Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer

Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer

This boat trip in Side, Turkey, offers a delightful blend of scenic views, playful activities, and a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. For just $22 per person, you get roughly 6 to 7 hours of sun, sea, and entertainment—including hotel pickup, a tasty lunch, and a foam party. The trip is designed to give you a full day away from the busy town streets, exploring the beautiful Mediterranean coastline with its hidden beaches and historic sights.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to see dolphins, if luck is on your side, and the well-organized stops for swimming and sightseeing. The boat itself tends to be lively, with engaging hosts and fun extras like foam parties, making it ideal for families and groups looking for a relaxed but entertaining day.

A possible consideration is the variability in reviews about boat cleanliness and staff attitudes. While many rave about the fun atmosphere, some have expressed dissatisfaction with the boat’s condition and service quality. So, it’s worth keeping expectations flexible and focusing more on the scenic and social aspects of the trip.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and active swimming, are open to fun entertainment, and want an affordable way to explore the coast. If you’re craving authentic beach days, beautiful vistas, and maybe a glimpse of dolphins, this trip could be a highlight of your time in Side.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at around $22 per person, offering good value for a full day out
• Multiple swim stops allow you to enjoy the water in different settings, including the Mediterranean and the river mouth
• Lunch on board provides a simple but filling meal with options like barbecued chicken or fish
• Variety of activities, including foam parties and entertainment, keep the energy lively
• Hotel transfer included makes logistics easy and hassle-free
• Dolphin sighting chances are high but depend on luck, so don’t set your heart solely on it

A Full Review of the Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Departure

Our experience begins with the convenience of hotel pickup, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating to the pier yourself. The transport is comfortable, but note that some reviews mention older buses and crowded conditions, so if you have mobility issues or prefer more space, this might be worth considering.

At around 8:30 am, you’ll be whisked away to Kumköy beach, the usual departure point. It’s a short 7 km drive from Side, giving you a quick preview of the landscape en route. The early start is perfect if you want to make the most of your day — and, for those who dislike afternoon heat, it’s a good time to beat the crowds.

The Boat and the Crew

Once you arrive at the pier, you’ll step onto a boat that, from many reviews, seems to be a lively, family-friendly vessel. The crew, including guides and hosts, are generally described as engaging and friendly — although some guests have voiced complaints about cleanliness and professionalism. For example, one reviewer called the boat “filthy” with a foul smell, a reminder that boat quality can vary.

On the plus side, the hosts are known for their energy and willingness to entertain, with activities like foam parties that animate the day. The boat’s atmosphere tends to lean towards fun, making it especially suitable for families with kids or those young at heart.

The First Stop: Kumkoy and the Sights of Side

The trip’s first major highlight is the passing by Side’s historic sights—the ancient port, the Temple of Apollo, and the lush surroundings of the Manavgat River. Passing these landmarks gives you a scenic backdrop for your day, and many reviews praise the views.

The short swimming break at the river’s mouth is a unique feature, where you can choose to swim in the river’s cool waters or in the sea. This spot offers a remarkable mix of cold river water and warm Mediterranean temperatures, making it a refreshing experience. Several guests mention how lovely it is to enjoy both environments; one reviewer said, “the cold river waters are combined with the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea,” creating a one-of-a-kind contrast.

Lunch on the Boat

After the initial swim, you will be served a simple, hearty lunch aboard. Options include barbecued chicken or fish, accompanied by rice, salad, and bread. The quality is described as good enough to satisfy most guests, with some mentioning that the food is nourishing and satisfying after swimming.

Several reviews praise the lunch as “delicious and nourishing,” and the fact that it’s included in the price adds to the overall value. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to relax and chat while enjoying your meal, often with some light entertainment in the background.

Heading to Dolphin Island and the Swimming Stops

Next, the boat journeys toward Dolphin Island, a small, scenic spot where travelers hope to spot dolphins swimming freely. While sightings are dependent on nature and luck, many guests report seeing dolphins, which is a real highlight. One reviewer excitedly described their experience: “We had the big luck to see a group of dolphins — truly unforgettable moments.”

The trip includes several swimming opportunities—up to four, in fact. You can hop into the sea directly from the boat or enjoy the beaches at each stop. Some travelers appreciate the flexibility: “There are four chances to swim, whether from the boat or from the beach,” said one happy guest.

