The Three Swim Stops on the Side Dolphin Boat
The boat anchors three times. Each stop is a different kind of water, and none of them asks you to get in.
Short answer
The Side dolphin boat trip stops for a swim three times: at the Boğaz river mouth, where cold river water meets the warm sea; at Dolphin Island (Yunus Adası), the longest stop of the day; and once more on the way back. Swimming is optional at every stop — guests who stay aboard keep the deck, the sun or the shade.
Stop one: where the river meets the sea
After the calm run down the Manavgat river, the boat anchors at Boğaz, the point where the river empties into the Mediterranean. What makes this stop unusual is that two waters lie side by side: the river's, cold and fresh, and the sea's, warm and salty. A few strokes take you from one to the other.
It comes early in the day, before lunch, so it is a good one for anyone who wants to test the water before the open sea. More on this stop in the river mouth guide.
Stop two: the long swim at Dolphin Island
After lunch the boat heads into open water to Yunus Adası and anchors there for a long swim. It is the stop the trip is named after, and the one where you have the most time in the water.
Dolphins and Caretta caretta turtles, both wild, share these waters. If one appears, enjoy it from where you are: this is not a swim-with programme, and nobody touches or feeds the animals. Our guide to watching them well explains why.
Stop three: the last dip
Before the boat turns for home, it anchors once more. It is the final cool-off before the foam party and the drive back, and a good moment to rinse off the sun cream of the morning — then put fresh cream on for the ride home.
If you do not swim
- Nothing on the day depends on swimming. Lunch, the island, the music and the foam party are all on deck.
- There is sun and shade on board, so a guest who stays dry can choose where to sit at each stop.
- If you are not a confident swimmer and want to go in, or need anything particular for the water, ask us before you book.
- Children are in their parents' care at the swim stops; the children's guide covers the day with little ones.
What to have with you for three swims
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes from the hotel, bring a towel, and pack high-factor sun cream and sunglasses. Three swims mean three times out of the water into strong light, so reapply after each one. The full packing list is short. When you are ready, reserve your places.
