Side is a fantastic place to enjoy a Boat Tour or Cruise, thanks to its stunning coastline, lush landscapes, and the iconic Green Canyon. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water, an off-road adventure combined with a boat trip, or a lively cruise with swimming and entertainment, Side has options for every taste. We particularly like the City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip with Lunch for its mix of land and water adventures, and the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side for its breathtaking scenery and all-inclusive value.
Side’s boat tours aren’t just about the water—they often include visits to waterfalls, local villages, and archaeological sites, making them perfect for those looking for a well-rounded day out. Plus, the variety from dolphin cruises to canyon explorations ensures you’ll find an experience matching your vibe and budget.
Quick Overview of the Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Side
Our list includes full-day adventures, excursion packages combining jeep safaris and boat trips, and specialized cruises with food, drinks, and swimming stops. Some tours focus on exploring Green Canyon and Oymapinar Dam, offering incredible scenery and water activities (see more here). Others emphasize family fun with dolphin spotting and foam parties (check out this dolphin cruise). If you prefer a mix of adventure and cultural stops, the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour might suit you (more details here). Now, let’s dive into each tour to see what makes them special.
1. City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip with Lunch
This full-day adventure combines a jeep safari around Green Canyon and Green Lake with a relaxing boat cruise. Starting from Side, you’ll hop into a jeep or SUV—a highlight for those who enjoy off-road fun—driving through scenic landscapes and stopping at Oymapinar Dam and Green Canyon. The boat cruise on Green Lake allows for swimming and relaxing in the cool waters. Guests often rave about the professional drivers and lively guides, with one reviewer calling the driver “brilliant” and the day “wet and wild.” The trip includes a delicious lunch at Green Lake Restaurant, adding to its value.
This tour is perfect if you love adventure with a splash of nature. The mix of off-road driving, boat swimming, and scenic photo stops makes for a memorable day. The reviews highlight how well-organized it is and how everyone—from children to seniors—enjoys it. At just $18 per person, it’s an excellent choice for budget travelers wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, action-packed day that’s suitable for families and adventure lovers alike.
2. Side: Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour with Lunch
For around $20, this 8-hour tour offers a full immersion into the stunning scenery of Green Lake and Green Canyon. Starting with a Jeep Safari, you’ll explore local villages, the Oymapinar Dam, and enjoy multiple photo stops. Then, a boat cruise over Green Lake reveals panoramic views and gives you time to swim in crystal-clear waters, a highlight for many guests.
Guests praise the organization and friendly guides like Johnny and Miki, who make the trip engaging with fun facts and humor. The lunch at Gölbaşı Restaurant is included, and the itinerary covers popular sites in Side and Manavgat, ensuring you get a taste of the area’s natural beauty and local life. With over 1600 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it’s one of the most popular options.
Bottom Line: An excellent value day trip for those wanting diverse scenery and a mix of land and water adventures.
3. City of Side: Green Canyon Jeep Tour, Boat Trip & Waterfall
This 7-hour tour adds a waterfall visit to the usual canyon and lake stops, making it ideal for nature lovers. You’ll enjoy a jeep safari over mountain trails, swim in Green Lake, and take a boat trip on the lake, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos. Guests mention the crisp blue water of Green Lake as a highlight, plus the panoramic views of Green Canyon and the dam.
The tour also includes a lunch at a lakeside restaurant and a visit to a hidden waterfall and other picturesque spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more active day with multiple scenic stops, and reviews indicate it’s well-paced and fun. At $20, it offers great value for a combination of adventure, nature, and water fun.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want variety and scenic beauty in one day.
4. Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour with Lunch
This full-day tour at $29.07 offers an all-in-one package: jeep safari, boat cruise, and lakeside lunch. Tour highlights include visiting the Manavgat Waterfalls, cruising through Green Canyon, and exploring local villages. The boat part of the trip delivers stunning views and the chance to swim in crystal waters. Guests have praised the friendly staff, with some calling the trip “wonderful” and “fantastic value.”
What sets this tour apart is the balanced itinerary—it combines natural beauty with cultural stops and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and water fun.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, value-packed option for families and couples looking for a smooth, scenic day.
5. Side: Dolphins Island Cruise with Swimming Stops and Lunch
This 7-hour cruise focuses on spotting dolphins and sea turtles along the Mediterranean. Starting from Side, you’ll cruise on a spacious boat, with a foam party onboard and multiple swimming stops. The trip is family-friendly and often praised for friendly crew and fun atmosphere, with one reviewer mentioning how their kids loved the foam party.
It’s priced at an affordable rate, with a highlight being the opportunity to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The trip includes lunch and is particularly suited for families and those wanting a lively, fun day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families wanting a lively, wildlife-focused cruise with swimming and entertainment.
6. City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks
This 9-hour sailboat trip is ideal for those who love dolphin spotting and beach fun. The boat features a foam party and swimming in turquoise waters, with an included lunch onboard. The tour emphasizes relaxed cruising and dancing, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a lively day at sea.
Guests enjoy the dancing, swimming, and great food, with reviews noting how friendly the crew is and how much fun they had. It’s best suited for party-minded travelers and those looking for a full-day, fun-filled experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, dance-filled day on the water with plenty of swimming and socializing.
7. City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour w/ Boat & Lunch
This 9-hour trip takes you to mountain villages and Turkey’s largest cave, featuring a subterranean lake boat ride. You’ll explore the authentic homes, visit Golden Cradle Cavern, and enjoy a local lunch in Ormana. The cave’s massive underground lake is a standout feature, and reviews mention the authentic village atmosphere.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration. The tour offers a quieter, more relaxed pace compared to the canyon trips, suitable for those interested in geology and local culture. The $42 price reflects a full day of diverse experiences.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in caves, local villages, and a less touristy, more authentic experience.
