Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

If you’re eyeing a escape from the bustling streets of Antalya to embrace nature’s tranquility, the Green Canyon Boat Trip is worth considering. This full-day excursion offers a peaceful cruise across turquoise waters, visits to scenic spots like Oymapnar Dam, and plenty of opportunities to unwind and soak in breathtaking landscapes. With a mix of leisurely stops, delicious food, and unlimited soft drinks, it promises a relaxed yet memorable day out.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balanced approach—combining scenic views with some free time for optional activities like fishing or just floating in the lake. The inclusion of a hearty, lakeside lunch and round-trip hotel transfers makes it a convenient option. However, some travelers have noted that the boat can get quite busy, and long stops might feel a bit drawn out. Still, if your ideal getaway involves nature, water, and a gentle pace, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

This tour suits travelers who love being on the water, enjoy scenic landscapes, and seek a family-friendly activity that balances sightseeing with relaxation. It’s especially appealing if you want a full-day experience that doesn’t require a lot of planning and offers good value for money.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery: The turquoise waters of Green Canyon and the views of hills painted in varied colors make this a visual delight.
• Relaxed pace with options: Stops for swimming, fishing, or simply lounging ensure everyone can enjoy at their own speed.
• Inclusion of lunch and drinks: A lakeside meal with options like fish, chicken, or meatballs, plus unlimited soft drinks, adds to the value.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike, with plenty of safe and engaging activities.
• Comfortable transportation: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, plus an efficient, air-conditioned bus.
• Potential for busyness: Some reviews mention the boat can get crowded and that long stops might feel a tad excessive.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Antalya around 8:30 am, making it an easy start to your day without any stress about logistics. The ride to Oymapnar Dam takes about two hours, giving you your first glimpse of the landscape—the dam itself offers a perfect photo opportunity and a taste of the area’s natural beauty. The drive is comfortable, with most travelers praising the punctuality of the pickup service and the helpfulness of the guides.

Once at Green Canyon, you’ll hop on a boat for roughly two hours of scenic cruising along the turquoise lake. This part of the tour is the star for many, with reviewers describing the views as “absolutely breathtaking.” The boat, operated by friendly staff like Yusuf, provides a relaxed environment, with some travelers enjoying the chance to swim in the lake’s refreshing waters or simply bask in the scenic surroundings. Keep in mind, the boat can get quite busy, and some guests have mentioned that it feels crowded during peak times, which might affect your comfort level.

After the cruise, a lakeside restaurant awaits with a hearty lunch menu. You’ll be able to choose from options like meatballs, chicken, or fish, accompanied by rice and salad. Drinks like tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks are included and unlimited—so you can stay refreshed throughout the day. Reviewers say the food is decent and filling, though some noted that the meal is not gourmet, but it’s definitely enough to fuel the rest of your activities.

Post-lunch, guests have the chance to indulge in some leisurely fishing, or explore the surroundings further. The boat makes another stop for a swim, giving you a chance to cool off before heading back. The return journey lasts about two hours, with many appreciating the peaceful boat ride and the stunning vistas along the way. The tour wraps up with hotel drop-off in Side, leaving you with plenty of memorable moments.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Manavgat Dam
Your trip kicks off with a drive to Oymapnar Dam, offering fantastic photo ops of this impressive water structure. Travelers often mention how this stop sets the tone for the day—peaceful, scenic, and a nice way to start the journey. It’s a quick 2-hour visit with no entry fee, but it’s enough for some memorable shots and a dose of nature.

Stop 2: Green Canyon
The core experience: a boat cruise across the canyon’s turquoise waters. The vessel’s comfortable atmosphere and friendly crew, like Yusuf, make this part especially enjoyable. The views are described as “stunning,” with the canyon’s colorful hills and emerald lake providing a picture-perfect backdrop. Some reviewers note that the boat can be crowded, but most agree that the scenery makes up for it. You’ll have opportunities to take photos, swim, or simply relax on deck.

