From Side, Alanya: Scuba Diving With 2 Time Dive & Lunch

A Practical Guide to the “Scuba Diving With 2 Time Dive & Lunch” Tour from Side and Alanya

If you’re visiting Turkey’s southern coast and looking to try something both adventurous and approachable, this scuba diving tour might just be what you need. Priced at around $45.38 per person, it offers two guided dives suitable for beginners, along with a lunch and scenic boat ride. Starting from Side or Alanya, the tour promises around 8 hours of underwater fun and coastal sights—a compelling blend of instruction, exploration, and relaxation.

Our favorite aspects? First, the fact that all equipment—like wetsuits, masks, and snorkels—is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs or gear mishaps. Second, the small group atmosphere (up to 100 travelers, but typically more intimate) makes the experience feel safer and more personal. That said, a possible downside is the crowded nature during peak season, which some guests find less ideal for a relaxed experience.

This tour is perfect for first-time divers or those who prefer a structured introduction to the underwater world, but also caters to experienced swimmers who want to enjoy a straightforward, well-organized day on the water. If you’re curious about the marine life or want a fun, safe way to dip your toes into diving with great scenery and good food, this tour ticks those boxes.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly with shallow dives of 3-5m and 7-8m, guided by experienced instructors.
• Includes all gear and insurance, so you’re covered without additional expenses.
• Scenic boat ride from Alanya or Side with time for sunbathing and snorkeling.
• Onboard lunch offers a welcome break amid the day’s activities.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for travelers looking for a safe, organized, and memorable introduction to underwater exploration.

A Thick Description of the Experience

Exploring the waters off Alanya and Side, Turkey, with this scuba diving tour is a straightforward way to enjoy the sea without the fuss. The journey begins early, with hotel pickups and a comfortable drive to the marina, where the boat departs around 8:00 am. This early start ensures you make the most of the day, whether you’re staying in Side or Alanya.

The Boat Ride and Scenic Views

Once aboard, the boat ride itself becomes part of the fun. We loved the scenic cruise along the Turkish coast, which offers excellent views of the rugged shoreline and the chance to spot boats, yachts, and maybe even some dolphins if you’re lucky. The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of room to socialize or relax on deck as you head toward the dive sites.

Diving and Snorkeling: What to Expect

The core of the tour is the two dives, each roughly 20 minutes long, guided by professional instructors. The first dive is at a depth of 3-5 meters, ideal for beginners. Here, you’ll get a comprehensive diving training session, including practical instructions, which helps ease any nervousness. The reviews highlight how attentive and experienced the instructors are—one reviewer mentioned that their instructor “was very attentive and helped me a lot,” making the experience less intimidating.

For those who prefer not to dive, snorkeling is available, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant marine life in shallower waters. The underwater visibility and marine environment are often praised, with guests mentioning that the instructors gave clear instructions and made them feel safe underwater.

The second dive goes deeper, reaching 7-8 meters, offering a slightly different perspective of the sea and its inhabitants. While some experienced divers might find this depth modest compared to more advanced diving locations, it’s perfect for beginners or those seeking a leisurely, controlled experience.

Lunch, Swimming, and Sunbathing

After the first dive, everyone returns to the boat for a delicious onboard lunch. Typically, this includes local Turkish fare—a much-needed break after swimming and exploring. Following lunch, there’s ample time for swimming and sunbathing, perfect for those wanting to relax or work on their tan while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

The Second Dive and Return Journey

Post-lunch, the boat heads toward the second dive site. This part of the tour is generally appreciated for its organized approach and the calm, professional guidance. Guests report feeling very safe, thanks to the thorough instructions and attentive instructors.

The tour concludes with a return boat ride back to the harbor, usually lasting around 1.5 hours. The drive back to your hotel is straightforward, often with the chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or share stories with fellow travelers.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.0/5 from four reviews suggests a generally positive experience, though opinions vary. One reviewer described it as “a great experience,” emphasizing the instructor’s attentiveness and recommending it for beginners. Conversely, another, more experienced diver found the experience “disappointing,” mainly because the dive depth was limited and not overly challenging—something to consider if you’re expecting more advanced diving.

Other guests praised how experienced instructors made them feel safe and well-guided, with comments like “the diving instructors were very experienced, gave us great instructions, and I felt very safe underwater.” Multiple reviews mention the responsibility and professionalism of the staff, which is reassuring for first-timers or nervous swimmers.

On the downside, some travelers noted that peak season could lead to crowded conditions, potentially affecting the tranquility of the experience. The tour’s capacity is capped at 100 travelers, but during busy times, it might feel more bustling than secluded.

Practical Details and Value

The price point of $45.38 is quite reasonable when considering all-inclusive gear, insurance, and a full day of activity. Unlike some tours that charge extra for equipment or food, this package offers a good value. The lunch is a thoughtful inclusion, saving you from finding somewhere to eat afterward.

Transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, and the tour operates on a mobile ticket system, allowing for easy booking and check-in. For travelers with limited time or those new to water sports, this tour strikes a nice balance between organization, safety, and enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re new to diving but eager to try, the comprehensive training and gentle depths make this a safe, enjoyable option. Families or groups with mixed experience levels will appreciate the structured schedule, inclusion of snorkeling, and lunch break.

However, if you’re an experienced diver seeking more challenging or deeper exploration, this might feel a bit tame. Still, it’s a great way to dip your toes into the water and enjoy a scenic day on the coast.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This scuba diving day from Side and Alanya offers a balanced experience—combining safe, guided instruction with beautiful scenery and marine exploration. It’s especially well-suited for beginners or those wanting a hassle-free introduction to underwater activities, thanks to included gear, friendly instructors, and a relaxed pace.

The lunch and sunbathing time add extra value, making it a full, satisfying day without feeling rushed. While it might not satisfy seasoned divers looking for complexity or deeper dives, it proves ideal for first-timers, families, or travelers on a budget.

If you want an authentic taste of Turkey’s Mediterranean waters with all the basics taken care of, this tour delivers a safe, enjoyable, and reasonably priced experience that’s worth considering during your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for beginners, with shallow dives of 3-5 meters and comprehensive instruction. It’s a good introduction to underwater exploration.

Are all equipment and gear included? Absolutely. The tour provides diving suits, masks, and snorkels, along with insurance, so you don’t need to bring or rent anything separately.

What is the maximum depth for the dives? The first dive is at 3-5 meters, and the second at 7-8 meters, making it accessible and safe for those new to diving.

Can non-divers participate? Yes, non-divers can enjoy snorkeling at the same sites and relax on the boat during the dives.

What should I bring? While gear is provided, bringing sunscreen, a towel, and your camera (waterproof if possible) is recommended. Be prepared for a full day outdoors.

Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This tour offers a practical, fun, and safe way to explore the underwater world of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Whether you’re new to diving or simply want a day of sun, sea, and good company, it’s a worthwhile addition to your travel itinerary.