8. City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with Lunch
This 8-hour tour combines a bus safari through the Taurus Mountains with a catamaran cruise on Green Lake. It’s perfect for travelers who want both land and water views, with stops at local villages, Manavgat Waterfall, and a lake-side lunch. The trip includes photo stops and a guided village walk, making it a comprehensive day out.
Guests appreciate the smooth organization and varied itinerary, with some mentioning the spectacular views and friendly guides. Priced at $20, it provides value for those wanting a full-day mix of scenic drives and boat time.
Bottom Line: An all-rounder for those wanting a mixture of mountain scenery, cultural stops, and boat cruise.
9. City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River w/ Bazaar Trip
This 7-hour river cruise includes stops at the Manavgat Waterfall and the market. The boat offers lunch onboard and a chance to see the local bazaar, making it a good choice for those who want a relaxing river cruise with cultural stops. Reviewers mention the well-organized trip and friendly staff.
It’s ideal if you’re interested in local markets and scenic river views. At $15, it’s an affordable way to experience Side’s natural and cultural attractions in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for shoppers and culture enthusiasts wanting a gentle cruise with market visits.
10. Manavgat and Side Boat Trip with Dolphins Island incl. Lunch
This 7-hour tour combines dolphins spotting, swimming stops, and beach time. It’s well-suited for families, especially with kids, as the crew is attentive and the foam party adds a playful touch. The lunch is included, and guests rave about the friendly staff and beautiful scenery.
If you want a fun, family-friendly boat trip with plenty of swim opportunities, this is a great pick. The reviews underline the value and enjoyable atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A lively, family-oriented cruise with dolphin spotting and lots of swimming.
11. Side Green Canyon Boat Trip With Unlimited Drinks And Lunch
This 8-hour trip offers unlimited drinks, lunch, and a 9-mile boat cruise through Green Canyon. It’s perfect for those who want a full-day relaxing experience with plenty of refreshments. Guests highlight the breathtaking scenery and the generous food. The trip includes a lake swim and the chance to capture stunning photos.
This is a hassle-free, all-inclusive option, especially appealing to travelers who prefer comfort and convenience. It’s highly rated with a 4.5-star review from over 160 customers.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort, unlimited drinks, and scenic cruising.
12. City of Side: Green Lake Boat and Cabrio Bus Tour
This 8-hour tour combines a bus tour of Side’s highlights with a boat trip on Green Lake. It’s ideal for those who enjoy comprehensive sightseeing, with stops at ancient sites, local villages, and the lake. Guests mention the friendly guide Thomas and the great value.
If you want a structured tour that shows you the town’s highlights alongside a scenic boat ride, this package is perfect. The $25 price makes it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who appreciate a guided overview with a scenic water experience.
13. City of Side: Sightseeing Cruise w/ Swim Stops & Foam Party
This 8-hour cruise combines sightseeing, swimming, and a foam party. It’s lively and full of fun, with options to swim and relax in the turquoise waters. Reviewers love the friendly staff and generous lunch. The foam party is a highlight, especially for families and groups of friends.
If you’re after a party atmosphere with swimming stops and entertainment, this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting a balance of sightseeing and fun.
Bottom Line: Suitable for party-goers and families seeking a lively day on the water.
14. Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side
This full-day trip for $55 offers a comprehensive boat cruise in Green Canyon, including visits to Oymapinar Dam, swimming in the lake, and lunch at a waterfront restaurant. Many reviews praise the stunning scenery and the value for money. It’s a longer, more relaxed experience with the chance to capture beautiful photos and enjoy nature.
It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full-day immersion into the landscape, with a focus on photography and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A leisurely, scenic option suited for those wanting time to soak in the views.
15. Side Blau Laguna Boat Trip With Free Hotel Transfer & Lunch
This 6-7 hour trip offers a full day of sailing, including swimming at the ancient port of Side, lunch, and free hotel transfer. It features beautiful views and a delightful onboard party. Reviewers mention the stunning landscapes and friendly staff.
It’s perfect for travelers who want easy logistics and a relaxed day with great scenery and a lively atmosphere. The free transfer adds convenience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a carefree, scenic day with onboard fun.
16. Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch From Side
This 8-hour excursion features a scenic boat cruise on Green Canyon, with swimming, lunch, and beautiful views of the mountains and waters. Many travelers praise the value and stunning landscape, making it a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive day in nature.
It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxing yet scenic experience, with all logistics taken care of.
Bottom Line: A solid, value-filled choice for a full day exploring Green Canyon’s natural beauty.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Side
Picking the right boat tour depends on your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a full adventure, the City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip offers a great mix of land and water. For those who prefer scenic cruising with unlimited drinks and lunch, consider the Side Green Canyon Boat Trip With Unlimited Drinks And Lunch. Families and wildlife fans should look at the Dolphins Island Cruise, while caves and cultural exploration are best suited to the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons and considering whether you prefer active exploration or relaxed scenic cruising. For example, the Green Canyon trips are popular, so they fill up quickly. Also, check the tour’s duration and included amenities—some include hotel transfers (see here), making logistics easier.
Final Thoughts
Side offers a wide variety of boat tours and cruises, from action-packed safaris with water fights to tranquil boat rides with unlimited drinks. For the best experience, think about what kind of day you want—adventure, relaxation, wildlife, or sightseeing—and pick a tour that matches. Whether you’re traveling with kids, looking for a romantic escape, or just want a fun-filled day in the sun, there’s something in Side’s waters for you.
Don’t forget to book early—these popular trips sell out fast during the summer months. Enjoy your time on the water and make the most of what Side’s beautiful coastline has to offer!