City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch and Drinks

Exploring the Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side: A Practical Guide

If you find yourself in Side and craving a taste of Turkey’s natural beauty, the Green Canyon Boat Tour offers a straightforward, relaxing way to enjoy a day on the water. For around $30 per person, this experience lasts between 5 to 7 hours, and it combines scenic boat rides, a hearty local lunch, swimming, and fishing — perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic scenery—the turquoise waters and lush surroundings are truly photogenic, making it a great choice for lovers of natural landscapes. The easy pickup and drop-off service makes logistics simple, especially if you’re staying in Side, and the lunch options provide a chance to sample some Turkish comfort food.

A minor consideration is that the duration varies depending on availability and weather, so it’s wise to check the schedule ahead of time. This tour suits travelers who enjoy laid-back days on the water, want a taste of local cuisine, and appreciate a small-group feel without the hassle of complicated arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $30, the tour offers good value, combining transportation, lunch, and activities.
• Scenic Highlights: You’ll enjoy stunning views of the Green Canyon and Lake Oymapinar Dam.
• Included Activities: The trip features boat riding, swimming, fishing, and a hearty Turkish lunch.
• Flexible Duration: The tour lasts 5 to 7 hours, with availability depending on the day.
• Convenient Pickup: Optional hotel pickup in Side makes the trip hassle-free.
• Authentic Experiences: Stops for swimming and fishing give a real taste of local leisure.

A Detailed Look at the Green Canyon Boat Tour

The Starting Point: From Side to the Green Waters

Your day begins with a pickup at your hotel in Side—if you’ve chosen the transport option. The driver heads towards the Oymapinar Dam, a perfect spot for photos of the impressive structure and the surrounding landscape. This initial stop is a quick but worthwhile warm-up, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and appreciate the engineering marvel that creates the Green Canyon’s waters.

From there, it’s a scenic drive to the canyon itself, a waterway carved through the landscape that offers a mixture of stunning natural beauty and tranquil waters. The journey sets the tone—expect to see lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and calm waters that promise a peaceful day.

Boarding the Boat: The Heart of the Experience

Once at the Green Canyon, you’ll board a boat for a 4-hour cruise. The boat trip is more than just transportation; it’s the main event. As you glide through the waters, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the canyon’s steep cliffs and lush surroundings, perfect for photos and simply soaking in the scenery.

Many reviews highlight the relaxing nature of this part of the tour, with one traveler describing it as a “nice relaxing boat trip,” emphasizing the calm waters and beautiful scenery. The boat is equipped with soft drinks—a bonus for staying refreshed—plus the opportunity to swim in the cool, clear waters.

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Swimming and Fishing: Authentic Leisure in Nature

The stops for swimming are a highlight. Travelers often comment on the refreshing waters—the blue-green lakes are a perfect escape from the heat. Bring your swimwear, towel, and camera to capture the moment. The water’s clarity makes for excellent photos, and the gentle waves make for a soothing experience.

Fishing is also included, giving you a chance to try your hand at catching fish in the tranquil lake. It’s a relaxed activity, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor leisure without the pressure of a competitive fishing trip.

The Lunch Break: Turkish Comfort Food

After the boat trip, it’s time for a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Options typically include meatballs, chicken, or fish, served with rice and fresh salad. The meal offers a taste of Turkey’s traditional fare in a relaxed setting.

Drinks like tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks are included on the boat, but it’s worth noting that additional drinks or ice cream at the restaurant are not included. Many travelers find the lunch satisfying and a good chance to relax and chat about the morning’s adventures.

The Final Swim and Return Journey

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a fishing session and another opportunity to swim before heading back. The return journey by boat takes about 2 hours, with another stop for cooling off in the water—perfect for those wanting to squeeze every bit of fun from the day.

The boat ride back offers more chances for photos and relaxing views. The journey concludes with a transfer back to your hotel in Side, giving you a stress-free end to a memorable day.

The Experience We Saw and the Feedback We Heard

The tour is generally well-received, with many noting its relaxing pace and beautiful scenery. One traveler summed it up as “everything was perfect from A to Z,” highlighting its balance of activity and leisure. The scenic views of the canyon and lake are the standout features, often cited as the main reason to choose this experience.

Some reviews mention the value for money, especially given the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and pickup service. However, some travelers might find the duration a bit variable, or wish for more detailed guides explaining the geology or history of the canyon.

What This Tour Means for You

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning natural landscapes, enjoys water-based activities like swimming and fishing, and prefers a relaxed pace, this tour is a good match. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to escape the busy town of Side for a day, enjoy some authentic Turkish food, and get some great photos of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.

It’s less ideal if you prefer adventure-heavy excursions or have mobility issues, as the tour involves boat rides and some walking or standing.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers solid value for a laid-back day on the water. The beautiful scenery is its biggest draw, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from crowded tourist spots. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds convenience, especially for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without extra expenses.

It’s best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic views, swimming, and a taste of Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a peaceful escape with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour checks a lot of boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Green Canyon tour last?
The tour lasts between 5 to 7 hours, depending on availability and weather conditions. The boat ride itself is about 4 hours, with additional time for stops and lunch.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the pickup and drop-off service is available if you select the option, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a camera to capture the scenery. Don’t forget sun protection and perhaps a hat!

Are drinks included during the tour?
Soft drinks are provided on the boat, but additional drinks or ice cream at the restaurant are not included.

Can I fish during the trip?
Yes, fishing is part of the experience, giving you a relaxing way to connect with the natural surroundings.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally not suitable for those with mobility impairments, and children should be supervised, especially during swimming and fishing activities.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At $30 per person, the trip offers good value considering the transportation, boat ride, lunch, and activities included. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy the Green Canyon without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water, beautiful photo opportunities, or a taste of Turkish cuisine, this boat tour from Side provides a well-rounded experience. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and your camera—those views are worth capturing.

You can check availability for your dates here: