Side Green Canyon Boat Trip With Unlimited Drinks And Lunch

If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and craving a mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and fun, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a memorable escape. For just $36 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 8-hour journey that takes you through some of the region’s most spectacular sights, including the Oymapinar Dam, Manavgat Dam, and the breathtaking waters of Green Canyon itself. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited soft drinks, lunch, and guided commentary—making it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the diverse stops, which include both scenic views and opportunities for swimming, and the generous buffet lunch with unlimited drinks, perfect for recharging after a morning of sightseeing. On the flip side, some might find the large group size and crowded boat a bit overwhelming, especially during peak season. Still, for those looking to relax, take photos, and enjoy nature at their own pace, this trip ticks a lot of boxes.

In terms of who this experience suits best, it’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a full, yet relaxed day out in nature. If you enjoy scenic cruises, good food, and easy transportation, this trip is a strong pick. However, if you prefer smaller groups or more personalized guides, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Cruise through the emerald waters of Green Canyon, a reservoir formed by the Oymapinar Dam.
• All-inclusive experience: Enjoy unlimited soft drinks, a hearty buffet lunch, and guided commentary.
• Multiple stops: Explore the 5th-largest dam in Turkey, swim in the canyon, and visit a lakeside restaurant.
• Hassle-free logistics: Hotel transfers from Side and Kizilagac ensure a relaxed day without planning.
• Varied activities: Swim, kayak, fish, and take photos, making it suitable for all ages.
• Mixed reviews on crowding: Some travelers note the boats are crowded, but most find the views and experience worthwhile.

A Deep Dive Into the Green Canyon Boat Trip

Starting from Side: Convenience and Comfort

Your day begins early with hotel pickup, a feature we always appreciate as it spares you the stress of finding your way to the departure point. The ride to the dam takes about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to relax and get into the holiday mood. The journey itself reveals a part of Turkey often off the typical tourist trail, with picturesque landscapes and a glimpse of local life.

Upon arrival at the Oymapinar Dam, you’ll notice the scale of this engineering marvel—Turkey’s fifth-largest dam—creating the reservoir that forms Green Canyon. A quick stop here allows for some photos and to stretch your legs. A highlight mentioned in reviews is the ancient Roman bridge visible near the dam, adding a touch of history to the natural scenery.

We loved the way the tour combines natural beauty with a touch of history, making the experience richer than just a boat ride. The dam’s waters are surrounded by steep cliffs, and the view of the narrowing canyon is truly impressive. Be prepared for some crowds at this stop, especially during peak seasons, but the scenery more than compensates.

Exploring Manavgat Dam: Water and Ancient Bridges

Next, the group heads to Manavgat Dam, another impressive structure, and the fifth-largest in Turkey. Here, you’ll find a different perspective on the region’s water management and energy production. The highlight for many is the ancient Roman bridge from around 2000 years ago. It’s a neat addition that adds a layer of historical interest before you continue your journey.

Some travelers mention that the boat stops here for about two hours, giving ample time for swimming and relaxing. This stop is a chance to cool off and enjoy a splash in the clear waters, which reviewers describe as “very nice,” albeit cold.

Lakeside Lunch: Satisfying and Social

The boat then cruises to a lakeside restaurant for a substantial lunch break. The menu includes barbecued chicken, meatballs, or fish, with pasta, salad, and fruit—an open buffet that many find more than enough for a hearty meal. What’s especially appreciated is the unlimited soft drinks, which keep everyone refreshed and happy.

While some reviews note that the lunch isn’t gourmet, most agree it’s good and filling, especially after a morning of sightseeing and swimming. The restaurant’s setting, with views of the lake and canyon, makes for a relaxing atmosphere. A common sentiment is that the lunch adds great value to the tour, especially considering the included drinks and the scenic location.

