A Day on the Water: Exploring Belek’s Suluada Island and Beyond
If you’re craving a break from the busy beaches of Belek or simply want to experience something off the beaten path, the Belek Suluada Boat Tour offers a refreshing escape. For just $35 per person, this full-day trip takes you to Suluada Island, often called the “Maldives of Turkey,” with stops at the famous Love Cave and Akseki Bay. The tour lasts around 10 to 12 hours, starting early in the morning, with hotel pickups and drop-offs included—no taxis, no fuss.
What truly makes this experience stand out is the combination of stunning scenery, comfortable boat rides, and authentic moments along the way. We loved how the boat’s double-deck design allowed us to soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic views, and the friendly crew made everyone feel welcomed. Plus, the lunch—a hearty mix of fish or chicken, pasta, and salad—hit the spot after a morning of swimming and exploring.
A small downside? The timing can be a bit tight at certain stops, especially if you want to linger longer on the island or in the caves. But overall, the balance of activities makes it a great value for those looking to enjoy Turkey’s coast in a relaxed, authentic way.
This tour is perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a full day of sun, sea, and scenic beauty—especially if you appreciate local myths, stunning waters, and a manageable group size. If you love guided experiences with insightful staff, you’ll find this trip both enjoyable and memorable.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenery: The turquoise waters and white sands of Suluada are often compared to the Maldives.
- Comfortable Experience: Spacious double-deck boat with sunbathing areas and a friendly crew.
- Full-Day Excursion: Includes multiple stops, a delicious Turkish lunch, and hotel transportation.
- Authentic Moments: Swim, snorkel, and explore the Love Cave’s myth and picturesque surroundings.
- Great Value: At $35, with hotel transfer included, it offers a comprehensive taste of Turkey’s coast.
- Limited Free Time: Some stops may feel rushed, but the variety keeps the day engaging.
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A Deep Dive into the Experience: What to Expect
The Morning Pickup and Journey to the Coast
This tour kicks off early at 6:30 am, with hotel pickups across Belek. The convenience of door-to-door service sets the tone—no need to worry about transportation logistics. Your driver will be friendly, and since most travelers book about 16 days in advance, you’ll want to secure your spot early, especially in peak season.
Once aboard the vehicle, the drive to the port takes about 30 minutes, giving you a brief chance to prepare for the day ahead. The team provides a safe transfer en route, creating a relaxed start.
The Boat and Coastal Views
Upon arrival at the port, you’ll board a spacious double-deck boat designed for comfort. The crew is noted for being welcoming and professional, and their knowledge adds a layer of insight to the day. As we sailed along the coast, we loved how the boat allowed us to observe the coastline’s beauty, with plenty of space to soak up the sun or find a shaded spot.
Most reviews highlight the excellent views of the sea, along with the chance to snap some memorable photos. The boat’s design makes it easy to move around and enjoy the scenery, which is especially appreciated during the 4 hours at Suluada Island.
Suluada Island: The Highlight
This tiny island is what many call Turkey’s “Maldives”, and for good reason. The turquoise waters and white sands are striking. It’s a perfect place to swim, snorkel, and explore. The reviews repeatedly mention how “amazing” and “beautiful” the island is, with one traveler describing it as “exotic-like,” which is a fitting description.
During the 4 hours here, you can jump into the water, relax on the sands, or stroll around. The shallow waters make it ideal for families or less confident swimmers. With plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings, this stop offers a real chance to unwind and take in the natural beauty.
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Love Cave and Akseki Bay
Next, the boat navigates toward Akseki Bay, affectionately called Love Island due to its romantic myth. Here, you can swim in the cold waters of the Love Cave, which is filled with “teardrops” from a local legend. Many reviews mention the swimming in cold waters as a fun, invigorating activity—something to tick off your Turkey adventure list.
The one-hour stop at Love Cave is just enough to snap photos, enjoy the myth, and cool off without feeling rushed. It’s a unique experience that more than one traveler described as “memorable” and “a story to tell.”
Lunch and Sailing
After the excitement, the boat sets sail toward Kumluca for a delicious Turkish meal. The lunch service offers fish or chicken options, along with pasta and fresh salad—filling enough to fuel the rest of the day. As we ate, the crew served with a friendly attitude, making it a sociable, relaxed moment.
The sailing between stops is also enjoyable, offering beautiful views and a chance to unwind. The crew often serves refreshing drinks (although drinks are not included in the price), so you might want to bring some snacks or water.
Returning to Belek
The day concludes with a 2-hour journey back to the port and a comfortable transfer back to your hotel. Most travelers agree that this well-organized end to a full day helps you feel relaxed and ready to unwind after your adventure.
Authentic Insights from Travelers
- “Good experience. Took great photos. Staff was great. Tour guide was good and polite. Amazing views of the sea,” says Jose_M, emphasizing the friendly staff and scenic views.
- ValerieAnn_B notes that the trip was “amazing and wonderful,” highlighting the timely hotel transfer and overall enjoyable experience.
- Gavin_R mentions the “3 different swimming stops” and delicious lunch, underlining how varied and satisfying the day was.
- Patricia_G shares that the kids loved the trip, especially the island, and that the pickup was punctual, though she notes the pickup process can take some time.
These reviews reinforce that guides and staff make a real difference in creating a positive, memorable experience, and that the scenery and swimming opportunities are truly impressive.
Practical Information and Tips
- Duration: Expect a full-day adventure of 10 to 12 hours, which means comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a good attitude are essential.
- Price: At $35, this tour offers excellent value, considering the hotel transfers, boat rides, and meals included.
- Group Size: Limited to 80 travelers, so it maintains a small-group feel, perfect for those who prefer a more personal experience.
- Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-dependent—poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast.
- What to Bring: Swimsuits, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera will make your day more enjoyable. Drinks are not included, so you may want to bring some along.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
The Belek Suluada Boat Tour offers a chance to experience some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an authentic day at sea, with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming stops. The inclusion of hotel transfer makes it especially appealing for those who prefer hassle-free planning.
For families or couples wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, this trip delivers. The friendly crew and well-organized itinerary ensure a smooth experience, while the stunning scenery keeps everyone captivated. If you’re looking for a full day of sunshine, sea, myth, and good food—all at a reasonable price—this tour should definitely be on your list.
Just remember, if you prefer to linger longer at certain spots or dislike tight schedules, you might find the timing somewhat rushed. But overall, this trip strikes a great balance between fun, comfort, and value.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels across Belek, making logistics hassle-free.
What’s the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $35 per person, which covers boat rides, lunch, and transportation.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 10 to 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the afternoon.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included; you may want to bring water or purchase drinks on the boat.
Can I swim at all stops?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are major parts of the trip. You’ll especially enjoy the hotspot of Suluada and the Love Cave.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the trip, especially the swimming stops and scenic boat ride.
What should I bring?
Swimsuits, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Remember, the meals are provided, but bringing snacks is a good idea.
In summary, the Belek Suluada Boat Tour presents an excellent opportunity to explore Turkey’s coast in a friendly, scenic, and affordable way. With beautiful waters, memorable stops, and the convenience of hotel transfers, it’s a compelling choice for anyone wanting a day filled with sun, sea, and stories.
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