City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks

Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks: A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a day cruising along the stunning Turkish Riviera, hopping into crystal-clear waters, dancing at a foam party, and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch—all for just around $15 per person. That’s exactly what you get with the Dolphin Island Boat Tour from Side, offered by Seven Tours. With average ratings of 4.3 from over 560 reviews, this excursion is a popular choice for travelers eager for a mix of relaxation, fun, and a touch of adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters of places like Karaburun Bay, the Manavgat Bosphorus, and Dolphin Island—each spot offering unique scenery and swimming conditions. Second, the foam party at the end is a fantastic way to shake off stress and have some laughs, especially for families or groups looking for lively entertainment.

However, there are some considerations. For instance, smoking is permitted anywhere on the boat, which might be off-putting for non-smokers or those sensitive to smoke. Plus, the soft drink situation can be a bit confusing—free soft drinks are only available at the lower bar, and additional drinks might cost extra, even if you paid for an unlimited soft drink package.

This tour is ideal for anyone who loves being on the water, wants a full day of variety, and appreciates good value for money. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a lively experience with plenty of swimming and entertainment will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a great value for a full-day activity.
• Multiple swimming stops allow you to enjoy different scenic spots and water conditions.
• Lively foam party and music add a fun, energetic atmosphere.
• Delicious grilled lunch served aboard offers a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine.
• Dolphin and turtle sightings add an exciting wildlife element, though not guaranteed.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

When you sign up for the City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks, you’re signing up for a well-organized, lively day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, dance, and even taste a bit of local flavor. We found the experience to be quite balanced—combining the comfort of a cruise with active stops and engaging entertainment.

Hotel Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins with hotel pickup from various locations around Side—Gündodu, Çolakl, Evrenseki, Kumköy, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kızılcağaz, and Kızılot. The air-conditioned bus takes you comfortably to the departure point, removing the hassle of logistics so you can focus on the fun ahead. The reviews note that transport is timely and smooth, which sets a positive tone right from the start.

Boarding and Initial Impressions

Once on board, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff, who will ask about your lunch preference—either chicken or fish—so you can enjoy a freshly cooked meal while the boat begins to cruise. We loved the fact that a live guide provides commentary about the sights you’ll see along the way, including the Manavgat River and the Manavgat Bosphorus, which offers a mix of river and sea views.

The Scenic Stops

This tour is packed with swimming breaks at several beautiful spots. The first stop near Dolphin Island is perfect for cooling off and exploring the calm waters. The island itself is a highlight—though not guaranteed, some travelers have reported dolphin sightings during the cruise, adding a special touch to the day. If you’re lucky, you might also spot a sea turtle, as one reviewer described—a lovely surprise.

Other stops include the Karaburun Bay, known for its spectacular scenery and clear waters, and the Manavgat Bosphorus, where you can rent a Jet-Ski or enjoy a traditional Gözleme—a simple but tasty Turkish pastry. These varied locations ensure that you get plenty of time to swim, relax, and take photos.

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Lunch on the Water

A highlight of this trip is the lunch—a grilled chicken or fish, served with rice and salad. The food is generally praised for being fresh and tasty, providing a satisfying break in the middle of a busy day. Many reviews mention that the crew is helpful and attentive during mealtime, which enhances the overall experience.

The Foam Party and Entertainment

As the day progresses, the foam party kicks off—an event that many travelers find highly entertaining. The DJ plays lively music, and the foam adds a playful, almost surreal element to the cruise. We loved the fun atmosphere and the chance to dance without leaving the boat. It’s a hit especially with families and groups looking for an upbeat ending to a day on the water.

Return and Reflection

After a few more swimming stops, the boat heads back towards Side, with a final chance to enjoy the views and perhaps spot some dolphins or turtles. The return journey is generally smooth, and the hotel drop-off is reliable, wrapping up a full day of activity.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers are largely positive, highlighting the friendly staff, well-organized logistics, and delicious food. Many mention the swimming stops as a highlight, with the chance to relax in crystal-clear waters. The foam party receives praise for its fun and lively vibe, with “great music” and plenty of dancing.

Some reviewers note minor issues—such as smoking allowed everywhere on the boat, which can be unpleasant if you’re a non-smoker, and confusion about soft drinks, with free drinks only available at the lower bar and additional drinks costing extra. These are good to keep in mind, but they don’t seem to detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

The Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Trip

Pricing and Value: At just around $15 per person, this tour offers good value considering the length and variety of activities. The inclusion of lunch, soft drinks (if selected), and insurance adds to the appeal. Extra costs might include additional drinks or photo purchases, so plan accordingly.

What to Bring: Be sure to pack a sun hat, swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen—all essential for enjoying the day comfortably. Since food and drinks are not allowed on board besides what is provided and purchased, bring your essentials with you.

Safety and Comfort: The boat provides life vests—and if you’re not confident in swimming, staff will happily help you with a vest. The boat’s size and crew attention seem to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for all ages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits families with children, travelers wanting a full day of fun, or anyone interested in swimming, dancing, and scenic views. If you’re looking for a lively, social atmosphere combined with some beautiful water stops, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re sensitive to smoking or prefer a more tranquil, less crowded cruise, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks offers an enjoyable, lively way to experience the Turkish Riviera’s waters. Its combination of swimming stops, delicious local food, and entertaining foam party make it a standout for those seeking a full, active day on the water at an accessible price. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere, combined with beautiful scenery, provides authentic moments that many travelers remember long after the trip ends.

For families, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy an energetic, social experience, this tour delivers good value and plenty of memorable moments. Just be prepared for some minor downsides like smoking areas and soft drink policies—these don’t overshadow the fun and relaxation that await on deck.

FAQ

Is pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from designated locations in Side, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts a full day, with multiple swimming stops, lunch, and entertainment, ensuring you get your money’s worth.

What is the price? The tour costs around $15 per person, which is quite reasonable for a full-day cruise with food and entertainment.

What should I bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Remember, food and drinks are not allowed on board unless purchased or included.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for all ages; there are activities for children, and staff are attentive to safety needs.

Are soft drinks included? Free soft drinks are available on the first deck, served in small plastic cups. Additional drinks can be bought if desired.

Can I see dolphins? While sightings are not guaranteed, many travelers report seeing dolphins or turtles along the way, adding extra excitement.

What about the foam party? The foam party is lively and fun, with music and dancing, especially suited for families and groups wanting a festive atmosphere.

Are there any hidden costs? Extra drinks and photos are available for purchase, and some soft drinks might cost extra even if you’ve paid for unlimited soft drinks.

Is the boat comfortable and safe? The boat is described as nice and spacious, with enough life vests for those who need them. Staff are helpful, ensuring a safe experience.

This comprehensive tour combines scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and good value, making it an appealing choice for many travelers visiting Side. Whether you’re looking to relax, swim, or dance, this day trip offers a memorable slice of the Turkish Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: