Alanya: Green Canyon Full-Day Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic escape from the buzz of Alanya, this Green Canyon boat tour offers a peaceful day immersed in Turkey’s natural beauty. It’s a well-organized experience that combines comfort, stunning scenery, and authentic touches — all for just around $25 per person.

What we love about this tour is the gorgeous views of the calm, emerald waters and dramatic rock formations that make Green Canyon one of the region’s most photogenic spots. Plus, the lakeside lunch with Turkish staples like chicken, rice, and salad is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the surroundings.

One possible drawback? The pickup times and transfer durations can vary depending on your hotel’s location, and delays of up to 45 minutes are possible. If punctuality is critical for your schedule, it’s worth considering this factor.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate relaxing, scenic days and want an accessible, family-friendly way to see Green Canyon without strenuous activities. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy boat rides, nature, and a touch of Turkish hospitality.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: You’ll cruise past dramatic rocks and lush greenery that highlight the region’s natural charm.
• Relaxing pace: The tour balances sightseeing, swimming, and a leisurely lunch, ideal for unwinding.
• Comfort and service: Modern boats, free non-alcoholic drinks, and friendly guides ensure a smooth experience.
• Value for money: At $25, the tour offers great value considering the scenery and included lunch.
• Flexibility: Optional transfers and the choice to meet at the designated point give you some planning flexibility.
• Environmental awareness: Use of biodegradable sunscreen and emphasis on natural preservation reflect responsible tourism.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Journey from Alanya

The adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel in Alanya to the Oymapnar Dam, deep in the Taurus Mountains. This drive, about 55 km, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your hotel’s location and traffic. The vans are usually comfortable, but during peak season, expect some delays or crowded conditions, especially if you’re near popular hotels like Eftalia Hotels Group.

Once at the dam, you’ll get your first glimpse of the lush landscape that makes Green Canyon so appealing. The setting is immediately calming, with the chance to breathe in fresh mountain air before the boat ride.

Boarding the Boat and the Cruise Begins

The boat itself is described as spacious and modern, designed to maximize comfort while floating on emerald waters. When we read reviews, many travelers appreciated the smooth, calm ride, with some noting the boat’s ample deck space for relaxing and taking in the views.

As the boat sets off, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking rock formations and dense green hills, which change constantly as you cruise along. The natural scenery is the main attraction here, and many reviewers mention how the views alone justify the trip. You’ll see native bird species flitting around, adding to the sense of untouched wilderness.

Refreshments and Relaxation on Board

One highlight travelers consistently mention is the availability of unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. Whether you’re thirsty from the sun or just want to sip something cool while soaking in the scenery, this small detail makes a difference.

The boat’s gentle movement and scenic surroundings make it a perfect setting for relaxing. Some guests note that the environment is “peaceful” and “calming,” making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind.

The Lakeside Lunch Experience

Midway through the journey, the boat docks at a lakeside restaurant for a well-deserved break. Here, you’ll enjoy a simple, hearty Turkish lunch — chicken, rice, and salad — served in a natural setting with panoramic canyon views.

Reviews point out that the lunch is straightforward but tasty, providing enough energy for the rest of the day. The restaurant’s outdoor setting allows for a delicious meal while still being immersed in the scenery.

Note that drinks at the restaurant are not included, so if you want extra beverages or alcohol, be sure to bring cash.

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Swimming and Leisure Time

After lunch, many guests take the opportunity to swim in the canyon’s clear waters, which are praised for their cleanliness and refreshing coolness. The boat provides shaded areas if you prefer to relax without getting wet, making this a flexible part of the experience.

Guests who have reviewed the tour say they appreciate the freedom to swim or just relax on deck — it’s a perfect balance of activity and downtime.

Returning to Alanya

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Oymapnar Dam, where your transfer will bring you back to Alanya. The entire experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours — a comfortably paced day that leaves plenty of time for enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Overall Value

At around $25 per person, this tour is quite affordable, especially considering the included transportation, boat cruise, lunch, and guide service. When you compare the cost to the sheer amount of natural beauty and relaxation you get, it’s a good deal for most travelers.

Several reviews emphasize the value for the price, with many noting that it’s a “peaceful break” from sightseeing-heavy trips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a gentle, scenic day out. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Turkey’s stunning natural landscapes with minimal effort.

It’s not suitable for those with back problems or non-swimmers, as swimming is optional but encouraged. If you’re looking for an active adventure or complex cultural explorations, this might not be the best fit.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as you’ll be exposed to the sun on deck.
• Pack a towel and swimwear if you plan to swim.
• Carry some cash for drinks at the lakeside restaurant.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that can get dirty.
• Be aware that transfer times can vary, so plan your day accordingly.
• The boat schedule may shift due to operational factors, so listen to your guide for updates.
• If you prefer to meet at the designated location, arrive on time — the meeting point is at the specified restaurant.
• The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as getting on and off the boat may require some effort.

The Green Canyon Full-Day Boat Tour from Alanya offers a relaxing, visually stunning experience that highlights one of Turkey’s most beautiful natural areas. It’s a memorable way to spend a day, especially if you enjoy scenic boat rides and outdoor leisure.

The combination of comfortable transportation, a scenic cruise, a delicious lakeside meal, and swimming opportunities makes this tour a well-rounded choice for those wanting a peaceful escape from the busy city streets.

If you value authentic natural beauty, affordability, and a touch of Turkish hospitality, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine gentle adventure with a serene atmosphere — a perfect recipe for a memorable day.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lakeside lunch, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks on the boat, insurance, and guide service.

Can I join without transfer?
Yes, you can choose to meet at the specified restaurant location at the scheduled time if you prefer not to use the transfer service.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), cash for drinks, and clothes suitable for swimming and getting dirty.

Is swimming optional?
Yes, swimming is an option. You can choose to take a dip in the canyon’s waters or relax onboard in shaded areas.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transfer, cruising, lunch, and return.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour isn’t recommended for people with back problems or non-swimmers.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At approximately $25 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included transportation, boat cruise, and lunch.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, casual clothes appropriate for warm weather, and bring waterproof or quick-drying clothes for swimming.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks at the lakeside restaurant are not included, so bring cash if you want extra beverages.

What if the schedule changes?
Boat departure times or transfer schedules might shift due to operational reasons. Your guide will inform you of any updates.

This Green Canyon tour is a relaxing, scenic gem for those who want to enjoy Turkey’s natural landscape without fuss. It’s a straightforward, value-packed experience that’s worth considering if you’re in the Alanya region.

You can check availability for your dates here: