Highlights
About
Embark on an unforgettable maritime adventure with the Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip, one of the most popular and highly rated excursions on the Turkish Riviera. This full-day cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and exciting entertainment, making it an absolute must-do for families, couples, and solo travelers staying in Side. Your journey begins with a convenient, air-conditioned transfer from your hotel to the picturesque pier on the Manavgat River. Here, you will step aboard a spacious, multi-deck wooden boat designed to provide maximum comfort and panoramic views of the spectacular coastline.
As the boat sets sail down the tranquil waters of the Manavgat River, you will immediately feel the soothing Mediterranean breeze. The first major highlight of the tour is the unique stop at the river mouth, where the cold, fresh waters of the river merge with the warm, salty currents of the sea. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to swim in both environments, enjoying a refreshing and invigorating contrast. During this stop, the professional onboard kitchen staff will prepare a delicious, fresh lunch consisting of grilled chicken or fish, pasta, and seasonal salad, served directly to you on the deck.
Following lunch, the captain will chart a course towards Dolphin Island, also known as the local hotspot for playful bottlenose dolphins. As we glide across the deep blue waters, keep your cameras ready to capture these magnificent creatures swimming alongside the boat and leaping through the waves. While dolphin sightings are a natural occurrence and cannot be guaranteed, the area's rich marine life makes it highly likely. Once we reach the pristine shores of the island, you will have ample time to snorkel in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, exploring the vibrant underwater sea life or simply relaxing on the sandy beach.
The return journey is just as exciting, featuring a lively, family-friendly onboard foam party accompanied by upbeat music. Dance under the Mediterranean sun as the boat is filled with soft, fluffy foam, creating memories that will last a lifetime. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the upper deck offers plenty of sunbeds where you can work on your tan or read a book in peace. After one last swimming stop in a secluded bay, the boat will return to the pier, where your transfer vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, leaving you refreshed, sun-kissed, and full of wonderful memories.
Itinerary
Hotel Pickup
Enjoy a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Side or neighboring resorts in an air-conditioned vehicle, transferring you directly to the Manavgat River pier.
Departure & River Cruise
Board our spacious double-decker boat and begin sailing along the peaceful Manavgat River, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
River Mouth Swim Stop & Lunch
Stop at the junction where the river meets the sea. Swim in cold river water or warm sea water, and enjoy a delicious freshly prepared lunch served onboard.
Sailing to Dolphin Island
Cruise out into the open sea toward Dolphin Island. Keep your eyes open for wild bottlenose dolphins jumping and playing near the boat.
Island Swimming & Snorkeling
Drop anchor near Dolphin Island for a long swimming break. Explore the crystal-clear waters, snorkel, or relax on the warm decks.
Foam Party & Return Journey
Have fun on the return trip with an onboard foam party and music. After one final swim stop in a quiet bay, we arrive back at the pier for your transfer home.
Whats included
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Side and surrounding areas.
- Full-day boat cruise on a double-decker wooden boat.
- Freshly cooked lunch onboard (chicken or fish, pasta, and salad).
- Professional and friendly English-speaking crew and guide.
- Onboard entertainment and foam party.
- Full passenger insurance during the trip.
Excluded
- All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (available for purchase at the bar).
- Photos and videos taken by the professional onboard photographer.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Gratuities/Tips for the boat crew.
- Snorkeling equipment (recommended to bring your own).
Important info
What to bring
- Swimwear and a beach towel.
- Sunglasses, sun cream, and a sun hat.
- Camera or action camera to capture the memories.
- Pocket money for drinks, photos, and personal expenses.
- Snorkeling gear if you wish to explore underwater.
- Light jacket or cardigan for the cooler morning breeze.
Not allowed
- Bringing your own food and drinks onboard is strictly prohibited.
- Sharp objects or glassware are not allowed for safety reasons.
- Pets are not permitted on this boat trip.
- Single-use plastic bags that can blow into the sea.
- Running on wet decks to prevent slips and injuries.
Know before go
- This tour is suitable for all ages, including families with young children and seniors.
- The boat has both shaded seating areas and open-air sun decks.
- Wheelchair accessibility is limited; please contact us prior to booking to discuss arrangements.
- In case of bad weather conditions, the itinerary may be modified or rescheduled.
- The duration of the entire tour is approximately 6 to 7 hours including transfers.
Cancellation policy
No refund policy
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