City Of Side: Dolphin Island Boat or Side Boat Tour Options

When you’re visiting the Antalya Province around Side, a boat trip can be a highlight—offering a blend of scenic views, refreshing swims, and fun onboard activities. This full-day boat tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours and offers two primary options: exploring Dolphin Island or cruising along the Side River to where it meets the Mediterranean. Guided in English, German, and Russian, these trips are designed for travelers who want a taste of the coast’s natural beauty, a bit of adventure, and some relaxing time on the water.

What we really appreciate about these tours are the three swim stops at stunning locations like Paradise Beach and the chance to possibly see dolphins and sea turtles, adding a sprinkle of wildlife magic. Plus, the inclusive grilled chicken lunch hits the spot after a morning of splashing around. The lively foam party on the return leg also promises to lift spirits, making it a lively, social experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that large group sizes can sometimes mean longer wait times, especially during boarding and swimming breaks, which some travelers mentioned in reviews. Also, drinks and snacks are available for purchase, so if you’re looking for a fully stocked bar or gourmet snacks, you’ll want to budget extra.

This tour suits those who enjoy scenic boat rides, wildlife spotting, and lively onboard entertainment. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love a mix of activity and relaxation, it’s a great pick. However, if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, you might find the large group setting less appealing.

Key Points

• Scenic stops include Paradise Beach and the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles.
• Included lunch features delicious grilled chicken, perfect after swimming.
• Multiple swim breaks allow plenty of time to cool off and relax.
• Lively onboard entertainment includes music, animations, and a foam party.
• Comfortable boat facilities include sun terraces, toilets, showers, and changing cabins.
• Tour duration 7 to 8 hours offers a full day on the water with scheduled pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dolphin Island & Side Boat Tours

When we talk about a boat tour from Side, we’re talking about a chance to see some truly beautiful scenery while enjoying a day on the water. The Dolphin Island option is particularly popular because of its potential to spot dolphins and sea turtles. These sightings are not guaranteed, but the possibility adds an exciting element to the trip. We loved the way the tour takes you to three swim stops, especially at Paradise Beach, where the meeting of river water and the Mediterranean creates a striking, peaceful setting.

The itinerary begins with a hotel pickup, usually between 08:30 and 09:30, giving you time to relax before heading to the riverside dock. The journey through the Sorgun Forest is scenic and sets the tone for a day away from urban bustle. Once aboard the modern, spacious three-deck boat, you’ll quickly settle into your spot, enjoying the view from the sun terrace or heading inside for some shade and comfort.

Exploring the Dolphin Island Experience

The main highlight of this tour is Dolphin Island, where the waters are calm and the chance to see dolphins and turtles is tantalizing. Swimmers often rave about the experience, though some reviews note that large crowds can make the waiting times longer than ideal. Still, the chance to relax in such a setting makes it worthwhile.

A key feature is the lunch—a generous plate of grilled chicken, complemented by music, fun animations, and a lively foam party on the return trip. These elements turn what could be a simple boat ride into an engaging, festive experience. Some travelers mentioned that the food was really delicious and the staff friendly, which adds to the overall value.

The Side River and The Ancient Sights

Alternatively, if you choose the Side Boat Tour, you’ll cruise along the Manavgat River toward where it meets the Mediterranean. The journey offers views of ancient Side, including the Apollo and Athena temples, providing a touch of history amid natural beauty. The stop at Paradise Beach is particularly special because it’s one of the few places where you can swim in both fresh and salt water—a quirky, enjoyable experience for most.

This tour emphasizes scenic beauty and cultural sights, appealing to those interested in both nature and history. The lunch remains the same, with grilled chicken, and the return is marked by the same lively foam party and onboard entertainment.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tours are fully equipped with sun terraces, toilets, showers, and changing cabins, making your day comfortable. The full-day duration of 7 to 8 hours means you get plenty of time on the water, with scheduled pickups from Side and convenient drop-offs. The price includes all the boat facilities, lunch, and professional guides, ensuring you’re well taken care of, though drinks and snacks are additional.

Some reviews highlight long wait times and crowded boats, but others appreciated the friendly staff and the delicious food. It’s worth noting that if you’re sensitive to noise or large crowds, this might not be the most peaceful outing, but if you’re after a lively, social experience, it hits the mark.

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Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

One traveler said, “Pick-up from the hotel was on time. Everything was as planned. I recommend it. I will definitely do it again next year,” highlighting the reliability of the service. Conversely, a less satisfied guest described rude employees and long waits, reminding us that experiences can vary, and patience might be needed during busy times.

This tour offers a balance of scenic beauty, wildlife opportunities, and onboard fun, making it suitable for those who enjoy a full day of active relaxation. The inclusion of a delicious grilled chicken lunch and the foam party makes it feel like a celebration of the day rather than just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler looking for a full-day adventure that combines swimming, wildlife spotting, scenic views, and lively entertainment, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for families or groups wanting a mix of activities and social fun. Those who appreciate good food and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere will find this tour particularly appealing.

However, if you prefer a quiet, small-group experience or are sensitive to crowds, you might want to explore other options or visit earlier in the day. Keep in mind that this is a popular tour, so booking in advance and preparing for some busy moments will help you enjoy it more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The main highlights include swimming stops at scenic locations, the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles, a grilled chicken lunch, and onboard entertainment like music and foam parties.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, with pickup typically between 08:30 and 09:30, and return around 17:00.

Is food included?
Yes, a grilled chicken lunch is included. Drinks, snacks, and additional food are available for purchase onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. If you want to take photos of the wildlife or the scenery, don’t forget your camera or phone.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but always check with the operator if you’re traveling with very young children or seniors.

Can I see dolphins?
While dolphin sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed. The tour provides the best chance during the time spent at Dolphin Island.

What is the boat like?
The vessel is a modern, comfortable three-deck boat with sun terraces, toilets, showers, and changing cabins, designed to give you a pleasant journey.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the operator ahead of time if you have mobility concerns.

To sum it up, this boat tour from Side offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day on the water, perfect for those who want a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and fun. The included lunch, friendly atmosphere, and the chance to spot marine life make it a worthwhile outing—especially if you enjoy socializing and don’t mind large groups. It’s a dependable choice for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to add some water-based adventure to their Turkish holiday. Just remember, early booking, patience during busy times, and a sense of adventure will help you get the most out of this experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: