfortably navigates the massive canyons—walls rising on either side, cloaked in green. This part of the journey takes about four hours, during which you’ll be treated to spectacular views and plenty of opportunity to relax on deck. The boat is ideal for escaping city noise and enjoying nature’s calm.

We loved the way the boat’s quiet pace let us soak in the scenery. The lush surroundings, combined with the gentle rocking of the water, created a sense of peaceful seclusion. As you float, you’ll enjoy the sounds of singing birds and the cool breeze, which make for a refreshing break from urban life.

The Water Activities and Meals

After the boat cruise, a delicious lunch buffet awaits. The menu features rice and salad, with options including meatballs, chicken, or fish—catering to typical tastes and offering good value for the price. The beverages—ranging from tea and coffee to mineral water and other non-alcoholic drinks—are included, helping you stay refreshed.

A highlight for many travelers is the opportunity to swim and fish in the canyon’s cold, clear waters. The calm lake and shallow areas make swimming accessible even for beginners. One traveler noted, “The boat trip through the mountains was very beautiful and we will definitely do it again sometime,” highlighting just how memorable the scenery and relaxed pace can be.

Fishing is another relaxing activity, perfect for those who enjoy a quiet moment by the water. The tour guides facilitate this, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch something small to bring back as a souvenir.

Practical Details and Comfort

Transportation is straightforward, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. This simplifies your day, especially if you’re not keen on navigating local transport. The tour is guided in English and German, ensuring clear communication.

Bring along essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and sports shoes—the latter for walking on deck and along the boat. Keep in mind that there’s no seat for infants, so if you’re traveling with very small children, consider whether it’s suitable.

The tour operates on a flexible reservation system, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility offers peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

This experience isn’t just about ticking off a tourist spot; it’s about enjoying a peaceful, authentic encounter with nature. Tour guides, such as Murat and others, often share insights into the local geography and history, adding educational value.

Travelers consistently praised the stunning views and delicious food, with one reviewer saying, “The boat trip through the mountains was very beautiful and we will definitely do it again sometime.” The overall rating of 4.8 reflects the positive impressions, particularly regarding scenery and the relaxing atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a calm, scenic escape that combines natural beauty, gentle activity, and good local food, this tour is a great choice. It suits families, couples, or friends who want a leisurely day out without strenuous activities. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate spectacular canyon landscapes and a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.

However, if your idea of adventure involves high-energy sports or you prefer a shorter excursion, you might find this tour a bit slow. It’s primarily about relaxation and scenic enjoyment, making it perfect for those looking to unwind and take in some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural sights.

The Sum Up

This Green Canyon boat tour offers a well-balanced blend of stunning scenery, peaceful waters, and tasty food, all within a manageable 7.5-hour window. For travelers who appreciate natural beauty and laid-back experiences, it’s a solid choice that provides genuine value.

The included buffet lunch, fishing, swimming, and hotel transportation make it convenient and enjoyable. The high traveler ratings underscore its popularity, especially among those seeking a scenic day with minimal fuss.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers, it’s an excellent option for those wanting to escape the city and enjoy Turkey’s lush landscapes from a comfortable boat. If you love quiet, nature-focused experiences, this tour is likely to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from designated areas like Side, Gundogdu, Colakli, and others, making it easy to plan your day.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat cruise itself lasts about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and relax on deck.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and sports shoes for comfort during walking and in the boat.

Is there an option for vegetarian or special dietary needs?
The menu typically includes rice, salad, and meat or fish options. If you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to inquire beforehand, but such options are not explicitly mentioned.

Are children allowed on this tour?
There’s no seat for infants, so this tour is best suited for older children and adults. Young children should be considered carefully based on their comfort with boat rides.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This Green Canyon boat tour balances the natural spectacle of Turkey’s landscapes with relaxed comfort, making it a memorable outing for those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: