City of Side: Scuba Diving Underwater Museum with Pickup

Side’s Underwater Adventure: Scuba Diving at the Underwater Museum with Pickup

Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by vibrant reefs, intriguing wrecks, and a colorful array of fish. This scuba diving experience in Side offers just that, with a full day of underwater exploration that’s perfect whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver. For about 8 hours, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, fitted with top-notch equipment, and led by professional instructors to two different diving spots near the historic town of Side.

What we love most is how well-organized this tour is — including hotel pickup saves you the hassle of finding your way to the port, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make every step smooth and enjoyable. Plus, the chance to see the largest underwater museum in Europe and enjoy a relaxed lunch on the boat adds a nice touch of authenticity and comfort. On the downside, some might find the boat’s transport to the pier a bit worn — but it’s a small trade-off for the overall value and experience.

This tour suits those looking for a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving, as well as seasoned divers wanting to explore the waters around Side. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to see the underwater sights with friendly instructors at their side, in a setting known for its spectacular visibility and interesting wrecks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, equipment, training, insurance, and lunch make this a hassle-free experience.
• Underwater Beauty: Expect clear waters, reefs, wrecks, and a chance to see Europe’s largest underwater museum.
• Guided Safety: Instructors are certified, friendly, and always present during both dives, making it suitable for beginners.
• Flexible Spots: Dive sites are chosen by instructors on the day, offering variety and local expertise.
• Authentic Experience: Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the stunning scenery.
• Good Value: Considering the safety, equipment, and included lunch, it’s a worthwhile way to enjoy the sea.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

How the Tour Begins: Pick-Up and Introduction

Your adventure starts early with a comfortable hotel pickup, which we found to be quite efficient — just a reminder to wait at the main security gate about 10 minutes before your scheduled time. The transport, while described as “old and worn” by some travelers, is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall ease of pickup and drop-off. Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat crew playing music, adding a relaxed vibe that sets the tone for the day.

The Briefing: Safety and Equipment

Before heading out to the diving spots, you’ll meet your certified instructors for a comprehensive briefing. They explain how to use the equipment, underwater communication via sign language, and safety procedures—crucial info that helps first-time divers feel more confident. We appreciated the thorough nature of the instructions, which cover everything from breathing techniques to emergency procedures. One reviewer pointed out how well the guides explained all the underwater signals, making everyone feel prepared.

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The First Dive: Exploring in Safety

The tour offers two dives, each about 20 minutes long. The first is typically in a spot with depths around 10-12 meters, perfect for soaking in the sights like reefs and wreck remnants. One guest shared how her first dive was emotional due to a sinus issue, emphasizing the importance of proper equalization techniques beforehand. Rest assured, a dedicated instructor is always with you underwater, ensuring a calm, supportive atmosphere. Visibility in the waters around Side is excellent, allowing for unobstructed views of marine life and underwater structures.

Lunch Break: Rest and Replenish

After the first dive, you’ll enjoy a light, tasty lunch onboard. The menu includes sautéed chicken, pasta, and salad, which is enough to refuel without feeling heavy. This break is not just about eating — it’s a chance to relax, chat about the experience, and enjoy the sea breeze. Many reviews mention the good quality of the lunch as a highlight, providing the energy needed for the second dive.

The Second Dive: More Underwater Wonders

Post-lunch, your boat heads to a different site where a second 20-minute dive awaits. Here, you’ll experience a different environment—perhaps with more reefs or wrecks—and see an array of fish and underwater formations. One review described it as “lovely to swim in,” showcasing the relaxing and visually engaging nature of the surroundings.

Ending the Day: Photos, Memories, and Return

During the dives, the team takes photos and videos underwater, which you can preview and purchase later. There’s a small extra cost, but many find these souvenirs priceless — a way to relive the vivid memories or share with friends. The tour wraps up once you’re back at the port and transferred to your hotel, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and some stunning images of your underwater adventure.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides. One guest noted, “Selman as the main guide was brilliant, funny, and friendly,” emphasizing how guiding staff make the experience enjoyable and safe. Another shared that her first dive was “incredible,” thanks to the patience of the instructor, especially when overcoming fears. The overall consensus is that this guided, safe environment makes it accessible even for beginners, and the stunning underwater scenery keeps experienced divers engaged.

What to Keep in Mind

While most reviews praise the professionalism, some mention that the transport to the boat was a bit aged, which we think is a minor quibble. Also, travelers should bring cash for photos and perhaps a light snack or water for before or after diving, as the tour might not include extras beyond the provided lunch. Note that children under 15 or pregnant women are not permitted to participate, according to the tour’s safety guidelines.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

If you’re looking for a well-organized, safe introduction to scuba diving in an area known for its excellent visibility and interesting underwater sites, this tour hits the mark. The hotel pickup makes it convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area, and the friendly guides help you feel secure, whether you’re trying scuba for the first time or are already comfortable underwater.

The inclusion of lunch and photos adds value beyond just a sightseeing tour. The focus on safety, small group sizes, and the chance to see wrecks, reefs, and Europe’s largest underwater museum make this a memorable experience. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s underwater beauty without the need for advanced certification.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for beginners and first-time divers who want a safe, guided experience with no prior underwater experience necessary. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy authentic, scenic outings and appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup. If you’re a seasoned diver looking for a quick exploration with good guides and impressive sights, you’ll find this tour offers valuable access to the waters around Side with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a full day of underwater adventure, the Side Scuba Diving Tour offers excellent value. It combines safety, scenic beauty, and ease of access, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. Expect friendly guides, clear waters, and memorable imagery — all in one well-organized package.

For those eager to see the Mediterranean from beneath the waves, learn about local underwater wrecks and reefs, or simply tick off a bucket list item in a safe setting, this tour delivers on many fronts. Expect some minor inconveniences like older transport or the need for cash for photos, but overall, it’s a reliable, enjoyable way to experience what makes the waters off Side so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced diver to participate?
No, this tour is suitable for first-timers as well as experienced divers. All necessary training and supervision are provided.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and cash for extra photos. The tour includes lunch, but you may want to bring water or a light snack for before or after.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, diving is prohibited for children under 15 years old.

Is the equipment provided?
Yes, all diving equipment is included in the tour price.

How long is each dive?
Each dive lasts about 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the underwater scenery.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I buy the photos taken during the dives?
Yes, photos and videos are available for purchase at the port at an additional cost.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a light lunch with chicken, pasta, and salad is served onboard.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear communication.

What if I have sinus issues or other health concerns?
It’s advisable to read about proper equalization techniques or consult with your doctor beforehand, as some reviewers experienced sinus problems during their first dive.

Whether you’re craving a new adventure or simply want a safe and scenic way to explore the Mediterranean’s underwater world, this scuba diving tour in Side offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. It’s a chance to see a different side of Turkey’s stunning coast, all with friendly guides and minimum fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: