Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch From Antalya

If you’re looking for a day that combines stunning scenery, relaxing boat rides, and a taste of Turkey’s natural beauty, the Green Canyon boat tour from Antalya might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have, so I can give you a balanced look at what to expect. This tour promises an enjoyable day exploring one of Turkey’s most beautiful landscapes, with several highlights and a few considerations to keep in mind.

What we love about this experience is how it blends the peacefulness of a boat cruise with fascinating stops at the country’s fourth-largest dam and the emerald lake itself. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited drinks makes it excellent value for a full day out. One potential drawback for some travelers is the length of the bus ride—roughly two hours each way—which might be a bit tiring, especially on hot days. But if you’re after a scenic, family-friendly adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in nature, this tour could be just right.

This tour appeals most to those eager for a simple yet scenic escape from the busier tourist spots. It’s ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to experience Turkey’s lush landscapes without strenuous activity. If you enjoy boat rides, waterfalls, and a good buffet lunch, this experience offers a balanced mix of nature, comfort, and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: View lush woodlands, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters during the cruise.
• Cultural and Natural Highlights: See Turkey’s only boat-accessible dam and the famous emerald lake.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned buses with a professional guide, with pickup included.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, with swimming breaks and relaxed pace.
• Value for Money: Includes a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and scenic stops for around $66.
• Long Day: Prepare for approximately 8 hours from start to finish, including travel time.

The Experience: What to Expect

From the Pickup to the Journey

The tour begins early, with a pickup around 7:30 am. The transportation is in comfortable, non-smoking, air-conditioned buses, which is a relief after a long drive in warm weather. You’ll be traveling from Antalya to Kemer or nearby, with a few stops along the way for breaks—most travelers agree that the drive, roughly two hours, sets the tone for a relaxed day ahead. As one reviewer mentioned, “We drove around picking up other travelers,” which adds to the communal feel of the trip.

Green Canyon: The Main Event

The core of this tour is a three-hour boat cruise through Green Canyon, where you’ll see why this spot is so beloved. The greenish hue of the water, contrasted by rugged cliffs and lush forests, creates a picturesque setting. Passengers can enjoy unlimited drinks on the boat—water, soft drinks, and possibly some local beverages—which adds to the leisure.

One traveler said, “The views and food were better than expected,” highlighting that the experience surpasses many expectations for a day trip. The boat stops at a platform where swimming is possible, so bringing your swimsuit is a good idea.

Stops and Scenery

• Oymapinar Dam: You’ll pass Turkey’s only dam accessible by boat. It’s a sight that’s both impressive and educational, as your guide will share insights into its purpose. Reviewers noted that while the guide was informative, some wished for more detail about the dam’s construction.
• Oymapinar Park: A chance for photos and a breath of fresh air, this stop offers great views of the dam and surrounding greenery.

Food and Refreshments

A buffet lunch is included, and many reviews praise its quality—“lunch was much better than expected,” and “a large variety of salads” kept everyone well-fed. Though some guests mentioned that drinks are not included beyond the boat, the unlimited drinks onboard add to the value. The lunch setting is described as pleasant, offering a good break from the boat ride.

Additional Activities

Swimming from the boat platform is a highlight for many. Breaks during the cruise for swimming, relaxing, and snapping photos make the day both active and restful. Some reviewers appreciated the opportunity to cool off, especially on hot days.

Transport, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience that feels more intimate and flexible. This is a good size for those who value personal attention and fewer crowds. The pickup is included, and most travelers reported punctuality.

The duration of about 8 hours might seem long, but the relaxed pace, scenic stops, and comfortable transportation make it manageable. As one reviewer noted, “The drive itself was a bit boring, but the boat trip was very relaxing.” If you’re someone who enjoys a leisurely day with plenty of natural beauty, this is a plus.

Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

Several guests lauded the guides, calling them “knowledgeable” and “helpful,” which enhances the overall experience. Others appreciated the good value for money, especially considering the included lunch and drinks. A few pointed out areas for improvement, like better lunch quality or more information about the dam construction, but these do not overshadow the overall positive impressions.

One reviewer summed it up: “This is a great tour—the views, food, and relaxed atmosphere exceeded expectations.” Conversely, some mentioned that since swimming isn’t guaranteed for everyone (especially if you’re not comfortable in water), it’s important to be aware of this aspect.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Bring your swimsuit and towel if you want to swim.
• Carry some snacks or breakfast, as the stop for food is described as expensive.
• Dress comfortably and consider light clothing for the boat and sun protection.
• Book in advance—most travelers book about 12 days ahead.
• Be aware that most of the day is travel and scenic cruising, so patience and a relaxing attitude will serve you well.
• Consider your endurance—the drive is long but scenic, and the boat cruise is gentle.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon boat tour from Antalya offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, gentle adventure, and good food. It’s perfect for those who value authentic landscapes, scenic boat rides, and family-friendly activities. The included lunch and unlimited drinks enhance the experience, making it excellent value for the price. While the long bus ride might be a consideration, most travelers find that the stunning scenery and relaxing cruise make it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic escape from the city. With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, it provides a personal touch that larger tours might lack. If you enjoy peaceful lakes, rugged cliffs, and a chance to relax while soaking in Turkey’s picturesque landscapes, this trip could be just what you need.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, scenic stops, and the boat cruise.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in air-conditioned buses, the Green Canyon cruise, a professional English-speaking guide, and a lunch buffet.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited drinks—water, soft drinks, and other beverages—are available on the boat, but other drinks are not included.

Is swimming possible?
Yes. There’s a platform on the lake for swimming and breaks for swimming during the boat trip. Remember to bring your swimsuit.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with more personal attention.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, as it’s a popular tour.

Are there specific age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers and children, making it a family-friendly outing.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and perhaps some snacks or breakfast for the morning.

What is the lunch like?
The buffet lunch offers a variety of salads and dishes that guests generally find tasty and more than satisfactory.

What about accessibility?
Most travelers can participate; however, if mobility is a concern, it’s best to check with the tour provider directly.

In summary, the Green Canyon boat tour from Antalya offers a peaceful, scenic day out that captures Turkey’s natural beauty. It balances comfort, adventure, and authentic landscapes, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxing escape.