If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a day out immersed in nature, the Green Canyon Full-Day Boat Tour offers an inviting escape. Priced at around $29 per person, this experience takes you on a scenic cruise through one of Turkey’s most breathtaking natural landmarks, complemented by a delicious lunch and plenty of swimming opportunities. The tour generally lasts a full day, starting with hotel pickup and ending back at your accommodation.
What we love most about this trip is the stunning scenery—cruising along the lake fringed with lush forests—and the opportunity to take relaxing dips in the water. The included lunch by the waterside is another highlight, offering good value and a tasty meal amid nature.
One possible downside? Some guests mention that toilet facilities and seating comfort on the boat could be better. Plus, there’s a stop at a shopping spot afterward, which might not appeal to everyone. Still, this tour is a great fit for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, wildlife spotting, and a laid-back day on the water. It’s particularly suitable for those traveling with family or friends who want an easy, organized way to explore Green Canyon without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.
Key Points
- Scenic scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding forests.
- Swimming breaks: Multiple opportunities to cool off in the water.
- Value for money: Includes lunch, transportation, and a boat tour at a reasonable price.
- Guided experience: Friendly guides enhance the experience and help spot wildlife.
- Organized logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it a hassle-free day.
- Some limitations: Seating comfort and shopping stop may not meet all expectations.
The Details of the Green Canyon Boat Tour
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What the Tour Entails
This full-day excursion kicks off with a hotel pickup in Antalya, making it convenient if you’re staying in the city or nearby. After a short drive, you’ll pass through the Green Canyon tunnel—a notable landmark—then head to the Oymapinar Dam, which creates Turkey’s 5th largest reservoir. This dam plays a functional role in water and electricity supply, but for us travelers, the real excitement begins once you reach the boat.
The boat itself is soft drinks-only, which means no alcohol on board, so plan accordingly if you want a cold beer or wine to accompany the views. The boat is spacious enough for relaxing and taking in the scenery, with deck space for sunbathing and several swimming stops built into the itinerary.
What Makes This Tour Special
The cruise through Green Canyon is the main attraction. As you glide along, you’ll see towering cliffs, lush forests, and shimmering waters that create a postcard-perfect landscape. Several reviews highlight how breathtaking and well-organized the trip feels, with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Guests consistently mention the friendly guides—some reviews specifically mention Siham—who are knowledgeable about the area and keen to point out wildlife, which could include various birds or fish. The swimming breaks are a hit, giving everyone a chance to cool off or simply relax in the water.
Lunch and Leisure Time
After a couple of hours on the water, you’ll stop at a waterside restaurant for a delicious lunch. The menu options often include chicken, köfte, and fish, with side dishes from a buffet. One reviewer praised the high quality of the food, describing it as very good, which adds considerable value to the overall experience.
Post-lunch, you’ll have some free time to relax, explore the area, or indulge in optional activities. Some guests note that the shopping stop afterward—at a store selling clothes and souvenirs—can feel like a waste of time, especially if you’re not interested in buying overpriced items or fake brands.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practicalities
The tour is priced at just $29, including hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a very accessible way to see Green Canyon without extra planning. However, keep in mind that personal expenses like souvenirs, optional photos, or alcohol are not included.
You’ll want to bring essentials such as hat, sunscreen, towel, camera, and swimwear if you plan to swim. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, and Turkish, which is helpful for diverse groups.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This experience is ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a relaxed, scenic day in Turkey’s beautiful landscape. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a notable natural site, combining cruise, swimming, and a tasty meal all in one package.
Travelers who enjoy guided tours with organized logistics will find this particularly convenient. However, if comfort or shopping are top priorities, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some compromises.
Final Thoughts
This Green Canyon boat tour offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and value. The favorable reviews highlight stunning views, friendly guides, and good food, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking an authentic outdoor experience without fuss.
While the seating comfort and shopping stop might not satisfy all, the overall experience provides excellent scenery and memorable swimming breaks at a very accessible price point. It’s a good pick for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a hassle-free day of discovery in Turkey’s impressive landscape.
If you’re looking for a laid-back adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to cool off in nature, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to bring your camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay anything extra besides the tour price?
No, everything included in the tour price—hotel pickup, boat ride, lunch, and swimming breaks—is covered. Personal expenses like souvenirs, photos, or alcohol are extra.
Is swimming optional?
Yes, swimming is completely optional. You’ll have several swimming breaks, but you can choose to stay on the boat or relax on the deck instead.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, swimwear if you plan to swim, and your camera to capture the scenery. Comfortable clothing and shoes are also recommended.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is designed as a full-day activity, starting with hotel pickup and ending back at your accommodation.
Are the guides helpful?
Based on reviews, guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often pointing out wildlife and providing insights into the area.
Is the boat comfortable?
While the boat is generally adequate, some reviews mention that seating comfort could be improved—so prepare for some time sitting on the deck or in less cushioned seats.
Can I buy drinks on the boat?
The boat serves only soft drinks; alcohol is not permitted on board.
Is there a shopping stop?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at a local shop, but many guests find it overpriced and unnecessary.
How is the food?
Guests agree the lunch is good, with options like chicken, fish, or köfte, and plentiful side dishes.
What language options are available?
Tours are offered in English, German, Russian, and Turkish, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
This Green Canyon boat tour from Antalya offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s natural beauty, perfect for those wanting an easy, scenic escape. Plan ahead, bring your essentials, and get ready to enjoy a memorable day on the water.
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