Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Imagine sailing along the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean, stopping at beautiful bays for swims, and catching glimpses of playful dolphins—sounds tempting, right? This Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise offers just that, along with a laid-back vibe, tasty food, and plenty of sunshine. We’ve sifted through reviews, tour details, and what you can realistically expect, so you can decide if this day trip is your kind of adventure.

Our favorite bits include the stunning scenery, the chance to see dolphins in the wild, and the relaxed atmosphere aboard the double-deck boat. The tour’s inclusions of lunch and unlimited soft drinks make it a pretty tempting package for those wanting a full day of water, sun, and fun. One minor note? The itinerary isn’t solely focused on Dolphin Island—some reviews suggest that the main highlight might not always meet expectations, which is worth keeping in mind if dolphin sightings are a big deal for you.

This experience is best suited for water enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind with scenic views and a splash of adventure. If you’re after an active day or want guaranteed dolphin sightings, you might want to explore other options. But for a relaxing, scenic cruise with good food and the chance to see wildlife, this trip has plenty to offer.

Good To Know

• Beautiful scenery and crystal-clear swimming bays
• Opportunity to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat (not guaranteed)
• Comfortable double-deck boat with sunbeds and shaded areas
• All-inclusive lunch with unlimited soft drinks
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off
• Ideal for water lovers and those seeking a relaxed day at sea

You can check if your dates are available here:

What You Can Expect from the Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise

This tour is designed as a relaxed, full-day escape on the Mediterranean, focusing on scenic cruising, swimming, and enjoying good food. From hotel pickup in Side to the return journey, the entire experience is built around comfort and enjoyment.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transfer

Most travelers start their day with a hotel pickup in Side, with most transfers taking around an hour from the region, including from Manavgat. Keep in mind that pickup arrangements specify meeting at the main entrance gate rather than reception, which helps streamline the process and avoid confusion.

Once aboard, the boat sets sail along the coast, and you’ll immediately notice the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views. The boat itself is spacious, equipped with double decks, sunbeds, and shaded areas—perfect for lounging or taking photos of the coastline.

The First Stop: Crystal-Clear Bay for Swimming

After about an hour on the water, the first stop is at a beautiful bay where you can jump into the warm, inviting waters. The Mediterranean’s calm, clear seas make it a fantastic chance to cool off, snorkel, or simply float and soak in the scenery. Many guests comment on how peaceful and picturesque these bays are—ideal for relaxing and snapping photos.

Dolphin Island: The Main Attraction?

The highlight of this tour is the visit to Dolphin Island, where you might spot wild dolphins swimming nearby. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the experience of sailing in this pristine environment is special enough in itself. The island offers a great vantage point for photos and a chance to enjoy untouched nature. One review mentions that the island is “breathtaking” and perfect for taking stunning shots, while another reviewer expressed disappointment that the trip wasn’t solely focused on dolphin sightings.

It’s worth noting that the tour’s promotional materials promise dolphin sightings, but, as one reviewer pointed out, the actual activity often involves sailing around Side and then returning to the harbor, with dolphin viewing being a bonus rather than a certainty. Still, the boat’s friendly crew are known for their enthusiasm and knowledge, and they often share interesting facts about marine life.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Swim Stops and Relaxation

After exploring Dolphin Island, the boat anchors at another bay for more swimming or relaxing on deck. You’ll find plenty of space to unwind on sunbeds or in shaded zones, enjoying the scenic coast or listening to music. The boat offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, often with onboard entertainment.

Lunch on Board: A Tasty Break

When hunger strikes, a fresh, all-inclusive lunch is served. Expect a selection of grilled fish, chicken, salads, and pasta—filling enough to satisfy most appetites. One reviewer noted the lunch was “very good,” and the onboard service is friendly and attentive. Unlimited soft drinks add to the laid-back vibe, but alcohol is available at an extra cost if you wish to indulge.

Final Swim and Return

The last stop is another inviting bay, perfect for a final dip before heading back to Side. The return cruise offers more scenic views, and many guests appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the day.

End of the Day: Drop-Off and Considerations

Back at the harbor, most guests are transferred back to their hotels. The tour lasts around 7 hours total—so plan accordingly if you prefer early or late starts. The entire experience is designed for comfort, with knowledgeable guides, music, and friendly service, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxing day at sea.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the tour:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Full-day boat cruise with multiple stops
• Delicious onboard lunch
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Access to swimming and snorkeling opportunities
• Foam party and onboard entertainment

Not included:

• Other drinks and snacks available for purchase
• Alcoholic beverages (for an additional fee)

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essentials.
• Pack swimwear, a towel, and cash for extra purchases.
• Note that smoking indoors isn’t allowed.
• This trip is suitable for most, but those prone to seasickness should take precautions.
• The tour operates in most weather conditions, but severe weather might lead to rescheduling.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviews

One reviewer described the crew as “great” and highlighted how there was “no long Weile” (no long wait or dull moments). They emphasized the overall fun atmosphere and the friendly staff, which made the trip memorable.

In contrast, another review pointed out that the actual itinerary diverged from expectations. They mentioned that it wasn’t strictly a trip to Dolphin Island but rather a sail around Side, with an optional additional activity (Manavgat waterfalls) at extra cost. They also noted that some guests were left at the market in the heat, which might be a consideration if you prefer a tightly scheduled tour.

This feedback underscores the importance of clarifying what the tour guarantees versus what it offers as a general cruise experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals to those who enjoy relaxed day trips, water activities, and scenic boat rides. It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience with hotel pickup, good food, and beautiful views. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of sunbathing, swimming, and wildlife spotting will find it fits well.

However, if your goal is guaranteed dolphin sightings or a very structured schedule, you might want to explore alternative options or confirm expectations with the tour provider beforehand.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For a day spent on the tranquil waters of the Mediterranean with a focus on relaxing, swimming, and enjoying good food, this tour offers solid value. The comfortable boat, scenic stops, and friendly crew contribute to a laid-back experience that’s perfect for unwinding.

The inclusion of a hearty lunch and unlimited drinks makes it feel like a full-value package, especially for travelers wanting to escape the busy coast for a day. While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to sail through protected waters, spot wildlife, and take in stunning scenery is appealing.

This trip is best for water lovers, sunseekers, and those wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day at sea. If you’re after a flexible, fun-filled cruise with opportunities to swim in pristine bays, the Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise will likely meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most hotels in the Side region offer pickup and drop-off, making the experience hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip is around 7 hours, with the boat cruise itself lasting approximately 4 hours.

Can I see dolphins on this trip?
Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed. The tour offers a chance to see them in their natural environment.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and cash for extras are recommended.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a fresh onboard lunch is included, with unlimited soft drinks. Alcohol is extra.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, several stops at beautiful bays allow swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the sea.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity, especially for children who enjoy water and outdoor activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs in most conditions, but severe weather may cause rescheduling. Check with the provider if weather is a concern.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The information does not specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in travel planning.

The Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks presents a relaxed, scenic day at sea with plenty of opportunities for swimming, wildlife viewing, and enjoying delicious food. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to combine comfort with a taste of adventure in one of Turkey’s most beautiful regions.

You can check if your dates are available here: