Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch From Side

Exploring Green Canyon from Side: A Practical, Authentic Boat Trip Experience

If you’re visiting Side and craving a day surrounded by nature’s beauty, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a memorable way to see some of Turkey’s most striking landscapes. This full-day tour, priced at around $49.21 per person, combines scenic boat cruising, a stop at the impressive Manavgat Dam, opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters, and a delicious lunch at a waterfront restaurant. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s designed to minimize hassle and maximize the experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with accessible, family-friendly activities. The boat cruise along the emerald waters is truly captivating, offering views of the towering Taurus Mountains and lush tree-lined banks. Plus, the swim stops in the lakes are perfect for cooling off and relaxing. However, one consideration is that some reviews mention the boat rides can be a bit boring for those expecting constant activity, and the boat itself might feel a little dated.

This experience works best for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy gentle boat rides, and value good food and easy logistics. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed day out with some adventure and plenty of photo-worthy views.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Emerald waters, mountain backdrops, and lush greenery.
• Inclusive experience: Pickup, lunch, and some drinks included—great value.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at Manavgat Dam and lakes for swimming.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a relaxed pace.
• Potential drawbacks: Boat quality and the possibility of a less engaging cruise.
• Authentic local guide: Adds value and insight during stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Boat Trip

What Makes the Green Canyon Trip Stand Out?

This tour stands out because it offers a combination of scenic beauty, convenience, and good value. For roughly $50, you get a full day’s outing that includes transportation, sightseeing, a delicious lunch, and the chance to swim in pristine waters. The duration, around 8 hours, makes it a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

The local guide—mentioned as knowledgeable—adds context to each stop, helping you appreciate the history and natural features of the area. The hotel pickup and drop-off remove the stress of navigating to meeting points, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Side.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Manavgat Dam and Oymapinar Dam (1 hour)

Your journey begins with a visit to the Manavgat Dam and Oymapinar Dam—both free to visit, but packed with visual interest. These water structures showcase impressive engineering amid lush surroundings. Travelers report that this stop is great for snapping photos, particularly of the dams with the Taurus Mountains in the background.

While some reviews don’t mention extensive guided commentary here, the views alone are worth the quick stop. It’s a good chance to stretch legs, take photos, and appreciate the scale of these dams and their role in regional water management.

Stop 2: Green Canyon (3 hours)

The highlight of the tour is the scenic cruise through Green Canyon itself. You’ll glide along emerald waters flanked by towering cliffs and verdant trees. This part of the trip is praised by many for the breathtaking views, with a few reviewers mentioning the experience as “really good” and “worth every penny.”

One traveler noted that the cruise allows for some rejuvenating moments, especially as you pass the Little Canyon and admire the snow-capped Taurus Mountains in the distance. You’ll also get the opportunity to enjoy free drinks, helping to keep you refreshed during the cruise.

The boat can feel somewhat dated—some reviewers mention it as “already in the years,” which might affect comfort, but the overall experience remains positive thanks to the scenery.

Stop 3: Lunch at a Waterfront Restaurant (45 minutes)

After cruising, a lunch break at a local waterfront restaurant provides a much-needed chance to refuel. The meal, included in the tour, is generally described as “very nice,” and the setting offers a peaceful view over the lake.

Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “the lunch was very good in a wonderful setting,” which underscores how this part of the tour leaves a lasting impression.

Swimming and Free Time

The tour also offers several swimming stops, where travelers can enjoy the cool, clear waters of the lakes. Reviews rave about the temperature of the water—not too cold but refreshing, perfect for a quick dip. One guest exclaimed, “the water was a perfect temperature for swimming,” emphasizing how well-timed these stops are.

The Overall Experience

While many travelers find the scenery the most compelling part of the trip, some mention that the boat ride itself could be more engaging. A reviewer noted, “the cruise was a little bit boring,” but still enjoyed the opportunity to relax and soak in the views.

The guide’s insights—which some reviews praise as helpful and friendly—add an educational layer for those curious about the area’s natural features.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip particularly appeals to those who enjoy laid-back exploration, scenic landscapes, and easy logistics. Families, couples, and friends looking for a relaxing day out will find plenty to love. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a value-packed experience—with lunch and transportation included—without the need for strenuous activity.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Excellent value for the price
• Beautiful scenery and photo opportunities
• Swimming in pristine lakes
• Comfortable, hassle-free pickup and drop-off

Cons:

• Boat quality might seem a bit outdated
• Some may find the cruise less engaging over several hours
• Limited to gentle sightseeing without adventure elements
• Drinks are not included on the boat (only water and soft drinks)

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Green Canyon boat trip from Side is ideal for anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic escape that combines nature, good food, and manageable travel logistics. It’s perfect if you’re looking to experience Turkey’s lush landscapes without strenuous activities or long hikes. Families with children, couples, or groups wanting an easy, enjoyable outing will find this tour offers great value and authentic moments.

However, if you’re after a more action-packed adventure or a more modern boat experience, you might want to explore other options. Still, most travelers leave with plenty of stunning photos and a relaxed appreciation of Turkey’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Side.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet-style lunch at a waterfront restaurant is included in the tour price. Drinks, however, are not included on the boat but are available for purchase.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Multiple stops in the lakes give you the chance to swim in the clear waters, which many reviewers say are at a perfect temperature.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. A camera or smartphone for photos is also a must.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly and suitable for most ages, provided guests are comfortable with boat rides.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 100 travelers can join, which generally keeps the experience intimate enough for personal interaction but large enough for a lively atmosphere.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, relaxed sightseeing, and good value. Whether you’re photographing mountain vistas, swimming in tranquil lakes, or simply enjoying a peaceful cruise, this tour provides a balanced experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Just remember, the boat’s age and the cruise’s leisurely pace might not suit everyone, but for many, the stunning scenery and laid-back vibe more than compensate. It’s an excellent way to spend a day soaking up Turkey’s scenic wonders without overextending your schedule.