The stops are spaced out throughout the day, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Entertainment and Extra Activities

The trip features a foam party, which many reviews find to be a hit with children and families. It’s a lively, light-hearted addition that keeps the energy high. Some guests note that the entertainment can be hit or miss—while kids love the foam and games, others feel that the music playlist could be more international.

A few reviews mention the presence of a parrot and other animal interactions, adding a quirky, memorable touch, especially for families with young kids.

Returning to Kumköy and Hotel Drop-off

The day wraps up back at Kumköy beach, where comfortable buses are waiting to take you back to Side hotels. The entire trip is around 6 to 7 hours, making it a substantial chunk of your day but well worth it for the variety of experiences packed in.

Some guests have had issues with the transportation, citing older buses or crowded conditions, but the convenience of hotel transfers generally outweighs these drawbacks.

Authentic Feedback: What Travelers Say

Many praise this boat trip for its value for money and stunning views. A common theme is satisfaction when seeing dolphins, with one reviewer stating, “The boat and hosts were fantastic, really engaging and lots of fun for all the family.” Conversely, some express disappointment, particularly about boat cleanliness and service, with one reviewer calling the boat “disgusting” and the staff “looking like the hills have eyes,” highlighting the importance of managing expectations.

In terms of food, several guests mention the lunch as “simple but delicious,” emphasizing that it provides enough sustenance after swimming and playing. The entertainment, especially the foam party, is described as a fun addition, especially for kids.

Different reviews highlight the importance of flexibility. For example, some appreciated the multiple swimming stops, while others felt misled about the dolphin sightings, depending on weather and luck. It’s clear that nature plays a big role in the success of dolphin sightings—so don’t come with high expectations, but do come ready for a fun, social day at sea.

The Practicalities

The tour costs around $22, making it quite affordable considering the included hotel transfers, lunch, and activities. Be aware that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or buy beverages on the boat. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100, which helps keep the atmosphere lively but not overly crowded.

Cancellation policies are flexible—full refunds are possible if canceled 24 hours in advance, which is a bonus if weather turns unfavorable or plans change.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking a fun, social day on the water. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see dolphins, enjoy multiple swimming opportunities, and sample local Turkish hospitality with a simple but tasty meal. If you love lively entertainment and don’t mind some variability in boat condition, you’ll find this trip enjoyable.

However, if you’re very particular about boat cleanliness or expecting a quiet, serene experience, it might be better to look for alternatives. Also, keep in mind that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, but the scenic stops and the overall atmosphere tend to satisfy most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guiding service, a foam party, and a lunch of barbequed chicken or fish with rice and salad. Drinks are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, with the boat departing around 8:30 am and returning to Kumköy beach late morning or early afternoon.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, there are three main swimming stops, including the river mouth and the beaches near dolphin island. You can swim in the sea or in the river, depending on your preference.

Can I expect to see dolphins?
While sightings depend on luck and nature, many guests report seeing dolphins, which is often a highlight. But no guarantees are made.

Is the boat clean and comfortable?
Reviews are mixed; some guests find the boat lively and fun, while others mention cleanliness issues. It’s advisable to keep expectations flexible regarding boat conditions.

What about entertainment?
Expect a lively atmosphere with foam parties, music, and optional animal interactions like a parrot. The entertainment is geared toward family fun but varies in appeal.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children having a great time, especially with the foam party and animal photo opportunities. Just be prepared for a lively environment.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip in Side offers a lively, affordable way to enjoy the Mediterranean sea, with the possibility of dolphin sightings and plenty of swimming opportunities. It’s best suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate good value, lively atmospheres, and scenic beauty.

While the boat’s condition might not be five-star luxury, the overall experience of being at sea, enjoying a simple meal, and feeling the thrill of spotting dolphins makes it a memorable outing. Expect a fun-filled day with opportunities for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying Turkey’s stunning coastline.

For those seeking a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water—especially if you love a good beach day combined with some entertainment—this trip hits the mark. Just remember to keep your expectations in check regarding boat cleanliness and the unpredictability of wildlife sightings.

Enjoy your trip, and may the dolphins be with you!