Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks offers a full day of relaxing sea adventures along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast. Priced at a reasonable rate, this tour typically lasts around 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Side and taking you on a comfortable double-deck boat to explore some of the most scenic spots in the area. You’ll get opportunities to swim in crystal-clear bays, spot wild dolphins (if luck’s on your side), and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch with unlimited soft drinks.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to unwind on deck, soaking up the scenery with plenty of shaded and sunbed options. The boat’s crew is friendly, aiming to make the journey fun and comfortable. A second highlight is the visit to Dolphin Island—though, as some reviews note, dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the thrill of being in these pristine waters is undeniable.

A potential consideration is the trip’s itinerary, which, according to some reviews, differs slightly from expectations. For example, one reviewer pointed out that instead of a direct trip to Dolphin Island, the boat primarily heads to various bays and, optionally, to the Manavgat waterfalls for an extra fee. This might be a disappointment if your main goal was close encounters with dolphins or a specific island experience.

In all, this cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back day on the water, with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and good food. It’s especially good for water enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a taste of the Mediterranean without too much hustle.

Key Points

• Relaxing full-day experience with swimming, sightseeing, and onboard dining.
• Beautiful stops at bays with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
• Opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• Comfortable boat with shaded areas and sunbeds for maximum relaxation.
• Includes lunch and unlimited soft drinks, adding value to the package.
• Some reviews mention a different itinerary than expected, focusing more on bays than Dolphin Island.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise

If you’re dreaming of spending a day bobbing gently on the Mediterranean, this tour offers a good balance of scenery, relaxation, and fun. You’ll start your adventure with a hotel pickup in Side—a hassle-free way to get to the boat, which departs from a nearby harbor. The transfer is quick, and from there, the experience begins.

The Boat and Onboard Comfort

The vessel is described as spacious, with a double-deck design that lends plenty of room to spread out. We love that there’s a mix of shaded and sunlit areas, so you can choose to bask in the sun or stay cool in the shade. Sunbeds are available, making it easy to relax while taking in the views of the coastline as you set sail. The crew’s friendliness and the lively atmosphere, often accompanied by music, contribute to a cheerful vibe.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See

The tour’s core appeal is its three main stops at secluded bays. These are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating around with a drink in hand. Expect to be in clear, inviting waters – a highlight for many travelers. The first stop is typically in a beautiful bay, giving you time to dip in and unwind. The waters here are warm and inviting for swimmers and floaters alike.

The highlight of the day is visiting Dolphin Island. This place is truly stunning, with untouched natural beauty that begs for photos. If you’re lucky, you might spot wild dolphins swimming near the boat, which adds a touch of magic—though, as some reviews point out, sightings are not guaranteed. The island itself is a perfect spot for pictures, relaxing on the sand, and enjoying the serenity of nature.

Following Dolphin Island, the boat anchors at another bay, offering another round of swimming opportunities or lounging on deck. The crew often plays music, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet lively.

Food and Drinks: Savoring the Day

A major plus of this tour is the onboard lunch, served buffet-style with freshly prepared options like grilled fish, chicken, salads, and pasta. We appreciate that unlimited soft drinks are included, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about extra costs. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, which is convenient if you want a colder drink in the sun.

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Additional Stops and Optional Extras

Some reviews mention that the trip may include a visit to the Manavgat waterfalls for an extra fee, which might be a bonus if you’re interested. However, this is not part of the core package, and others have noted that the actual itinerary may differ from the original advertisement.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

Ulrich’s review highlights the guide’s ** friendliness and the good program**, noting that “there was no long Weile” (no long wait), making it a smooth and enjoyable day. On the flip side, Theo’s review points out a mismatch: “The activity is not a boat trip to Dolphin Island but a boat trip to Side by sea,” and he mentions being dropped off at the market afterward, which felt like a different experience from what was expected.

This highlights the importance of understanding the tour’s focus—it’s more about scenic bays and swimming than guaranteed dolphin encounters or visiting Dolphin Island specifically.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• Duration: Around 7 hours, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and your swimwear.
• Transport: Hotel pickup in Side is included, but meet at the main entrance of your hotel for privacy reasons.
• What to Bring: Sun protection, cash for extras, and your enthusiasm for water fun.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for severe motion sickness sufferers or those with certain medical conditions.
• Weather: Operates in most conditions, but severe weather may lead to rescheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water, enjoying swimming and scenic views without too much fuss. Families with children often find it ideal due to the calm waters and easy swimming stops. Water lovers will appreciate the opportunity to float in crystal-clear bays, and foodies will enjoy the onboard lunch.

However, if your main goal is to see dolphins up close or visit Dolphin Island, keep in mind that sightings aren’t guaranteed, and the itinerary may focus more on bays and alternative stops. It’s also better suited for those who want to avoid a rushed schedule and prefer a leisurely pace.

Final Thoughts

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks offers good value for a day filled with relaxing swimming, scenic views, and tasty food. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and the chance to spot wildlife make it a memorable choice for those seeking a straightforward, enjoyable sea day in Turkey. While the itinerary might not match everyone’s expectations—especially if you’re dreaming of a dolphin encounter—the experience of sailing along the coast, dipping in turquoise waters, and taking stunning photos is hard to beat.

This tour is best suited for those who prioritize comfort, scenery, and relaxing water activities over specific wildlife sightings. It’s a reliable way to enjoy the Mediterranean and make the most of your time in Side.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most hotels in the Side region are included in the pickup service. Be sure to meet at the main entrance gate of your hotel for a smooth start.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience is about 7 hours, including transfers, swimming stops, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited soft drinks are included, and additional alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Can I see dolphins during this tour?
Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed. The tour focuses on scenic bays and the natural beauty of the coast.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, cash, and your camera for photos.

Is there any optional extra activity?
Yes, some tours may include a trip to the Manavgat waterfalls for an additional fee, but this is not part of the standard package.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy swimming and water activities typically enjoy this trip, but always check with your provider about age restrictions.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but in severe weather, it may be rescheduled for safety.

To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxing day on Turkey’s Mediterranean waters, with opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy fresh food, this cruise offers a good balance of fun and comfort. Just remember, it’s more about the scenery and water fun than guaranteed dolphin sightings or island visits. With friendly guides and scenic stops, it’s a solid choice for a laid-back, scenic day in Side.

You can check availability for your dates here: