City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks

If you’re visiting Side and craving a day out on the water that combines relaxation, adventure, and a splash of fun, this boat tour might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a lively picture of what to expect. From leisurely swimming stops to a lively foam party, this tour offers a versatile itinerary for those who love a mix of sun, sea, and social vibes.

What we genuinely like about this experience? First, the variety of stops—you get to swim in different scenic spots like Karaburun Bay and the Manavgat Bosphorus. Second, the entertainment aspect is top-notch, especially with the foam party that turns the boat into a dance floor. Third, the delicious, freshly cooked lunch offers real value, with options like chicken or fish served alongside rice and salad.

A possible consideration? The length of the tour—spanning about 9 hours—might be a little long for travelers who prefer quick, half-day activities. Also, some reviews mention that the boat could be a bit crowded or that soft drinks are not quite unlimited even if you pay extra, so packing a few essentials or managing expectations might be wise.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere combined with scenic swimming spots. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking fun and a taste of local hospitality will find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of relaxation and entertainment with swimming, dancing, and a foam party.
• Multiple swimming stops at scenic spots like Karaburun Bay and Dolphin Island.
• Delicious lunch options served on board, including grilled chicken or fish.
• Inclusive amenities such as soft drinks (if booked), life vests, and insurance.
• Good value at $15, considering the full-day experience, lunch, and entertainment.
• Limited soft drink availability for free; extra drinks are available for purchase.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transfer: The day begins with a hotel pickup in Side via air-conditioned bus. This ensures a comfortable start, especially after a good night’s sleep. The ride to the port offers a chance to relax and perhaps chat with fellow travelers, who often share their excitement about the day ahead.

Boarding and Welcome: Once at the marina, you’ll be greeted by the crew—friendly staff who speak multiple languages, including English and German. They’ll ask about your lunch preference, which sets the tone for a personalized experience. The boat itself is described as spacious and well-equipped to handle a full day’s adventure.

Departure and Scenic Cruising: Head along the Manavgat River, with commentary from your guide highlighting local sights and interesting facts. Listening to the live DJ, players set a lively, upbeat atmosphere from the get-go. The cruise then takes you through the Manavgat Bosphorus—an area with a beautiful mix of river and sea vistas, perfect for photography or just soaking in the views.

Swimming and Exploration Stops: The first swim stop is at Karaburun Bay, known for its clear waters ideal for a refreshing dip. The next stop is Dolphin Island, which is the primary highlight for many. Here, you can snorkel, swim, or just relax on the boat. Reviewers mention that dolphins might appear during the cruise, adding a magical touch — though they acknowledge that sightings are not guaranteed.

Optional Activities: At Manavgat Bosphorus, there are opportunities to rent a Jet-Ski or try traditional Turkish Gözleme snacks, which adds local flavor to your trip. These extras are paid separately but are considered worthwhile for the authentic experience.

Lunch Time: After working up an appetite, the crew serves a freshly grilled meal—options like chicken or fish, accompanied by rice and salad. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, calling it “lovely” and “delicious.” It’s a generous meal that provides good fuel for the rest of the day.

Foam Party and Dancing: With lunch behind you, the boat transforms into a dance floor for the foam party. The crew, along with a live DJ, gets everyone moving, making it a highlight for those who enjoy lively, social activities. Kids and adults alike have reported this as a fun and memorable part of the day.

Additional Swim Breaks: The tour includes stops at various spots, including near Dolphin Island and Karaburun Bay, where you can jump into the water again or simply relax on deck. These breaks are essential for unwinding and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Return and Drop-off: After a busy day of swimming, dancing, and sightseeing, the boat heads back to Side, where transportation awaits to take you comfortably back to your accommodation.

What the Experience Means for You

Transportation and Comfort: The pickup and drop-off service is seamless, with enough life vests onboard to ensure safety, even for less confident swimmers. The boat’s spacious layout and the availability of crew assistance make for a relaxed environment.

Food & Drinks: The included lunch is a definite value add—hot, freshly cooked, and fulfilling. For those interested in soft drinks, they are available in limited quantities for free on the first deck, with additional options for purchase. Reviewers note some confusion around soft drinks being paid for even when advertised as unlimited, so managing expectations here helps.

Activities & Entertainment: The foam party is a definite crowd-pleaser, and the music kept lively throughout. Swimming opportunities are plentiful, although some travelers noted that the tour could be a little longer or have more swim stops for maximum enjoyment.

Dolphin & Turtle Sightings: While some reviews mention glimpsing sea turtles and the possibility of spotting dolphins, these sightings aren’t guaranteed. Still, the chance adds an element of excitement.

Duration & Pacing: The 9-hour schedule is quite comprehensive, including multiple stops, a hearty lunch, and entertainment. It suits those who want an all-day adventure but might be a bit much for travelers preferring shorter outings.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Several guests have emphasized the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. One reviewer praised the “well-organized trip” with “some activities for children,” making it family-friendly. Others appreciated the “plenty of swim stops” with some noting that the stops at Dolphin Island and Karaburun Bay were absolutely worth the trip.

A few pointed out minor drawbacks, like the boat’s cleanliness or the length of the tour. For example, one guest mentioned that the boat was “a bit dirty,” and another felt that the tour could benefit from more swim stops. Still, these are minor points compared to the overall positive vibe.

Final Word: Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price point of just $15 per person, this tour offers significant value. The combination of scenic cruising, multiple swimming spots, delicious lunch, and lively entertainment makes it a well-rounded day out. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy social activities, water fun, and a lively atmosphere.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who love a mix of adventure and entertainment, this experience will likely hit the spot. It’s also a solid choice for solo travelers wanting to meet others in a casual setting. The natural beauty of the Turkish Riviera combined with the fun onboard activities provides a memorable way to spend a day in Side.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed trip or shorter excursions, you might find the length a bit challenging. Also, managing expectations around soft drinks and the chance of dolphin sightings helps ensure a smooth experience.

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FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from your Side hotel is included, making it a hassle-free start to your day.

What should I bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. These essentials will keep you comfortable during the day.

Are drinks included? Soft drinks are available for free in limited quantities on the first deck if you select the right option. Additional drinks can be purchased onboard.

Can I see dolphins on this tour? There is a chance of dolphin sightings, but it’s not guaranteed. Some reviewers did spot dolphins or sea turtles, which added a special touch.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including transfers, swimming, food, and entertainment.

Are there activities for children? Yes, many reviews mention activities suitable for children and families, including swimming and entertainment.

What is the lunch like? The crew serves a hot, fresh meal of grilled chicken or fish with rice and salad, which is generally highly praised.

Is there enough safety equipment? Yes, there are enough life vests for everyone, and staff are helpful with less confident swimmers.

Summing It Up

This Side dolphin island boat tour offers a fun-packed day that balances scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and good food—all at an attractive price. The multiple swimming stops and the foam party create memorable moments, especially for those who love an energetic, social atmosphere. Though the length might be a consideration for some, the overall experience is designed for maximum enjoyment and value.

Ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a lively day on the water, this tour delivers a well-rounded adventure. With friendly guides, tasty food, and plenty of opportunities to cool off in turquoise waters, it’s a great way to make the most of your time in Side.

Whether you’re seeking a lively party on the waves or simply a chance to relax and swim in stunning waters, this tour offers an authentic and enjoyable experience worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: