Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch From Antalya

Planning a trip to Turkey and looking for a scenic, relaxing day out? The Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch from Antalya offers just that—a leisurely cruise through one of Turkey’s most stunning natural sights, complete with a hearty buffet and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

There’s a lot to love about this experience: the chance to see the emerald waters up close, enjoy a comfortable ride with knowledgeable guides, and indulge in a tasty, included meal. But, as with any tour, it’s worth considering some logistical details, like the two-hour drive to the canyon and the fact that swimming breaks are limited to a platform rather than free swimming.

This tour is a great fit for families, travelers seeking a relaxed day outdoors, or those interested in exploring Turkey’s impressive dam and lake scenery without too much hassle. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if this adventure suits your travel style.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The emerald-green waters of Green Canyon are a visual treat and the highlight of the trip.
• Comfortable Transport: The tour uses air-conditioned, non-smoking buses with friendly guides, making the journey enjoyable.
• All-Inclusive: The buffet lunch and unlimited drinks elevate the experience, providing good value especially considering the scenic setting.
• Family-Friendly: The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for all ages.
• Authentic Access: You get to see the country’s fourth-largest dam and the reservoir up close, with boat access to the lake.
• Some Limitations: Swimming is only possible from a platform, and the drive might feel lengthy to some travelers.

An Overview of the Experience

This boat tour is designed to give you an all-around experience of Turkey’s Green Canyon, a place famous for its vibrant, Caribbean-colored waters and rugged cliffs. The journey begins early, with pickups starting at 7:30am, and includes a scenic 2-hour drive from Antalya, passing through lush landscapes and small stops for rest and refreshment.

The main event is the boat cruise on the emerald lake, where you’ll pass through towering cliffs, dense forests, and the country’s fourth-largest dam—the only one accessible to boats. The boat itself is spacious, and during the trip, you’ll get the chance to take a swim from a dedicated platform, as long as you’re comfortable with shallow waters. Reviewers mention that the swimming spots are a highlight, with many appreciating the opportunity to cool off in such pristine surroundings.

The Stops and Highlights

Green Canyon: The cruise itself lasts about three hours, providing ample time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers consistently mention the breathtaking views—the combination of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs makes for fantastic photo opportunities. The boat cruise is also a chance for some leisurely downtime, as the experience is designed to be laid-back and family-friendly.

Oymapinar Dam: One of the tour’s key stops is at the Oymapinar Dam, which is the largest hydroelectric dam in the region. While the guide mentions its construction and purpose, some guests wish there was more detailed commentary—reviewers note that guides could improve by sharing more about the dam’s history and significance.

Oymapinar Park: The final stop is at Oymapinar Park, where visitors can stretch their legs, enjoy some snacks, or simply take in the views. It’s a good spot for photos and soaking in the natural beauty before heading back.

The Logistics and Comfort

The tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned buses for the journey, which is much appreciated after the long drive. The group size is small, capped at 15 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere and allowing the guides to give better attention.

The professional English-speaking guide is frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, though some reviews highlight that the guide, Murat, was particularly informative during their trip. Notably, a few reviews mention that the boat crew and staff are primarily Russian-operated, and that English interactions can sometimes be limited—something to keep in mind if language is important to you.

The pickup service is smooth and punctual, with reviews indicating good communication from the tour operator. The only minor inconvenience reported is that the lunch—a buffet featuring salads and various dishes—was sometimes described as average or not particularly fresh, though many still found it enjoyable given the scenic setting.

The Food and Drinks

Included in the tour is a buffet lunch featuring a variety of salads and dishes, providing a satisfying break in the day’s activities. Reviewers often mention the lunch exceeding expectations, describing it as “much better than expected” and a highlight for its large variety and pleasant ambiance.

Unlimited drinks are available on the boat, which helps keep everyone refreshed, especially during hot weather—many guests appreciated the ease of having beverages on hand during the cruise.

However, it’s important to note that drinks are not included in the price—you’ll need to purchase any additional beverages separately if you want something specific beyond the provided options.

Swimming and Free Time

One of the most praised aspects of the tour is the swimming opportunity. Guests can swim from a platform on the lake, and breaks for swimming are scheduled during the cruise. For those who enjoy a quick dip in clear waters, this is a definite plus.

That said, some travelers wished they had more freedom to change clothes or swim longer, as the stops are somewhat limited. Reviewers also point out that the water is clean and inviting, and the setting offers a peaceful way to cool down during the tour.

The Price and Value

At $66.85 per person, the tour provides a well-rounded experience considering the inclusion of transportation, a scenic cruise, a buffet lunch, drinks, and guided commentary. For many travelers, this is considered good value, especially since the tour covers a significant stretch of Turkey’s natural scenery with minimal hassle.

Some reviews suggest that the cost is justified by the quality of the views, the comfort of the transport, and the included amenities. However, a few note that the price could be lower given the benefits received, especially if you’re not interested in swimming or don’t mind a longer drive.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic day out rather than intense adventure. It suits families, older travelers, or anyone wanting to see Turkey’s famous emerald lake without strenuous activities.

It’s especially ideal if you prefer comfortable transport, a good-value meal, and a small group environment. Keep in mind that if you’re looking for a full-day swimming adventure or detailed dam commentary, this tour might have some limitations.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, comfort, and relaxation. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a peaceful day immersed in nature, with the convenience of included transport and meals. The small group size and friendly guides make it feel personal, while the views and swimming opportunities add genuine value.

If you’re after a family-friendly outing or a leisurely exploration of Turkey’s lush landscapes, this tour ticks all those boxes. The scenic cruise and buffet lunch make it an experience that feels both special and practical.

However, if you’re craving a more active or in-depth historical experience, you might want to look elsewhere. This trip strikes a fine balance for travelers who want to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from most hotels in the area, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

What is the duration of the tour? The whole experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and the boat cruise.

Can I swim in the lake? Yes, swimming is possible from a platform on the lake during the cruise, though breaks are scheduled for swimming rather than extended free swimming.

What should I bring? It’s recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly some snacks if you want extra sustenance during the long drive.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included in the price but are available for purchase on the boat, with unlimited options during the cruise.

Is it suitable for children? Yes, the tour is family-friendly, provided children are comfortable with a boat cruise and some walking.

What language is the guide? The guide speaks English, but some reviews mention that staff on the boat may primarily operate in Russian, so communication could be limited depending on language preferences.

What is the best time to book? On average, this tour is booked about 12 days in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot, particularly in peak season.

This Green Canyon boat tour from Antalya offers a laid-back but memorable way to see Turkey’s natural wonders. With stunning views, a tasty lunch, and a gentle cruise, it’s ideal for travelers craving a peaceful yet engaging day in the countryside.