Dolphin Island Boat Trip from Side

A 6-hour gulet cruise from the Manavgat River to the open Mediterranean, with swimming stops, BBQ lunch, foam party and a chance to spot wild dolphins near Dolphin Island.

Unlimited Soft Drinks 4.9 Local Expert Free Cancellation
Duration
8 Hours
Pickup
08:00
Price per person
€35
Adult
1
Child
0
Total amount
35
Pay on tour day
WhatsApp Booking

Experience Highlights

Hotel pickup from Side & Manavgat area
Traditional Turkish gulet (smaller groups)
Swim where the Manavgat River meets the sea
Stops at Karaburun Bay and Turtle Bay
Approach to Dolphin Island (wild bottlenose dolphins possible)
BBQ lunch + unlimited soft drinks, tea & coffee
Foam party after the last swim
Suitable for families and mixed groups

About This Tour

This is a classic Side-area boat day that combines the Manavgat River with the open Mediterranean. After morning hotel pickup you board a traditional gulet at the river pier and cruise downstream. The first swim stop is at the river mouth, where cooler fresh water meets warmer salt water — a short but distinctive experience.The boat then heads east toward Karaburun Bay and Turtle Bay for longer swimming and snorkelling stops in clearer water. Later you approach Dolphin Island, a small rocky islet. Bottlenose dolphins live in these waters year-round, but they are wild. Sightings are never guaranteed. The captain slows the engine and keeps distance if animals appear. If they do not show, the day still includes solid swimming time, lunch and scenery.Lunch is served on board (grilled chicken or fish with sides). Soft drinks, Turkish tea and coffee are unlimited and included in the price. A foam party runs after the last swim stop — popular with families and groups. The boat is limited to around 30–35 guests, which keeps it more manageable than the largest party vessels.Expect roughly six hours door-to-door. The pace is relaxed with music and a social atmosphere, but it is not an extreme party boat. Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen and a dry bag for your phone during the foam party. Alcohol and professional photos are extra. Suitable for most ages; life jackets are available for children.

Itinerary

Hotel Pickup
Collection from hotels in Side, Manavgat, Kumköy, Sorgun, Titreyengöl and nearby resorts (from approx. 08:00)
Boarding
Transfer to the Manavgat River pier and board the gulet
River Mouth Swim
First stop where the river meets the Mediterranean — swim in both fresh and salt water
Karaburun Bay
Longer swim and snorkel stop in clearer water
Turtle Bay
Coastal stop with possible loggerhead turtle sightings
Dolphin Island Approach
Quiet approach to the rocky islet; chance to see wild bottlenose dolphins
Lunch on Board
BBQ lunch while drifting in a sheltered area
Foam Party
Music and foam after the last swim stop
Return
Cruise back along the coast and hotel drop-off (around 15:30–16:00)

What's Included

Included

Hotel pickup & drop-off from Side, Manavgat and nearby areas
Traditional gulet cruise (max 30–35 guests)
BBQ lunch (chicken or fish, salad, rice, pasta)
Unlimited soft drinks, Turkish tea & coffee
Swim stops at river mouth, Karaburun Bay and Turtle Bay
Approach to Dolphin Island
Foam party & music
Life jackets for all ages
Professional crew & basic insurance

Not Included

Alcoholic drinks
Professional photos & videos (optional)
Personal expenses
Tips & gratuities

Important Information

Know Before You Go

  • Dolphins are wild — sightings are possible but never guaranteed
  • Soft drinks, tea and coffee are included; alcohol is extra
  • Foam party takes place after the swimming stops
  • Suitable for families and children (life jackets available)
  • Boat capacity is limited to keep groups smaller
  • Deck can be slippery after swimming
  • Message in advance for vegetarian lunch options

What to Bring

  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun hat & sunglasses
  • Dry bag or waterproof phone case
  • Cash for alcoholic drinks or tips
  • Soft-soled shoes or sandals
Local Tip

The best chance of seeing dolphins is usually early in the cruise when the boat is quieter. Sit toward the bow during the approach to the island. July and August are the busiest months — May, June and September tend to be calmer on the water.

— Captain Kerim · Local Captain · 20+ years on these waters