The Showstopper: Green Canyon Cruise

The core of the tour is a 14-kilometer (approximately 9 miles) cruise through Green Canyon itself. Here, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the steep canyon walls and emerald waters. Many reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful the scenery is, with some describing it as “stunningly pretty.”

The boat offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos, especially of the towering cliffs and turquoise waters. The two-hour cruise is a perfect length—long enough to soak in the scenery but not so long as to feel tedious. During this time, you can swim in the lake, a favorite activity for many travelers. The water is described as cold but invigorating, and the natural setting makes it an unforgettable experience.

Some reviewers mention they appreciated the kayaks and fishing gear available for use, which adds an extra layer of fun to the cruise. The relaxed pace and scenic environment make this part of the trip ideal for photo lovers and peace-seekers alike.

Returning and Reflection

After the cruise, the boat heads back toward the pier. The return journey is about an hour, during which some travelers note the boats can get crowded, and the music volume can be high. However, most agree that the views and overall experience outweigh these minor inconveniences.

The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, making it a seamless and hassle-free day out.

Authentic Traveler Insights

The reviews reveal a broad spectrum of experiences, but several themes emerge. Many travelers mention friendly staff and guides, with some praising Mete for excellent communication. The scenery consistently impresses, with phrases like “breathtaking,” “stunning,” and “fantastic views” recurring throughout.

Food is generally seen as decent and plentiful, with several reviewers expressing satisfaction with both the quality of the buffet and the generous soft drinks. The swimming stops are highly rated, described as “refreshing” and “beautiful,” although some note the cold water is a surprise.

Crowding seems to be a common complaint, especially on the boat, where some mention feeling cramped. There’s also a note about chaos at the start, with large groups boarding different boats, which could be frustrating for travelers expecting a more intimate experience.

A few reviews mention poor organization at the restaurant or lacking commentary during the cruise, hinting that some guides might be more focused on logistics than storytelling. However, overall, many find the trip great value for money and a beautiful way to spend a day outside of the crowds.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance: The tour is popular and often booked 12 days ahead, so reserve early.
• Bring sunscreen and water: The sun can be intense, and although soft drinks are unlimited, staying hydrated is key.
• Prepare for crowds: Consider bringing a small towel or seat cushion if you’re sensitive to tight seating.
• Camera ready: The scenery offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially during the cruise.
• Dress accordingly: Comfortable clothing for the boat and swimwear for the stops are advised.
• Be patient: Expect some chaos at the start, but most travelers agree the scenery and experience are worth it.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Side and Kizilagac hotels, making it very convenient.

How long is the overall trip?
It lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, stops, and the boat cruise.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers hotel transfers, unlimited soft drinks, a buffet lunch, guiding service, and fishing rods.

Can I swim in the canyon?
Yes, there are swim stops in the lake, and many guests enjoy swimming surrounded by nature. The water can be cold but refreshing.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can use kayaks and fishing gear at the lake, which adds extra fun during the cruise.

What about the crowd size?
The tour can accommodate up to 200 travelers, meaning some boats and areas can be crowded, especially during peak season.

Is vegetarian or special diet available?
The menu appears fixed (meat, fish, pasta), so it’s best to check in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 12 days in advance, especially if visiting during peak months.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, with swimming and sightseeing, but parents should be mindful of crowds and sun exposure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines stunning scenery, good food, and relaxed activities, this Green Canyon boat trip offers excellent value. The highlights—the breathtaking canyon views, swimming opportunities, and the comfortable transfer—make it a practical choice for those wanting an authentic experience away from the busy tourist spots.

While the crowded boat and occasional disorganization might not suit travelers craving intimacy or a more curated guide experience, most find the overall value and natural beauty more than compensates. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to enjoy Turkey’s remarkable landscapes without fuss.

For anyone wanting an affordable, scenic, and activity-filled day, this trip is a solid pick in the Side region. With knowledgeable guides and a chance to relax, take photos, and cool off in the canyon waters, you’re likely to come away with some fantastic memories—and maybe a few great photos too.