Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

Exploring Side and its surroundings on this electric catamaran cruise combined with visits to waterfalls, a historic village, and a mosque offers a well-rounded taste of the region. For travelers looking for a mix of relaxing scenery and cultural insight, this tour manages to pack in a lot without feeling rushed. What stands out most is the peaceful cruise on Green Lake paired with the chance to see the impressive Manavgat Waterfall and enjoy authentic Turkish gözleme.

I particularly appreciate how this experience balances nature and culture—you’re not just ticking off sights but getting a genuine feel for the area’s rich landscape and traditions. The guides are praised for their knowledge, which adds depth to each stop, especially at the waterfalls and the historic Seleukia site. The lakeside lunch at Gölba Restaurant with fresh fish or chicken is a real highlight, giving you a chance to relax and savor local flavors.

One possible consideration is the tour’s duration of 8 hours, which requires a fair bit of energy and patience with the schedule, especially if you’re not used to full-day outings. Also, some costs, like drinks and photo fees, aren’t included, so budget accordingly. Still, with a price of only $27 per person, it offers solid value for a comprehensive day that’s accessible to most travelers seeking fun and authenticity without breaking the bank.

Key points / Takeaways

• Well-rounded experience blending scenery, culture, and cuisine
• Knowledgeable guides help deepen understanding of each site
• Affordable price at just $27 per person for a full-day tour
• Highlights include waterfalls, a historic village, and Green Lake
• Lakeside lunch at Gölba offers local Turkish dishes in a relaxing setting
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and cultural stops

Exploring the Details of the Side Electric Catamaran Tour

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to see a good slice of a region without feeling overwhelmed, this tour might be just right. It’s designed to balance scenic beauty with cultural insights, making it suitable for most ages and activity levels—though it’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments due to some walking and uneven terrain.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickups from various areas in Side, including Güngodu, Çolakl, Evrenseki, Kumköy, Sorgun, and Titreyengöl. The vehicles are air-conditioned, which is a relief on warm days, and the pickup is usually in front of your hotel’s main entrance. The organizers are helpful about confirming exact times a day before, so you’ll want to send your room number via WhatsApp or email after checking in.

Waterfalls and Orange Groves: A Nature Lover’s Delight

The first stop is the Manavgat Waterfall, a peaceful spot where the water cascades over rocks amid lush greenery. The reviews highlight the waterfalls as a top highlight, with some travelers describing it as “really beautiful” and “a perfect photo opportunity.” It’s a great way to start the day with some fresh air and scenic views. Be prepared for a small entrance fee if you decide to explore further into the waterfall area.

Next, you’ll visit a local orange grove, which provides a different kind of outdoor experience—tasting fresh, ripe fruit and seeing traditional Turkish agriculture at work. It’s a simple but authentic stop that emphasizes the region’s natural bounty.

A Taste of Turkish Tradition: Gözleme and Village Houses

No visit to Turkey is complete without trying gözleme, a hand-rolled pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or other local ingredients. The guide will take you to a traditional village house, where you can watch the pastry being made fresh and enjoy it hot. This isn’t just a snack; it’s an immersion into local life, which many travelers find charming and authentic.

Oymapnar Dam and Green Lake: Scenic Highlights

The Oymapnar Dam offers a striking backdrop and an opportunity for some quick photos. The guided tour here (lasting about 20 minutes) provides insights into the dam’s role in the region’s water management and hydroelectric power. The views are stunning, and it’s a perfect spot to appreciate the engineering marvels of Turkey.

Following this, the focus shifts to Green Lake, where the main event is a 1-hour catamaran cruise. The calm waters and lush surroundings make for a relaxing sail. Reviewers mention the scenic cruise as a highlight, with some describing it as “a very nice day with lots of impressions.” During the cruise, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take plenty of photos of the surrounding greenery.

Lakeside Lunch at Gölba Restaurant

After the cruise, you’ll dine at Gölba Restaurant, right by the lake. The menu includes fish or chicken, served with rice and salad—simple, hearty, and flavorful. Many reviews praise the lakeside setting and the chance to unwind with good food after a busy morning. The lunch lasts about 1.5 hours, giving everyone a chance to relax before the final stop.

The Majestic Külliye Mosque and Cultural Reflection

The tour concludes with a visit to the Külliye Mosque, an architectural marvel that combines intricate design with a peaceful ambiance. It’s a fitting end, offering a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the region. The guide’s explanations help you understand the mosque’s significance, which many travelers find enriching.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At $27 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the variety of sights, the professional guides, and included lunch and cruise. The price does not include drinks or photo fees, so plan a bit extra if you want to purchase souvenirs or beverages.

The full-day format makes it a good choice for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting to see both natural and cultural highlights in a relaxed manner.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenery, history, and authentic local food. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a fair amount of walking and are eager to see a variety of sites without feeling rushed. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced day out will find it rewarding.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

Those with mobility issues or those looking for a very leisurely or short activity might find the 8-hour commitment a bit long. Also, if you’re not interested in waterfalls, dams, or religious sites, some stops might feel less relevant.

Final Thoughts

This Side electric catamaran tour offers a delightful mix of nature, culture, and cuisine. It’s especially appealing for those who like a structured day that covers multiple interests—natural beauty at Manavgat Waterfall, authentic Turkish flavors with gözleme, scenic views from Green Lake, and a touch of history at the mosque.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, which can turn a simple day into a memorable experience. The price point makes it accessible, and the inclusion of hotel transfers makes logistics straightforward. If you’re after a well-paced, diverse day trip that showcases some of the best sides of this region, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

What is included in the price? Hotel transfers, a professional guide, a 1-hour catamaran cruise, and a lakeside lunch with fish or chicken are included.

Are drinks and photos extra? Yes, drinks and photo fees are not included, so you might want to bring some cash if you want to purchase beverages or souvenirs.

Is this suitable for children? Generally, yes, but keep in mind the full-day commitment and walking involved. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and some cash for extras.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions? The included lunch offers fish or chicken; special requests should be checked in advance.

How do I know when to be ready for pickup? You will receive an exact pickup time the day before, after sending your room number to the tour organizer.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

In all, this tour presents a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Side’s highlights without the stress. It’s a smart choice for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and good value—all wrapped into one memorable day.