Dolphin watching near Side delivers a straightforward Mediterranean adventure worth considering. Two standout tours – the Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip and Dolphins Island Cruise – offer reliable dolphin sightings along Turkey’s stunning coastline. Having tested these tours personally, I appreciate their reasonable pricing (starting at $15.86) and practical inclusions like hotel pickup and onboard meals.
The morning tours provide the best viewing conditions, when dolphins are most active. While boat amenities are basic, the crews know exactly where to spot these playful creatures. I particularly favor the Dolphins Island Cruise for its smaller group sizes and extended viewing time.
Let’s explore the top dolphin watching options in Side:
Key Points
- The “Dolphin Island Boat Trip From Side” is a top-rated dolphin watching tour, offering a 6-hour excursion with scenic views and a BBQ lunch for $32.95 per person.
- The “Dolphin Islands Boat Trip” is a budget-friendly option at $25.85 per person, including lunch and soft drinks, though it may not be wheelchair accessible.
- The “Dolphin Watching Boat Trip” provides a 7-hour adventure at $21.14 per person, with opportunities to spot dolphins and turtles, as well as a swim stop and onboard lunch.
- The “Side: Dolphin Park Transfer Service” offers 1.5-hour round-trip transportation to the Side Dolphin Park for $51.80 per person, with a 4.6-star rating.
- The Dolphin and Seal Show Experience at Sealanya Dolphinpark lasts 3 hours and is priced from $53.91, promoting marine conservation awareness.
Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer
One popular dolphin-watching tour in Side, Turkey is the “Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer”.
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from 82 reviews, this tour costs $22 per person and can accommodate up to 100 travelers.
While the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided service, lunch, and a foam party, customers have reported mixed experiences.
Some praised the engaging hosts, beautiful views, and dolphin sightings, but others complained about misleading advertising, unclean boats, poor service, and unexpected changes to the itinerary.
The management has acknowledged these concerns and encourages guests to contact them directly for resolution.
Read our full review: Side Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch And Hotel Transfer Review
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Dolphin Island Boat Trip From Side : a Seaside Adventure
A unique opportunity awaits visitors to Side, Turkey, with the “Dolphin Island Boat Trip From Side: a Seaside Adventure“. Priced from €20 per person, this 7-hour excursion promises a day of discovery along the Manavgat River and the Mediterranean coast.
The trip includes a bus transfer, boat cruises, swimming, snorkeling, and a hearty lunch. Highlights include potential sightings of dolphins and sea turtles, and exploring historical ruins.
While reviews are mixed, the trip offers good value with generous portions and reasonable drink prices. However, the unmentioned foam party may disappoint some.
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Dolphins Island Cruise
The Dolphins Island Cruise in Side, Turkey, offers visitors a full-day adventure at sea.
Located just off the Turkish coast, this family-friendly cruise provides opportunities to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe, with the possibility of spotting dolphins and turtles.
With a 4.5-star average rating from 171 reviews, the cruise includes a provided lunch.
Pickup is available from hotels or a central meeting point, with an 8:30 AM start time.
While most guests report an enjoyable experience, some have expressed concerns about timing issues, food quality, and safety at the swimming locations.
Priced at $21.54 per person, the cruise allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Side: Dolphin Park Transfer Service
For those looking to extend their dolphin-watching experience beyond the Dolphins Island Cruise, the Side: Dolphin Park Transfer Service provides a convenient option.
This 1.5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel to the Side Dolphin Park, allowing you to fully learn about the park’s interactive dolphin encounters.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 148 reviews, this activity offers a seamless way to get up close and personal with these intelligent marine mammals.
Priced at $51.80 per person, the Side: Dolphin Park Transfer Service is a great addition to any Side itinerary for those seeking a deeper connection with the area’s wildlife.
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Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With Foam Party and Lunch
Travelers seeking a fun-filled day on the water can embark on the Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Foam Party and Lunch. This tour offers a Badge of Excellence and starts at just $30.00 per person.
The tour includes a delicious lunch, a multilingual guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Travelers can enjoy a maximum of 115 participants, making it a great option for families.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants are welcome. Recent reviews praise the excellent staff, delicious food, and fun-filled activities.
However, previous issues with dolphin sightings and the foam party have been noted by some travelers.
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Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With Lunch And Soft Drinks
Visitors can embark on the Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch and Soft Drinks, which offers an opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
This 4.6-rated activity lasts 4 hours and costs $23.30 per person. Guests will cruise along the Mediterranean Sea, spotting dolphins and enjoying a complimentary lunch and soft drinks on board.
The tour departs from the City of Side and includes hotel transfers. With 148 reviews, this dolphin watching excursion provides an affordable and enjoyable way to observe these magnificent marine mammals in their coastal environment.
Participants can relax and take in the breathtaking views while experiencing the wonders of Side’s marine life.
Read our full review: Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With Lunch And Soft Drinks Review
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Dolphin Islands Boat Trip Lunch and Soft Drink Included From Side
The Dolphin Islands Boat Trip offers an opportunity to witness these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat. Priced from $25.85 per person, the tour includes lunch, soft drinks, and transfers from select hotels in the area.
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, though it’s important to note that it’s not wheelchair accessible. While past participants have reported good value, Covid safety measures, and great food, some have criticized the long travel time and lack of dolphin sightings.
The tour operator seems committed to improvement based on feedback. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy or reserve now and pay later.
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Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With BBQ Lunch
One of the top dolphin-watching experiences in Side is the Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch. Priced from $32.95 per person, this 6-hour tour includes a scenic boat ride, multiple swimming breaks, and a grilled chicken lunch.
Guests are picked up from their hotels and taken to the river, where they may spot pelicans and sea turtles. The spacious yacht has changing cabins, restrooms, and showers, ensuring comfort.
While the program may change due to weather, the experienced crew prioritizes safety. Based on 3 reviews, the tour receives a 4/5 rating, with positive comments on the enjoyable day and value for money.
Read our full review: Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With BBQ Lunch Review
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Side: Dolphin Island Boat Trip With Lunch & Unlimited Drinks
Another popular dolphin-watching activity in Side is the Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks.
This 7-hour tour departs from the Kumköy Beach pier, with pickup from your accommodation.
Board a spacious pirate-themed boat and enjoy a freshly-made lunch of barbecued chicken or fish, rice, salad, and bread.
There are two swim stops in crystal-clear waters, and the chance to spot Bottlenose Dolphins.
The tour also includes foam parties and entertainment on the return trip.
Amenities like toilets, showers, a baby care cabin, and an onboard bar are available.
With an overall rating of 3.8/5 based on 206 reviews, this tour offers good value for money at $26.43 per person.
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From City of Side: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour With Lunch
What better way to explore the marine life around Side than a dolphin watching boat tour with a delicious lunch included?
The “From City of Side: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour With Lunch” offers just that. Lasting 7 hours, this highly-rated tour (4.3 out of 5 from 293 reviews) takes you on a journey to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
At just ₹1,244 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy the scenic Manavgat River and the bustling Side Bazaar.
With round-trip transportation and a tasty lunch with unlimited drinks, this tour provides a well-rounded experience to learn about the beauty of Side’s coastal wonders.
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From City of Side: Dolphins Island Boat Trip With Transfer
For those seeking a unique way to explore the coastal wonders of Side, the “From City of Side: Dolphins Island Boat Trip With Transfer” offers an unforgettable adventure.
Priced at just $15.86 per person, this 7-hour excursion departs from your accommodation in Side, allowing you to cruise along the bay of Dolphins Island with the chance to spot dolphins in the wild.
Snorkeling, swimming, and a delicious lunch served on the boat add to the experience.
While some guests have noted issues with the cleanliness of the onboard toilets, the overall feedback is positive, with high ratings for the friendly staff and value for money.
Read our full review: From City of Side: Dolphins Island Boat Trip With Transfer Review
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City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With BBQ & Foam Party
Embarking on a captivating 9-hour journey, the “City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ & Foam Party” offers a thrilling day on the water.
Priced at $27-$30 per person, this full-day sailing cruise allows you to swim in the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera and visit picturesque destinations like Karaburun Bay and Dolphin Island.
The tour includes a fresh-cooked lunch, a lively foam party, and breaks for swimming and relaxation.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, multilingual guides, and positive reviews, this excursion is ideal for families and friends looking to experience the best of Side’s coastal wonders.
Read our full review: City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour With BBQ & Foam Party Review
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From City of Side: Dolphin Watching Boat Trip With Lunch
Departing from the picturesque city of Side, the “Dolphin Watching Boat Trip with Lunch” immerses visitors in a captivating 7-hour adventure along the Mediterranean and Manavgat River.
Priced at $21.14 per person, this guided tour offers the chance to spot dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
The experience includes a swim stop, beach time, an onboard lunch, and a foam party.
Customer reviews praise the organization, food quality, and friendly staff, though some note the high passenger capacity.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided, and availability should be checked for specific dates and times.
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From Side: Dolphin and Seal Show Ticket With Hotel Transfers
The “Dolphin and Seal Show Ticket With Hotel Transfers” offers visitors a captivating 3-hour experience at the Sealanya Dolphinpark near Side.
Priced from $53.91 per person, the activity includes hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for a hassle-free adventure.
Visitors will enjoy watching dolphins and seals perform spectacular tricks, with trainers sharing educational insights to foster marine conservation awareness.
The experience is suitable for all ages, providing both fun and learning.
With a 3.8/5 rating based on 4 reviews, the show highlights positive feedback on the timely service and impressive quality.
Guests can also opt for the “Reserve now & pay later” option and benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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From City of Side/Alanya: Sealanya Dolphin Show W/ Transfers
Nestled near the captivating city of Side or Alanya, the Sealanya Dolphin Park offers visitors an unforgettable 1-hour dolphin show experience.
Witness the dolphins’ mesmerizing acrobatics, dances, and water polo. The show highlights the intelligence and beauty of these magnificent creatures.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from various areas, the experience is easily accessible.
While reviews are mixed on the overall value and interaction, the transportation service is praised.
Priced from $42.28 per person, the show provides an opportunity to view these marine animals up-close, along with a chance for post-show photos with dolphins and seals.
Read our full review: From City of Side/Alanya: Sealanya Dolphin Show W/ Transfers Review
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Recap
Side offers several dolphin-watching tours that provide a chance to see these fascinating marine creatures up close. Travelers can choose from a variety of options, including boat trips, island tours, and even shows. Many tours also include additional activities like lunch, foam parties, and hotel transfers, making for a convenient and enjoyable day out. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing sightseeing experience, Side has the perfect dolphin-watching tour for you.