Stop 3: Lakeside Lunch
A highlight for many is the lakeside restaurant, where the hearty lunch is served. Options include meatballs, chicken, or fish, with rice and salad. Drinks such as tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks are included and unlimited. Reviewers appreciate the convenience of having food and drinks provided, especially when traveling with family. Although some mention the food is average, it’s satisfying and adds value to the experience.

Stop 4: Post-lunch activities
After eating, guests can try fishing, which is made available with provided equipment. The chance to fish in the calm waters adds a relaxing element. Another boat trip of around two hours then takes everyone back to the starting point, with another swim stop en route. This segment is appreciated for its peaceful vibe and scenic views, with some guests describing it as “a relaxing getaway.”

Final Drop-Off
The tour concludes with hotel transfers back to Side, usually around 6 pm. The ease of pickup and drop-off is a significant plus, especially after a long day of enjoying the outdoors.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests have expressed satisfaction with the guides and staff, describing them as “helpful,” “friendly,” and “professional.” The team’s attentiveness, including the bus drivers and boat crew, really enhances the overall experience. For example, reviewers mention Yusuf by name, highlighting his helpfulness.

The value for money is consistently praised—at $45 per person, many feel they received a lot of scenic sightseeing, relaxing water activities, and a good meal. The inclusion of unlimited drinks, especially soft drinks, makes it an even more attractive package.

Some guests have pointed out minor inconveniences, such as the boat being crowded and the long stops feeling a bit excessive, but these are often outweighed by the stunning scenery and the overall relaxed atmosphere.

The tour isn’t geared toward adrenaline junkies or those seeking a fast-paced day but is perfect for those who prefer a gentle pace and natural beauty. It’s especially suitable for families or travelers wanting to unwind amid nature with minimal hassle.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Arrive early: Starting at 8:30 am, punctuality helps you make the most of the day.
• Bring towels and swimwear: If you want to take a dip, a towel and swim clothes are essential, as reviewers recommend.
• Dress comfortably: Casual, lightweight clothing works well, and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
• Prepare for crowds: Expect some busyness on the boat and during stops, so set your expectations accordingly.
• Bring extra cash: While most meals and drinks are included, personal spendings on souvenirs or extras aren’t.
• Capture the moments: Pack your camera or smartphone—there are plenty of photo-worthy vistas.
• Respect the environment: Help preserve the natural beauty by not littering and respecting wildlife.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon Boat Trip offers a relaxing, scenic escape from Antalya’s busy streets. It’s a well-organized journey that balances stunning views, leisure activities, and good value. The inclusion of a lakeside lunch, unlimited drinks, and hotel transfers simplifies the day, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind.

If your idea of a perfect day involves being on the water, enjoying nature, and having some comfortable downtime, this tour delivers. The knowledgeable guides, friendly crew, and breathtaking scenery stand out as the main draws. While the boat can get crowded, many guests find that the spectacular views and peaceful stops outweigh that minor inconvenience.

This trip is best for those who value a laid-back vibe, love water-based activities, and want a worry-free experience in one of Turkey’s most beautiful natural settings. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Green Canyon and its surroundings without the fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee of $45 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guiding service, unlimited soft drinks, and a lakeside lunch.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting with pickup around 8:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Is the lunch vegetarian?
The menu options are meatballs, chicken, or fish, with rice and salad. Drinks like tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks are also included.

Are there opportunities for swimming or fishing?
Yes, you can swim in the lake during stops, and fishing equipment is available for those interested in fishing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection (hat, sunglasses), and perhaps a waterproof camera. Extra cash might be useful for personal spendings.

Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention that the boat can get quite busy, which might affect comfort. Arriving early or pre-booking your seat can help.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with many reviews highlighting children’s enjoyment of the boat ride and scenic stops.

What is the best time to book?
Booking at least 6 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially in peak season.

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

The Green Canyon Boat Trip combines natural beauty with comfort and convenience, making it a worthwhile addition to your Antalya itinerary if you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water.