Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch From Antalya

Discover the Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch from Antalya

The Green Canyon Boat Tour from Kemer offers an engaging way to explore Turkey’s emerald lake, famous for its crystal-clear waters. Priced at $66.85 per person, this 8-hour journey includes transportation, a boat cruise, a buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks. The tour is designed to suit all ages, with a family-friendly atmosphere and small group sizes limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The tour departs early each day at 7:30 am, making it ideal for those who want to maximize their day. While the long drive from the pickup point to the canyon takes a couple of hours, the scenery along the way is part of the experience. The comfortable, air-conditioned buses and professional English-speaking guides help keep the atmosphere relaxed and informative. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of scenic beauty, light adventure, and good value, though those who prefer swimming without restrictions should note that swimming is only possible from a platform on the lake.

What Makes the Green Canyon Boat Tour Stand Out

This tour is unique because it combines a scenic boat cruise with visits to notable sites like the Oymapinar Dam and Oymapinar Park. The crystal waters, often compared to the Caribbean in tone, create a stunning backdrop for the passive yet engaging trip. The unlimited drinks onboard are a popular feature, especially if you want to relax without worrying about extra costs.

The highlight remains the Green Canyon itself, where the cruise lasts approximately 3 hours and offers ample opportunity for photo-taking and simply soaking in the views. The lake is the only reservoir in Turkey where boats are allowed, making it a rare sight. The lush woodlands and rugged cliffs that surround the water add to the sense of being in a pristine natural environment. This tour is family-friendly, providing a safe setting for children and plenty of swimming breaks from a platform on the lake.

Departure and Pickup Experience

The pickup service starts early, with guests being collected from their hotels or designated meeting points. The mini bus provided is noted for being comfortable and air-conditioned, though some reviews mention that the air conditioning could be more modern. The driver is experienced and provides safe transportation throughout the journey.

The meeting point is convenient, and the timely pickup ensures the tour maintains its schedule. Once onboard, a professional guide leads the group, offering narration about the sites, the dam, and the canyon’s natural surroundings, although some reviews mention that English commentary could be more consistent.

Stops Along the Route: Oymapinar Dam and Park

The Oymapinar Dam is a key stop during the tour, providing an opportunity to see Turkey’s fourth-largest dam and learn about its construction. Guests typically take photos and enjoy short walks around the dam area. The Oymapinar Park allows for a brief rest and appreciation of the surrounding lush landscape.

While the dam and park visits are brief, they add a geographical and engineering perspective to the experience. Some reviews suggest that a few more explanations about the dam’s purpose and history would enhance the visit, but overall, the scenic views and nature compensate for this.

The Green Canyon Cruise and Water Activities

The boat cruise is the core of the tour, lasting about 3 hours. During this time, travelers pass rugged cliffs and thick forests, while enjoying unlimited drinks and a lunch buffet. The lunch is generally well-received, offering a variety of salads and main dishes, exceeding some expectations based on reviews.

Swimming from a platform on the lake is possible, and breaks for swimming are scheduled during the cruise. These breaks are appreciated, especially for families or those who want a quick dip in the Caribbean-colored waters. However, some reviews mention that changing clothes after swimming can be inconvenient due to the lack of facilities, and swimming is only available from the designated platform, not from the boat itself.

Food and Drinks During the Tour

The buffet lunch offers a good variety of salads and main courses, with some reviews praising the quality and quantity of the meal. The unlimited drinks—likely including soft drinks, water, and possibly alcohol—are a highlight for many, allowing guests to relax during the cruise.

It’s worth noting that drinks are not included in the tour price, so guests should be prepared to purchase beverages separately if they wish. The overall value is considered good, especially given the accessibility to the lake environment and the scenic stops.

Group Size and Tour Pacing

The tour for up to 15 travelers creates a more intimate atmosphere, avoiding the large crowds of bigger excursions. The schedule is punctual, with breaks and stops timed to keep the day flowing smoothly. The long transfer to and from the canyon is balanced by the relaxing cruise and scenic stops, making it suitable for those who enjoy a calm pace rather than high-energy activities.

Some reviews mention that the drive can be a bit monotonous and that more narration during the bus ride would enhance the experience. Nevertheless, the pacing of the cruise and stops is generally well-regarded, with enough time allocated for photo opportunities and rest.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

While the tour is generally accessible to most travelers, swimming is only available from a designated platform on the lake—no swimming from the boat itself. The walks around the dam and park are brief and manageable; however, those with mobility issues should consider the long bus ride and standing time during the stops. There are no specific mentions of extensive physical requirements, but comfortable shoes are recommended for the stops.

Comparing this Tour to Similar Experiences

Unlike some larger boat tours in the region, this trip emphasizes personalized service and smaller groups. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited drinks adds value compared to other excursions that might exclude meals. The stop at Oymapinar Dam provides a unique chance to learn about Turkey’s hydroelectric infrastructure.

While some reviews note the absence of detailed English narration and less-than-ideal air conditioning, the overall experience remains enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate nature and scenic views.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

This Green Canyon boat tour suits families, couples, and nature lovers who seek a relaxing day with beautiful scenery and light adventure. Travelers who enjoy photography, uncrowded environments, and a good value for money will find this tour appealing. Those looking for more active water-based activities or extensive educational commentary might want to explore other options.

Since the canyon and lake are the main attractions, the tour offers a quiet, scenic escape from the busy tourist spots, with plenty of opportunities to rest and soak in the views.

Final Thoughts on the Green Canyon Boat Tour

The Green Canyon Boat Tour from Antalya provides a peaceful, scenic, and well-organized way to see Turkey’s fourth-largest dam and emerald lake. The three-hour cruise offers unlimited drinks and a buffet lunch, making it a great value for a full day of sightseeing. The small group size and timely schedule contribute to a more personal experience.

While some improvements could include more detailed narration and better facilities for changing clothes, the overall experience is highly rated, particularly for viewing the stunning landscape and enjoying the water. This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxing day immersed in nature, with enough scenic beauty and comfort to make it memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, comfortable, air-conditioned buses are included for pickup and transfer during the entire tour.

What is the duration of the boat cruise?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and swimming breaks.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included in the price but are unlimited on the boat once onboard.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible from a platform on the lake, with scheduled breaks for swimming.

What stops are included besides the canyon?
The tour includes stops at Oymapinar Dam and Oymapinar Park, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs at 7:30 am, with pickup times arranged beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, given the safe environment and scenic stops.

What should I bring with me?
It’s advisable to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a towel for swimming. Remember that drinks are not included, so carry some cash if you wish to purchase beverages.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, and the full refund is provided if canceled within that window.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is available through Viator, with confirmation received at the time of booking.