Side/Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip w/Unlimited Soft Drinks

Side/Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Unlimited Soft Drinks — A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting the Antalya Province and looking to escape the busy beaches of Side or Alanya, the Green Canyon Boat Trip offers an opportunity to enjoy nature and tranquility in style. Priced around a reasonable rate, this tour lasts between 4 and 7.5 hours, making it flexible depending on your schedule. The experience includes cruising on emerald waters, exploring the historic Oymapinar Dam, and relaxing with a lakeside lunch.

What we particularly appreciate about this trip is its blend of scenic beauty and relaxed pace—ideal for travelers who want to unwind without sacrificing authentic natural sights. The boat staff are noted for their friendly service and the unlimited soft drinks keep everyone refreshed, adding value to the day. On the downside, if you’re expecting a deep historical narrative or party atmosphere, this trip leans more toward serenity and scenery, which might not suit everyone.

This tour suits travelers craving a break from crowds, those interested in photography or nature, and families or groups looking for a comfortable, scenic day out. If you enjoy seeing spectacular landscapes, swimming in clear waters, and having a decent meal with no fuss, this is a fine choice.

Key Points

• Relaxing Escape: Ideal for avoiding the busy tourist spots while enjoying nature.
• Scenic Cruising: Offers a 14 km boat ride with spectacular views of Green Canyon and the surrounding landscapes.
• Historic Stops: Features a visit to the 2000-year-old Roman bridge and the impressive Oymapinar Dam.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a lakeside lunch with grilled options and free unlimited soft drinks onboard.
• Flexible Duration: Options vary from 4 to 7.5 hours to suit different schedules.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most ages, but consider mobility issues due to uneven terrain at some stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Green Canyon and Surroundings

Starting early in the morning, the tour begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel, whether in Side or Alanya. The journey typically lasts around 75 minutes by bus, giving you a chance to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. We found that this transfer is smooth, with friendly drivers ensuring a good start.

The Oymapinar Dam and Ancient Bridge

Our first stop is the Oymapinar Dam Lake, the 5th largest dam in Turkey. The landscape in this area is a highlight — lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and the dam itself creating a peaceful backdrop. We loved how the guide pointed out the ancient Roman bridge that dates back around 2000 years. It’s a reminder of the region’s long history and adds a layer of authenticity to the scenic beauty.

Reviewers like Heidi praised this stop, noting the “beautiful place to visit” and the impressive landscape and history. The views here are worth the brief stop, and the photo opportunities are plentiful, especially if you’re eager to capture the lush surroundings and ancient architecture.

Cruising the Green Canyon

Once on the boat, the real highlight begins. The 14 km cruise offers a leisurely exploration of the Green Canyon, renowned for its emerald waters and towering cliffs. The boat is well-equipped with soft drinks, and many guests—like Ian—appreciated the friendly staff and good onboard service.

The boat ride, lasting around two hours, is perfect for both relaxation and photography. We enjoyed the scenic views and the chance to sit back and breathe in the fresh air. If you love taking pictures, there are plenty of vantage points, and the clear waters make for some memorable shots.

Guests have reported that the cruise is also relaxing, with Emma mentioning she loved the “beautiful views over the lake and canyon.” She also noted the lakeside lunch as a nice break, especially after swimming.

The Swimming Break

After the cruise, you’ll get a chance for a short swim in the turquoise waters. This is a highlight for many, offering a chance to cool off and connect with nature. Expect to be surrounded by stunning scenery while bobbing in the water.

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Lakeside Lunch and Activities

Next stop is a lakeside restaurant, where a long break is scheduled. The menu generally includes grilled chicken, meatballs, or fish, complemented by pasta, salad, and fresh fruit. The reviews suggest the lunch is straightforward but satisfying—plenty of food options and a chance to relax.

Emma pointed out that mobility might be an issue here, as there are uneven stairs leading from the pontoon to the restaurant. If you’re carrying heavy luggage or have mobility concerns, plan accordingly.

Post-lunch, you have free time to swim or make use of the restaurant’s equipment for lake activities. Some guests took advantage of the canoes or fishing rods, adding a bit of adventure to the day.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

As the boat heads back to the pier, you’ll enjoy more scenic views, and the total experience usually wraps up in about 4.5 hours. When the trip concludes, comfortable vehicles will transfer you back to your hotel, ending a day of scenic serenity.

The Overall Experience: What Makes This Tour Special

What truly sets this tour apart is its balance of scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and authentic experiences. We loved that the focus isn’t on high-energy activities but rather on enjoying the natural environment and historical sights at a comfortable speed. The friendly guides and crew contribute greatly to the smooth flow, making it an enjoyable outing for most travelers.

The inclusion of unlimited soft drinks and a hearty lunch offers great value, especially for those who dislike the hassle of carrying snacks or worrying about food. The boat itself is comfortable, with enough space for everyone to relax and take in the views.

Another big plus is the proximity to historical sites like the Roman bridge, which adds a layer of cultural interest without making the trip feel like a history lesson. This subtle blend of nature and history makes for a well-rounded experience.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While the trip has many positives, some travelers might find the limited commentary during the cruise a bit disappointing—they may wish for more insightful narration about the Dam and Canyon. As Emma noted, she would have appreciated more details about how the canyon formed or its depth, but these aren’t provided onboard.

For those with mobility issues, the uneven stairs leading to the lakeside restaurant could pose a challenge. Also, drinks during lunch aren’t included and are priced at standard bar rates, so budget accordingly if you want extras.

Lastly, if you’re expecting a lively party atmosphere or a very educational experience about the region’s geology or history, this tour might not fully satisfy that craving. It is, after all, geared toward relaxation and scenic enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds. It suits families, couples, or groups seeking a scenic, hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming in natural waters. If you’re interested in history, the Roman bridge is a bonus but not the main focus.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate good value, given the lunch, soft drinks, and guided service included in the price. However, if you prefer more active pursuits or detailed historical commentary, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included (depending on your selected option), making it convenient to start and end your day stress-free.

Are alcohol drinks available?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included or available onboard. The tour provides unlimited soft drinks instead.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise itself lasts about two hours, but the entire trip, including stops and lunch, ranges from 4 to 7.5 hours depending on the schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes. The trip is family-friendly, but consider mobility issues at the lakeside restaurant and the general comfort of very young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for swimming and sun protection is recommended. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat for sun safety.

In summary, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers a relaxed, scenic, and authentic experience that emphasizes enjoyment of nature and minor historical sights. It’s ideal for those wanting a peaceful day, beautiful views, and a taste of local landscapes without the hustle of more crowded tours. The inclusive soft drinks and satisfying lunch make it a good value, and the friendly guides add to the overall comfort. For travelers seeking a gentle, picturesque escape, this trip hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: