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

Side/Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip w/Unlimited Soft Drinks — An In-Depth Review

If you’re visiting the Antalya Province in Turkey and craving a break from busy tourist spots, the Green Canyon Boat Trip offers a peaceful escape into nature’s tranquility. This tour combines a scenic cruise, a bit of history, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for those who want to relax and see some of Turkey’s natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches or city streets.

What’s particularly appealing about this experience is the chance to enjoy emerald waters and stunning landscapes while avoiding the crowds often found around popular coastal resorts. Plus, with unlimited soft drinks onboard, it’s a great low-key way to keep refreshed throughout a day that can stretch from 4 to 7.5 hours. On the downside, some travelers might find the day somewhat long, especially if they’re not keen on boat trips or have difficulty with uneven surfaces. This trip is best suited for nature lovers, families, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic day out.

Key Points

• Relaxing cruise in the Green Canyon with beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere
• Includes a lakeside lunch with options like chicken, fish, or meatballs
• Short stops at Oymapinar Dam and the Little Canyon, perfect for photos and quick exploration
• Unlimited soft drinks onboard help keep everyone refreshed during the cruise
• Ideal for those seeking escape from tourist crowds and looking for authentic natural scenery
• Not suitable for individuals over 95 years or those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting the Day: Comfortable Pickup and Scenic Drive

The experience kicks off with hotel pickups in comfortable, modern vehicles. This is a thoughtful touch, especially after a long morning of travel planning. Our tour provider, Payless Turizm, is known for punctuality and friendly service, which sets the tone for a smooth day. The drive from Side or Alanya takes roughly 75 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and get some initial glimpses of the Turkish countryside.

First Stop: Oymapinar Dam Lake and the Roman Bridge

The first official stop is at the Oymapinar Dam Lake, a highlight that combines natural beauty with historical significance. This 5th largest dam in Turkey creates a stunning backdrop with its shimmering waters, surrounded by rugged mountains. It’s worth noting that the region is highly regarded for its landscapes and natural wonders.

Here, you’ll have a brief opportunity to take photos and soak in the scenery. One of the reviews highlights the ancient Roman bridge that stands nearby, which dates back around 2,000 years. It’s a fantastic spot for history buffs and those wanting a quick glimpse into Turkey’s layered past. The dam’s impressive size and the lush surroundings make it a picture-perfect moment, and many travelers appreciate the chance to get some memorable shots.

Cruising the Green Canyon: Two Hours of Scenic Relaxation

Once on the boat, the highlight is the 14 km cruise through the Green Canyon. This stretch is praised for its calm waters and breathtaking views, perfect for taking photos or just soaking up the serenity. The boat trip is ideal for those wanting a relaxing experience—no rushing, just gentle cruising along the emerald waters.

Several guests, like Ian, mention the friendly and attentive boat staff, who go out of their way to ensure everyone looks after each other. The views of the canyon, with its steep, forested walls, are genuinely impressive.

The boat also makes a swimming stop, allowing travelers to dive into the turquoise waters. Reviewers describe the experience as “memorable,” with many noting how the water’s clarity and tranquility make for a perfect swim. It’s a great chance to cool off and enjoy nature up close.

Lunch Break: Lakeside Dining and Tasty Food

After the cruise, everyone heads to a lakeside restaurant. This is often a highlight, with a buffet-style lunch featuring options like barbecued chicken, meatballs, or fish, plus pasta, salad, and fresh fruit.

Reviewers mention that the lunch was better than expected, especially considering the price point. The setting—overlooking the lake—adds to the experience, making it more than just a quick meal. The food is simple but satisfying, and the unlimited soft drinks mean you can indulge without worry.

However, some note that drinks during lunch are not included, but at reasonable prices. Also, it’s worth mentioning that mobility issues may make access to the restaurant challenging due to uneven stairs from the boat.

Free Time: Relax or Play

Post-lunch, you’re encouraged to enjoy free time. Many choose to swim again, explore the lakeside, or simply relax and take in the scenery. For those feeling a bit more adventurous, the restaurant’s equipment for lake activities (like canoes or fishing rods) can be used, offering extra fun.

The Return Journey: Scenic Drive Back to the Hotel

As the day winds down, the boat departs for the return trip, sailing back through the canyon. The drive back is approximately 75 minutes, giving you a chance to rest or share stories from the day.

Upon arrival, comfortable vehicles will transfer you back to your hotel, bringing an end to a day packed with scenic views, gentle adventure, and a good dose of relaxation.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides and staff elevate this trip. Heidi praises Eric, who managed the booking efficiently, and mentions how “the whole experience was excellent.” Ian describes the boat staff as “fantastic and friendly,” emphasizing the attention to guest comfort and safety.

Many travelers also appreciated the informative commentary—although some felt it was limited—highlighting that guides provided basic info, but a little extra about the dam’s depth or canyon formation could be appreciated. Still, for the price, most felt they received good value, especially with the included soft drinks, lunch, and scenic stops.

A key theme in reviews is how stunning the views are—many describe the canyon as “spectacular,” with the peaceful waters and lush surroundings standing out as real highlights. The swimming stop particularly gets rave reviews, with travelers describing the water as “crystal-clear” and the experience as “memorable.”

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This Green Canyon boat trip hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic day away from the crowds. Its combination of nature, history, and leisure makes it versatile. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups who enjoy being on the water and in nature. The unlimited soft drinks and lunch add good value, making it less about pricey extras and more about enjoying the day.

However, be aware of the length and uneven terrain—it might not work well for those with mobility issues or those who prefer a shorter, more low-key activity. The tour’s pace and itinerary are designed to maximize scenery and relaxation rather than adrenaline or extensive sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side offers an authentic taste of Turkey’s beautiful natural landscape. The combination of a peaceful cruise, historical landmarks at Oymapinar Dam, and a lakeside lunch makes for a well-rounded day. The friendly guides, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere create a memorable experience that many reviewers describe as “amazing” or “definitely worth doing.”

This trip is best for anyone who wants to escape the crowds and enjoy nature, with the bonus of some light activity like swimming and photography. It’s a fantastic way to spend a leisurely day, especially if you appreciate tranquil waters and lush greenery.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included in the package, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 4 to 7.5 hours depending on the option you select, with the main cruise and stops usually spanning about 4.5 hours.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?
Yes, unlimited soft drinks are included onboard, but alcohol and other beverages are not. Drinks at the lakeside restaurant are available for purchase at normal prices.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes and swimwear if you plan to swim, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen. It’s wise to bring a camera for the stunning views.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but those over 95 or with mobility issues might find uneven stairs and terrain challenging. Always check with your group’s needs.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon boat trip combines natural beauty, relaxed cruising, and good value. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful day immersed in Turkey’s scenic landscapes with a friendly, well-organized tour. Whether you’re after memorable photos, a refreshing swim, or just a break from the busy town, this excursion ticks many boxes.