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

Side/Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip w/ Unlimited Soft Drinks — a detailed review

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches and tourist crowds of Side or Alanya, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a welcome change. This cruise takes you into a quieter, natural setting where emerald waters and impressive scenery replace the usual hustle. Promoted as a full-day adventure, with durations ranging from 4 to 7.5 hours, it promises a relaxed pace, picturesque stops, and a touch of local history.

What I love about this trip is how it balances serene moments with engaging sights. First, the chance to see Oymapinar Dam, Turkey’s fifth-largest dam, and its ancient Roman bridge is not just about the views — it’s a peek into history. Plus, the cruise itself, gliding along the Green Canyon’s 14 km route, feels like a gentle escape into nature’s private domain. Second, the onboard unlimited soft drinks and freshly prepared lunch bring a satisfying, casual touch to the experience, making it ideal for those who want comfort without extra costs.

However, one consideration is that some parts of the trip, especially the restaurant access from the boat, involve uneven stairs. If mobility is an issue, it’s worth noting that the walk from the pontoon to the lunch spot might be tricky. And because drinks are not allowed during the swimming break, you’ll want to bring your own water if you prefer staying hydrated.

This tour delivers a peaceful, scenic outing with friendly guides, tasty food, and a chance to truly disconnect from the crowds. It’s a well-organized way to enjoy nature and history in one go, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic sights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique scenery: Cruise through a 14 km route in the Green Canyon, surrounded by lush, emerald waters.
• Historical highlights: View the 2000-year-old Roman bridge at Oymapinar Dam Lake, an exciting peek into Turkey’s ancient past.
• Relaxing experience: Two hours of cruising, with a swim stop in turquoise waters, offers a peaceful break from busy tourist spots.
• Delicious lunch: Enjoy a buffet-style meal with options like chicken, meatballs, or fish, plus fresh salad and fruit.
• Guided knowledge: Friendly guides provide useful commentary, although some reviews suggest more detail would be appreciated.
• Flexible timing: Duration varies, so check the schedule to pick the best starting time for your day.

The Itinerary: A detailed look at what to expect

The trip kicks off early in the morning, with comfortable, modern vehicles picking you up from your hotel. The ride to the first stop at Oymapinar Dam Lake takes about 75 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. Once there, you’ll get a brief history lesson about the dam, Turkey’s fifth-largest structure, built to supply water and electricity to the region. Standing at the dam, you’ll also see an ancient Roman bridge, dating back 2000 years — an impressive reminder of Turkey’s centuries-old engineering prowess.

After snapping some photos and soaking in the views, the real highlight begins — a 14 km cruise through the Green Canyon. This boat ride offers an excellent opportunity to witness the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and lush greenery from the water. Many reviews praise the views, with one traveler mentioning, “The boat staff were fantastic and friendly,” making the experience all the more enjoyable. The cruise lasts approximately two hours, during which you can relax, take photos, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.

The swim break is a favorite part for many — the turquoise waters are inviting, and the chance to swim surrounded by nature makes this a memorable moment. It’s worth noting that during this swim, drinks are not permitted, so bring your own water if needed. After swimming and some free time, the boat stops at a lakeside restaurant for a hearty lunch. The meal options include barbecued chicken, meatballs, or fish, served with salads and fresh fruit. As one reviewer pointed out, “the lunch was better than expected,” with generous portions and a pleasant setting.

Post-lunch, you have free time for more swimming, relaxing, or even making use of the restaurant’s equipment for lake activities if you’re feeling more adventurous. This is a good opportunity to unwind before heading back. The boat then retraces its route, heading back to the pier, where your transport awaits to return you to your hotel.

What makes this tour special?

The scenery is genuinely stunning — the combination of the dam, Roman bridge, and canyon’s cliffs creates a landscape that’s both dramatic and peaceful. The safety and comfort of the boat and vehicles make this a straightforward trip, even for those unfamiliar with the area. The guides are knowledgeable, providing relevant information along the way, though some reviews mention that they could share a bit more about the canyon’s geology or history.

The value is notable: included soft drinks, a substantial lunch, and transportation make this a cost-effective way to see parts of Turkey that are often overshadowed by more crowded tourist spots. Plus, the flexible timing allows you to choose a start that fits your schedule, adding convenience.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and families looking for a relaxed day out. If you enjoy scenic boat rides and want to explore Turkey’s natural side without hours of hiking or complicated logistics, this fits the bill. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a comfortable, well-organized tour with plenty of time to take photos and swim.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth historical experience or more vigorous activities, this might feel a little light on detail. It’s more about enjoying the beautiful landscape and having a peaceful day on the water.

Price and Logistics: What you need to know

The tour is priced fairly considering the inclusions of hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, soft drinks, and guiding service in multiple languages (English, German, Russian). It’s important to note that drinks during the swim are not allowed, so plan to bring your own water. Alcoholic drinks are not included and generally not part of the package — if you’re after a lively bar scene, you might want to look elsewhere.

The duration varies, but most trips last between 4 to 7.5 hours. Check the available times to pick the one that best suits your schedule. The pickup process is straightforward — just wait at the hotel’s main security gate about 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

Cancellation is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final thoughts

The Green Canyon boat trip from Side or Alanya offers a calming escape into Turkey’s lush natural landscape, with just enough history and adventure to make it memorable. The scenery, combined with the friendly guides and tasty meal, makes for a well-rounded day. It’s best suited for those who want a peaceful, scenic experience away from the crowds, with some light activity and plenty of photo opportunities.

If you enjoy boat rides, stunning views, and a good mix of relaxation and exploration, this trip delivers on all counts. Just remember to bring water for the swim stop, and you’ll return home with fantastic photos and a sense of having experienced a quieter, more natural side of Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Green Canyon boat trip suitable for children?
Yes, the trip is family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy boat rides and swimming. Just keep in mind the uneven stairs at the restaurant if your children have mobility issues.

How long does the entire trip take?
The total duration ranges from 4 to 7.5 hours, depending on the selected starting time. The core activities include the drive to the dam, the boat cruise, swimming, and lunch.

Are drinks included during the cruise?
Yes, soft drinks are unlimited on the boat, but alcohol and drinks during the swim are not allowed.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and water for the swim stop. If you want photos or videos, don’t forget your camera or phone.

Is there any age restriction?
People over 95 years old might find this trip unsuitable, mainly due to walking involved in the restaurant area, but overall, it’s open to most ages.

How much does the trip cost?
Pricing is reasonable considering the inclusions of transportation, lunch, and drinks. Always check current prices and availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Is the guide information detailed?
Guides provide basic commentary, but some reviews suggest more detailed stories about the dam and canyon would enhance the experience.

What is the best time to book?
Check the availability early, especially in peak season, and consider your preferred start time for maximum flexibility.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not generally, but drinks during the lunch are paid separately, and any personal souvenirs or photos are extra.

This Green Canyon boat trip offers a peaceful, scenic day with friendly guides and a good mix of history, nature, and relaxation. It’s a fine choice if you want a break from crowded beaches and wish to see a beautiful part of Turkey’s landscape with comfort and ease.