Side/Alanya: Swimming with Dolphins and Dolphin Show

Travelers exploring Turkey’s southern coast often seek memorable experiences beyond historic sites and beaches. One such option is the Swimming with Dolphins and Dolphin Show near Alanya, a tour that promises to bring you face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most charming creatures. While it might not be for everyone—especially non-swimmers or those with back problems—this tour offers a lively interaction with marine mammals that can create lasting memories.

What we like about this experience is how it combines up-close animal interactions with entertaining shows, providing a balanced blend of education and fun. Plus, the inclusion of professional guides and safety measures help ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the value for money can vary, especially if you’re not keen on paying extra for photos or transfers you don’t need. This tour suits families, animal lovers, and those eager for some lighthearted adventure on Turkey’s coast.

Key Points

• Authentic interaction with dolphins, seals, and sea lions
• Includes dolphin swim, show, and contact with marine mammals
• Safety measures and professional guides are prioritized
• Price considerations: optional photos and transfers may add to costs
• Duration: around 2.5 hours, with flexible start times
• Suitable for children over 2, but not for non-swimmers or those with back issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides quite a bit for its price. Included are the dolphin swim, a dolphin show, and interactions with seals and sea lions—these are the main attractions. A professional instructor is on hand to guide you, making sure safety is the top priority, especially when touching or playing with the animals. The package also covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, insurance, and the entrance ticket.

However, extras such as personal expenses and photos are not included, though photographs can be purchased separately. From reviews, it’s clear that photo prices can be steep—”30 each, which seemed excessive,” as one visitor noted. Some travelers recommend booking directly at the park for better deals, especially if you’re only interested in the core experience.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

The tour typically lasts about 2.5 hours, with start times that depend on availability. The pickup service usually begins at your hotel, making for a convenient start. Once at the facility—likely at Sealanya, a well-known marine park—the experience kicks off with an introduction from guides who are well-versed in animal safety and interaction protocols.

The highlight, of course, is the swimming with dolphins. You’ll be in the water with specially trained dolphins, playing, swimming, and even performing some of their entertaining tricks. Expect to see these intelligent animals display natural grace and agility, making the experience both fun and awe-inspiring. The guides emphasize safety and respectful contact, warning guests not to touch the animals without permission, which is reassuring for parents and cautious travelers.

Next, you’ll watch dolphin shows, where the animals perform tricks that showcase their intelligence and agility. These are lively, family-friendly events that often get applause from the audience. Following this, you’ll have the chance to interact with seals and sea lions, two other highly charming marine mammals. These interactions tend to be more relaxed, with opportunities to play and take photos—though, again, photos cost extra.

The Authenticity and Value of the Experience

A common concern among travelers is whether such marine interactions are ethical and authentic. The tour emphasizes professional guidance and safety, which suggests a focus on animal welfare. However, some reviews point out that the value for money can be questionable if you’re paying for photos separately or if the transfer service is unnecessary. For instance, one traveler noted, “It would have been better to buy the complete package at Sealanya itself for 120, which includes the dolphin swim and show.”

Despite this, many visitors find that the core experience of swimming and seeing dolphins perform is worth the price, especially for families or animal enthusiasts. The interactive nature—playing with seals, watching shows—delivers a more engaging experience than just observing from afar.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Bring your own swimwear, towel, and change of clothes. Many visitors find these essentials essential for comfort.
• Use sunscreen, especially if you’re sensitive to sun exposure, as you’ll spend time outdoors in Turkey’s warm climate.
• Children who cannot swim alone must be accompanied by a paying adult, so plan accordingly.
• Avoid touching the animals unless instructed—this is both for your safety and their well-being.
• If you’re only interested in the main experience, consider booking directly at Sealanya to potentially save on costs—based on some reviews, this can be more economical.
• Be aware that photos are optional and can be pricey; decide in advance if you want to purchase them.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with children, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a lighthearted, interactive marine encounter. It offers a fun and educational chance to see marine mammals up close, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memorable moments.

However, it may not appeal if you’re not comfortable with water activities, have specific ethical concerns about marine parks, or prefer more natural, less commercialized experiences. For those wanting a more comprehensive or less expensive dolphin experience, booking directly with Sealanya or exploring other local options might be wiser.

The Sum Up

The Side/Alanya: Swimming with Dolphins and Dolphin Show offers a visually engaging and interactive experience, especially for families and animal enthusiasts. You’ll enjoy close encounters with dolphins, seals, and sea lions in a safe, guided environment, complemented by lively shows that showcase their intelligence.

The experience delivers good value for money—particularly when compared to similar attractions—though the additional costs for photos and transfers can add up. It’s well-organized, with professional staff making safety a priority, and the duration is just long enough to be fun without dragging on.

If you’re after a memorable, hands-on marine adventure, this tour can satisfy your desire for playful, animal-centric entertainment on Turkey’s beautiful coast. Just be sure to weigh the costs of extras and consider whether the core experience alone meets your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can participate, but they must be comfortable in water and be accompanied by an adult if they can’t swim alone.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water. It’s advisable to wear or bring appropriate gear for water activities.

Can non-swimmers participate?
No, the tour involves swimming with dolphins, so it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those with back problems.

Are photos included?
No, photographs are not included and cost extra. Some travelers find the prices steep—up to 30 per photo—so decide beforehand if you want to purchase them.

Is there transportation included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are part of the package, making logistics easier for travelers staying nearby.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This experience offers a lively, engaging marine encounter that can produce lasting memories, especially for families and animal lovers. With careful planning and realistic expectations, it’s a fun way to add a splash of aquatic adventure to your Turkey holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: